A change in culinary direction
Underneath a historic former police station in South Perth, a familiar subterranean space is experiencing a dramatic culinary evolution. The European-inspired bistro Ludo has officially closed its doors, making way for a high-energy Asian eating house named BANGLA. The Nokturnl hospitality group is directing the transition, intentionally trading classic French restraint for the smoke, spice, and neon glow of Asian street food.
According to original reporting by Sally Hall for Perth is OK, the new venue draws direct inspiration from the famously chaotic Bangla Road in Phuket. Instead of focusing on a single regional technique, the kitchen team pulls eclectic ideas from dining cultures across the entire Asian continent. Executive Chef Sundoo Kim leads the culinary charge alongside Head Chef Thanapat Rattichot, constructing share-style plates loaded with uncompromising spice.
Kim began his successful culinary journey in Melbourne before moving west to help shape the Asian dining identity for the Nokturnl group. His deep understanding of complex flavour profiles forms the foundation of the new menu. Diners can expect everything from slow-cooked meats to fresh, fragrant sides, all designed to be passed across the table and shared among friends.
Capturing the late night atmosphere
The physical atmosphere inside BANGLA deliberately mirrors the sensory overload of bustling street markets. Kim notes that the most memorable dining experiences across Asia are loud, energetic, and completely full of life. Guests can expect an intoxicating mix of constant movement, loud music, and aromatic smoke lingering in the air.
Nokturnl co-director Ross Drennan explains that Asian cuisine has gradually become a core component of the hospitality group’s overall identity. The management team has spent several years cultivating an impressive pool of culinary talent dedicated to that exact passion. The interior design of the new venue reflects this deep appreciation, ensuring the dining room feels instantly electric the moment patrons walk through the door.
Rebuilding a successful hospitality team
Familiar faces are returning to spearhead this ambitious subterranean project. General Manager Fran Diettrich reunites with Kim, having previously worked closely alongside him at a different successful Nokturnl venue. According to statements published by Perth Food News, Diettrich finds it incredibly rewarding to collaborate once again, highlighting the strong professional bond they forged while establishing previous restaurant concepts.
Patrons exploring the South Perth nightlife scene will find BANGLA positioned as an immersive, mischief-filled late-night option. The beverage program matches the punchy food menu, offering brightly coloured cocktails that expertly complement the heavy spice profiles coming from the kitchen. While a signature mixed drink might cost patrons 24 dollars, the primary focus remains on delivering an unforgettable, multisensory experience.
