The restaurants
Cutler & Co
This scene-stealing fine diner from Melbourne icon Andrew McConnell feels fresher than ever after a 2017 renovation.
CHE
Trendy, brand-new Peruvian joint serving moreish empanadas and spicy charcoal chicken.
Village People Hawker Food Hall
South-East Asian flavours enlivened by fresh Aussie produce. Book a balcony table.
Transformer
Upscale vegetarian in a charismatic warehouse setting from the same owners as the casual, always-busy Vegie Bar nearby.
The bars
The Everleigh
Internationally admired cocktail bar stocking vintage spirits from the 1930s onwards.
Slowbeer Fitzroy
Recent opening with a 1,500 bottled beers, both local and international.
Black Pearl
Bustling bar staffed by veteran mixologists and home to revered sausage rolls. Upstairs, The Attic offers table service.
The Elysian
Snug, atmospheric whisky joint offering independent bottlings from far-flung locales (Japan, India, Sweden) plus distinctive cocktails.
The shopping
Kloke
Melbourne label’s flattering, high-quality basics for men and women displayed in a tranquil space.
Aesop
Cult Australian skincare brand’s founding store, which stocks its full range of botanically infused products in chic surrounds.
Polyester Records
Venerable shop stuffed with contemporary music from locals and internationals. Bands perform live most Fridays from 6pm.
Pickings & Parry
Items designed to endure, including Japanese stationery, French pocket knives and Australian caps in a beautiful old shop. pickingsandparry.com
The coffee
Industry Beans
Warehouse space boasting an on-site roastery and separate coffee-tasting room, plus in-house baking facilities. Stay for brunch.
Marios
Airy cafe with an upmarket clientele and Brunswick Street views serving ace Italian espresso and comfort food since 1984.
Breakfast Thieves
Locals-only hangout with multiple espresso and filter options courtesy of Rumble Coffee Roasters, plus incredible cakes.
Faraday’s Cage
This former recording studio turned sourdough bakery also offers excellent espresso and house-made cold brew using beans from Dukes Coffee Roasters.
The arts
Sutton Gallery
Contemporary artists queue to exhibit at this compact space known for cerebral work.
The Old Bar
Long-running, no-frills venue hosting live music seven nights a week plus occasional events and exhibitions upstairs.
Centre for Contemporary Photography
Lively institution with four galleries for temporary exhibits plus a large street-facing window space that’s illuminated at night.
in.cube8r
Dozens of Melbourne’s best emerging artists showcase wares for sale in this collectively run gallery.
