Why Fitzroy?
Fitzroy is Melbourne’s oldest suburb but don’t let that fool you. It’s as vibrant and rebellious as ever. Past its grand Victorian terraces lies a wild mix of skateboards, second-hand treasures and bold street art. Brunswick, Gertrude, Smith and Johnston Streets are where the old-school meets the offbeat and newly arrived creatives bump together in harmony.
Eat, Drink and Peruse
Fitzroy’s grid is sprinkled with curious bars, indie retailers, traditional pubs, cafés and live music venues. Just wander from Brunswick to Gertrude, across to Smith and up to Johnston and you’ll taste what local life really means.
Brunswick Street is the spine of it all, full of boho shops, gritty pubs and laneway art.
Gertrude Street earns every accolade. It’s been named one of the coolest streets in the world and is a magnet for galleries, restaurants and quirky fashion.
Smith Street is where clever designer labels, vintage finds and low-key cafés collide, with pop-ups and markets keeping things fresh.
You can happily explore these streets on your own and see where the day takes you, but if you’re after a quicker visit, here’s a guide to some of our favourite spots.
Eat
Cutler
A good fine dining option for special occasions. Set in a converted factory on Gertrude Street, Cutler offers a seasonal tasting menu inspired by the produce of the region. Each dish is a bold and thoughtful creation that highlights natural flavours. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a special night out with food that surprises and delights.
Builder’s Arms
This classic pub is beloved by locals for its solid pub meals, welcoming atmosphere and great selection of beers. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend catch-up, Builder’s Arms nails the laid-back neighbourhood vibe.
Belles Hot Fried Chicken
Known for its crispy, perfectly spiced fried chicken and delicious sides like mac and cheese and slaw. Belles is casual and buzzing, great for a no-fuss feed with friends or family. Their fried chicken has developed a loyal following across Melbourne.
Marquis of Lorne
A friendly, old-school pub with a modern twist on classic dishes. It’s a relaxed spot with a solid menu and a focus on local produce, ideal for a casual bite paired with a cold drink.
Rice Queen
Rice Queen serves up clever, fresh rice bowls packed with punchy Asian flavours. The menu is all about bold, balanced taste and quick service, making it a popular spot for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Shop Ramen
A fantastic option for budget travellers, Shop Ramen is a cosy ramen joint where you’ll find rich, flavoursome broth and perfectly cooked noodles. It’s small, casual and all about authentic comfort food done right.
Trippy Taco
Bright, vibrant and playful, Trippy Taco offers fresh tacos with creative fillings and bold flavours. It’s a laid-back place to enjoy something tasty and different with mates.
Drink
Marion Wine Bar
Marion is a refined wine bar from the Cutler team with an excellent selection of natural and classic wines. Their small plates complement the wine list perfectly, making it a great spot for a relaxed yet sophisticated night out.
Bar Liberty
Known for its extensive natural wine list and lively vibe, Bar Liberty attracts a cool crowd who appreciate quality drinks and simple, delicious bar snacks. The atmosphere is always buzzing, making it a firm Fitzroy favourite.
Black Pearl
This iconic cocktail bar has regularly been voted one of the best cocktail bars in the world, thanks to its inventive drinks and friendly service. One of my personal favourite bars in all of Melbourne it has a focus on craftsmanship and fresh ingredients, Black Pearl remains one of Melbourne’s most beloved bars.
Naked for Satan
A Fitzroy institution, Naked for Satan offers vibrant Spanish-style tapas, pintxos and a rooftop bar with stunning views. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. It’s also got pool tables for a bit of friendly competition while you’re there.
Lola Belle
Lola Belle combines style and warmth, with creative cocktails served in an intimate space. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients and the vibe is perfect for a relaxed drink with friends.
Cafes
Bistro Morgan
This cosy bakery café is famous for its fresh pastries, doughnuts and expertly brewed coffee. Bistro Morgan has a warm, welcoming feel, making it ideal for breakfast or a relaxed weekend treat.
Mile End Bagels
Serving Montreal-style bagels with inventive fillings, Mile End is a cult favourite for brekkie and lunch. Their bagels are hand-rolled and baked fresh daily, offering something a little different from your average sandwich.
Lune Croissanterie
Home to some of Melbourne’s best croissants, Lune is known for its flaky, buttery pastries and long queues. Lune Croissanterie’s original store is right here in Fitzroy. It’s a must-visit for anyone serious about their baked goods, with innovative flavours that keep people coming back.
Hector’s Deli
Beloved for hearty schnitzels, loaded sandwiches and delicious breakfast muffins, Hector’s is a no-nonsense local favourite with big flavours and generous portions.
Vegetarian and Vegan
Fitzroy is famous for its vast and diverse vegetarian and vegan options, making it a top spot for plant-based food lovers. Here are some of our favourite places to try.
Vegie Bar
Since 1988, Vegie Bar has been serving generous, creative plant-based meals in a vibrant, inclusive space. The menu changes seasonally but always offers a mix of comfort food and fresh flavours that satisfy vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Transformer
A fine dining vegetarian restaurant delivering elegant and inventive dishes focused on seasonal produce. Transformer blends global influences with local ingredients for a sophisticated dining experience.
Smith & Daughters
A vibrant vegan restaurant known for bold, flavour-packed dishes inspired by Spanish and Latin American cuisines. It’s a favourite for those looking for creative plant-based meals in a lively setting.
Street Art
Fitzroy is famous for its vibrant and ever-changing street art scene. Exploring its laneways and side streets is like wandering through an outdoor gallery where creativity bursts from every corner. The best streets to spot incredible murals and pieces include Brunswick Street, Johnston Street, Rose Street, and Napier Street. Keep in mind, street art here is always evolving — some pieces may be around today but gone tomorrow, making every visit a unique experience.
Adnate’s Murals
One of Melbourne’s most renowned street artists, Matt Adnate’s large portraits of Indigenous Australians can be found around Fitzroy. His striking mural on the corner of Brunswick and Johnston Streets celebrates local Indigenous culture with bold and emotive imagery.
Rone’s Faces
Rone is known for hauntingly beautiful portraits of women that decorate several laneways, including a notable large-scale piece on Rose Street.
Makatron’s Political Pieces
Makatron’s work on Napier Street often includes bold political statements about Indigenous rights and environmental issues, adding a powerful voice to the street art scene.
The Ever-Changing Laneways of Rose Street
Rose Street’s laneways act as a living gallery, constantly refreshed with new artworks. You might find fierce stencil pieces, colourful paste-ups or giant murals all within a short walk.
Explore Fitzroy
Fitzroy is much more than just great food, drinks, and street art. It’s a place full of quirky shops, vibrant markets, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re hunting for unique vintage finds at the Lost and Found Market, browsing colourful fabric stores like Ricky’s Textiles or Fitzroy Textiles for your next creative project, or soaking up the lively atmosphere at the Rose Street Market, there’s always something fresh around every corner. Add to that the indie boutiques and record shops lining Brunswick and Gertrude Streets, and you’ve got a neighbourhood bursting with culture and creativity. Fitzroy invites you to explore at your own pace and soak up the character that makes it one of Melbourne’s most exciting and eclectic spots.
Whether you’re here for the food, the art, or just to soak up the unique vibe, Fitzroy never fails to surprise and inspire. Enjoy discovering every corner of this buzzing, creative neighbourhood. It’s one of Melbourne’s true gems.
