Fitzroy is one of the city’s oldest suburbs, a storied area, Ngár-go as it was first titled by the traditional Wurundjeri owners which means 'high ground' has seen a lifetime of changes and development in its tenure.
Originally a strictly working-class suburb, nowadays Fitzroy is in high demand as one of the most frequented and populated areas of Melbourne. The allure of Fitzroy comes in many forms, from its close proximity to the CBD, its collection of high-standard restaurants, and cafes, vibrant street art, and also its thriving nightlife, heritage pubs and diverse mix of culture.
Here’s what to discover in Fitzroy for 2023:
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Fitzroy Restaurants
Fitzroy Bars
Fitzroy Cafes
Fitzroy Pubs
Fitzroy Shops
Fitzroy Things To Do
The Best Restaurants In Fitzroy
Rocco’s Bologna Discoteca
Famed throughout lockdown for their meatball sub, Rocco’s Bologna Discoteca, and its ‘Italian Maccas’ aesthetic burst onto the scene, winning hearts and filling stomachs all over town, and a few years later in 2023, RBD is easily considered one of the best restaurants Fitzroy has to offer.
Marion
Part neighbourhood wine bar, part fine diner, Marion is all the things that we’ve come to love from Andrew McConnell’s restaurants. The next-door neighbour to Cutler & Co, Marion has a much more accessible and laid-back feel to it.
In terms of wine, you’re spoilt for choice, the team on the floor are incredibly knowledgeable and can assist you in selecting a winner from the 20+ page wine list.
Cutler & Co
Cutler & Co, as previously mentioned, is a Fitzroy institution that set the scene and defined what Gertrude Street was going to become. Andrew McConnell started this eatery over a decade ago with the intention of celebrating local produce and executing with flair and sophistication — the outcome is one of Fitzroy's best restaurants. Think timeless classics like King George Whiting with Venus clams, baby leek & lovage or the signature Culture & Co dry-aged O’Connor rib-eye cooked over coals.
Poodle Bar & Bistro
One of the biggest openings of the last few years and in 2023 this gem is loved by many, Poodle Bar & Bistro has become one of Fitzroy's best restaurants. The two-level diner on Gertrude Street is bolstered by its fanciful upstairs bar—a tidy yet intimate space with a chic art-deco design. With a dark green marble bar and painted brick walls and an open fireplace, it’s a perfect spot for knocking back a few.
Bar Rosella
From the outset, Bar Rosella is all charm. It's a simple and welcoming space on the Smith Street end of Gertrude Street, the kind of familiar charm that one is just drawn to. Inside is no different, there's a home-style feel despite the beautifully spaced interior, what adds to the level of comfort is the onslaught of a comforting selection of Puglia-based specialities from the hearty rigatoni with a wagyu beef ragu to pork neck with fennel and vincotto.
Rice, Paper, Scissors
A popular Fitzroy restaurant, Rice Paper Scissors, serves some of the greatest rice-paper rolls and southern Asian share plates in town. Order up the Thai fried chicken, cripsy barramundi and steamed pork buns. Even better, there’s a shared menu that includes five dishes for two people.
The Builders Arms Hotel
Smack bang on the corner of Gertrude and Gore Street. The Builders Arms Hotel is a dyed-in-the-wool Melbourne pub. Inside the corner resting hotel, the space has been split into three sections: the front bar, a fancy bistro-style restaurant and a secluded beer garden.
With Andrew McConnell at the helm, the menu is always on point. Choose a pub-fave meal like a cheeseburger and fries, or tackle the fish pie. For only $25 on Mondays, stop by for Steak Night and tuck into a quality 250g Porterhouse with a side of fries and a salad.
Matteo’s
Situated quietly in an unassuming townhouse on Brunswick Street in North Fitzroy lies a hidden gem for those who dare to find it. Matteo's, one of Fitzroy’s most iconic and best restaurants, has been serving the neighbourhood with contemporary Italian cuisine since 1994. The suave diner has numerous menus on offer, from their A La Carte, to set tasting menus, as well as an express lunch available from Wednesday to Friday.
Neighbourhood Wine
Located in one of the quaintest spaces in Melbourne, Neighbourhood Wine is one of the most beloved restaurants Fitzroy North has to offer. The former Fitzroy club room has been turned into a sleek space with lots of character that combines superb local wines that change weekly with an amazing daily-changing seasonal menu that emphasises local ingredients.
Farro
Fitzroy is one of the various suburbs that is a part of the Farro collective. Farro, which is Italian for spelt, is a high-fibre ancient grain that has been shown to boost your immune system and aid in digestion. The Farro team make their sourdough bases and gluten-free pizza bases out of the grain and has become a household name in Melbourne’s pizza scene.
Marios
More than 30 years ago, Marios Cafe on Brunswick Street Fitzroy was established, and the legendary eatery was etched into history. Created by Mario Maccarone and Mario De Pasquale, two Italian-Australian waiters who met working together and formed a partnership that would last decades. Marios serves food all day via old-fashioned, crisp white linen table service, with the traditional diner priding itself on coffee, meals, and wine that stands the test of time.
The Best Bars In Fitzroy
The Everleigh
Melbourne’s unofficial home of olde-worlde drinking charm. No list of Melbourne’s best bars would be complete without the city’s Grand Dame: The Everleigh. This place started back in 2011 when Melbourne’s cocktail scene was really starting to percolate, perched high above Gertrude Street, and watched over by owners Michael and Zara Madrusan.
Black Cat
Having been hailed as the 'beating heart' of Brunswick Street for over 30 years, Black Cat is nothing less than an institution and one of the best bars in Fitzroy. With the cushiest couches you’ll ever sink into, you’ll find yourself indulging in the indescribable vibe that the place exudes, while sipping on craft beers, cocktails, hand-picked spirits and even local coffee.
Monty's
Entering Monty's is a kaleidoscope of inner-north Melbourne, eclectic and effortlessly chic. This late-night pub and local haunt is cosily ensconced among the shops of St Georges Road and is often flooded with customers gathering for a relaxing drink or searching for somewhere to continue late into the night.
Black Pearl
This place arguably kick-started Melbourne’s entire modern-day drinking culture. There’s no point giving out drink recommendations at this Brunswick St institution because the Pearl changes seasonally. Bartenders here are encouraged to experiment. One night you’ll find a frozen cosmopolitan, the next it’ll be bourbon and bananas.
The Shady Lady
Most bars in Melbourne are comparable to other bars in Melbourne. They fit into neat little categories. The Shady Lady is in a class all to itself, marked ‘Tropical Thrift Store’, opposite of every too-cool, minimalist, Scandi cocktail bar ever built. It’s also one of the few places in town that specialise in picklebacks: a shot of whisky chased with eye-watering pickle brine.
The Provincial Hotel
The Provincial Hotel takes the crown as the Grand Old Dame of Brunswick Street pubs. If you don’t have stories of numerous loose nights here, you’re not a true Northsider. What makes it one of the best bars in Fitzroy is the various levels and buzzing nightlife atmosphere. Our favourite place to sink a couple is the rooftop - covered in a giant marquee, soak up the stunning city-skyline view with a house-made cocktail, tasty vino wine, or a crisp beer.
Amarillo
It may be small in stature but Amarillo uses every square metre of its corner-resting spot on Brunswick street to the fullest. Easily identified by the Campari bannisters and revellers swilling spritz and negronis out front, the welcoming nature of Amarillo has cemented it as one of the best bars in Melbourne right now.
The Best Cafes In Fitzroy
Lune Croissanterie
Just off Brunswick Street in the side streets of Fitzroy, the Lune Croissanterie is rare to be without a line snaking the footpath. The black-painted brick building is also the main baking headquarters for the pastries and while you're loading up on a croissant and a coffee you can catch a glimpse of the magic taking place behind the glass.
Napier Quarter
Dedicated to high-quality ingredients and traditional food with a Euro feel, Napier Quarter knows how to serve a great breakfast. Celebrating the community, the cafe and wine bar has a warm feel to it and serves up comforting dishes like baguettes and tarts. Whether it’s a frittata, galette, salad or the now iconic anchovy and egg on sourdough toast—Napier has artisan cooking at the heart of every dish.
Industry Beans
Industry Beans Fitzroy, a proud local of the region unveiled their fully-revamped store just off Brunswick Street last year and it stands as one of the best cafes in Fitzroy. Retaining all of its former charm; the all-new space is bigger and features all the trimmings of a cutting-edge Melbourne cafe including retail space, roastery, and coffee training room. The chic new cafe is light-filled and radiant with a white and cream colour scheme and booth seating throughout.
Burnside
Gracing the intersection of Smith and Gertrude Street, this quaint corner resting cafe is constantly swollen with a flock of caffeine enthusiasts. Burnside is the daily ritual of many and its good-vibe atmosphere and exceptionally quick pulling of espresso have cemented it as one of the best cafes Melbourne has on offer.
Archies All Day
Archies have become synonymous with the Sunday brunch in Melbourne, either as the spot to kick off your day with a cocktail or to help ease the pain of the previous night’s antics. Their spot-on Gertrude Street is typically heaving with hungry pilgrims looking to get amongst the action.
Dench
Since 2005, Dench Cafe has established it’s name as one of the best cafes in Fitzroy North. Highlights from this humble northside cafe include baked goods by the famous Dench Bakers, their freshly brewed cups of Axil coffee and large breakfast and lunch menu. Pop a squat for and order up their signature sweet corn and zucchini fritters, or if you’re on the run, grab a classic chicken sandwich.
Alimentari - Brunswick Street
The beloved Brunswick Street Alimentari has been serving up Mediterranean goods to locals of the neighbourhood for more than 15 years. What started as a deli has now been established into one of Fitzroy’s best cafes. With an ever-so-loyal customer base, people travel across town just to get their hands on some of the premium cold-cut meats, fresh salads, and traditional sweet treats that the Alimentari does best.
Faraday's Cage
Faraday's Cage is one of Fitzroy’s best cafes and artisan bakeries. The early burger, the poke bowl, ricotta hotcakes, and granola with co-yo are just a few of the popular Melbournian brunch items that you can expect to find on their menu. But what keeps us going back for more are their freshly produced bread and pastries, which are baked to golden perfection.
Bentwood
Bentwood on Napier Street has been serving up cups of Inglewood coffee in their ultra-modem sweet timber cafe since 2018. The aesthetically unique venue includes a cracking menu that has taken Melburnians by storm. Try left-off-centre menu items, including espresso churro waffles with hot fudge sauce, eggplant Caponata with thick-cut sourdough, or their hot prawn roll on a soft potato bun. Once you’re done, you’ll understand why this is one of Fitzroy’s best cafes.
The Best Pubs In Fitzroy
Royal Oak Hotel
Helmed by the same team behind the beloved Marquis Of Lorne, the Royal Oak Hotel which had a dazzling glow-up in 2022 has ingratiated itself as one of the best pubs in Melbourne. With a nostalgic Australiana feel, there are vintage beer mirrors up above, the footy's on, and the beers are cold.
Inside the dining room you'll find a selection of dialled-up pub classics from a schnitzel which is served in a pool of expertly crafted mustard sauce to strip steak plated up next to whole-roasted shallot and a subtle peppercorn jus.
The Napier Hotel
The Napier is the pub to go to if you’re after a pub feed with an Aussie twist—they do a chicken parma served with smoked kangaroo, and they also do a chargrilled kangaroo salad served with a pomegranate dressing. With over 130 years of history, this Fitzroy institution is still kicking goals with its understated charm and nostalgic pub feel.
The Standard Hotel
Dripping in esoterica and retro quirkiness, this backstreet pub is a gem worth searching for. The Standard Hotel is part traditional pub, part sprawling beer garden, which makes for the perfect combo in Melbourne. True to its Fitzroy roots, The Standard is also known for its quality rotation of live music and no-fuss menu.
Marquis Of Lorne
This ain’t your ordinary pub. Proudly perched on the corner of Kerr and George Street, the Marquis Of Lorne’s pub classic menu and bar has a lot to offer. A special nod to dishes like the now-iconic rockling burger, a complete game-changer with a dill-infused aioli, shallots cos lettuce and a hearty serving of chips; as well as the humble chicken schnitzel—truly one of the best in town. Marquis of Lorne also has an intimately spaced rooftop bar, quintessential Melbourne right there.
The Best Shops In Fitzroy
Morning Market
Andrew McConnell's Morning Market has established itself as the ideal grocer/cafe since its inception back in 2020. The Euro-style providore combines a cafe, market, and homeware store in one location on Gertrude Street, two doors down from his own Marion and Cutler & Co. Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as a bouquet of flowers and condiments. Have a seat outside after you've finished, order a freshly brewed coffee, and tackle a pastry or a house-made cheese and kimchi sandwich.
Alpha60
ALPHA60, the incredibly edgy label with an outpost right on Brunswick Street has built a reputation for itself in the community as one of the best shops in Fitzroy to stock up on monochromatic pieces with an urban twist. Designed by brother and sister collaboration, Alex and Georgie Cleary, ALPHA60 is a modern design fantasy with clean lines and a classy atmosphere.
Das T-Shirt Automat
If you’re looking to have a custom garment made, you’ve found the right spot. Das T-Shirt Automat, located on Johnston Street, produces Melboune's finest personalised goods at hyper-fast speed, with no minimums required. Enter the classic red-and-white building and select from a variety of services ranging from digital to screen printing and even vinyl transfers. Whether you want a tee with your own design or 100 tote bags for a business launch, the team has your printing needs handled.
The Ordinary
In late 2022, the iconic Canadian skincare brand, The Ordinary, opened its doors to a brick-and-mortar store in Fitzroy, located in the heart of Gertrude Street. Head in-store to stock up on the ever-so-affordable skincare items, including cult faves like the Squalane Cleanser and Hyaluronic Acid. If you’re a skincare newbie, the helpful team can assist you with any concerns, questions or queries and build a custom regimen for morning and night.
Vintage Sole
If you’re a thrifter, this retro wonderland might just be your new home. Vintage Sole is by far one of Melbourne’s most renowned spots providing an ethical alternative to fast fashion. With their broad hand-picked product range, you can be sure to snatch sustainable contemporary trends and vintage staples that are so affordable.
Wine Republic
Stock up on as much liquor as your heart desires at Wine Republic. Located on Brunswick Street, the independent, family-run business is on a mission to assist consumers with discovering the best artisanal wine, beer, and spirits from around the globe. The inventory here is vast, whether you’re looking for a primo Chianti from Tuscany, a local rosé or a Kentucky Bourbon, you’re likely to find it here.
Design A Space
Design A Space, which opened in 2006 is a creative retail concept created to support and highlight the abilities of independent Australian designers. Through renting a space, designers are given a shopping platform to present their whole collection, where you can purchase unique items ranging from clothing to jewellery to homewares.
Lore Perfumery
Stop and smell the fragrances at Lore Perfumery. The boutique shop opened its doors in 2017, and has since made a name as being the go-to place to snatch those hard-to-find and one-of-a-kind fragrances. You'll find over 100 different brands and an astounding 700 different scents, with a focus on quality, artistry, and individuality of niche scents.
Mud Australia
Mud Australia's handcrafted porcelain homewares will bring new life to your home. Shelley Simpson launched the company in 1994, and it has since evolved to become one of Australia's leading homeware companies with a range boasting 19 vibrant colours. Whether you're looking for tableware, home decor, lighting, or kitchenware, you'll be sure find something to walk away with at the Fitzroy store.
The Best Things To Do In Fitzroy
Yalinguth Walk Fitzroy
Yalinguth provides an immersive augmented reality tour of Fitzroy/Ngár-go that showcases the history and stories of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community from the early 20th century till today. Hear spoken stories, songs, poems, and evocative soundscapes including the birdsong, historical events and musicians and storytellers such as the late great elders Uncle Jack Charles and Uncle Archie Roach.
Fitzroy Pools
The Fitzroy Pools are one of Melbourne's most iconic local attractions, located right on the bustling Alexandra Parade. The 50-metre outdoor pool is ideal for swimming all year round thanks to its stellar heating system. If swimming isn't your thing, there are plenty of other facilities to choose from, such as a gym, spa, sauna, and steam room.
Rose Street Fitzroy Makrets
Shop directly at one of Melbourne’s best artists' markets with designers crafters and Makers at the Rose Street Market. Held every Saturday and Sunday between 10 am to 4 pm, you can find a plethora of unique and quirky designs throughout numerous stall displays. From furniture to jewellery, all the way to fashion and paintings, you definitely won’t be walking out empty-handed.
Edinburgh Gardens
One of Melbourne's most recognisable parklands is located in Fitzroy North. The renowned Edinburgh Gardens, originally established in 1862, is a landmark with a long, rich, Victorian history. Have a picnic on the open lawn areas, a stroll through the tree-arched footpaths, or even take part in a game of tennis at the Fitzroy Tennis Club - that’s ace.
Centre For Contemporary Photography
Visit the Centre For Contemporary Photography to see some of Australia's top works of modern photography. Since its founding in 1986, the non-profit exhibition and resource centre has encouraged the public to engage with photography and photo-based art. Learn from artists practising photography, attend classes to sharpen your skills, and don't forget to purchase something from the CCP shop.
The Mystery Rooms
It's time for you and your friends to channel your inner Sherlock Holmes detective skills. The Mystery Rooms is a hidden gem on Napier Street, offering an immersive, interactive escape room game experience. With the option of five different rooms including a haunted house and medieval quest, you'll be challenged with finding hidden clues, solving tasks and riddles, and discussing ideas throughout the game to unlock your way back to reality. Enter if you dare.
Australian Print Workshop
Explore the Australian Print Workshop to discover a one-of-a-kind world of premium art. The non-profit organization's mission is to help artists create original, limited edition fine art prints, with changing exhibitions displayed in their gallery. Head over now to view Tim Maguire’s current project, 'CMY Dice Abstract'.
Check out some more of Melbourne's best here:
Melbourne's best restaurants
Melbourne's best cafes
Melbourne's best bars
Melbourne's best breakfast
Image credit: Fitzroy Melbourne — Emily Godfrey (VisitVic)
David Jackmanson - Fitzroy Pools
Sean Fennessey - Mud Ceramics