Fitzroy sits in Melbourne’s inner north and runs creative, gritty-chic, independent. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
Fashion
Cleo’s — 147 Smith Street
One of Fitzroy’s genuine highlights. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Stella Works — 197 Johnston Street
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Merchant — 170 Johnston Street
One of Fitzroy’s hidden gems. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Homewares
The Southern Union — 251 Gertrude Street
One of Fitzroy’s hidden gems. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Southern Commons — 333 Rose Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Worth the trip. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Nico Post — 289 Brunswick Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Books & Records
The Black Union — 286 Gertrude Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Northern Works — 250 Johnston Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Nina — 334 Gertrude Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Food & Specialty
Sol’s — 53 Rose Street
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Old Store — 313 Brunswick Street
One of Fitzroy’s genuine highlights. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
The Red Kitchen — 58 Smith Street
One of Fitzroy’s hidden gems. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Markets
Lena Place — 173 Johnston Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Humble Commons — 28 Johnston Street
One of Fitzroy’s genuine highlights. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Long Social — 77 Smith Street
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Trams 11, 86, 96 on Brunswick/Smith/Nicholson Streets.
Best time to visit: Saturday for the full buzz.
Budget: A full day exploring Fitzroy — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $107 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Brunswick Street is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Fitzroy at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Creative, gritty-chic, independent |
| Coffee price | $4.50-5.50 |
| Dinner price | $28-45 pp |
| Getting there | Trams 11, 86, 96 on Brunswick/Smith/Nicholson Streets |
| Best for | street art, independent cafes, live music, Gertrude Street dining |
Nearby
- Collingwood — also worth exploring
- Fitzroy Cafes
- Fitzroy Restaurants
- All Fitzroy Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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