Brunswick Street

Shops first arrived on Brunswick Street, Fitzroy in the 1840s and the street saw its biggest change after World War Two when large numbers of Europe migrants moved into the area bringing their cosmopolitan ideal to the area. For years after Fitzroy was a working-class area with low rents and cheap shops. This saw artists and musicians move into the area to build a thriving community that still lives on to this day, although the prices of things have defiantly changed, funky Fitzroy is still always a good time. If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday you can also visit the Rose Street Markets, see more info below.

The Blackcat is a relaxed bar on Brunswick Street that opens at 11AM and closes late. Making it the perfect place for a coffee by yourself or a place to catch a mate for a drink at the bar or in the beer garden. There is local artwork on the walls, always a good vibe, and often DJs spinning tunes. So, stop in for a pit stop or stay the whole night. Website | Instagram | 252 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

Hemley is a unisex streetwear store where you can always find something to buy. Down the back of the store, you can get your haircut by the Fitzroy Barber or head upstairs to the Hemley Skateboarding store, for skate gear and even cooler clothes. Shop | Instagram | 257 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

This traditional Fitzroy pub serves up the famous Bogan Burger and some of the best Kangaroo fillets in the universe. Alternatively, you could try smoked kangaroo on a parma or in a salad. If Roo is not your thing they will have something to please you too, don't forget to check the specials board. The public bar has 15 local beers on tap and wines from the local regions. If you are with a group, best to call ahead and book a table. Phone | 210 Napier St, Fitzroy

The Rainbow Hotel has been keeping locals hydrated since 1869. Now the pub is famous for its Wednesday Steak night which you should book a table for via their website and the Sunday roast is always a winner but no matter the time or the day The Rainbow has everything you could want in a pub. Website | Instagram | 27 St David St, Fitzroy

The Red Triangle Snooker Hall is on the top floor of Fitzroy warehouse. The hall is only lit by the table lights so it's always dark and moody no matter the time of day, but you won't find any booze behind the counter only the city's best milkshakes, coming in a range of chocolate bar flavours. You can also order food from nearby to enjoy while you are sharpening up your pool game. Website | Instagram | Phone | 2/110 Argyle St, Fitzroy

For the best cocktails on Brunswick Street look no further than the Black Pearl. If the bar is full try ringing the doorbell to get up to The Attic for a long sit-in or a quick drink. The bartenders here are experienced, so let them know what you like and it might just be the best one you have ever had. Website | Instagram | 304 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

Nico's Sandwich Deli has a sandwich to please everyone and they start slinging melts from 8AM every morning and then start whipping out fresh sandwiches from 10AM. The filter coffee always hits the spot and their merch is worth a look as they are often releasing limited runs tees and soccer tops. Menu | Instagram | 100 Kerr St, Fitzroy

The Rose Street Artists Markets are based on similar markets in London, Berlin, and New York. These markets see some of the city’s best creative talent come together to sell unique, one-off pieces that range from furniture, fashion, jewelry, and art. Website | Instagram | 60 Rose St, Fitzroy

The Rose is a classic Fitzroy footy pub serving plenty of unique local beers and wines with a screen in view at all times. With good pub grub and beer specials during every AFL & AFLW game, this might be the next best spot to watch footy after the MCG. Check their 'What's On' page below for nightly specials & events. What’s On | Instagram | Phone | Corner of Napier & Leicester St, Fitzroy

The Evelyn is a Fitzroy institution with live music most nights of the week - check the gig guide below. When the sun is out, expect to find punters sprawled out on Kerr Street, taking advantage of the takeaway prices from the bottle shop without having to leave the venue. Gig guide | Instagram | 351 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

The Fitzroy Pool is more than just a 50-meter outdoor heated lap pool. It is a meeting place for the community and has played a role in bringing Melbourians closer together. From the Aqua Profonda signage which was hand-painted in the '50s to help Italy migrants beware of the deep water. Now, there are spas, saunas, a gym, and spin classes if you want to work on your fitness. Website | Instagram | 160 Alexandra Parade, Fitzroy

One step into these gardens on a warm day and you will want to join the fun. But first, pick up some supplies from Piedimonte's Supermarket & Liquor across the road because alcohol consumption is allowed between 9AM and 9PM. A great spot is somewhere between the skate park and the BBQs, or if you are feeling sporty you could watch some footy/cricket depending on the sessions. Alfred Cres, Fitzroy North

Campbell Burton and Charlotte Ryan opened Public Wines Bar in November 2020 and their inspiration for the shop was born out of a love of well-farmed and delicious food and wine they have experienced while traveling. Now they bring all that love to their shop on St Georges Road. Think natural wines with a snack and extended menus. The food has a French influence with pate, cheese, and fish tings featuring prominently. Shop now | Instagram | 179 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North

Monty’s is your friendly neighbourhood bar and the simplicity is what makes this place so great. A short drinks list makes selecting easy and food comes from close by, including Red Olive pizzas from next door. Local DJs spin tunes on turntables making everyone feel like they have came to the right place to hang out. Instagram | 209 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North

The Piedimonte family originally from Sicily, has been involved in Australia's grocery business since 1958, and now their Fitzroy North Supermarket holds a special place in the hearts of locals. The community spirit is clear and you can find any ingredient you need inside these walls, plus the bottle shop is a great place to stop before you hit Edinburgh Gardens for a little party in da park. Website | Instagram | 37-49A Best St, Fitzroy North

Super Tasty Rooster is your class neighbourhood Chicken shop. Do it your way but it's hard to go past the Chicken and Chips with gravy, which is a bit cheaper on Mondays and Tuesdays. This is the perfect snack if your hanging in Eddy Gardens. Phone | 121 Scotchmer St, Fitzroy North