20 Highlights Along The World's Coolest Street

A local’s guide to where to dine, drink and shop in Northcote, Thornbury and Preston.

A bohemian, arty, family- and dog-friendly enclave in Melbourne’s inner north, the High Street corridor that runs between Northcote, Thornbury and Preston is home to a litany of hangouts: record shops, indie cinemas, restaurants with hidden courtyards, bars housed in former churches, hatted restaurants that feature lasagne on speed dial.

Between these newer venues, you’ll find humble unmarked souvlaki joints, retro espresso rooms and Asian grocers, which hint at the Greek, Italian and Chinese communities that have long called the area home.

That High Street is almost entirely devoid of any chains, is perhaps part of the appeal for many local residents, myself included, and might just help explain why this unassuming drag was named ‘the world’s coolest street’ by Time Out in early 2024.

Scenes from High Street in Northcote Melbourne — High Street in Melbourne’s Inner North was crowned the world’s coolest street by *Time Out* in 2024. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Beyond High Street’s bricks and mortar, it’s the welcoming vibe and pumping events scene that makes this little corner of Melbourne feel so alive. On each and every corner it seems as if you can find live music streaming out on a weekend. And festivals such as 2023’s inaugural The Eighty-Six (named after the tram that trundles up and down the street) and Northcote Rise , bring the community, with its shared love of music, even closer together.

If you’re stopping by Northcote, Thornbury or Preston, consider this your little black book of restaurants, bars, bakeries and shops.

People cross the road on High Street, Northcote — The street isn’t overrun with chains but features everything from record shops and retro espresso rooms to hatted restaurants. (Image: Visit Victoria)

1. 1800 Lasagne, Thornbury

No list would be complete without a nod to this local institution (if it’s good enough for Jamie Oliver…).

Exterior of 1800 Lasagne on High Street Melbourne, Australia — 1800 Lasagne is a vibe. (Image: Phoebe Powell)

Not only is the food at 1800 Lasagne consistently on point, but the dimly-lit space and cosy, ‘70s-esque decor is a vibe, the staff always seem to hit that perfect pitch of down-to-earth and attentive yet not intrusive or overbearing, and the cocktails are oh so moreish.

Interior of 1800 Lasagne on High Street Melbourne, Australia — Get comfy inside the dimly-lit, cosy, ‘70s-esque space. (Image: Phoebe Powell)

While lasagne is their signature dish, we’d argue that some of the starters and sides have become icons in their own right (cos wedge salad, we’re looking at you). Trust us, you need to book in advance.

Food spread at 1800 Lasagne on High Street Melbourne, Australia — Lasagne is the signature dish. (Image: Phoebe Powell)

2. Wesley Anne, Northcote

This cavernous, grungy bar and restaurant might look run-of-the-mill from outside, but inside it’s anything but. Cross the threshold and you’ll enter the skeleton of a 160-year-old church, all stone walls, high ceilings and exposed beams. Cosy up by candlelight at one of Wesley Anne’s timber booths in winter, or make a beeline for the eclectically styled courtyard come summer.

3. Thornbury Picture House, Thornbury

A cute-as-a-button indie cinema, Thornbury Picture House lies within an art-nouveau garage dating to 1919.

Thornbury Picture House on High Street in Melbourne — The indie cinema is housed within an art-nouveau garage dating to 1919. (Image: Gusto Films)

Owners – and husband and wife team – Gus and Lou worked in the film industry for many years before pouring their heart and soul into this characterful venue, which prioritises independent movies, but also shows blockbusters at this single-screen cinema. They’ve even started their very own film festival, Northern Lights, which has a strong focus on local short films.

Inside Thornbury Picture House on High Street in Melbourne — The venue is full of character. (Image: Gusto Films)

Forget the trailers: come early, take a seat in the old undercover forecourt and tuck into a negroni instead. There are hyperlocal snacks on offer too: think choc-tops from Preston and arancini from across the road at longtime local favourite Umberto’s .

Aerial view of High Street, Northcote in Melbourne's Inner North — Find Umberto’s across the street from the cinema. (Image: @ipixel101)

4. Tinker, Northcote

Long a pitstop for Melbourne’s weekend brunch crowd, Tinker remains at the top of its game. The menu changes seasonally and tends to showcase reimagined classics; think zucchini and halloumi fritters with cucumber mint yoghurt and mango chilli relish, and eggs Benny on a cornbread waffle with apple and fennel slaw.

Waitress at Tinker holds two breakfast plates of food — The menu changes seasonally but is always full of delicious options. (Image: Kate Durham)

Doggos are also more than welcome in the courtyard or on one of the pavement tables out front, perfect for people-watching.

Woman holds her dog at Tinker in Melbourne — Tinker welcomes dogs in its outdoor spaces.

5. Juju’s Deli, Thornbury

Juju’s has quickly become something of a cult classic thanks to its sizable focaccia sandwiches. Choose from a lineup of seven different sangas, two of which are veggie, and be prepared to queue.

Juju's Deli sandwich shop in Melbourne — The sandwiches at Juju’s Deli can’t be beat.

6. Arepa Days, Preston

Technically speaking this vibrant little Colombian cafe sits on Preston Street, though you’ll only have to take two steps off of High Street to reach it.

A small, homely and bohemian place with just a handful of tables, Arepa Days has its very own ‘lab’ dedicated to making each arepa from scratch, its white corn sourced from Queensland.

The pockets are stuffed with all manner of delectable smallgoods, such as chargrilled chorizo, morcilla (black pudding), and bacon, as well as your regular breakfast fixings (think guacamole, eggs and feta).

But arguably the jewel in the crown of this lovely little establishment is its jars of homemade picadillo and chimichurri that adorn every table and are practically perfect smothered on almost anything.

7. Mali Bakes, Thornbury

Patchanida Chimkire is in the business of custom celebration cakes, and at her Thornbury HQ you can watch the baking team in action from the street, behind shop windows dressed with dried flowers.

Ordinarily, Mali Bakes is not open to the public. But stop by on a Saturday and you can road test cakes by the slice. Pedestrian Victoria sponge is not on the menu here – instead, you’ll find multilayered creations bursting with flavour: orange yoghurt cake filled with roasted strawberry, fresh orange and yuzu buttercream, or olive oil ricotta cake filled with blackberry and fennel jam, sea salt, and honey buttercream, for example.

Patchanida’s cakes are visually arresting too; retro, ornate, pastel-hued works of art, featuring piped icing sashes and swirls, sugar pearls and garnished with cherries.

8. All Are Welcome, Northcote and Thornbury

Such is the clamour for All Are Welcome’s baked goods, that this High Street standout found cause to open another outlet just seven minutes’ drive true north of the original.

All Are Welcome, Melbourne exterior — All Are Welcome is a High Street standout. (Image: Emily Weaving)

While the latter venue in Thornbury offers the same dreamy smorgasbord of buttery baked goodness, the former, in Northcote, comes up trumps for sitting in. There’s a gorgeous nook featuring tiered timber seating outside and complimentary sparkling water on tap.

Woman sitting outside All Are Welcome in Melbourne — All Are Welcome is located in Northcote and Thornbury. (Image: Emily Weaving)

Expect a mix of savoury and sweet pastries, with a lean towards recipes from the Caucasus, as well as good coffee and plenty of provisions to take home (think loaves, cheeses, butter and spreads).

It’s owned and run by Russian-American Boris Portnoy, whose CV includes experience at Michelin-starred restaurants where he worked as head pastry chef.

Pastries at All Are Welcome in Melbourne — Expect a mix of savoury and sweet pastries. (Image: Emily Weaving)

9. Before March, Northcote

Sporting a minimalist aesthetic that would look at home in any Scandi capital, Before March is hyper-focused on cultivating a collection of high-end, little-known labels built to last a lifetime, with a focus on classic tailoring and functional clothing.

This small, bright and airy store also zeroes in on brands that embrace the principles of slow fashion by using natural fibres, deadstock fabrics, oeko-tex-certified textiles and recycled materials.

Goods wrapped for sale at Before March — Head to Before March to shop high-end, little-known labels.

10. Green Horse, Northcote

A boutique devoted to organic, sustainable and fair-trade fashion, beauty and homewares, it’s hard to leave Green Horse without finding a little something you ‘need’. The store stocks a coterie of finds from ethical powerhouses, many of which are Australian-owned and operated, such as bags by Bellroy, toiletries by Leif and clothing by Kowtow.

Green Horse on High Street in Melbourne — Green Horse is a boutique devoted to organic, sustainable and fair-trade fashion, beauty and homewares.

11. Comune Gallery, Northcote

Specialising in ethically made Australian pieces, the experience at this High Street store is a far cry from what you’ll find at Melbourne’s malls.

Jewellery from Comune Gallery on High Street, Melbourne — Comune Gallery specialises in ethically made Australian pieces.

The clue is in the name (hint, ‘gallery’), and the ornamental artworks on display are handmade and original, often by local jewellers. Beyond the contemporary fine jewellery exhibited, customers at Comune can also commission bespoke rings, necklaces, earrings and bangles.

People gathering at Comune Gallery on High Street, Melbourne — Customers can commission bespoke rings, necklaces, earrings and bangles.

12. Mutual Muse, Northcote

This Northcote consignment store regularly wins rave reviews for its inclusive sizing, carefully edited seasonal collection, and refusal to sell anything from a fast fashion chain.

Beyond clothing, you can peruse second-hand sunglasses, jewellery, shoes and accessories.

The shop itself is also a beautiful space to wander: the changing room’s brick walls are doused in a smoky pistachio green; pendant lights hang from the ceiling; and a mesmerising painting by First Nations artist Adam Leng sits in pride of place above the shop counter.

Inside Mutual Muse store — Mutual Muse bans fast fashion from its store.

See also: Use-Ta! a Thornbury store selling pre-loved clothing for babies and kids, as well as maternity wear.

13. Casa Nata, Thornbury

Find me a better Portuguese Tart outside of Portugal and I’ll eat my Akubra.

picking up Portuguese tarts using a tong in Casa Nata, Thornbury — Casa Nata serves authentic Portuguese tarts in Melbourne. (Image: Kate Shanasy)

Drinks aside, Casa Nata sells nothing but these moreish little treats, sunny circles of custard freckled with black caramelised sugar and encased in crunchy, yielding shells of puff pastry. Watch the pastry chefs in action from behind the glass, as you devour one (or three).

Street view of Casa Nata in Melbourne — You can watch the pastry chefs in action from behind the glass at Casa Nata. (Image: Kate Shanasy)

14. Big Dreams, Northcote

A self-described ‘children’s emporium’, Big Dreams is a wonderland full of toys, clothes, toiletries and books sourced from some of the globe’s best boutique labels. Their curated collection includes eco-friendly names and old-school games.

A pub for all occasions, is there nothing NSC can’t do? Live music is a defining feature of this Northcote stalwart, but the pub grub served here is well beyond your average boozer, the menu spanning from a classic Angus beef burger to crispy skin barramundi with a lemon and chive butter dressing, to vegan-friendly coconut and eggplant kasundi, plus daily specials and plenty of options for kids.

Northcote Social Club exterior — Northcote Social Club is a pub for all occasions.

There are plenty of different areas to settle in for a drink too. A cosy front bar with windows overlooking High Street and a beer garden out the back which features a deck in full sun, a raised little balcony that resembles a treehouse or cubby and a larger undercover area too.

Front bar at Northcote Social Club — The cosy front bar overlooks High Street.

16. Rowdy’s Records, Northcote

There’s certainly no shortage of record shops in this neck of the woods. In fact, you’ll find another four almost within arm’s reach of Rowdy’s Records .

But this little corner store that sells new and used vinyl plus tapes, easily has the most ambience, not to mention plenty of merch, from tees to books. Occasionally you’ll find a live gig happening in the ‘bookstore’ at the back too.

17. Carwyn Cellars, Thornbury

Beer lovers should make a beeline for this independent bottle shop and beer garden, which is something of a northern landmark. Carwyn Cellars has long championed craft producers, purveying both the best in Australian lagers, ales and stouts, as well as hard-to-find international labels across its two dozen-plus taps.

Carwyn Cellars Aperol spritz — Soak up the sun with a spritz. (Image: Carwyn Cellars)

Carwyn frequently runs collabs with local brewers, as well as events and beer subscriptions and gift boxes. While this Thornbury venue is renowned for its beer offering, there’s a fine selection of wine and spirits available too.

the bottleshop at Carwyn Cellars, Thornbury — Choose from an array of wines and spirits. (Image: Carwyn Cellars)

18. Welcome to Thornbury, Thornbury

A food truck park meets sun-drenched beer garden meets arcade, Welcome to Thornbury is an obvious crowd-pleaser. Kids, dogs, young, old: everyone’s welcome at this inner north oasis, which comes alive on summer evenings.

Welcome to Thornbury in Melbourne — Make a beeline for this inner north oasis.

Pull up a pew outside under a striped parasol, pint in hand, and you might enjoy live music as the sun settles below the horizon and the string lights flick on.

Welcome to Thornbury, Northcote, Melbourne — The food truck park and beer garden is a lively spot to visit in the summer months. (Image: Visit Victoria)

19. Preston Market, Preston

Backing onto High Street, this sprawling indoor market is not some chic, sleek space. Rather, Preston Market is a lively, well-loved local institution that proudly parades the area’s rich multicultural heritage, with most of the traders continuing the legacy of their small family business.

Here you’ll find Croatian-run deli counters, a handful of Asian grocers, a Greek fishmonger as well as Turkish borek, hot jam doughnuts and an Indian stall that turns out devilishly good samosas. Despite repeated threats of redevelopment, locals have banded together to ward off unwelcome change at this rustic spot, which dates back to the 1970s.

20. Field Black, Northcote

You’re never far from a good coffee in this neck of the woods. But if you’re after a consistently great flat white or long black, then you’ve come to the right place.

Owned and run by cousins Andra and Andy, Field Black is a triple threat, delivering on coffee, decadent brunch dishes and a personable, warm welcome.

Woman dines at Field Black — The service at Field Black matches the excellent coffee and brunch offerings.

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.