Located just north of the CBD, Brunswick is a feast for the senses and the tastebuds. What was once a predominantly working-class suburb has now become inundated with bars, live music venues, charity shops, restaurants and eco-friendly cafés that appeal to the environmentally conscious. Brunswick locals are made up of hipsters and bohemians who fancy the alternative arts scene, but it’s the Greeks, Lebanese, Turks and Italians who inhabited the area in the 1960s that we have to thank for a lot of the neighbourhood’s food and culture.
Bustling Sydney Road lies in the heart of the suburb, while Brunswick East is bordered by Lygon Street, which has a slightly more upscale feel.
* Juanito’s “This is a great little café. It makes one thing, which is a roll, and it’s the most delicious pastrami roll in the world. It’s a bit of an iconic sandwich,” Abboud says. The sandwiches are made to order with pastrami, cheese, lettuce, tomato and homemade mayonnaise with basil. “[The roll] is very simple and so delicious that every time you finish one you feel like you could get another straight away.”
* Blak Dot GalleryWith workshops, events and up to six programmed exhibitions a year, Blak Dot Gallery is a hub for Indigenous artwork. The not-for-profit organisation was established in 2011 as a contemporary, Indigenous-run space and is a definite must-visit, according to Ulman. “Beautifully curated and ever-impressive, Blak Dot is Indigenous-run and showcases mesmerising global Indigenous works,” she says.
* Record ParadiseLocated in the heart of Brunswick, Record Paradise is a big supporter of independent music with a huge selection of new release and reissue vinyl that includes labels Mistletone, Poison City Records and MILK among others. With the latest releases, in-store performances and music merchandise available, music lovers can’t get enough of this place. “Brunswick music, to me, is synonymous with Record Paradise,” says Ulman. “Whether you’re picking up the latest releases or classics, checking out in-store for amazing acts or just popping in for a yarn with owners Paul and Renee.”
* Noisy RitualA winery by day, and a wine bar and cellar door by night, Noisy Ritual has taken the thing you love about escaping to the Yarra Valley and placed it in an urban setting. The wine is locally made and available to taste in house or to take away, and you can grab some food, listen to live bands and take part in winemaking workshops. The venue also hosts one-off gigs as well as weekly DJ sets. There’s also a space you can hire for special events. For Ulman, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some of her favourite things. “Have you been to Noisy Ritual yet?,” Ulman asks. “If not, why not? I highly recommend its locally made wines, incredible food and wonderfully curated bands.”
* Finki HandmadeFinki is another favourite pick of Carr’s for “great, independent designers”. The store boasts a range of cute stationery, jewellery, and men’s and women’s clothes with unique prints, all while promoting the talents of over 40 artists, designers and makers.