A food and music day in Fitzroy

Description:

Babka means Grandmother in Russian, and you'd be forgiven judging by the smells of the bakery out the back upon entering that you'd stepped into a kitchen full of delicacies. Everyone has their favorite dish, from the delectable pastries straight from Eastern Europe to the mammoth sandwiches that provide excellent hamper options if picnicking in the nearby Edinburgh Gardens. The standout however has to be the corn beef option which is a weekly ritual to many. The exotic pies come out around lunchtime and sell out extremely fast so expect a line around midday. Not sure if it's on purpose and I'm sure it wouldn't hurt sales, but the mostly female staff seem to be young, slim and attractive. It's best to get takeaway on Sundays morning as locals ease their sore heads by the bucket load.

Our Local Expert Says:

Try the Colombian hot chocolate.

Description:

Not to be confused with "noise" the English translation of Sonido is "sound", which is fitting because this effortlessly cool café is about chilling out to the soft tunes of South America. Owned and operated by a young Colombian couple, the café primarily serves arepas, which are round corn breads that can be stuffed with a myriad of ingredients including cheese, beans, and shredded beef. The beef and olive empanadas are also a house special. Perhaps the shining light is the Colombian hot chocolate, which can be ordered by the jug. Sticky and sweet, it's the best conclusion to a meal. The café itself is full of retro furniture and old Latino album covers, which suits the no fuss surrounds.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great food, great people, great beer, quintessential Fitzroy.

Description:

The Napier Hotel is a Fitzroy institution, hidden within the backstreets though opposite the grandiose Town Hall. Covered with Fitzroy Football Club memorabilia, the small beer garden is perfect for those summer nights, and the range of craft beer on tap is impressive (try the 3 ravens made nearby in Thornbury). But most will come for the huge portions of food, namely the Bogan Burger which consists of a chicken schnitzel, sirloin steak, potato cake, egg, pineapple, bacon, cheese, beetroot, tomatoes, onions, egg in Turkish bread with a side of wedges and salad. Diners have traveled from interstate just to taste one. Never pretentious and always welcoming, the Napier should be the first port of call in Fitzroy.

Our Local Expert Says:

Order the roast of the day, and you won't be disappointed.

Description:

The quintessential Fitzroy footy pub. When people ask what did Fitzroy used to be like, simply direct them to this absolute backstreet gem. The kitchen, which is open all day, is known for offering incredibly cheap (most meals are around $12) but hearty meals, including a great pork roast though the lambs fry is just as good. Many will fight just to sit outside on the street as the sun begins to fade though when AFL football starts on the TV, the Rose will be packed. It's also the unofficial home to Western Australian supporters living in Melbourne so check the fixture for a guaranteed great night out.

Description:

This funky little bar is especially popular with the university student crowd wishing to see bands upstairs. Usually free, the different assortment of performances on offer is incredible diverse. From avant-garde improvised music to 1960's surf tunes, you'll be sure to experience something different. The front bar is great to prop up and have an ale, while the tiny beer garden is a refuge for those that want a bit of fresh air, though it might be overrun with smokers. On Mondays, cult movies are often shown. There is also a gallery space that has permanent collections, offering supporting local artists.

Description:

This property is ideal for those that want to experience the best of Melbourne's inner northern suburbs. Fitzroy, Carlton and Collingwood are known as the lifeblood of the town's art, food and nightlife scene, and with easy walking distance to everything guests can sample the relaxed life that the locals enjoy. Situated in a beautiful tree lined street, the property consists of a delux queen size 3 roomed suite, relaxed back garden and private court yard area. There is also a state of the art kitchen, wifi and a computer is supplied. A light or banquet breakfast can be provided, as can dinner with the hosts. A great option if tourists want to envelope around Melbourne's bohemian center.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great food, great people, great beer, quintessential Fitzroy.

Description:

The Napier Hotel is a Fitzroy institution, hidden within the backstreets though opposite the grandiose Town Hall. Covered with Fitzroy Football Club memorabilia, the small beer garden is perfect for those summer nights, and the range of craft beer on tap is impressive (try the 3 ravens made nearby in Thornbury). But most will come for the huge portions of food, namely the Bogan Burger which consists of a chicken schnitzel, sirloin steak, potato cake, egg, pineapple, bacon, cheese, beetroot, tomatoes, onions, egg in Turkish bread with a side of wedges and salad. Diners have traveled from interstate just to taste one. Never pretentious and always welcoming, the Napier should be the first port of call in Fitzroy.