Toorak: Melbourne’s most exclusive suburb

Say what you like about Toorak, but it puts in the work. Melburnians have made a sport of sneering at the city’s native habitat for money (both old and new), but there’s no besmirching the impressive levels of upkeep required in the hallowed ‘burb five kilometres south-east of the CBD.

James Vivian has been well placed over the past five years to observe the area’s sensibilities from his eponymous skin clinic in Toorak Village.

“Toorak has a real kind of maturity,” says the dermal therapist and founder of skincare line Viviology. “There’s a real legacy. A lot of people are proud of Toorak because they’ve lived there forever, and they’ve got a big family history.”

Toorak Village remains an old-school shopping strip where life’s essentials are on hand, whether that’s a loaf of bread or laser skin rejuvenation.

High-end development, largely aimed at cashed-up downsizers, is changing the face and character of the area. It’s bringing in new restaurateurs and businesses to try their luck tapping into Toorak’s rivers of gold, but Vivian and his husband remain rusted-on fans of Romeo’s, an Italian institution that opened 56 years ago and still draws a crowd each night for its bacon and avocado pasta and Caesar salad.

“It’s good food, a family-run business, and there’s just a lot of support from the community,” Vivian says. “Other restaurants open and they might have gorgeous fitouts and a more wholesome menu, but they don’t necessarily last.”

Beyond the flash cars, stern fences and clipped gardens, there’s a community in Toorak that breathes soul into the area, except in July when the entire postcode empties out to the Amalfi Coast.

“You’ll see a lot of teased blonde bobs and activewear, and there’s a rivalry between two competing dog grooming businesses, but there’s a real camaraderie here,” Vivian says.

My local

with Ross Savas from Kay & Burton

Favourite street

I can’t choose between St Georges and Albany roads, as both capture the essence of Toorak. These streets are lined with landmark estates and modern architectural homes. Leafy, private and timeless, they embody the prestige and beauty that make Toorak so admired.

Market insight

Toorak remains the focal point of Melbourne’s prestige market, with strong interest from both local and global buyers. Limited availability is creating a highly competitive environment, and enquiry levels remain elevated. As we move through spring and summer, momentum is set to build further, paving the way for a highly active season.

Hidden gem

Saint Haven wellness club is truly an escape from the world. It feels like a sanctuary – a place to recharge, reset, and invest in your wellbeing. It’s a retreat for many who value health and luxury and has quickly become a defining part of the village.

For sale in Toorak

Expressions of Interest

8 Montrose Court, Toorak VIC 3142

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View property

You’ll be “to the manor born” at this Christopher Doyle-designed house that combines the hallmarks of yesteryear with every modern luxe comfort. Grand in scope and style, the home’s three levels are crowned by a main-bedroom suite occupying the entire top floor. It has its own sitting room, home office and broad terrace.