Tram to Fitzroy North and Clifton Hill: Route 86, Stops 22 - 27

If you’re after that “barista-knows-my-first-name-and-daily-coffee-order’’ feeling, then you need Fitzroy North, which is nestled nicely along tram route 86. In a morning of cafe-hopping I’ve seen more welcoming nods to regulars than I’ve seen people instagramming their breakfasts.

Rather than for the show, locals come here for the meals, company and the newspaper, even on a Monday. The pile next to a tray of freshly baked muffins at The Bell Jar look well read, and the daily muffin special (pear and white chocolate today) looks equally enticing. I say I’m snagging one for the road, but it’s really just for the meander up Queens Parade. Had I not had coffee on my mind, one of their house-made turmeric spice blends would’ve made a nice accompanying latte.

Behind the quaint Victorian buildings of Fitzroy North/Clifton Hill, there are shops dedicated to their crafts. There’s handmade Turkish rugs at Alaturca Collections, even clothing being carefully made behind the counter at Keegan. It’s all about the small and unique touches, including knowing costumers by name; while floating in and out of stores, shoppers are greeted warmly. Fowlers Flowers, and cafe Mixed Business make for a friendly duo: buy a $25 seasonal posy followed by a coffee next door with “Tim Tammy” flavour notes.

Fresh cut flowers everyday. This single stem of Queen Anne’s lace is everything ?

A post shared by Fowlers Flowers | Melbourne (@fowlersflowers) on Jun 22, 2018 at 3:24pm PDT

The hubbub of community here is loud and welcoming, so it’s easy to forget the wide main road running through the middle of the street. It feels like a merry slice of the old times. I order a simple latte in a punt to become a new local, and perhaps a casual read of the newspaper while I wait will seal the deal.

Not to miss …

Eat Two Bob

Two Bob is a large, light-filled cafe serving decadent food such as ricotta-buttermilk hot cakes. If the weather is kind, go for a table outside beneath high-reaching trees or take the elevated nook by the window. The service is warm, as is the chocolate sauce.

● 270 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North

●Instagram @twobobcafe

Shop Village Vineyard

If you think the prettier the label the better the wine, Village Vineyard is the place. But it also delivers on local and international flavour: go for the Friday-night wine tastings. After a nightcap? Browse the hand-written bottle labels and individualised mixers to go.

● 348 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North

●villagevineyard.com.au

Explore The Botanical Store

The Botanical Store, vibrant in sorbet colours, will blend and curate natural skincare products for you. Wind your way from scrubs, to toners, creams, and masks. There’s also a specialty tea brand at the back of the store and ceramics available for purchase.

●70 High Street, Northcote

● thebotanicalstore.com.au