Where to shop, eat and explore in North Melbourne on tram route 57, stops 10-15

Sipping a cappuccino out of a china mug, while devouring a four-layered lemon coconut cake, I overhear a group of elderly ladies at a table nearby. They are reminiscing on the beauty of old Italy and the rapidly changing times. Here, I could mistake myself for being at a grandma’s house, instead I’m tucked into a cozy corner in North Melbourne off tram route 57. It has a sweet, generous and old-soul way about it. Despite the aged buildings being converted into newer establishments, the area still feels vintage, with plenty of nostalgia – including its tastes.

A “camp-fire hot chocolate” from Mork Chocolate Brew House, a specialty chocolate store, smells like a night out in the woods. It is finished with maple smoke and a torched marshmallow for a full sensory experience and there’s no shame here in polishing off an indulgent plate of sweets on your own.

If it’s vintage you want to experience in the clothing domain, Martin Fella sells European-labelled bags, accessories and even restored lamps. It’s even by the old school word-of-mouth while browsing that I am recommended to try Willow and Wine, a bar offering classic forms of entertainment, with shelves full of board games and secondhand books. However, for the more avant-garde grandmas or grandpas of Melbourne there is Quirk & Co, an eclectic gift store which sells playful and distinctive pieces, including best-selling banana lights

Now all I need is a second slice of cake, perhaps a crochet rug, and a black and white photo album to show off to my new friends, two tables over.

EAT \ Beatrix Bakes

It’s not usual to see queues for seats at Beatrix Bakes – after all, there is a cabinet full of seasonal baked goods, including the infamous red velvet cake, to choose from. But don’t leave it too late in the day to visit, as they may be all sold out. It’s that good.

688 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne

beatrixbakes.com

EXPLORE \ Martin Fella

Owner of this store – Martin Fella himself – started out in fashion with his jewellery label. He now travels the world to track down clothing, accessories and homewares for his vintage store. With a particular focus on luxury bags, expect plenty of Louis Vuitton.

556 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne

martinfella.com.au

SHOP \ Wingnut and Co

At Wingnut and Co, you get to see behind the scenes as just a glass wall separates the ceramics shop to the workshop space out back. Everything – from planters to oil burners, vases and plates – is made to a Japanese-style aesthetic.

47 Baillie Street, North Melbourne

wingnutand.co