REH Liquids is a bottle shop with a point of view. Female-founded, proudly local and built with care, it brings together bold design, thoughtful curation and a clear sense of purpose. Created by a mother and daughter duo who knew exactly what kind of space they wanted to build, REH reimagines what drinks retail can feel like when story, substance and community come first. From the name (a nod to HER, read backwards) to the products on the shelf, everything has been chosen with intention. It’s a place to discover something new, support local makers and feel good about what you’re drinking. In this Q&A, Joelene and Charlotte share the values that drive REH, what it’s like building something together, and why Fitzroy felt like the right place to bring their vision to life.

Fitzroy’s café scene is equal parts good coffee, friendly chatter and the kind of spaces where ideas have room to stretch. You’ll find laptops and sketchbooks sitting comfortably alongside croissants and flat whites, because in Fitzroy, working and catching up often blur in the best way. From award-winning roasters pouring silky brews to cosy corners that feel made for daydreaming, these cafés are as varied as the people who fill them. Whether you’re chasing focus, a spark of inspiration or just a cup worth walking across town for, Fitzroy has plenty to choose from. Here are some standout options that definitely make the shortlist.

After years shaping some of Melbourne’s most respected bars, from Congress and Black Pearl to Mr West and Apollo Inn, Belinda Linton and Luke Kelly distilled a big, ambitious dream into something smaller and more personal: Pendant. Here, Belinda and Luke talk about how they poured years of experience into one bar, the energy of an owner-operated space, and why comfort and connection will always matter more than trends.

Down at the south end of Smith Street, you’ll find Souvi Street, a bright, welcoming spot where traditional Greek flavours meet a thoughtful, modern take on street food. The space opened in April this year and brings a new energy to the strip. Step inside and you’ll notice the warmth straight away, not just in the scent of charcoal cooking or the laid-back playlist, but in the details. One wall is lined with family portraits, a mix of colours and eras, capturing moments of Australian life across generations of the Skoufos family. It’s not just decoration. It’s part of the story.