Fitzroy Local

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.

When Suze opened earlier this year, it brought warmth, flavour and a touch of Italian flair to a quiet corner of Fitzroy North. With a thoughtful menu, a deep love of wine and a genuine sense of hospitality, co-owners Giulia Giorgetti and Steve Harry have created the kind of place that quickly becomes a neighbourhood favourite, equally suited to stopping in for a glass or settling in for a leisurely dinner.

As the air gets colder and the layers get thicker, there's a certain je ne sais quoi about the warm embrace of comfort food. And where better to find it than nestled in the charming French restaurants and bistros of Fitzroy and surrounds? Whether you're dreaming of sharing a classic French onion soup or a hearty beef bourguignon on a cozy winter date night, Fitzroy’s dining scene certainly doesn't disappoint when it comes to French offerings. The local French cuisine blends local ingredients with traditional French flair, whether you are settling in for a three-course feast or just grabbing a warm, freshly-baked pastry or sweet crepe on your morning walk. With Bastille Day celebrations approaching on 14 July, we've gathered a list of fantastic local French restaurants, cafes and bistros in Fitzroy and the surrounding area, ready to transport you straight to the streets of Paris.