Food + Drink

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.

What began with a love of bagels and a flair for experimentation has grown into one of Fitzroy’s favourite bagel destinations. After years of refining their technique, Carmen Newton and Jack Muir-Rigby launched Masses Bagels at local markets before opening their Smith Street shopfront. In this Q&A, Carmen shares how the journey unfolded, from learning to make bagels in a tiny shop in Japan to creating seasonal, flavour-packed favourites in Fitzroy — and what’s coming up next.

With Melbourne pulling on its grey winter coat, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite Fitzroy Indian restaurants to enjoy a spicy warming curry or aromatic chai this season. In classic Fitzroy fashion, Indian restaurants here offer unexpected delights beyond basic butter chickens or simple kormas. From upmarket fusion to authentic street food, spice-laced cocktails to a piled plate of home-style all-you-can-eat feasts, the Fitzroy Indian Restaurant scene highlights the best of what cuisine from the Indian subcontinent has to offer.

For food lovers, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival is a highlight of the culinary calendar, celebrating the best of local dining, international flavours and exceptional drinks. Since its launch in 1993, the festival has grown into a world-class event, attracting top chefs, sommeliers and restaurateurs while showcasing Melbourne’s vibrant food culture to the world. Taking place this March, the festival features more than 400 events across the city, offering everything from large-scale dining spectacles to intimate gatherings that highlight the stories behind the food.

Fitzroy has no shortage of incredible Italian dining spots, from cosy trattorias to buzzing wine bars serving up handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and exceptional wine. Whether you’re after a long, leisurely meal or a quick bowl of perfectly al dente tagliatelle, there’s a Fitzroy Italian restaurant that fits the bill. With a mix of old-school institutions and modern takes on regional Italian cuisine, the local dining scene proves that when it comes to great food, Fitzroy knows how to do Italian right. From neighbourhood favourites with ever-changing seasonal menus to spots dedicated to a single perfect dish, this guide rounds up the best Italian restaurants in Fitzroy for your next meal out.

From traditional flavours to innovative twists, the Fitzroy Japanese food scene celebrates the artistry of this vibrant cuisine while reflecting the neighbourhood’s dynamic energy. Whether you're craving delicate sashimi, bold ramen or an unforgettable omakase experience, Fitzroy has it all—from cosy cafés and sushi spots to bustling ramen joints, lively sake bar, and refined fine dining. Looking to recreate your favourites at home? Hinoki Pantry has you covered with authentic Japanese staples. Our guide showcases standout venues that capture the essence of Japanese dining in Fitzroy, offering a mix of classic and modern experiences. Read on to discover the Japanese Fitzroy locals love, and find your next favourite spot to enjoy this incredible cuisine.

Ready to spice up your summer dining plans? Fitzroy is bursting with bold flavours, vibrant vibes and unforgettable Mexican food experiences that are sure to transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico. From sizzling tacos to zesty margaritas, our guide to the best Fitzroy Mexican restaurants will help you discover the most delicious spots to indulge in authentic, creative and downright drool-worthy dishes. Whether you’re a taco traditionalist or a burrito adventurer, Fitzroy has the perfect place for your next fiesta! 🌮✨