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.

The cooler months are here, and the evenings are calling for a glass of wine and somewhere warm to settle in. Whether you’re escaping the chill solo, planning a low-key date night, or catching up with friends, we’ve rounded up some of the best wine bars in Fitzroy. Cozy up with a glass of your preferred vintage this winter: from local pét-nats to international drops, these Fitzroy wine bars have something for even the most discerning palette! With some excellent new additions joining the neighbourhood this year, there’s fresh flavour in Fitzroy’s already stellar wine bar scene. Whether you are on the hunt for a new local favourite or simply keen to mix up your usual rotation, this guide is well worth a browse.