High Street in Melbourne has been crowned the coolest street in 2024 by Time Out.
This recognition comes from global experts, highlighting its eclectic mix of vintage boutiques, trendy cafes, food truck gatherings, and independent movie theatres. It offers a slice of Melbourne’s vibrant culture for all visitors.
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Where is High Street?
High Street runs through the Melbourne suburbs of Northcote, Thornbury, and Preston. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere and is easily reachable from the CBD using tram line 86.
Here are some key features that make the High Street in Melbourne cool:
Hipster Vibe
High Street is often associated with Melbourne’s hipster culture, with its quirky boutiques, vintage stores, and trendy cafes. You’ll find plenty of locals and visitors alike sporting alternative fashion styles and enjoying artisanal coffee and food.
Cultural Diversity
One of the highlights of High Street is its cultural diversity. You can explore cuisines worldwide, including Vietnamese, Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern. This diversity extends to the shops and businesses along the street, offering a rich tapestry of experiences.
Live Music and Entertainment
Many venues along High Street host live music gigs, comedy shows, and other performances, adding to the street’s lively atmosphere. Whether you’re into indie bands, stand-up comedy, or spoken word poetry, there’s something for everyone.
Artistic Scene
High Street is dotted with galleries, street art, and creative spaces, reflecting Melbourne’s reputation as a hub for artists and creatives. You can explore local artwork, attend gallery openings, or simply admire the colourful murals adorning the buildings.
Community Feel
Despite its urban vibe, High Street maintains a strong sense of community. Locals often chat with shop owners, participate in community events, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll down the street, adding to the street’s charm.
Green Spaces
Some sections of High Street are lined with leafy trees and pocket parks, providing a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. You can relax on a bench, have a picnic, or enjoy the natural beauty amidst the urban landscape.
Shopping Haven
Whether you’re looking for vintage fashion, artisanal crafts, or unique gifts, High Street has plenty of shops to explore. You’ll find independent boutiques, second-hand stores, and specialty shops offering everything from handmade jewellery to organic skincare products.
Best Restaurants on High Street
For the best dining experiences on the High Street, there are multiple options available.
In Northcote, Yuni’s Kitchen offers delightful Indonesian cuisine, while Oh Loretta Wine Bar serves Modern Australian dishes in a friendly atmosphere perfect for sharing food and wine.
Serendib Restaurant Northcote offers all-you-can-eat Sri Lankan and Indo-Chinese fare, and Ruckers Hill is known for its French-focused menu and drinks accompanied by stunning Melbourne city views.
In Preston, Lui Boss is a go-to for Korean share plates, Tonda Italian brings the essence of Italian trattorias, and Benzina Cantina is a vibrant Mexican bar and restaurant built from shipping containers, offering a great alfresco dining experience.
For a taste of Chinese cuisine, Gold Leaf (Preston) is a popular choice.
Top 30 Coolest Streets in the World
The top 30 coolest streets in the world are listed below.
1. High Street, Melbourne
2. Hollywood Road, Hong Kong
3. East Eleventh, Austin
4. Guatemala Street, Buenos Aires
5. Commerical Drive, Vancouver
6. Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur
7. Rua da Boavista, Lisbon
8. Arnaldo Quintela, Rio de Janeiro
9. Chazawa-dori, Tokyo
10. Consell de Cent, Barcelona
11. Bree Street, Cape Town
12. Oranienstraße, Berlin
13. Fifth Avenue, Park Slope, New York City
14. Ban Tad Thong, Bangkok
15. East 3rd Street, Los Angeles
16. Rua Sá de Noronha, Porto
17. Gerrard Street, London
18. Conde Duque Street, Madrid
19. Bucareli, Mexico City
20. Rue de Belleville, Paris
21. 18th Street, Chicago
22. Camden Street, Dublin
23. Foster Street, Sydney
24. Songridan-gil, Seoul
25. Quang An Street, Tay Ho, Hanoi
26. Miracle Mile, Miami
27. Saint-Hubert Plaza, Montreal
28. Troon Street, Athens
29. Cecil Street, Singapore
30. L.P Leviste Street, Manila
