Brunswick Street south of Johnston Street, Fitzroy

This is one of Melbourne’s trendiest areas, defined by an eclectic mix of artisanal and high end fashion and homewares stores. Slotted in between are many fast-paced, tiny cafes and restaurants of all different cuisines, all seeming to have their own unique twist that subscribes to the atmosphere of Fitzroy, that is, cutting-edge, modern and most importantly, each one is different to the last. There’s no such thing as a quiet day or night on Brunswick street. There is a constant flow of people, bikes, cars, trams, buses, dogs and the odd skateboard or scooter, reminding you to look both ways before you cross the street or step outside a little boutique or bistro. Some say that this area is the identity of Melbourne and Melbournians, simply because it is such a vast array of what our culture has on offer. Myself, I do not adhere to any particular cultural identity as I’m the daughter of a British Hong Kong expat and an Australian that has spent most of his life working overseas, in all parts of the world. I think that’s why I’m so in love with this neighbourhood, because it represents diversity in a modern Australian setting. Melbournians appreciate quality, fresh food, art and design which are all components of this strip. However, the downside of this need to appeal to what Melbournians want prevents true authenticity shining through. Even after a site visit it’s evident that there is no such thing as a purely legitimate Italian, French or Spanish café or restaurant, every establishment is slightly tweaked to ensure it appeases the locals. All food places in inner Melbourne, even including supermarkets have undergone a process of “Australianisation” that guarantees a new Australia identity asserts itself above a traditional past identity.