Carlton North is a thriving suburb situated 4 kilometres north of Melbourne, offering its residents a true foodie nirvana. This trendy neighbourhood is filled with established and emerging eateries of all types, from artisanal bakeries to authentic pizza joints. If you're looking to learn about what Carlton North has to offer, this article will give you great insight into the best spots to check out in this beautiful neighbourhood.

Cafes in Carlton North

If you're into the casual dining experience, then Carlton North is the prime location to scope out cafes.

North is a cafe that has been an institution in Carlton North since 2007, and its quaint aesthetics alongside delicious food are why people keep coming back. The menu hasn't changed dramatically over the years, so you'll get a chance to enjoy a tried-and-tested assortment of dishes. Some fan favourites include their hearty Reuben sandwich, which uses high-quality pastrami to elevate this classic bite. For something a little more filling, the Champions Breakfast is a must-try, featuring flawlessly cooked eggs and a mouthwatering homemade relish.

Florian is a charming cafe located in the former site of Rathdowne Street Food Store. With a relaxed and unpretentious ambience, the menu is produce-driven and ever-changing. Their standout dish is the Farmer's Breakfast, featuring cured meats, cheese, boiled eggs, house-made pickles, and more. The cafe serves coffee from Allpress, tea from Assembly, and soda from Strangelove. Regulars can enjoy rotating sandwiches and salads, while sweeter options include whipped yogurt with fruit and house preserves. House-made pickles, jams, spices, and seasonings are available for purchase too.

The North Carlton Canteen is another excellent cafe option that hits all the marks in terms of high-quality cafe cuisine. Their coffee is some of the best around, but the main attraction is their assortment of fantastic food that's good for you. The pumpkin fritters and omelettes, in particular, are out of this world, offering complex flavours in a healthy package. Or, if you fancy something that hits the sweet notes, we'd recommend their banana bread pancakes with pistachio praline and fresh fruit.

If you're looking for a quick bite on the go in North Carlton, then you can't look past Babajan. This cafe offers a taste of Turkey from their takeaway-only cafe, with incredible dishes like freshly baked borek (a filled pastry with meat or spinach and cheese) and balik ekmek (a uniquely delicious calamari sandwich). Although this cafe is takeaway-only now, it hasn't stopped patrons from flocking here consistently because of the unique flavours and exceptionally high standard of food. If you like veggie options, this place is for you!

Drinking and Dining in Carlton North

Carlton North offers much more than just cafes; this neighbourhood is home to some of the best restaurants and bars north of Melbourne.

There's a wide variety of options to choose from, including casual dining, fine dining, and more sedate spots to bring families.

If you're looking for a truly unique dining experience in Carlton North, then Enter Via Laundry is top of the list. This ultra-exclusive restaurant explores some lesser-known Indian dishes - and it does so with gusto! It might be challenging to reserve a table here, as it only has 20 seats, but it's well worth the effort. From the hand-painted plates to the rich menu offerings, this is a must-try if you're a foodie. We recommend trying the Parindey Mussalam - a decadent dish that lovingly brings together eggs, quail, chicken, and duck with all of the Indian trimmings like pickled vegetables and roti.

Henry Sugar is a stylish bar and eatery in Carlton's Rathdowne Village. The menu offers sophisticated and fun dishes with Australian twists and a focus on native ingredients. Enjoy appellation oysters, butterflied prawns, barbecued kangaroo skewers, hapuka, and delightful sweets like macadamia-miso ice cream and crème brûlée. Cocktails feature native ingredients, and the wine list emphasizes minimal-intervention options. The inviting decor includes a charcoal concrete bar and a lively terrace. DJs spin vinyl four nights a week, adding to the relaxed ambience of this neighbourhood gem.

Gerald's Bar in North Carlton is a charming and inviting spot where you'll quickly feel like a local in the relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. The well-priced wine list changes according to the management's whims, and you can choose from a delightful menu featuring local produce.

La Luna in Rathdowne Village, owned by renowned chef and TV personality Adrian Richardson, is a much-loved, long-standing restaurant. Known for its exceptional house-aged beef, the menu also offers a variety of other delicious meats, creating a delightful charcuterie experience. The laid-back decor and efficient service add to the relaxed and comforting ambience, making La Luna a cherished destination for food lovers.

If you're after a more casual bite to eat, then Lucky's Pizzeria is a fantastic option. This tempting pizza joint offers dine-in or takeaway pizza that uses fresh ingredients to create some of the best pizzas. It's a big hit with the locals and, with good reason, offers classic pizzas and more adventurous options. We recommend trying out the Salsicce to get the authentic Lucky's experience, which includes tomato, burrata, Italian sausage, caramelized onions, and feta.

Shopping in Carlton North

Clay Health and Organics is North Carlton's friendly neighbourhood grocer, offering a communal vibe and plenty of organic produce. You can pick up a good chunk of your shopping here, from certified organic fruit and veg to the usual pantry odds-and-ends. There's a real focus on community and sustainability at Clay Health and Organics, so you'll be able to find chemical-free cleaning products, freshly baked bread, and even freshly squeezed smoothies and juices.

Rathdowne Deli in Carlton North is a welcoming store with a curated selection of handpicked goodies; it offers a modern take on an old-fashioned deli. With a mix of familiar and unique items like Movida Bakery bread and Padre Coffee, it's a delightful spot to enjoy house-made treats. Cozy up at the window bar or communal table, or enjoy the outdoor seating during the summer. Rathdowne Deli is a must-visit for quality products and a friendly atmosphere.

The Fishmonger's Son, located in Nicholson Village, is owned by Anthony Yotis, who comes from a family with a long history in the seafood business. The shop offers a wide variety of high-quality seafood, deli items, and pantry staples. Take advantage of their delicious house-made rolls and paninis for lunch and grab a dozen fresh oysters to take home—a delightful spot to satisfy your seafood cravings.

If you're more into the idea of a lovingly cared-for bakery, then Monforte Viennoiserie is the place to go. This small bakery goes above and beyond with its perfectly laminated pastries and exceptional flavour combinations. We highly recommend trying their leatherwood honey and sea salt croissant if you get a chance.

Real Estate in Carlton North

If these delightful North Carlton spots have tickled your fancy, it might be time for you to consider making a move to this idyllic neighbourhood. Keep an eye out for our latest sales and rentals available in Carlton North. Or, if you want to bring your retail concepts to the area, check out our commercial listings here.