From its heroin-charged, punk heyday in the seventies, St Kilda sure has changed a lot. A lot more fancy and a lot less dangerous, it’s become the social hub for young twenty-somethings and travellers alike. There is almost too much here that deserves a mention – so what follows are only a few little gems that make St Kilda shine.
Southside Handmade and Vintage Market
Level 1
A sneaky little pop-up market in the St Kilda RSL on the last Saturday of each month, Southside is a treasure trove of contemporary and vintage chic. With stall after stall of clothing racks and handmade goodies, there are so many great things to be found here. The remaining dates for the rest of the year are Saturday 27 July, Saturday 24 August, Saturday 21 September, Saturday 26 October, Saturday 30 November, Saturday 14 December and the Saturday 21 December. Stop stalling, start trawling!
Scout
125 Grey Street
Scout House holds a collection of vintage and vintage replica household items. From maps to decorations to old breadboards, Scout’s collection ranges from odd to adorable. The space is beautifully laid out and beautiful to look at – such meticulous order is really a sight to behold.
Classical Bicycle Shop
121 Grey Street
If you’re wondering where to get one of those gorgeous, vintage-style bicycles, this is your shop. They have a divine collection of replica bikes for both gentleman and ladies, so you can look adorable riding around the streets of St Kilda.
Radio Mexico
11-13 Carlisle Street
Radio Mexico probably has the best Mexican food in Australia. With absolutely scrumdidliumpcious options like the Pollo Taco or the Bean, Corn and Roasted Capsicum Quesadillas, this menu could be devoured ten times over. To make it even better, the service is fantastic and the Margaritas a treat. Unfortunately, they don’t take bookings, so you have to show up and wait for a table to become free – but this is never a problem and always worth it.
Frocks and Slacks
188E Barkly Street
Tracy, who owns Frocks and Slacks, is, as she said, about as “In Your Hood as you can get.” Tracy’s shop has been around for fourteen years and holds a dear collection of primarily fifties, sixties and seventies clothing. The collection is beautiful and Tracy is incredibly helpful. She also has a superior knowledge of clothing throughout the ages!
Acland Street Cake Shops
A trip to St Kilda would not be complete without a trip to the infamous cake shops. Journey down Acland and admire the beautiful cakes and biscuits of all shapes and sizes and flavours. They are an art exhibition in themselves.
The Espy
11 The Esplanade
And finally, The Espy, St Kilda’s ‘Pièce de résistance’! The Espy has been the lifeblood of St Kilda since the 1878. Hosting live music most nights of the week, The Espy welcomes everyone and all to come and have a dance. The vibe of the Espy is contagious and a must-visit when down south.
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