Richmond is one of the city’s earliest settlements, and is a vibrant suburb based around food and fashion. Best known for its bargain designer and seconds shopping along Bridge Road and Swan Street, Richmond is home to the factory outlets and seconds stores for many of Australia’s finest fashion and accessory designers, including Mimco and Country Road.
Also on Swan Street and Bridge Road you can find a range of eateries from restaurants to cafes, many offering a genuine taste of Greece.
Nearby Victoria Street is known as Little Saigon and is the heart of Melbourne’s Vietnamese community. The long stretch of eateries, bakeries, butchers, fishmongers and grocers starts at Hoddle Street and extends to the Yarra River in nearby Abbotsford. But don’t expect white linen tablecloths and hovering waiters – Victoria Street is about the hustle and bustle of fast, fresh and exceptional Asian food at a bargain price. Wander through the Asian groceries or stop for Vietnamese snacks including crisp rice paper rolls or a steaming bowl of pho.
Victoria Bitter and Fosters beer buffs can take a tour through the Carlton & United Breweries’ brewhouse in Abbotsford.
How to get thereTram: Number 70 from Flinders Street to Swan Street or number 109 from Bourke Street to Victoria Street, number 48 or 75 tram from Flinders Street to Bridge Road.Train: From Flinders Street Station to Richmond StationTravelling time: 10 minutes
