Melbourne is home to several neighbourhoods with impressive transformations, and Footscray is one of the most remarkable examples. Once known as a working-class area with a rough reputation, it has undergone significant redevelopment over the past decade. Today, Footscray is recognised as one of Melbourne’s most liveable suburbs while remaining relatively affordable. Its appeal is further enhanced by a thriving multicultural community, excellent restaurants and bars, and a growing arts scene, making it an increasingly popular place to call home. 

DID YOU KNOW?
Footscray’s famous bulldog mascot came about by accident. The team had several nicknames after joining the VFA in 1886, but during a 1928 game at Western (now Whitten) Oval, a stray bulldog ran onto the field, leading the players out. The home crowd loved it, and from that moment on, the bulldog became the official mascot and nickname. 

GETTING AROUND
Footscray is well-served by three train stations, along with several bus and tram routes. As Melbourne’s public transport network expands, Footscray will become a key hub for the west. A new airport rail link is set to reduce travel time to Tullamarine to just 18 minutes, while additional services will provide easy connections to regional centres like Geelong, Ballarat, and Bendigo. 

LOCALS LOVE
Footscray Market is the bustling heart of the suburb. Its distinctive brutalist design houses a vibrant range of fresh produce, seafood, meats, and Asian ingredients. Open Tuesday to Saturday, it’s a popular spot for locals and is easily accessible via train, bus, or tram. 

Cafes 

Whether you’re brunching in a shipping container or a former milk bar, Footscray’s café scene is as unique as the food. 

• Rudimentary – A creative café in upcycled shipping containers. 

• Dumbo –olive oil and butter 

• Olive Oil & Butter – Family-run, offering Greek-inspired dishes and pastries. 

• Footscray Milking Station – A cozy café set in a converted milk bar, known for its welcoming vibe and hearty brunch options. With outdoor seating and great coffee, it’s a local favorite for a relaxed meal.  

• T. Cavallaro & Sons Pasticceria – A Footscray institution since 1956, this family-run bakery is famous for its authentic Sicilian cannoli and pastries. Run by the Cavallaro family, everything is made on-site using traditional recipes passed down through generations. You haven’t truly experienced the west until you’ve tried their cannoli! 

Restaurants

From homestyle Ethiopian meals to contemporary fine dining, Footscray’s restaurant scene caters to every palate. 

• Navi – A 25-seat fine dining gem in Yarraville, led by an acclaimed chef. 

• Roti Road – Footscray’s go-to spot for authentic Malaysian cuisine. 

• Harley & Rose – Known for its pipi pizzas and relaxed courtyard dining. 

• Café Lalibela – A long-standing, family-run Ethiopian restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere. 

• Station Hotel – A Footscray favourite for some of Melbourne’s best steaks. 

Bars

Footscray has quickly become a hotspot for wine and cocktail bar lovers, perfect for a night out. 

• Misfits Bar – Taking over the old Baby Snakes spot, Misfits brings a fresh vibe to Footscray with its warm decor, local Victorian drinks, and homemade cocktail elements. The space features exposed brick, an outdoor mural, and live DJs. For now, food comes from local favourite Slice Shop. 

• Lay Low – A hidden cocktail bar serving Greek-inspired snacks. 

• Mr West Bar & Bottleshop – A two-story bar and bottle shop in central Footscray. 

• Hop nation Brewing Co- Housed in a former factory, this brewery offers 17 taps featuring unique beer-wine hybrids and core brews like Footscray Draft. Pair your drink with a pizza from the in-house pizzeria, Good Pizza, and enjoy the view from the mezzanine. 

• Back Alley Sally’s – A lively bar tucked away in a converted warehouse. 

Shops

Explore Footscray’s eclectic retail scene, from second-hand vinyl to vibrant food markets. 

• Harry and Larry’s General Store:  This quirky urban general store behind Back Alley Sally’s offers local produce, including goods from Dench Bakers, Meredith Dairy, and All Press Coffee. Shoppers can grab reusable bags, and enjoy toasted focaccias named after local icons.  

• Footscray Market – A bustling indoor market offering fresh produce and local goods. 

• Far Fetched Designs – This Seddon store showcases unique arts and crafts from independent Australian makers. Supporting small businesses, the shop offers small-run jewellery, homewares, and more, with makers setting their own prices.  

• T. Cavallaro & Sons – Famous for traditional Sicilian cannoli and pastries since 1956. 

• Two Faces Eyewear and Optometry – This Seddon optometry boutique is known for exceptional service and unique, handcrafted frames. With decades of experience, the staff helps customers find distinctive eyewear from premium designers like Oliver Peoples and Roger Henley, ensuring both style and comfort. 

Culture and Leisure

Footscray offers picturesque parks, vibrant cultural spaces, and a beloved cinema. 

• Footscray Community Arts Centre – A hub for local arts, culture, and events. 

• Heavenly Queen Temple – Australia’s largest Taoist temple, home to a towering statue of Mazu. 

• Quarry Park – A new park featuring mountain bike trails and stunning city views. 

• Sun Theatre Yarraville – A historic art deco cinema perfect for movie lovers. 

• Bulldogs Museum – Celebrating the history of the Western Bulldogs football team. 

Cheap Eats

Short on time? Footscray has some of Melbourne’s best quick, affordable bites. 

• Pho Hung Vuong Saigon – A bustling spot for classic Vietnamese dishes. 

• Pie Thief – A retro pie shop serving creative fillings like lasagne and nostalgic treats. 

• Slice Shop Pizza – Offering New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pie. 

• Nhu Lan Bakery – Known for over 25 years for making top-notch banh mi. 

• Viet Kitchen – A relaxed spot perfect for casual lunch or dinner with the family. The menu offers a great selection of vegetarian options, along with a wide variety of seafood, rice, and noodle dishes.

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