by Julia Hebaiter (aka Julia Svoice) (
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Owns 'FoodLit'. Highly qualified, established food & lifestyle writer, former restaurateur, founder professional writing business, Articul8. Long, diverse writing history, passion for food culture, the land & inspired food language.www.foodlit.com.au
I love nothing more than meandering down a vibrant street dotted with cafes, interesting people and shops on a lazy Sunday afternoon – or any time for that matter.
Acland Street in St Kilda hits the spot on all fronts. It's a colourful street adorned with pavement art and an assortment of colourful people, including some very talented street performers.
Bound to brighten up any winter's day, Acland Street is home to many
restaurants whose cuisines span every corner of the globe. There's Vietnamese, Indian, Italian, Malaysian and more. Unfortunately for a street with so much history and character, you'll also spot the dual domes of the big, yellow 'M', but why go there when there's plenty of other tantalising food to be had?
The street is most famous, however, for its array of continental cake shops, like the
Europa Cake Shop, whose windows are full to brimming with boutique pastries, éclairs, slices, cakes, and every decadent sweet and savoury delicacy under the winter sun.
Named after
Sir Thomas Dyke Acland, owner of the schooner Lady of St Kilda, Acland Street, given its beachside location, has long been recognised as a seaside playground.
There's
Luna Park for a few thrills and spills (before you indulge in any cakes, of course, not after, or you might remember your visit for all the wrong reasons).
There's the long-time favourite, the fabulous
Esplanade Market every Sunday.
There's also live entertainment, good food and a buzzing atmosphere at famous local institution, the
Vineyard, a bar/restaurant that has changed its face many times over its long history and currently attracts plenty of backpackers from far, foreign and fascinating lands.
