Collingwood & Abbotsford

Around Australia Collingwood is mostly known for its football team, but come visit and you'll discover a vibrant suburb with humble working-class roots. Surprisingly this suburb which has always been a little rough around the edges is now one of the most fashionable and desirable suburbs – at least north of the Yarra. The old industrial warehouses are being converted into modern, fashionable workplaces, or make way for new apartments. Creative businesses are migrating towards Collingwood and more and more bars, restaurants and cafes seem to open up every day – the suburb is exploding in popularity. Smith St is Collingwood's hub. Though technically one side of the street belongs to Fitzroy, it won't matter one bit to a local, as Smith St has always been considered to be Collingwood as a whole, so some liberties have been made in the selection of businesses to feature here. Walking around Smith St, you'll see an effortless mix of the 'haves' and 'have-nots', all occupying the same space. At lunch time, you are quite literally spoiled for choice, with selections ranging from burgers, pizza, Mexican and many Asian cuisines up for grabs – all easy on your wallet. The cafes in this suburb are some of the best in Melbourne – let alone Australia – all making a trip to Collingwood a must.

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Neko Neko

Address
83A Smith Street
Website
Visit Website

Another venue that is technically in Fitzroy (but locals will feel belongs to Collingwood all the same) is Neko Neko (or 'Cat Cat'). Being the new kid on the block, it's the latest incarnation of Smith St's Wabi Sabi Salon, a Japanese restaurant. Whether take away or eat in, both options are to die for! Try the kingfish dish (pictured below)! If you're a vegetarian, pescatarian or vegan you'll sure feel the love here as your choices will be many, and they will be good. Very good. The place is small but beautifully done. No detail has been spared and eating in makes for a singularly enjoyable experience. Sit on the front bench and watch the Fitzroy and Collingwood crowds swagger by.

Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Neko Neko
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Allpress Coffee

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