Dining and bar-hopping
An ever-increasing number of bars, restaurants and cafes make this area one of Melbourne's top dining and bar-hopping go-to's.
Serious food fans, book in for a long lunch at Smith & Daughters, a culinary treat at Julie Restaurant in the Abbotsford Convent, or try the six-course IDESexperience. Burger aficionados, make tracks to Le Bon Ton or Dr. Morse Bar & Eatery; pizza fans, Red Sparrow has the answers. Culinary globetrotters, take flight at Cibi, Alimentari, Jinda Thai and Hotel Jesus.
Bar hoppers, you're never far from a tipple. Check out the many classic local pubs on offer, from The Albion on Smith Street to the fabulous Fox Hotel. Hopsters, take your drinking boots to Stomping Ground or Bodriggy breweries. Don't let a night out in Collingwood or Abbotsford end without seeing a band at The Tote, The Gasometer, Grace Darling or The Gem.
Club caffeine, get your cup o' Joe from Proud Mary, Everyday Coffee or Aunty Peg's. Brekky wonders from the STREAT social enterprise spot Cromwell Cafe is another great option.
Arts and activity
Collingwood and Abbotsford have long led the way when it comes to supporting artist initiatives and small galleries. Make sure you call into Lamington Drive and guerrilla operation Backwoods Gallery. Serious art aficionados, visit the many studios and galleries at the Abbotsford Convent and the Gertrude Glasshouse.
Shopping
There are footware and clothing factory outlets flanking Smith Street, specialty stores like Tokyo Bike and Loose Leaf, experts in greenery and flowers. Find Japanese curios at Cibi; art and design books, trinkets and collectables at Happy Valley; or clothes and coffee at The Social Studio.
