Northcote Rise

If you haven't discovered Inthanon Thai yet, consider this your sign.

Sitting at 182 High Street, Inthanon has quietly built a loyal following among Northcote locals — and it's easy to understand why. Authentic Thai flavours, made with care and served in a space that feels warm and welcoming from the moment you walk in.

From fragrant curries to bold, considered dishes that take you somewhere else entirely, is the kind of neighbourhood restaurant that reminds you why eating local matters.

Whether it's a midweek dinner or a slow weekend meal with people you love, this is High Street dining at its best.

Find them at 182 High Street, Northcote.

.optical is one of High Street's favourites for a reason.

Born out of a love for the finer details, SPECS carry a unique collection of eyewear you won't find on every corner — sourced from small independent designers around the world.

The team are drawn to pieces that strike the balance between function and form, playing with design, craftsmanship and materials until they land on something special.

Whether you're after a proper eye test or the full styling service, the experience is considered from start to finish. You'll walk out with glasses you actually love — frames that feel less like a purchase and more like a find.

Pop into 228a High Street and see what catches your eye.

Teddy Bear Dentist Open Day — this Saturday, 27th June at Paladin Dental, 365 High Street.

The team at are hosting a free family morning to help little ones have a happy, positive first experience at the dentist. Kids are invited to bring along their favourite teddy, and together they'll play dentist, count teeth and take a ride in the chair — all the fun, none of the nerves.

There's plenty more to keep the kids busy, including face painting, hair tinsel, and games with prizes to win. There'll also be a colouring competition, with one lucky entrant taking home a free clean and a goody bag.

Every child who comes along will receive a complimentary kids travel toothbrush kit to take home.

Spots are free but limited. Families can secure their place by booking through the link in Paladin's bio.

There's something about a live gig on a cold winter's night that just hits different.

Northcote Rise has long been a home for live music — and this season, the strip is alive with it. Catch a big ticket show at Northcote Theatre or Northcote Social Club, or find something a little more intimate at 303 the Bar, The Wesley Anne or Piano On High.

Whatever you're after, it's all right here on High Street.

Local bands deserve local crowds and local venues need you. The energy in the room, the discovery of an artist you've never heard before or a favourite you've seen plenty of times — you only get that by showing up.

So this winter, buy the ticket. Support the music. Support the Venue.







Tag someone you'd drag out into the cold for a good gig

📣 Expressions of Interest are now open!

The Northcote Business Association is calling on artists to be part of Northcote Portraits — a new permanent public art and storytelling initiative celebrating the rich First Nations and multicultural stories that shape the Northcote Rise precinct today.

Northcote Portraits will deliver up to 20 small to medium-sized, vibrant street artworks across the precinct, each paired with storytelling that honours the people, cultures, histories and lived experiences that shape who we are. Through creativity and connection, the project aims to strengthen community pride, reflect local identity and transform our public spaces.

Funded through the Victorian State Government's Multicultural Business Precinct Revitalisation Program with support from Darebin Council, the project is being led by the Northcote Business Association alongside local artist .

There are currently 14 sites open for application, with a further 4–5 to come over the next week.

Want to be involved? Head to the link in bio for everything you need to know about the project, the selection criteria and how to apply.

Warm up where it matters — shop local this winter.

When the temperature drops, so does foot traffic — and for small business owners on High Street, that's felt immediately. The same rent, the same wages, the same overheads — with fewer customers coming through the door.

Every coffee, meal, purchase or booking you make on Northcote Rise this winter keeps a local business viable, a local wage paid and a neighbourhood worth coming back to.

The strip needs you. Now more than ever.

Winter has well and truly arrived on High Street — and Northcote Rise has never felt more inviting.

The strip is full of reasons to get out of the house right now. Warm up over a long lunch, find something special to wear, discover a new favourite local haunt or simply take a slow walk past the shopfronts as the cool air settles in.

This is the season that reminds you why neighbourhood matters — and why everything you need is right here on High Street.

Come for the warmth. Stay for the community.

Since opening at 229 High Street, Northcote, Calle Bakery has quickly become one of Northcote Rise’s most loved destinations — with locals and visitors happily lining up for buttery pastries, artisan sourdough and their now-famous croissant creations.

The Northcote bakery builds on the success of Calle’s much-loved Carlton North store, founded by Ellena, Vivian, Huey and Kevin, combining European baking influences with decades of artisan baking experience.

After working closely with the team in Carlton, French baker Guillaume Grappe joined the Northcote venture as part owner, helping bring the new bakery to life.
Originally from the Jura region of France, Guillaume studied philosophy before following his passion for baking across Europe, New Zealand and eventually Melbourne, where he worked in some of the city’s best-known bakeries before joining the Calle team.

Inside everything is made with patience, precision and a deep respect for traditional baking techniques. From naturally fermented sourdough and perfectly laminated pastries to seasonal specials, sandwiches and beautifully crafted sweets, every product is carefully considered and made fresh daily.

Whether you’re grabbing a morning coffee and pastry, taking home a loaf of sourdough or joining the queue for one of their signature croissants, Calle Bakery has quickly become a must-visit destination on High Street.

For more than 20 years, Alchemy Fashion Sewing School & Alchemy Boutique at 258 High Street Northcote has been quietly nurturing creativity, helping people of all ages learn the art of sewing and garment making.

Owner Sandra first opened in 2003, originally creating and selling her own handmade clothing before the sewing school naturally evolved from growing demand.

With a background in teaching, fashion design and working for RMIT in their fashion short course department teaching sewing — and a family history in tailoring — Sandra has built a welcoming space where beginners through to advanced sewers can learn real, practical skills in a supportive environment.

The classes focus on techniques and craftsmanship, teaching everything from zips, darts and buttonholes through to pattern making, fitting and garment construction. Students work at their own pace on their own projects, whether that’s pyjamas, dresses, jackets or completely custom-made pieces.

Sandra says many students arrive with little or no experience, while others return to sewing later in life to reconnect with a creative skill they once loved.

Classes run in 6 week blocks, with bookings available online or by calling 0414 402 914. If you’ve ever dreamed of making your own clothes, this might just be the sign to book your first class.

Some things just hit different on a cold Melbourne evening — and a steaming basket of dumplings is one of them. 🥟

Tucked into 329 High Street, Tao Dumplings has become one of those Northcote spots that just keeps drawing people back. From delicate steamed parcels to boldly flavoured classics, every dish is made with genuine care and a commitment to authentic taste — comforting, considered and always worth the visit.

It's the kind of food that reminds you what makes High Street special. Great food, real craft and a community that knows how to eat well.

If you haven't been in yet, now's the time.

Any time is a good time to pick up knitting, but now that winter has officially arrived, there's never been a better excuse to cosy up with a new project.

is Northcote's go-to destination for knitters, crocheters and fibre enthusiasts of all skill levels. The welcoming store is filled with beautiful yarns, quality tools and inspiration for your next handmade creation, whether you're tackling a complex pattern or picking up the needles for the very first time.

Not sure where to start? Woolarium's classes are the perfect way to learn the basics, build confidence and connect with a community of fellow makers. The knowledgeable team is always on hand to offer advice, answer questions and help bring your creative ideas to life.

So grab a pattern, choose your yarn and embrace the slower pace of the season. Your next cosy winter project is waiting.

📍 265 High Street, Northcote

Northcote locals and visitors alike have found Wazzup Falafel to be a favourite for authentic Jordanian-Palestinian cuisine, bringing the rich flavours and traditions of the Middle East to the heart of Northcote Rise.

Founded by chef and co-owner Ahmad Al Alaea, began as a food truck before finding its permanent home on High Street. Inspired by a desire to recreate the falafel he grew up with in Jordan, Ahmad has built a loyal following around fresh, flavour-packed plant-based dishes made with care and authenticity.

Everything is made in-house, from the pita baked fresh each morning to the hummus, tahini and condiments. At the centre of the menu is Wazzup's signature falafel, crafted using chickpeas, fresh parsley and a unique 21-spice blend that keeps customers coming back for more.

Known for its warm hospitality, quality ingredients and traditional recipes, Wazzup Falafel offers a genuine taste of the Middle East and a welcoming dining experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of Northcote.

📍 343 High Street, Northcote