How to spend the perfect day in Ivanhoe
Wander through Ivanhoe and you’d never guess you were just a 20-minute drive from the city centre.
Compared to neighbouring suburbs, Ivanhoe is a peaceful paradise, complete with picturesque hills and plenty of green, leafy foliage.
At the same time, Ivanhoe is a bustling little community with plenty to do – from top notch cafes to beautiful parks.
Got a day to spare? Here’s how to spend it in one of Melbourne’s most inhabitable northern suburbs.
9:00 AM Get a takeaway at the Foreigner
Rise and shine – it’s time to start your big day on the town, and what better way to begin than with a coffee at one of Ivanhoe’s best cafes.
The Foreigner has a distinct global theme to it, made clear by the world map feature wall as well as the variety of menu items like Moroccan eggs and goat curry.
Don’t dwell on these too long though – trust us, you won’t want a full stomach for what’s coming. Enjoy the simplistic, modern setting, get your coffee takeaway and be on your way to the next stop – just a three-minute walk around the corner.
9:30 AM Stretch out at Light Space Yoga
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced yogi, you’ll love starting your morning with a class at Light Space Yoga.
Depending on when you’re in Ivanhoe, you can catch an hour-long morning vinyasa, slow flow or yin session, each of which is suited to all levels.
With its clean, blue Mediterranean aesthetic, you’ll feel totally refreshed and energised leaving Light Space Yoga.
10:30 Breakfast (and another cheeky coffee) at Pinkie
Right next door to Light Space Yoga is Pinkie, a new cafe specialising in delicious food, amazing coffee and nothing but good vibes.
You can’t help but feel happy when you walk into Pinkie. With a bubbly, quirky and – you guessed it – rose hued interior design, Pinkie isn’t your standard Melbourne cafe.
Although we haven’t had time to sample everything on Pinkie’s menu yet (they opened last October), we recommend refuelling with a Snickers protein smoothie. It’s healthier than it sounds and the perfect post-yoga indulgence.
11:30 AM Take a wander in Chelsworth Park
Okay, back on the exercise train. It’s time to explore Chelsworth Park, a brisk twenty minute walk away. This park and the adjacent Wilson Reserve can’t be missed.
In a beautiful, riverside setting, the Chelsworth Park is more than just a great place for a walk. It also offers unbeatable bird watching and heaps of sporting grounds.
1:00 PM See what’s on at the Hatch Contemporary Arts Space
Make your way back into town and visit the Hatch Contemporary Arts Space.
From poetry readings to workshops and a range of exhibits, there’s always something to admire or take part in here. See what exhibits are running before dropping in or simply enjoy the work of artists in residence.
2:00 PM Pop in for lunch at Mr Peebles
In a city dominated by restaurants vying to be the hippest spot in town, Mr Peebles stands out as a fun, fresh, no-fuss place to eat and hang out.
While the menu at Mr Peebles may be straightforward, there’s a huge amount of variety here. We’re talking poke bowls, secret recipe hash, and curried pumpkin fritters.
Bring the whole family – there’s something for everyone and plenty of seating in-and outdoors.
3:00 PM Treat yourself at Indian Summer Beauty Spa
If you’re feeling a bit drowsy after that lunch, you’re in luck – because this afternoon is all about relaxation.
Indian Summer Beauty Spa is an urban haven well suited to pamper every inch of you.
While their entire range of treatments will wow you, we recommend indulging in the spa’s signature hot stone massage.
5:00 PM Grab a drink at Vino Central
Yoga, spa treatments – okay, you’ve had enough health for one day. Time for some adult beverages at Vino Central.
Excellent selection, artsy, laid-back decor and great ambience – Vino Central has it all, making this the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink.
Be sure to ask the helpful, knowledgeable staff if you aren’t sure what to order. Bonus if you like it – Vino Central is also a wine shop, so you can bring a bottle (or two) home!
6:30 PM Discover Va Tutto, a Melbourne Restaurant of the Year Award Winner
The number-one rated restaurant in Ivanhoe, Va Tutto is what you’ve been dreaming of all day long.
Our only advice? Pace yourself at this award winning Italian venue. Otherwise, you’ll be too full to enjoy your mains after stuffing yourself to the brim with mouthwatering entrees like lamb meatballs and pork and prawn dumplings.
Whatever you do, don’t be tempted by the dessert offerings. You’ve still got one thing on your itinerary …
8:30 PM Finish the day with something sweet at Fairy Hills Gourmet Ice Cream
Speaking of award-winning eateries, it’s time to round out your perfect day with a cone at Fairy Hills Gourmet Ice Cream, which has a whopping seven Royal Melbourne Fine Food awards under its belt.
With over 50 flavours, Fairy Hills is sure to impress. Added bonus – you won’t need to queue for an hour like you do at other creameries. That’s because – despite all the accolades – Fairy Hills is still the north side’s best kept secret.
Keen to find out more about this exciting suburb? Pop into our office on Upper Heidelberg Road to talk to our team about renting or buying your slice of prime Ivanhoe real estate.
