South Yarra: The upmarket suburb with something for everyone

If Toorak seems a touch too exclusive and St Kilda a bit bohemian, South Yarra, tucked between the two, might be just the ticket.

Craig Lawson, aka Mr Fashion Man, moved to South Yarra nine years ago, drawn by the suburb’s fashion and foodie credentials.

He runs his business Craig Lawson Communications here and loves the suburb’s diversity and relaxed vibe.

“Chapel Street is full of life, and it’s always like an adventure when going out with friends as to where you end up,” he says.

“South Yarra has everything from early morning brunch spots and late-night entertainment to cute outdoor spaces for chilling with friends.”

Spoilt for choice

Lawson’s favourite haunts include Rustica Sourdough for the best strong morning brew, Leonard’s House Of Love, a laid back ’70s-inspired space for drinks, and Cosi Bar Ristorante for its fabulous Italian hospitality.

He’s also a fan of The Emerson, a ritzy club and cocktail bar on Commercial Road.

“The rooftop of The Emerson is a stunning hidden spot with the best views of the city and the most gorgeous space to hang out and have drinks with friends,” he says.

Kay & Burton South Yarra agent Andrew Sahhar says South Yarra is home to some of Melbourne’s best restaurants, including Omnia, Steer Dining Room and the hatted restaurants Atlas Dining and Matilda 159 Domain.

Iconic Chapel Street is also the place to go for designer threads, with Gorman, Scanlan Theodore, Zimmermann and Sass & Bide among the many offerings.

Lawson recommends Sam & Ko for on-trend suits and stylish casual clothing for men and Fourfourseven Boutique for women.

Walkers’ paradise

Sahhar says a major drawcard for the suburb is its walkability, with South Yarra ranking in the top 10 of Melbourne’s most walkable suburbs in Domain’s Healthy Suburbs study.

“The locals love being able to walk to top restaurants, shops, parks and sports clubs in the area,” he says.

Lawson agrees. “I find the location is very central and handy for public transport, so I don’t need to own a car,” he says.

With the Royal Botanic Gardens forming the suburb’s northwest border, the green expanse of Fawkner Park on the south-west border and Como Park and the river running along the northern border, there’s no shortage of parkland for exercise and enjoyment.

The CBD is only four kilometres from South Yarra.

St Kilda Pier is 2.5 kilometres away.

Properties range from large character homes to new luxury apartments, which are attracting downsizers and young professional couples looking for low-maintenance living close to lifestyle amenities.

One to watch

Perched high on the 45th floor of the Bates Smart-designed LK Tower, this north-facing apartment claims panoramic views stretching from Brighton and Port Phillip Bay to the Dandenong Ranges.

Residents have access to the six-star facilities of the exclusive Azure Club and 24-hour concierge.

Andrew Sahhar from Kay & Burton South Yarra is selling the home with a guide of $9.2 million-$9.75 million.

Contact Agent

4501/1 Almeida Crescent, South Yarra VIC 3141

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