Best Cafes in Carlton North

by Dan Cunningham and Holly Bodeker-Smith

Updated 4 months ago

Carlton North is a bit more reserved than bustling Carlton proper. Still, there are plenty of great cafes to be found here. The most prominent are cited on Nicholson Street, with easy tram access. Explore the wide, quiet side streets if you're looking for somewhere with a slower, more local flavour.

North Carlton Canteen
Cafe
A welcome oasis for coffee lovers in North Carlton.
Stovetop
Cafe
Old-school Italian coffee making gets a second wind at this Carlton cafe.
North
Cafe
A consistent neighbourhood favourite.
Shooter McGavin’s
Cafe
It’s named after (but is far more likeable than) the worst character in ’90s golf comedy Happy Gilmore. Expect sangas brimming with hot-honey fried chicken biscuits and fish 'n' chip butties.
Pickles Milk Bar
Cafe
It’s a classic milk bar, but not as you know it. Everything here is plant-based, from the serious sandwiches to country-bakery staples (like dim sims and cinnamon rolls). Plus, there are “puppacinos” for your pooch.