By: Milka Surja
Nestled comfortably just 18km away from Melbourne’s bustling city lies Oakleigh– a suburb unlike any other.
Renowned for their strong European influence, their outdoor shopping strip bursts with life as shopkeepers fill the streets with a plethora of Greek-style bistros, French brasserie and Italian pizzerias. Aside from their rich food culture, Oakleigh’s shopping precinct is home to a myriad of retail, entertainment hubs, professional services and more!
Here are things you must check out when visiting Oakleigh:
- Oakleigh Station
Oakleigh Station is not Oakleigh station without the bright, massive jigsaw murals of the local residents. Revealed in 1989, the murals: “Where have we come from, where are we going?” illustrate the life-stories of 40 Oakleigh residents. Starting from their feet and up to their waist you can learn about parts of the individual’s backstory through the illustrations. Loved by many locals, these monumental pieces play a big part in many of their childhoods.
- Greek Cuisine
Sometimes dubbed Little Greece, Oakleigh embraces the Greek culture that has made up a significant part of their history. A perfect place for foodies, Oakleigh can proudly offer the Greek classics such as Souvlaki, Gyros, Lukumades and the less well known (but still very much delicious) Spanakopita, Kourabiethes and Galaktoboureko.
- Oakleigh Rotary Sunday Market
Widely known as the trash and treasure market, Oakleigh’s beloved Sunday Market presents an extensive variety of preloved goods, books, vintage trinkets, fresh flowers and plants and so much more. Started around 35 years ago, this market with a humble beginning with less than 30 stalls has evolved into a thriving local event that lets you experience the local community. And with more than 140 stalls running every Sunday now, you will surely find all the things you need and don’t know you need.
Of course Oakleigh is not limited to this list, there is just so much more to explore here! Come visit Oakleigh yourself and tell us: What’s your favourite thing to do in Oakleigh?