18Toorak is synonymous with opulence and exclusivity, and has long been regarded as one of Melbourne’s most illustrious suburbs. Recent development and retail activity in the area has been driving a whole new level of interest in this neighbourhood.
Here are 6 reasons why Toorak is quickly becoming the Mecca of Melbourne:
- Sound investment: Toorak’s house prices increased 15% last month and with a median price of $4,355,000 it remains Melbourne’s most expensive suburb.
- Inspiring architecture: Toorak’s building styles are astonishingly diverse—spanning stately historic mansions, modern architectural builds, smartly renovated mid-century apartment and premium designer apartment complexes. The variety of heritage and new buildings not only cater to a range of buyers’ tastes, it also makes for spectacular visual surroundings.
- Culinary delights: Food lovers will be kept busy in Toorak exploring the many delicious cafes and restaurants. Café Latte offers a menu of classic Southern Italian flavours, and has live music every last Wednesday of the month. Little Hawk is a friendly, cosy café that serves one of Melbourne’s finest coffees 7 days a week. Organica serves great organic produce and sells ready-made meals for easy take-home dinners. Bistro Thierry feels like a bistro in Paris with superb French cuisine and service – just make sure you book ahead!The area is also renown for its high quality, boutique food stores –Haigh’s Chocolate, Stocked Food Store, Peter Bouchier’s butcher, and Donnini’s Pasta to name a few.
- Inner city retreat: Toorak is one of the few places in Melbourne where you can experience inner city living, while retreating to a quiet, leaf-canopied street. Royal Botanic Gardens, Como Park, Rockley Gardens and Royal South Yarra Tennis Club are just a few of the nearby green spaces. Nestled right on the Yarra, the CBD is a scenic walk or bike ride away. With great freeway access and public transport options nearby, getting around is a breeze.
- Local villages: Toorak Village has a unique blend of old world charm with modern conveniences. It has an alluring list of vibrant cafes and boutique retails shops. Melbourne journalist Corrie Perkin recently opened up her 2nd bookshop in Toorak, called My Bookstore which combines a bookstore, luxury gifting, a café and gallery supporting local artists, all in the one space.Meanwhile, Hawksburn Village in Malvern Road has a slightly more contemporary and eclectic vibe. It is home to a great selection of Euro-chic and local fashion labels, and boutiques specializing in furniture, antiques and homewares.
- Education abounds: For families with children, education options in the area are second to none. Toorak Primary School, Geelong Grammar School, St Kevin’s College and St Catherine’s School are all based in Toorak. Armadale Primary School, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School, Scotch College and Lauriston Girl’s School are just down the road. Need we say more?
