Wall Two 80

Possibly the most famous wall in Melbourne, Wall Two 80 is much more than that, though you could be forgiven for having missed its essence in amongst the colourfully dressed people lounging around on milk crates and benches.

Once a kosher butcher, Wall 280 was converted into a cafe a decade ago – when Balaclava was only beginning to bloom – and they’ve never looked back. The place now has an unshakeable reputation. The wall itself can’t be dismissed either. Its famous and ever-changing graffiti centrepieces are the stuff of legend, and it regularly features in travel guides and backpacker itineraries.

Once past the wall and into the cafe you’ll find a dimly lit, cosy enclave, centred on a communal table and the buzz of relaxed chatter. The hipster/artist community of Balaclava started out here when it was still fledgling and still meets here regularly for a robust Genovese coffee and straight-up conversation. Now doing dinner on Friday and Saturday, Wall 280 can be enjoyed for any meal of the day.