From Morning to Night: Spend the Day Around Prahran, On and Beyond Chapel Street

From the historic charm of Prahran Market to vibrant nightlife, eclectic boutiques and diverse array of bars and restaurants, Chapel Street is one of Melbourne’s most iconic cultural enclaves. The precinct has seeped into other side streets and crannies, but it’s still a place where the old and new coexist, making it a dynamic destination for shopping, dining, fitness and art.

Though Prahran has transformed over the years, its strong cultural foundation remains, offering lots to keep you busy from morning to night. Whether you’re looking to get active, shop for fresh produce or explore immersive art, here’s how you can make the most of your day on and around Chapel Street.

Explore immersive art at Prahran Square

For something new and temporary, head to Prahran Square and get lost inside Iwagumi Air Scape, an interactive installation by multi-award-winning studio ENESS. The open-air sculpture transforms the park into a dynamic space of art and technology with massive air-filled inflatables that resemble towering rocks, inspired by Japan’s Iwagumi aquascaping style. Visitors can engage with the serene, rock-like sculptures at any time of day, but it’s especially worth visiting at dusk, when the artwork comes alive with a stunning light display and atmospheric soundscape, which is triggered by visitors moving through it.

Get caffeinated at Tone Coffee

Tucked just off Chapel Street, Tone Coffee is an exceptional cafe and roastery run by award-winning barista Caleb “Tiger” Cha. His namesake Tiger Bomb – a luscious blend of espresso, milk, cream and a pinch of orange zest – is a standout, as are the specialty matcha serves. Grab a seat against the wall for prime people- and dog-watching.

Sneak in a workout at Coreplus

After your caffeine fix, it’s time to break a sweat. Head to Coreplus for a high-energy workout that will set the tone for the rest of the day. Whether you’re into reformer, mat Pilates, or hot yoga, Coreplus offers a range of classes to suit all fitness levels, plus showers to freshen up once you’re done.

Shop and snack at Prahran Market

No visit to Prahran is complete without a stop at the iconic Prahran Market. With over 150 years of history, the market is a feast for the senses (but taste especially), with plenty to take home and cook or eat on the spot. Look out for premium meat and made-to-order sandwiches at fifth-generation butcher G McBean Family Butcher; Turkish delight and house-made Dubai chocolate bars at Naheda’s Choice; and colourful counters of cakes, cookies, salads and savoury dishes at Sweet Greek.

Grab a bite at Don’s

When it’s time to refuel, head to Don’s, a beloved wine bar tucked just across from the market. Known for its natural wines and small plates like spanner crab linguine and fried chicken sandwiches, Don’s balances maximum flavour and minimal intervention. With its rotating menu and intimate vibe, it’s the perfect spot for an afternoon bite or an early dinner away from the hustle of the main strip.

Have a nightcap at The Alps

To round out your evening, wander down to The Alps for a relaxed drink. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and impressive 400-bottle wine list, you’ll be sure to find a glass or two of what you’re after. If you’re still peckish, the Roman-style thin-crust pizza is a must-try.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with the Chapel Street Precinct Association. Iwagumi Air Scape by ENESS is a free exhibition, running August 1–17 at Prahran Square.*