Ariel Booksellers is the kind of place where creatives go to procrastinate and find inspiration, according to store manager Julia Blanks.

And it’s no wonder – the colourful offering here strikes a tasteful balance between accessible and quirky; perfect for anyone with a creative bent. You can always expect the latest in literary fiction, design mags and cookbooks. Like any good independent bookshop, there’s also a raft of literary-themed ephemera, including stationery and handmade greeting cards.

Ariel has called Oxford street home for more than 30 years, but it’s lived at the current digs since 2017. Aside from a six-month break between shops, it’s remained a faithful go-to for the Darlinghurst community.