Neighbourhood Watch – A Guide to Redfern
Gritty meets pretty in this culturally diverse inner-city hub, just south of the city centre.
Where to eat
A tiny, authentic ramen joint, RaRa is packed around the clock. Expect to queue on the day they change the weekly special – the regulars will be beating down the door. Avocado on toast is a Sydney favourite and at Mexican-inflected cantina Southside Charmers (306 Chalmers Street, Redfern; 0466 413 203) they change it up with citrus and green peas. If you’re all avo’d out, try one of the more adventurous brunch dishes such as the Pablo rice bowl with XO mushroom and chorizo.
Where to drink
The constantly changing beer, wine and snacks menu is rarely wrong at bright corner bar Bart Jr.. Take a seat by the window, ask what’s good that day then let the staff take care of you as you sit back and watch the passing parade. Moya’s Juniper Lounge is a sophisticated gin emporium with dark walls and timber countertops that’s a world away from the hustle of Redfern’s main thoroughfare, Regent Street. Make like the late Queen Mother and order a Dubonnet Cocktail.
What to do
Art is everywhere in Redfern – being made, being sold and even asking you to join in. On Redfern Street, 107 Projects is a gallery and co-working space that regularly holds workshops in banner-making, life drawing and more. Redfern Art Gallery is the place to pick up local works and Mid-Century Modern design pieces.
