Morning Market Is Andrew McConnell's New Euro-Style Grocer on Gertrude Street

Up there on the list of good things to have come out of this crazy year is Andrew McConnell's (Cumulus Inc, Builders Arms Hotel, Cutler & Co) latest Fitzroy project: Morning Market. It started out in the early pandemic days as Marion Grocer — a temporary pop-up bakery taking over the site of his much-loved wine bar Marion — but the concept has proved such a hit that it's now getting a proper run, reborn as Morning Market with a new permanent home a few doors down Gertrude Street.

In its new format, the venue takes its cues from that of a Euro-style food market, offering a tight lineup of largely local goodies. Expect a considered selection of pantry staples, seasonal fruit and veg, dairy products and specialty groceries, along with freshly cut flowers and even a tidy range of homewares. As a bonus, the fridges are also stocked with a lineup of gourmet meals for home, with options like lasagne and tiramisu saving you from the nightly kitchen slog.

Jo McGann

Grab-and-go options also abound, running to the likes of Single O coffee, fresh salads, pizza slices and loaded sandwiches — like the Fitzroy Continental, sporting a mix of salami, ham, mortadella, 'nduja, provolone, mustard and pickles. And, of course, the Baker Bleu breads and pastries that stole hearts during Morning Market's first iteration get top billing once again. You'll find signature loaves, bagels, buns and a range of pastries that includes everything from buttery croissants to plump escargot. Other sweet treats might feature fan favourites like rich chocolate brownies, basque cheesecake, canelé and raspberry tarts.

With picnic season in full swing and boasting a handy location near Carlton Gardens, Morning Market has got those park eats sorted, too. It's slinging curated picnic baskets for two, featuring bites like sourdough with cultured butter, roast Bannockburn chicken with tarragon mayo, and local buffalo burrata finished with a caper and parsley salsa. Prices start from $56.

Find Morning Market at 59 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy. It's open 8am–3pm Tuesday–Sunday.

Images: Jo McGann