How to Spend a Day in Sydney's Most Stylish Neighbourhood
Looking for stylish boutiques, good wine and better toasties? This pocket of Potts Point has you sorted.
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Sydney isn't short on stylish neighbourhoods, but Potts Point Village just feels that bit more special. A walkable grid tucked behind the chaos of Kings Cross, this compact neighbourhood is calm, leafy and lined with independent stores, design-led spaces and venues run by people who have genuine passion for their craft. It's one of those areas that rewards visitors who like to browse slowly, eat thoughtfully and spend hours chatting to a shop owner about their latest pieces.
Whether you're here to refresh your wardrobe, hunt down an obscure bottle of orange wine or find a really good wedge of French cheese, Potts Point Village does the job. Here's how to spend a day wandering through this one-of-a-kind precinct.
Arida, 75 Macleay St
If byfreer is about quiet luxury, Arida is all about drama. This long-standing boutique is home to some of the biggest names in international fashion, including Mahsa Label, ASPESI, Karl Lagerfeld and Rosa Maria Jewellery. Plus, it has an equally sharp edit of interiors and accessories. Browsing in here is about knowing what you like and wearing it well.
byfreer, Shop 2/101-103 Macleay St
This little fashion boutique is the work of Australian designer Lesley Watson, whose outerwear, dresses, knitwear and denim pieces toe the line between fashion and function. The vibe is clean, beautiful and made with high-quality fabrics. If you want to add something special (and locally made) to your wardrobe, start here.
Penny's Cheese Shop, Shop 6/127-139 Macleay St
It's not an exaggeration to say this is one of the best cheese shops in Sydney. Penny Lawson (cheesemonger, sandwich genius and all-round local legend) has created a space that feels like a tiny slice of Europe right in the middle of Potts Point Village. The toasties are famously good, the cheese fridge is well-stocked, and Penny's always got a recommendation if you're overwhelmed (you will be). But be quick, nothing lasts long here on a busy Saturday morning.
Heidi & Hart, Shop 3/28 Macleay St
Just down the road (technically in Elizabeth Bay), you'll find Heidi & Hart, a family jeweller with a reputation for bespoke craftsmanship and serious sparkle. Founded by Heidi Onisforou and Benjamin Hart, the brand specialises in fine jewellery for life's milestones. Whether you're looking to buy or just browsing, this place makes the experience feel personal.
Greg Natale, Shop 2/115 Macleay St
Greg Natale's flagship store is a monochrome lover's dream. The designer's black, white, and marble showroom is part homeware store and part mood board for a dream house you didn't know you wanted. Whether you're picking up a candle, a bowl or a centrepiece, it's a feast for the eyes.
The Grumpy Baker, 73 Macleay St
If you're after a low-key breakfast or a quick pastry pit stop between shops, The Grumpy Baker has you covered. There's strong coffee, baked eggs, and freshly baked bread all served from a corner spot that fills up fast. Grab a window seat or take your food to go and wander down Macleay Street.
Becker Minty, Shop 7/81 Macleay Street
Positioned just off Macleay Street, Becker Minty is one of those rare stores that's both intimidatingly beautiful and totally welcoming. It's home to an eclectic mix of fashion, jewellery, art, perfumes, gifts and pieces for your home – all curated with a sharp eye that the Sydney design community loves. You never really know what you'll find here, which is half the fun.
Macleay on Manning, Shop 1/85 Macleay St
Macleay on Manning is a Potts Point staple, and somewhere you absolutely have to stop by while wandering the streets. This homeware and gift shop has been here for over 20 years and still feels unique and interesting. You'll find design books, ceramics, candles and cards – maybe even a leopard print coat or pair of Tom Ford sunglasses. It's got everything you buy for other people but secretly want to keep for yourself.
Dear Saint Éloise, 5/29 Orwell St
Every Saturday spent walking around Potts Point Village must end with a wine bar (it may as well be the law). Dear Sainte Éloise is the perfect spot. The wine list celebrates bottles from Australian and European wine regions, the snacks are just enough to keep you going until dinner, and the staff know their stuff without making a big deal about it.
The Butler, 123 Victoria St
Potts Point Village gets even better as the sun goes down. At The Butler, you'll find delicious modern Mexican food, strong cocktails and even better city views. The restaurant is effortlessly elegant, great for big groups, and so stylish it'll make you want to redecorate your apartment immediately.
Potts Point Village is a neighbourhood made up of people who care about quality, craft and style. Whether you come for the fashion, the food or just a decent glass of wine, you'll leave already planning your next visit.
Find out more on the Potts Point Village website.
By Jacque Kennedy
