While they may be small in number, there are people of African descent living throughout Australia, and their presence has added diversity to the culinary, fashion, and art scene.
In Melbourne, one of the most vibrant cities in Australia, you can explore dozens of Black-owned restaurants, hair salons, and fashion boutiques during your visit.
The culture hub and capital of the state of Victoria is an incredible destination that boasts some of the best coffee, restaurants, museums and galleries, and street art in the world.
Melbourne is an enchanting city that immediately charms visitors upon arrival. During your visit, be sure to support these Black-owned and First Nations businesses.
Kanelle Patisserie
Twin brothers Chris Polomack and Chrisley Polomack created Kanelle, a bakery that features Caribbean and French flavors.
Kanelle, originally “cannelle,” means cinnamon in French. Along with nutmeg, ginger, and clove, it’s one of four major spices essential in Caribbean cooking.
The brothers prepare sweet and savory pastries at various farmers’ markets on Sundays throughout the city.
- Location: Various farmer’s markets.
- Owners: Chris Polomack and Chrisley Polomack
- Type of Cuisine: Caribbean and French pastries
- Menu Spotlight: The Caribbean Coconut Mont Blanc, Quiche, Macaroons, Crème Brulee
- Before you go: The locations vary. Be sure to check the website to see what Sunday farmer’s markets the brothers are located in.
Konjo
This Ethiopian restaurant is in the heart of Footscray. Open from breakfast to dinner, Konjo is known for its delicious traditional Ethiopian meals in an inviting setting.
Aside from the coffee, it’s been voted one of Melbourne’s best coffee experiences.
Konjo exclusively serves Ethiopian organic rainforest coffee.
The owner started as a jewelry maker. Abdul opened his first business, Konjo Jewellery and Crafts, in 2004 as a way to share Ethiopia and its culture with the world. Guests will still be able to find his jewelry at the restaurant.
- Location: Footscray
- Owners: Abdul Hussen
- Type of Cuisine: Ethiopian
- Menu Spotlight: Ful for breakfast, Lamb Alicha, Kitfo, Doro Wot, Rainforest Coffee.
- Before you go: Reservations aren’t strongly recommended.
Mesob
The Amharic word for Mesob translates to “breadbasket.” Mesob is a basket that stores Ethiopian flatbread, also known as Injera.
The Mesob is round and families sit around it during mealtime — signifying communal eating. Using this spirit, Mesob is a traditional Ethiopian restaurant serving fresh food with the best Ethiopian and Australian ingredients.
Eating at Mesob is a time to catch up and connect around the table. The drinks list features both local and international wine, beer, and cocktails.
The restaurant is located on High Street in the Northcote neighborhood of Melbourne, Victoria.
- Location: Northcote neighborhood in Melbourne, Victoria
- Owners: Naz Mahari and Dawit Kebede
- Type of Cuisine: Ethiopian
- Menu Spotlight: Alicha Tibs made with cubed lamb and a blend of spices, Kaye Wot, which is beef and carmelized onion.
- Before you go: Reservations aren’t required but highly recommended.
Vola Foods
Ashley Vola is the chef and owner behind Vola Foods. She’s bringing a taste of West Africa to the Brunswick area of Melbourne.
Born in Cameroon, Ashley’s grandmother taught her how to cook at a young age while helping her in the kitchen. She used those skills in a cooking game show known as Plate of Origin, and the rest is history.
She’s now sharing the filling and flavorful dishes of Cameroon and Nigeria. Cameroon borders Nigeria, so the cuisine is similar, and some items are the same.
- Location: Brunswick
- Owners: Ashley Vola
- Type of Cuisine: West African, Fusion
- Menu Spotlight: Eru with Gari, Corn Fufu with Tomato Stew. Jollof, BBQ Suya.
- Before you go: The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Fashion & Hair
Collective Closets
Founded in 2016 by sister duo Fatuma and Laurinda Ndenzako, Collective Closets pays homage to their late mother, the talented seamstress Stella.
The brand celebrates women and the community. The sisters hired an all-female staff and worked closely with their Kenyan-based production team to produce small quantities of pieces.
Each piece is made with a timeless design from fabrics made to last.
Haus of Dizzy
The jewelry at Haus of Dizzy is made with a statement. It’s an Indigenous-Australian brand created by proud Wiradjuri woman Kristy Dickinson. She founded Haus of Dizzy in 2015 after realizing a lack of representation in the jewelry and fashion industry.
Her pieces have powerful political and social messages. She uses fun patterns, glitter, mirrored acrylic, and more.
Frika Hair
Frika Hair brings African braiding to the forefront. The hair boutique is located in South Melbourne. The salon offers customized hair solutions to address visitor’s specific needs.
Connie Deen is the creative director’s owner. She graduated from the Château Rouge École de Cheveux (School of Hair) in Paris and has over 20 years of experience. Services at the South Melbourne shop include extension services, braiding, cuts and color, wigs, and more.
The salon also specializes in thinning hair solutions.
The Perfect Barbershop
In 2018, Jenny and Abdul founded The Perfect Barbershop Melbourne to provide innovative and fresh haircut styles. Located in Collingwood, the barbershop is a warm and welcoming environment. The owners pride themselves on their artistry and expertise.
While the owner accepts walk-ins, a booking is the best way to get into the shop.
