When I was a little girl, my grandmother lived in the block behind the Enmore Theatre. Back then, there was virtually nothing on Enmore Road and I gravitated to the excitement of King Street and Newtown.

Enmore is still less famous than Newtown, but it’s come into its own. Enmore Road is brimming with interesting restaurants, cafes, bars and small shops. For those in the know, it’s arguably the preferred destination.

The Enmore Theatre is an art deco gem.Credit: Edwina Pickles

Today’s Enmore Road has such cachet that policymakers are talking seriously about how to replicate the experience across the state. Flattering as this is, I’m doubtful this is possible. The Enmore Theatre is unique, and the commercial strip is dominated by small, independent operators rather than chains.

As well as being a place where people from all over Sydney come to play, Enmore is also a fantastic place to live. The people are friendly, neighbourly and unpretentious. Back from the bustle of the main street, it’s quiet, with plenty of trees and kookaburras and possums.

For straight-up coffee, it has to be Black Market Roasters on Enmore Road. It’s a tiny cafe selling mostly takeaway but with a few tables where you can drink your coffee and read the Herald in peace. (They always have a newspaper). You can buy your full range of espresso coffees (piccolo for me, please), batch brew (basically hipster filter coffee), and beans roasted down the road in Marrickville. They sell some food but if you’re after a full brunch then head across the road to Shenkin Enmore, where they serve a fusion of Middle Eastern and European fare.

Award-winning gelato at Cow and the Moon.Credit: Rachel Murdolo

You’re spoiled for choice: Egyptian, Sri Lankan, Turkish, Greek, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, pub fare, you name it. If you want something a bit special, Russo & Russo makes excellent Italian food with old-school hospitality complete with tablecloths and candles.

QOSHE - Less famous than Newtown, for some Enmore is now a bigger draw - Caitlin Fitzsimmons
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Less famous than Newtown, for some Enmore is now a bigger draw

9 18
21.01.2024

When I was a little girl, my grandmother lived in the block behind the Enmore Theatre. Back then, there was virtually nothing on Enmore Road and I gravitated to the excitement of King Street and Newtown.

Enmore is still less famous than Newtown, but it’s come into its own. Enmore Road is brimming with interesting restaurants, cafes, bars and small shops. For those in the know, it’s arguably the preferred destination.

The Enmore Theatre is an art deco gem.Credit: Edwina........

© The Sydney Morning Herald


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