Surry Hills Outshone? Chippendale Now Australia's 'Coolest' Neighbourhood

Surry Hills may be known for its trendy cafes and bustling atmosphere, but a surprising contender has stolen the spotlight as Australia’s “coolest” neighbourhood.

Chippendale neighbourhood — *Photo Credit:* *White Gallery Rabbit/ Facebook*

Timeout Magazine, in its annual ranking of the world’s most vibrant locales, has placed Chippendale at the top of the Australian list, even beating out internationally renowned districts like New York’s Flatbush and Berlin’s Friedrichshain. This unexpected victory has sparked conversation and raised eyebrows amongst Sydneysiders, with many questioning how this inner-city suburb surpassed its well-established neighbours.

Timeout’s selection process considered various factors, including street culture, food options, nightlife, and artistic connections. While Chippendale may have flown under the radar for some, Timeout Sydney Editor Alice Ellis highlighted its recent transformation. She noted that while many enjoyed cocktails in nearby Surry Hills, Chippendale was quietly developing into a lively, community-focused hub.

This evolution is evident in the diverse range of activities available. Alongside acclaimed restaurants like Ester, residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from attending concerts at Phoenix (accessible through a free ballot system) to exploring quirky art galleries. The suburb also boasts a gamer’s paradise called Fortress, an always-open Asian food market, and some of the city’s most unique pubs that champion live music and comedy.

Small public parks and a weekly farmers’ market further contribute to the village-like atmosphere enjoyed by residents and students from the two universities surrounding this unassuming yet dynamic suburb.

This shift is also evident in the suburb’s diverse offerings. Its proximity to three major universities has made it a student haven, with popular pubs and bars like the Lansdowne, Abercrombie, and Lord Gladstone drawing crowds. Each venue exudes a unique “edginess” with its dark decor, rooftop spaces, and emphasis on the local music scene, showcasing both bands and DJs.

Art is another cornerstone of Chippendale’s appeal. Galleries abound, showcasing a range of styles. The suburb boasts renowned spaces like Judith Nelson’s “White Rabbit” gallery, which focuses on contemporary Chinese art. Others include Nanda/Hobbs, Peach Black, and the Harrington Street Gallery, all offering accessible and modern exhibitions.

For those planning a trip to Sydney, Chippendale will be a key player in the upcoming SXSW (South by Southwest) festival. Previously held exclusively in Austin, Texas, this “festival for the curious” is coming to Sydney this October, with Chippendale hosting various events and activations.

Despite its vibrant character, Chippendale’s “coolest” title has been met with mixed reactions. Some locals expressed their surprise on social media, reflecting on the suburb’s past and acknowledging its significant evolution. Others questioned the decision, pointing to larger, more established suburbs like Paddington, Newtown, and Surry Hills, each with unique charm and appeal.

Chippendale wasn’t the only Australian neighbourhood to make a splash. Melbourne’s Windsor secured a respectable 10th place, surpassing other popular areas like Brunswick and Fitzroy. Known for its vintage clothing stores and diverse culinary scene, Windsor’s inclusion highlights the city’s unique blend of fashion and food.

Perth’s Northbridge and Adelaide’s Norwood also earned spots on the list. Northbridge, home to Perth’s Chinatown and a thriving arts scene, including the WA Art Gallery and WA State Theatre, secured 21st place. Norwood, often compared to Sydney’s Leichhardt, claimed the 35th spot with its acclaimed Italian restaurants, cellar doors, gin distilleries, and micro-breweries.

While the “coolest” label is subjective, Chippendale’s recognition underscores its transformation into a dynamic and engaging destination.

Its blend of student life, artistic expression, and unique nightlife has captured Timeout’s attention, placing it firmly on the map as a must-visit destination in Sydney.

Published Date 22-October-2024