Montague Road in West End is Australia’s coolest street in Time Out’s 2025 ranking and is also the sixth coolest street in the world, recognised for its cultural venues, food scene and community activity.
West End’s Changing Streetscape
The 2025 global list released on 19 November 2025 placed Montague Road ahead of notable streets in cities including Berlin, New York and Tokyo. The street was once a quieter industrial area on the river side of West End before developing into a creative and hospitality-focused precinct. Its location provides a direct connection towards South Bank and QAGOMA.
Cultural and Creative Venues in West End
Montague Road is home to several major cultural organisations. At one end, the restored Thomas Dixon Centre houses Queensland Ballet. Further along, Queensland Theatre draws audiences to its South Brisbane base. Independent creative venue Vacant Assembly contributes to the area’s cultural identity through life drawing sessions, exhibitions and pop-up markets.
Recreation-based venues such as axe-throwing facilities, rock climbing spaces and wellness studios including TH7 add to the diversity of activities. Mappin’s Nursery hosts terrarium and ikebana workshops, strengthening the street’s creative appeal.
Food and Drink on Montague Road
The street’s food and café culture played a significant part in its global ranking. Coffee Mentality, recognised with a major national coffee award for 2025, is one of its standout stops. Superthing, known for its pastries including a strawberries and cream croissant, is another popular spot.
Layla operates from a heritage-listed former boot factory serving Middle Eastern dishes. Coredeaux Social Club offers daytime café service and a wine bar at night. Other venues along Montague Road include +81 Aizome, Kor-Dak, La Macelleria, Tom’s Kitchen, Banette Bistro, Come to Daddy, BK Pizzeria, Veneziano Coffee, Ash & Monties Espresso Bar, Triton Food Brokers and Marcia’s on Montague.
Markets and Community Activity
The West End Markets at Davies Park remain a key attraction each weekend, drawing steady crowds with fresh produce, food stalls and local makers. Nearby, the Gas Stripping Tower stands as the only remaining example of its type in Australia, adding heritage interest to the precinct.
How Montague Road Compares Globally
Montague Road ranked just behind streets in Rio de Janeiro, Osaka, Porto, Chengdu and Montreal. It placed ahead of well-known locations in Berlin, New York, Paris and Tokyo. Within Australia, the only other street included in the 2025 list was Swan Street in Melbourne, ranked 29th globally.
Outlook
Montague Road’s recognition reflects its role as a cultural, community and hospitality hub within West End. With established arts venues, diverse dining options, long-running markets and boutique businesses, the street continues to attract locals and visitors exploring the suburb.
Published 20-Nov-2025
