The annual festive shopping frenzy is upon us, so use this guide to make the most of retail therapy and refuelling in style.
Don’t let Christmas shopping stress you out. Make a day of it in Subiaco, where great food, friendly service, and boutique discoveries come together for the perfect pre-Christmas adventure. Whether you’re shopping for her, him, the kids, or even your dog, here’s where to refuel, refresh and rediscover the joy of giving.
Fashionably fantastic
Start the day browsing Subiaco’s beautiful boutiques. Kivari has a stunning range of women’s clothing, while The Modern Boho offers women’s wear, accessories, and homewares. Just across the road, new arrival Cavania is the place to find lovely large canvases for the home, Australian-brand designer shoes, boots and fashion as well as unique jewellery and homewares.
Pause for morning tea at Layers Bakery or 1982 Food + Coffee for coffee and pastries before continuing up Rokeby Road. For true indulgence, explore gemstone designs at Linneys Jewellery, Ecali, or Thomas Meihofer – anything from these stores are the definition of luxury.
At Kúl Kúl you’ll find bespoke jewellery that’s both modern and timeless, as well as accessories like cute bags and scarves. Emporia Store and The Green Pear have designer fashion that you won’t find anywhere else in Subi, while iisie Fashion offers personal styling and service for the festive season.
When it’s time for lunch, settle in at Shui Subiaco. Its lush interiors and modern Asian menu make it an ideal midday escape. Afterwards, cross Roberts Road to Spoilt at Subi for lifestyle pieces, jewellery, and accessories too pretty to resist. If you have time, treat yourself to a blow dry at Lily Lane next door. You’ll leave feeling fabulous. If you’re shopping on a Saturday, end the day at the Subi Night Market near the train station, where live music, global street food, and gift stalls capture the festive spirit.
Otherwise, unwind over Italian food and wine at Piccolo Deli or a filled baguette from Jean-Claude Patisserie. On Hay Street, stop in at Pobbles Cafe for a shot of coffee and a bowl of noodles before heading to Greenleaf Pharmacy, home to an impressive range of giftware including scented candles and homewares – and collectible Jellycats coming out of their ears.
Man Up
Fuel your day of choosing a gift for the man in your life with a hearty breakfast at Community Coffee Co. This smalll yet mighty espresso bar and roastery makes the best egg sandos we’ve tried and their pastries are excellent too.
For the organised man, Howards Storage World is where you’ll find smart home solutions, and nearby at District Furniture’s showroom, you’ll find stunning one-of-a-kind pieces. Shop for unique gifts at Devlin’s on Hay Street. Think Cuban cigars, smoking jackets, and chic man bags, while Subiaco Antiques is a treasure trove of vintage pieces.
Guy foodies will love a gourmet hamper from Nosh Gourmet Gifts, and book lovers will find the next big read on the curated shelves of Subiaco Bookshop. Ready for a coffee break? Stop at Sorganic for a pick-me-up before heading to Table Culture for elegant glassware, decanters, and even stainless-steel cigar holders.
Enjoy a casual lunch at Red Chair Café, known for its fragrant laksa, Vietnamese salads, and bun bo xao. Afterwards, browse Addicted to Audio for high-end headphones and turntables, or explore Sound One for vinyl records.
End your day at Bar Amelie on the deck. A cool drink and classic pub vibes make the perfect finale. (Insider tip: the cocktails are outstanding on a hot afternoon).
Putting the wow in Bow Wow
Shopping for your four-legged best friend starts with breakfast at dog-friendly The Little Pantry. Try their Breaky Wrap before heading to Barkday Pawty at Subi Farmers Market (if it’s a Saturday morning). Create a gourmet dog hamper with all-natural treats and include a beautiful ceramic bowl by Hunter & Franklin.
Take a sweet break at Whisk Creamery before making your way to Caroline’s Pet Kitchen on Hay Street where you’ll find travel bowls and treat pouches. Grab some authentic empanadas at Pinos and finish your day at Bark Bar and Café, a dog-friendly spot where both you and your pooch can unwind.
Little treasures
Whether shopping for babies or teens, we’ve got you covered here in Subi. For babies and toddlers, Table Culture stocks Done by Deer silicone dinnerware and elegant toys, while Nosh Gourmet Gifts offers a range of adorable baby gifts. Spoilt at Subi also carries adorable children’s toys and accessories as does Plane Tree Farm.
Nature’s Infusions at the Subi Farmers Market has calming balms, herbal teas, and eye masks, perfect for teenage self-care hampers. Browse the jewellery stalls for creative earrings, stop at Zenergi Matcha for matcha gift sets, and add a jar of Chocconutz nut butter for a healthy stocking stuffer. The Fossika stand is your go-to for felt finger puppets and cute classic kids’ books with felt characters to bring the stories to life.
When you need a boost, Cantina di Lulu La Delizia is your new favourite destination for relaxed Italian dining, before heading to Fast Lane for a new bike or Target for pool accessories to make the most of summer. Round off your outing at Unicorn Bar. Its upbeat atmosphere, tapas, and wines make it the perfect spot to celebrate a day well spent.
Whether you’re curating corporate hampers, finding one-of-a-kind gifts, or rewarding yourself with a long lunch, Subiaco makes festive shopping feel like an indulgence, not a chore. With leafy streets, boutique retailers, and a vibrant food scene, it’s the perfect place to rediscover the joy of giving this Christmas.
By Sarah Schmitt
