Griffith shops on Barker Street is bursting with heavenly organic produce, wellbeing centres and eateries. It boasts an easy-going, village spirit by day, meeting the needs of folks that prefer alternative therapies and lifestyle products, and by night it comes alive with a pumping bar, and two of the most well-respected restaurants in Canberra.
Shop
Founded in 1977, Mountain Creek was founded by four Canberra yogis who decided to develop a new style of health food store. The name comes from one of the original owner’s 200-acre property in the Wombat Ranges west of Canberra, which was also coined ‘Mountain Creek’. You will find just about anything you need for the pantry, home, laundry, beauty cupboard, baby and fridge! Behind the big wooden counter are huge barrels of dried fruits, chocolate, nuts, grains and flours. It truly gets better with age!
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What started as a quirky backyard business in 1986 by Karen Medbury, Organic Energy has now turned into a popular destination for many regulars. Certified organic and pesticide-free, the colourful piles of fresh fruit and vegetables are too good not to try. Once you taste the flavours of organic produce, it makes it difficult to go back! The style of the store transports you back to an original ‘green grocer’, with baskets, scales and paper bags. They also make a range of vegan treats, wheatgrass and coffee. Short on time? You can order your produce online and pick it up! Look out for their new Raw Food Preparation classes coming soon too.
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Not only is The Heirophant one of the largest natural medical dispensaries in Australia, it has a huge range of crystals, gems, books, aromatherapy oils and tarot cards. Whatever your spiritual preference is, you will find something that aligns with it here. They also have a beautiful range of jewellery and an on-site naturopath! Just look for the sign and head up the stairs.
Dine
Ranked as the number one restaurant in the ACT multiple times, Aubergine is a fancy foodie’s dream. With a plethora of awards, two chef hats, and a wine list to die for, it’s no wonder the well-respected restaurant is always busy. The four-course menu constantly changes to adapt to the best seasonal produce on hand, and you can choose a standard or premium level of wine pairing to accompany the delicious dishes.
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The perfect romantic setting, Rubicon offers a cosy and intimate dining experience. Known as a ‘Canberra institution’, visitors can enjoy a sophisticated list of local, regional and international wines, which are personally chosen by the head sommelier. Indulge in tasty cuisine such as lamb rump, duck confit, zucchini flowers, fresh oysters and much more. There are four small dining rooms that can be transformed into secluded areas or opened up to accommodate larger functions or corporate dinners.
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The relaxed atmosphere of Gryphons provides a cool hang out to watch sporting games, enjoy live music, or slurp on one of the twelve Australian and international beers on tap. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, and provide takeaway too. They are known for their perfect pizzas and weekday deals, such as $20 pizza and beer on Wednesdays.
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Do
Artemisia Natural Health Clinic
Lesa is a warm and gentle soul who offers services such as body talk, reiki, reflexology, massage therapy, and naturopathy. I have personally seen Lesa over a dozen times and can highly recommend her. She sees people from all walks of life, and no matter what you might have going on physically, spiritually or mentally, you’re bound to walk out of her clinic with a new outlook on life.
A beautiful studio specialising in yoga, meditation and general wellbeing, InSync was founded in 2001 with the aim to help people achieve their health and personal goals. They have many options for all yoga levels, and if you don’t have a yoga mat – don’t worry! InSync kindly provides one for you. They also specialise in beauty therapy services like facials and massage, integrated coaching and online courses. It really is a one-stop-shop!
All your beauty needs will be met in the funky upstairs loft, with gorgeous wooden floorboards and spectacular views across Griffith. A recognised leader in quality beauty and skin care treatments, Essence offers just about every treatment you can think of. Facials, massage, spray tanning, teeth whitening, hair removal, acne treatments, body contouring and slimming treatments. Wow!
Among these amazing businesses, you can also find the famous Griffith Butchery and Bakery, known for their famous pies and grass-fed Australian meat, the well-established Griffith Vietnamese Restaurant and much more. This alternative group of shops is jam-packed full of great local business, and you won’t be disappointed!
