Easey's

Imagine a place where urban design meets high-end gastronomy right on the rooftop. This is Easey's — a unique art object and restaurant that has become one of the most recognizable spots on the map of Victoria, Australia. Located near Richmond, this establishment is a five-story building topped with actual vintage subway train carriages.

Easey's. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The main highlight of the complex is the Hitachi 135M carriage from 1978, which now serves as a cozy dining room at a bird's-eye view. The interior is infused with the spirit of industrial chic: walls are decorated with vibrant graffiti, and furniture is crafted from upcycled suburban train seats. A street-style atmosphere reigns here, complemented by panoramic views of Melbourne's northern suburbs.

Easey's is not just a burger joint, but a true cultural phenomenon. The menu, developed by leading burger expert Jimmy Hurlston, attracts foodies from all over the world. Thanks to its combination of original architecture and flawless cuisine, the venue regularly appears in rankings of the most unusual restaurants on the planet and holds a high rating among tourists and locals alike.

For more details or to book a table (although they usually operate on a walk-in basis), you can use the following contact information:

A visit to Easey's is a full-fledged adventure that begins even before you enter the building. First, take the elevator or the graffiti-adorned stairs to one of the rooftop carriages. Here, you can grab a seat on an authentic train seat and order the legendary “Train Burger”. Pair your meal with a craft beer served in glasses made from recycled glass, while enjoying the urban landscapes.

Instagram enthusiasts will find plenty to do here: every corner of the building — from the entrance featuring rail elements to the platforms between the carriages — provides the perfect backdrop for photos. Vibrant murals and street art elements create a unique Melbourne underground vibe.

Beyond the food, guests are invited to indulge in some nostalgia on the lower floors, where retro arcade games are installed. There is also a pop-up shop on-site where you can buy industrial-style souvenirs. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a laid-back environment that combines a spirit of freedom, transport history, and excellent cuisine.

Easey's is located in the vibrant neighborhood of Collingwood, which is very close to Richmond. The easiest way to get here from Melbourne city center is by using the city's famous trams. Routes No. 86 or No. 96 are your best bet; get off at the Smith Street stop, which is just a leisurely 5-minute walk from the venue.

If you prefer a taxi or rideshare service, the trip from central districts takes about 10–15 minutes. The journey from Melbourne International Airport takes between 30 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For those traveling by private or rental car, please note that parking directly on Easey Street can be limited. It is recommended to look for spots on adjacent streets or use public parking lots in the Smith Street area. Using navigation systems like Google Maps will help you easily find the entrance to this unusual building.

The history of this amazing place began in 2014 when three friends — Jimmy Hurlston, Phil Martin, and Jeremy Gash — decided to combine their love for street culture, graffiti, and high-quality food. At that time, Jimmy Hurlston was already a recognized burger expert in Australia, having published a themed book and traveled halfway around the world in search of the perfect recipe. The official opening of Easey's took place on May 1, 2015, and the project instantly became a media sensation.

The most impressive architectural feat was hoisting three train carriages onto the roof of a specially built five-story building. The star of the collection is the Hitachi 135M model carriage, which roamed the rails of Melbourne from 1978 to 2014. These trains were iconic for the city as they were the first fleets equipped with automatic doors and heating systems.

Interestingly, the idea of placing carriages at such a height was announced as early as 2012, and its realization required complex engineering calculations. Since then, Easey's has evolved from a simple restaurant into a true monument to Melbourne's urban culture, regularly appearing on major television channels and in the pages of prestigious magazines like Qantas Magazine.

To fully soak in the atmosphere of this place, a quick bite won't be enough. Most guests need between 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a visit. This time allows you not only to enjoy the menu from the famous chef but also to explore all five floors of the building.

About 45 minutes is usually spent tasting signature dishes and drinks. The rest of the time should be dedicated to exploring the unique interiors: studying the graffiti created by local artists, playing retro arcade games, and, of course, the mandatory photo session in an authentic train carriage with views of the city blocks.

The venue is open to visitors daily, making it a convenient stop on any traveler's itinerary. From Monday to Thursday, as well as on Sunday, Easey's is open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the restaurant doors stay open an hour longer — until 11:00 PM, which is perfect for a late dinner with friends.

Please note that operating hours may change on public holidays. Before your visit, it is recommended to check the official website or verify the latest information on the venue's social media to ensure you secure a spot in one of the famous carriages.

Exploring the surrounding area after visiting Easey's will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Victoria and discover its historical heritage. The area around Richmond and Collingwood is rich in unusual monuments, fountains, and picturesque spots hidden from the average tourist's eyes.