Alighting from the train at Fairfield station, the first thing you’ll notice is the Fairfield Industrial Dog Object (FIDO), an enormous dog facing out onto Station Street. This hardwood sculpture stands at 5.5 metres tall and 8m metres long and was erected in April 2000 as part of Darebin City Council’s public art program. It is a reflection of the suburb’s dog-loving community and was created as the community’s pet. This friendly, first impression of Fairfield reflects the warmth and local feel of an inner city fringe suburb that has a strong sense of community and a busy local events calendar.
Station Street is the heart and soul of Fairfield. In 2012, local icon Cardamone Gourmet Supermarket celebrated 50 years of trade and is as popular as ever for shoppers looking for imported Italian produce and homemade antipasti and cold meats. Opposite, neighbourhood Japanese restaurant Matsuya has an extensive menu covering all the classics and is constantly busy.
On hot days, Cones Ice Cream and Gelato has queues down the street and Friday nights at Greek restaurant Trapezi are jam packed with dancing and plate-smashing.
Down towards the Yarra River, the historic Fairfield Park Boathouse is a sweet spot to spend a summer afternoon picnicking. Hire a boat, canoe or kayak and paddle through the surrounding natural bushland. The bike and running paths accessed from Yarra Bend Park take you into the city or out to Templestowe and run alongside the Yarra Bend Golf Course. 
What we love in Fairfield
Alphington Farmers Market– 2 Wingrove Street, Alphington. Every Sunday.
Fifteen Pounds– 21-23 Railway Place. Creative breakfast and lunch options. Rustic table setting and leafy courtyard.
Fairfield Boathouse– Fairfield Park Drive. The perfect way spot to spend a sunny afternoon.
Cardamone’s Food & Wine– 143 Station Street. A local icon, imports and makes beautiful gourmet products.