Welcome to the new String Bean Alley!
Melbourne’s newest laneway has arrived at Queen Victoria Market, with the official opening of String Bean Alley.
String Bean Alley is now home to twenty-six independent retailers in bespoke shipping containers, providing a uniquely Melbourne shopping experience in the heart of the city’s favourite market.
With a history dating back to 1936, the name String Bean Alley pays tribute to the laneway where green string beans were once sold.
Twelve new businesses have joined the existing line-up to offer a variety of locally designed, sourced or produced fashion, vintage, jewellery, art, craft, skincare, books and more.
“String Bean Alley is the new place to find Melbourne’s best independent makers, creators, designers and artists” – Lord Mayor Sally Capp.
String Bean Alley is open Friday 8am-3pm, Saturday 8am-3pm, Sunday 9am-4pm and on Wednesday evenings from 5pm-10pm during The Night Market event series. Customers can access String Bean Alley from Queen or Peel Streets, or from the main car park.
Join us in welcoming the new String Bean Alley retailers:
Mary Martin Bookshop: Authentic indie bookshop with a 75-year history, stocking an extensive and unique range of books and cards.
Melbourne Makers Pod: Three Melbourne makers joining forces and delivering a rotating line-up of handcrafted products.
The Paper & Wood Co: Showcasing an intricate range of greeting cards, gifts, decorations and brooches. All designed and handmade in Melbourne.
Retro Mamma: Explore bygone ages through historical pictures and vintage costume accessories.
Iris Photo: Photography of your iris, capturing all its details and colours to create a stunning piece of artwork.
The Hemp Superstore: Sustainable and organic hemp products including candles, skincare, shoes and bags.
Bruce Goose: Quirky socks made in Melbourne from natural fibres to add a splash of fun to any outfit.
Pebble & Poppet: A colourful range of certified organic cotton kid’s clothing plus a collection of stylish home decor and gifts, all made locally in Melbourne.
Melbourne Cocoa: Customise your own truffles, enjoy a chocolate cupping session or simply pick up a block of locally-made premium chocolate.
Another Man Barber Shop (coming soon): The Market will soon have its very own barber. The Mariani family combine 70 years of experience across three generations to bring the fine art of grooming and barbering to the Market.
Joining the existing retailers:
Aminalee: Jewellery inspired by culture, textures and stunning colours.
Mr.B Handicraftsman: Specialising in all things handmade with an extensive range of handbags and purses.
Intone Photography: Unique and colourful perspectives of the beautiful Melbourne laneways and urban landscapes.
JLP Outback: An incredible range of leather goods that are made to last, their products include stock whips, Akubras, wallets and backpacks.
Little League: From the team behind the league of Honest Coffee comes Little League, perched at the top of String Bean Alley. Enjoy picturesque city views one brew at a time.
Market Espresso & Trolley Hire: The pioneers of specialty coffee at the Market, plus delicious croque monsieurs, hot toasties and fluffy croissants.
Nautical Replicas: An eclectic range of nautical accessories including wooden model boats, brass bells, clocks and lighthouses.
Petal Melbourne: Australian made aromatherapy and organic skincare products that are all natural, chemical free and vegan-friendly.
Qn Flowers: Beautiful bouquets, terrariums and stunning orchids at great prices.
Ronnie Z and the Fabulous Juice: Said to be one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets, enjoy spectacular views of the city skyline whilst enjoying fresh juices and acai bowls.
Endangered Animals Australia: Beautiful puppets designed for imaginative play. The incredible range are used to educate visitors about native Australian animals.
Spotty Dot: An incredible range of wooden accessories, whimsical dolls, puzzles and baby gifts.
Viva La Calavera: Vibrant, handcrafted, Mexican folk art plus Day of the Dead art and pop characters and other quirky finds.
Find out more about the String Bean Alley retailers here.
