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A FRESH NEW ENERGY
New lighting that is being completed and furniture have re-set the mood, creating spaces that encourage people to pause instead of rush. The subtle changes bring a renewed sense of vibrancy, while setting the stage for what’s to come. With a new dining precinct planned, the Village will soon be the go-to for everything from midweek lunches to Friday night dinners.
“Shoppers will notice the difference straight away, the updated lighting creates a warm glow and the soon-to-arrive modern furniture makes it easier to stop and chat,” says Centre Manager Natasha Cauvin. “These upgrades aren’t just about aesthetics, they’re about creating a place where people feel comfortable enjoying the space a little longer.”
FOOD AT THE CORE
Food has always been the Village’s greatest drawcard. Harbord Growers Market is a gourmet playground, stocked with artisan cheeses, fresh fruit and vegetables, and pantry staples that elevate even a weekday dinner. Craig Cook, The Natural Butcher, remains a local favourite for premium cuts and old-school service, while Moreish Foods continues to deliver the perfect mix of café and take-home providore. Balgowlah Seafood is still the go-to for market-fresh fish, while everyday favourites like Bakers Delight, Pattison’s Patisserie and Roll’d ensure family staples are always within reach.
Upstairs, the dining offering expands into a buzzing mix of casual eats and sit-down favourites. Fish Face Bar & Grill delivers pristine seafood with crisp wine and people-watching, while Grill’d serves guilt-free burgers perfect for a family dinner and don’t forget fragrant Thai flavours of Monkey King. Add two options for Sushi with Flying Sushi and Maroo Sushi, the vast menu of Skye’s Café, all your Healthy options at The Gathering Ground and your all-time favourites at Bean Obsessed to the mix, and suddenly “What’s for dinner?” becomes the best question of the day.
“Food has always been part of the Village’s soul,” Natasha says. “The new dining precinct will take that to the next level, giving locals even more reasons to catch up, celebrate, or simply take a break over something delicious.”
STYLE, WELLNESS & EVERYDAY LIVING
Retail has had its own refresh too. ECCO Shoes brings Scandi-style built for coastal living, while Country Road, Seed Heritage, Witchery, Sportscraft and Decjuba cover everything from staples to statement pieces. Zjoosh and Adairs continue to tempt with homewares, while Berkelouw Books offers the perfect weekend escape.
Wellness is part of the mix too, Clear Skincare, StretchLab, and Balgowlah Massage make it easy to focus on self-care, while Fitness First, Pacific Smiles Dental and the Australian Skin Cancer Clinic keep health essentials close to home. Add in everyday convenience from Coles, Pharmacy Select, OPSM and Specsavers, and the Village proves it’s as practical as it is stylish.
“We want Balgowlah Village to be a place where locals can tick off the errands, but also enjoy the process,” Natasha explains. “It’s about balancing convenience with atmosphere, making life simpler, but also more enjoyable.”
LOOKING AHEAD
The refresh is just the beginning. Next year, the Village will unveil a brand-new kids’ playground, an exciting addition for families. “We’re thrilled to be creating a space that caters to our youngest visitors,” Natasha says. “It’s all part of our vision to ensure Balgowlah Village truly has something for everyone.”
SHOPPING WITH MEANING
What really sets the Village apart is the way it gives back. Its ongoing support of the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice (AYAH) in Manly ensures the centre remains deeply connected to the community. Last Christmas they partnered with the local charity through their gift wrap drive, with plans to do the same for the Christmas 2025 season. Every gift wrapped at the Village went on to directly support AYAH’s vital work caring for young people living with life-limiting illness.
With a new look, a wave of new energy and future plans already in motion, Balgowlah Village is ready to be rediscovered. From coffee catch-ups to family dinners, fashion finds to wellness rituals, it’s a place that feels more like a community square than a shopping centre. And this time, you’ll want to stay a little longer.
