Brisbane’s Montague Road has been declared the sixth-coolest street in the world by a renowned global entertainment and hospitality magazine, Time Out. This accolade places it among just two Australian streets to feature on the prestigious list. However, the announcement has been met with skepticism from local residents.
Time Out praised Montague Road as a “creative backbone” of Brisbane’s most eclectic neighborhood, highlighting its transformation from a sleepy industrial strip. The magazine noted the presence of cultural institutions like the Queensland Ballet, Queensland Theatre Company, and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), alongside a vibrant food scene, wellness spaces, and boutique shops.
Local Reactions and Skepticism
Despite the international recognition, many locals expressed doubt about the street’s newfound status. A couple who relocated from London described the accolade as a “bit of a reach,” citing the abundance of gyms, ongoing construction, and vacant spaces. “There’s good coffee, but that’s everywhere in Australia,” they remarked.
Another resident questioned the selection, suggesting that the Time Out team “obviously haven’t been to James Street,” a sentiment echoed by a woman who claimed Montague Road was “not even the coolest street in West End,” favoring Boundary Street instead.
The Selection Process
Time Out’s ranking process involved surveying thousands globally to identify the best cities and coolest suburbs, followed by local teams submitting their choices for standout streets. “Editors use their own insights but also consult with our freelance writers in each location,” explained Alice Ellis, editor-in-chief at Time Out Australia. This collaborative effort helps narrow down the multiple pitches for each city.
Factors such as connectivity, culture, and nightlife were considered in the final assessment, leading to Montague Road’s inclusion on the list.
Support and Counterpoints
Not all feedback was critical. A resident who lives on Montague Road supported the ranking, stating, “It’s popping off. There’s so much going on.” She highlighted local attractions like two popular pubs, The Raven and The Montague Hotel, Urban Climb, and what she described as “the best op shop in Brisbane.” The proximity to the river was also mentioned as a key feature.
Staff at Cheeky Bean Espresso Bar concurred with the ranking, albeit noting that the northern end of the road was “definitely cooler.” Another Brisbane resident pointed to the area’s diversity as a factor contributing to its cool status.
Implications and Future Prospects
The debate over Montague Road’s ranking underscores the subjective nature of such lists, reflecting diverse perspectives on what constitutes “cool.” While some locals may remain unconvinced, the attention could spur further development and interest in the area, potentially transforming it into a more universally recognized cultural hub.
As Montague Road continues to evolve, its inclusion in Time Out’s list may attract new visitors and businesses, eager to explore and contribute to its burgeoning reputation. Whether it will maintain its status among the world’s coolest streets remains to be seen, but for now, it stands as a testament to Brisbane’s dynamic urban landscape.
