Established in the late 1800s as the main thoroughfare from the Adelaide CBD to the seaside, Henley Beach Road has undergone significant change recently as a wave of gentrification continues to transform it.
Henley Beach Road was once a small strip of Anglo-owned grocers, butchers, and drapery shops in the 1800s.
During the waves of migration in the 1950s, the road’s surrounding suburbs, particularly Torrensville, became home to Greek and Italian immigrants. They introduced continental café culture and Mediterranean influences to the area.
From the 1970s, Asian migrants brought another burst of cultural change to Henley Beach Road, opening many speciality food stores and restaurants. More recently, the road has seen an influx of Middle Eastern, Indian and African food culture.
Today, some of the most popular businesses along the Mile End and Torrensville stretch includes Little Canton Chinese, Singh Sweets & Punjabi Restaurant and Parwana Afghan Kitchen – arguably one of Adelaide’s most popular restaurants.
Master of Property at the University of Adelaide, Peter Koulizos told Real Commercial the 2km stretch of Henley Beach Road that runs through the suburbs of Mile End and Torrensville has experienced the most significant change in recent years.
“Once upon a time you knew a place was gentrifying if there were Greek and Italian restaurants popping up. Nowadays it’s Afghan and Japanese restaurants, hot yoga studios and tattoo parlours,” Mr Koulizos explained.
This change won’t stop any time soon with the City of West Torrens council announcing plans to once again reinvigorate Henley Beach Road, with Adelaide Mayor Michael Coxon citing its “huge potential for growth.”
Source: Real Commercial
