Bentleigh East sits in Melbourne’s south east and runs creative, walkable, authentic. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
Fashion
The Golden Larder — 319 North Terrace
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Bench — 172 Bourke Drive
One of Bentleigh East’s hidden gems. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Nina’s — 128 Young Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Homewares
Good Quarter — 144 Young Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Felix Cellar — 242 Anderson Grove
One of Bentleigh East’s best-kept secrets. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Theo’s — 127 Anderson Grove
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Books & Records
Remy’s — 367 Station Crescent
One of Bentleigh East’s hidden gems. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Tall House — 351 Bourke Drive
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Ava Local — 366 North Terrace
One of Bentleigh East’s best-kept secrets. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Food & Specialty
Merchant — 29 Station Crescent
One of Bentleigh East’s hidden gems. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The High Press — 4 Anderson Grove
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
The Black Quarter — 173 Station Crescent
One of Bentleigh East’s most underrated spots. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Markets
The Green Cellar — 280 Young Crescent
One of Bentleigh East’s best-kept secrets. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Lucky Press — 42 North Terrace
One of Bentleigh East’s most underrated spots. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Cleo’s — 321 Station Crescent
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Bentleigh East.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Bentleigh East — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $86 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Anderson Grove is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Bentleigh East at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Creative, walkable, authentic |
| Coffee price | $4.50-5.50 |
| Dinner price | $28-45 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Bentleigh East |
| Best for | Bentleigh East local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Brighton — also worth exploring
- Bentleigh East Cafes
- Bentleigh East Restaurants
- All Bentleigh East Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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