Bentleigh 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.
Cafes
New Standard — 262 Nicholson Street
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Good Standard — 131 Margaret Parade
Opened in 2025 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Kai’s — 338 Beach Drive
One of Bentleigh’s genuine highlights. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Restaurants
Bright Local — 19 Margaret Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Vera — 294 Bell Road
Opened in early 2026 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-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
The Old Bench — 329 Beach Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Bars
The Blue Lane — 30 Bell Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Otto’s — 45 Margaret Parade
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Wagtail — 354 Bell Road
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Shops
The New Standard — 136 Bell Road
One of Bentleigh’s genuine highlights. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Finn’s — 313 Nicholson Street
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Society — 116 Bell Road
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Fitness & Wellness
Long Cellar — 155 Plenty Road
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Mabel Press — 276 Beach Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Vera — 39 Nicholson Street
One of Bentleigh’s genuine highlights. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Bentleigh.
Best time to visit: Saturday for the full buzz.
Budget: A full day exploring Bentleigh — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $66 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Nicholson Street is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Bentleigh 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 |
| Best for | Bentleigh local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Brighton — also worth exploring
- Bentleigh Cafes
- Bentleigh Restaurants
- All Bentleigh Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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