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.
Best WiFi
The High House — 108 Plenty Road
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Remy Pantry — 251 Plenty Road
Opened in 2024 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Hazel Larder — 376 Margaret Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Most Spacious
Southern Press — 226 Plenty Road
One of Bentleigh’s best-kept secrets. The staff 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.
The Tall Commons — 166 Beach Drive
One of Bentleigh’s hidden gems. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Long Post — 10 Margaret Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-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.
Quietest
Theo Bench — 145 Margaret Parade
One of Bentleigh’s best-kept secrets. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Tall Cellar — 333 Margaret Parade
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
The Wide House — 290 Margaret Parade
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Best Coffee While Working
Mia Bench — 75 Beach Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
The Red Standard — 274 Bell Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Kai Corner — 237 Margaret Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Co-Working Nearby
Luna’s — 112 Plenty Road
One of Bentleigh’s genuine highlights. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
White Social — 159 Bell Road
One of Bentleigh’s most underrated spots. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Black Local — 250 Beach Drive
One of Bentleigh’s genuine highlights. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Bentleigh.
Best time to visit: Sunday afternoons — the suburban pace suits it.
Budget: A full day exploring Bentleigh — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $86 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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