Brooklyn sits in Melbourne’s greater melbourne and runs affordable, diverse, developing. 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
Lane — 157 Cecil Place
One of Brooklyn’s best-kept secrets. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
The Common Cellar — 257 Main Road
One of Brooklyn’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Anchor — 154 Nicholson Place
One of Brooklyn’s best-kept secrets. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Restaurants
Nina’s — 10 Cecil Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Golden Yard — 316 Cecil Place
One of Brooklyn’s best-kept secrets. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Bellbird — 345 Nicholson Place
Opened in 2025 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 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
Bars
Oliver Store — 121 Main Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 7 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The New Local — 142 Elizabeth 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 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
New Place — 206 Elizabeth Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Shops
River’s — 374 South Drive
One of Brooklyn’s hidden gems. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Black Place — 356 Cecil Place
One of Brooklyn’s genuine highlights. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Humble Corner — 4 Nicholson Place
One of Brooklyn’s hidden gems. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Fitness & Wellness
Lena Cellar — 223 Elizabeth Road
One of Brooklyn’s most underrated spots. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Ada Press — 19 Elizabeth Road
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Max’s — 56 South Drive
Opened in 2025 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 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Brooklyn.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Brooklyn — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $107 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Main Road is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Brooklyn at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Affordable, diverse, developing |
| Coffee price | $4.00-4.50 |
| Dinner price | $18-32 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Brooklyn |
| Best for | Brooklyn local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD — also worth exploring
- Brooklyn Cafes
- Brooklyn Restaurants
- All Brooklyn Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
Useful tools:
💬 Discussion
Join the conversation — no account needed