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.
Fashion
Ash Press — 289 Elizabeth Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Long Mill — 378 Elizabeth Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Wide Press — 12 South Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Homewares
Felix — 88 South Drive
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
The Good Larder — 125 Main Road
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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Ada’s — 75 Nicholson Place
Opened in 2025 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Books & Records
Kai Press — 207 Elizabeth Road
Opened in 2025 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
The Old Local — 363 Cecil Place
One of Brooklyn’s genuine highlights. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Assembly — 172 Cecil Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Food & Specialty
Nico Mill — 317 Cecil Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 7 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Table — 164 Nicholson Place
One of Brooklyn’s most underrated spots. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Iris — 93 Cecil Place
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. 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 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Markets
The New Bench — 310 Elizabeth Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Cleo — 40 Elizabeth Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Lucky Local — 100 South Drive
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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Brooklyn.
Best time to visit: Sunday afternoons — the suburban pace suits it.
Budget: A full day exploring Brooklyn — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $92 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
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