Caulfield East 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
Marco’s — 285 Johnston Terrace
One of Caulfield East’s best-kept secrets. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Sunny Cellar — 254 Queen Drive
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
The Green Corner — 304 Margaret Lane
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Restaurants
River — 136 South Parade
One of Caulfield East’s most underrated spots. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The Honest Table — 187 Queen Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
River’s — 250 Johnston Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Don’t miss this one. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Bars
Otto’s — 371 Queen Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Good Yard — 38 Queen Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Oliver Kitchen — 152 South Parade
One of Caulfield East’s most underrated spots. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Shops
The New House — 252 Johnston Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Cleo Yard — 336 Queen Drive
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Pearl Pantry — 205 Pine Terrace
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Fitness & Wellness
Common House — 252 Pine Terrace
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Sol’s — 264 Queen Drive
Opened in early 2026 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Ivy’s — 14 South Parade
Opened in early 2026 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Caulfield East.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Caulfield East — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $69 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Margaret Lane is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Caulfield East 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 Caulfield East |
| Best for | Caulfield East local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD — also worth exploring
- Caulfield East Cafes
- Caulfield East Restaurants
- All Caulfield East Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
- Things To Do in Caulfield East
- Date Night in Caulfield East
- Hidden Gems in Caulfield East
- Shopping Guide in Caulfield East
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