Cheltenham sits in Melbourne’s bayside 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
The Little Place — 272 Church Street
One of Cheltenham’s genuine highlights. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
White Local — 137 Johnston Terrace
One of Cheltenham’s most underrated spots. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The Green Corner — 200 Victoria Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Restaurants
Mabel Mill — 1 Willow Lane
One of Cheltenham’s best-kept secrets. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Pearl’s — 20 Fitzroy Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm. A neighbourhood staple. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Happy Corner — 279 Willow Lane
One of Cheltenham’s best-kept secrets. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Bars
The Tall Mill — 110 Victoria Crescent
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Ada Store — 379 Victoria Crescent
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
The New Room — 221 Willow Lane
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Shops
The Black Table — 360 Victoria Crescent
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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
The Old Local — 76 Fitzroy Avenue
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Sol — 259 Fitzroy Avenue
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. 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 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Fitness & Wellness
Southern Bench — 228 Johnston Terrace
Opened in 2024 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 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Hugo — 120 Johnston Terrace
Opened in 2024 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 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Mia Corner — 318 Church Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Cheltenham.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Cheltenham — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $66 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Fitzroy Avenue is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham |
| Best for | Cheltenham local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Sandringham — also worth exploring
- Cheltenham Cafes
- Cheltenham Restaurants
- All Cheltenham Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
- Things To Do in Cheltenham
- Date Night in Cheltenham
- Hidden Gems in Cheltenham
- Shopping Guide in Cheltenham
Useful tools:
💬 Discussion
Join the conversation — no account needed