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.
Best WiFi
Vera’s — 83 Johnston Terrace
One of Cheltenham’s hidden gems. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The Old Standard — 362 Willow Lane
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Nina’s — 47 Fitzroy Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Most Spacious
The Happy Store — 241 Church Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Leo — 115 Fitzroy Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 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 staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Gus Pantry — 7 Johnston Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The atmosphere 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 $12-18 per person.
Quietest
Leo — 56 Victoria Crescent
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
The High Works — 270 Fitzroy Avenue
Opened in 2024 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
The White Pantry — 56 Church Street
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 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Best Coffee While Working
The New Larder — 146 Victoria Crescent
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Hazel Press — 242 Victoria Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Social — 61 Willow Lane
One of Cheltenham’s genuine highlights. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Co-Working Nearby
Ada Larder — 102 Church Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Mia Social — 175 Willow Lane
Opened in 2024 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Common Press — 263 Victoria Crescent
One of Cheltenham’s genuine highlights. The owner 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.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Cheltenham.
Best time to visit: Saturday for the full buzz.
Budget: A full day exploring Cheltenham — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $80 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
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