Best Coffee in Elsternwick (2026)
Melbourne takes coffee seriously and Elsternwick takes it personally. The cafe scene here is strong — plenty of options for the daily rotation.
29 cafes mapped and verified, 20 with Google ratings averaging 4.7/5. This is the definitive coffee guide for Elsternwick — no paid placements, no sponsored reviews.
Coffee Prices in Elsternwick (2026)
| Drink | Price |
|---|---|
| Flat white | $4.50–$5.50 |
| Long black | $4.00–$5.00 |
| Cappuccino | $4.50–$5.50 |
| Latte | $4.50–$5.50 |
| Iced latte | $5.50–$6.50 |
| Single-origin filter | $5.50–$7.00 |
| Cold brew | $5.50–$7.00 |
| Batch brew | $4.00–$5.00 |
| Oat milk surcharge | +$0.50–$1.00 |
Prices are Elsternwick area estimates for 2026.
Highest Rated Cafes in Elsternwick
| Rank | Cafe | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glazed Gluten Free Patisserie | ★ 4.9/5 | 508 |
| 2 | Two Hens | ★ 4.9/5 | 132 |
| 3 | Green tree cafe | ★ 4.9/5 | 100 |
| 4 | Harriet | ★ 4.9/5 | 78 |
| 5 | 28 Seconds Cafe | ★ 4.8/5 | 163 |
| 6 | Aster Coffee | ★ 4.8/5 | 124 |
| 7 | Little Sister Bakery Elsternwick | ★ 4.8/5 | 114 |
| 8 | Antique Bar | ★ 4.7/5 | 931 |
| 9 | Dawn Eatery | ★ 4.7/5 | 200 |
| 10 | Damm Good Cafe | ★ 4.7/5 | 111 |
Specialty Coffee in Elsternwick
These 1 venues have a specific coffee focus — expect single-origin options, pour-over methods, and baristas who can tell you the altitude the beans were grown at:
#1 Aster Coffee — 4/376 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.8/5 (124 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “Unfortunately my experience was very average at best. Although the barista had a superb beard, he was unfriendly and unwelcoming. The waitresses were …”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
All Cafes in Elsternwick
#1 Glazed Gluten Free Patisserie — Shop 2 1/3 Carre St, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.9/5 (508 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Light fare & baked goods are made without gluten, dairy or nuts at this classic counter-serve venue. One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “This place is a must to visit if you’re a celiac ,the food is so delicious! All the food here is gluten free and baked Fresh every day! Today I was a…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Glazed Gluten Free Patisserie | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#2 Antique Bar — 218 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.7/5 (931 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Cosy, rustic-chic lounge bar fitted with antique furniture, serving gourmet nibbles and cocktails. One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “We had an amazing experience here! It was our first time visiting the bar, and I have to say the bartender, Lion, was absolutely professional and welc…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Antique Bar | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#3 Goat House — 272 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.3/5 (1,585 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Convivial locale with stylish accents & a patio for brunch & cafe dining, plus artisanal coffee. This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: *“Excellent pub in the heart of Elsternwick.
Went on a Thursday afternoon for a few beers and the atmosphere was great. Asahi on tap always a winner fo…”*
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Goat House | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#4 The Rifle Club — 294 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.2/5 (951 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Rustic-chic hot spot with a terrace, serving Indochine-inspired dishes & a boozy weekend brunch. One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “I think they changed menu recently but still carries a very good range of selection. the oysters were very fresh. had to order 2 more. the main was ve…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: The Rifle Club | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#5 Carter Lovett — 329 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.6/5 (596 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: *“Chill vibes, friendly staff.
Chicken schnitzel- well toasted bread, tender chicken and paired with a side of chips
Eggs benedict with side of rosti …”*
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Carter Lovett | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#6 Next of Kin — 546 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.6/5 (306 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “This was a restaurant I’d been curious about for a long time. When we arrived on Sunday morning, it was already fully booked. After a short wait, a ta…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Next of Kin | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#7 Mothers Instinct cafe & Bar — 3/221 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.5/5 (316 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “Service was excellent and the atmosphere was nice. The food was good, we ordered the green smoothie, which was great, and the coffee was nice. There …”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Mothers Instinct cafe & Bar | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#8 Green tree cafe — 322 Glen Eira Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.9/5 (100 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: “Fresh, delicious food and beautifully presented. The salmon bowl was perfectly cooked and full of flavour. Lovely atmosphere and friendly service, wil…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Green tree cafe | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#9 Two Hens — 504 Kooyong Rd, Caulfield South VIC 3162, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.9/5 (132 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “My workplace have had the team at Two Hens and their coffee cart on-site on a regular basis since 2024. Seb, Alicia and their team don’t just serve a…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Two Hens | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#10 28 Seconds Cafe — 584 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.8/5 (163 reviews) | $ | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “Exceptional cafe! It’s so unique and beautiful inside with plenty of seating in and out the back. The young lady at the front was super sweet and frie…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#11 Little Sister Bakery Elsternwick — Glen Eira Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.8/5 (114 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: “I delightfully stumbled across Little Sister Bakery (Glen Eira Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185) and was met with a gorgeous, traditional artisan feel and the…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Little Sister Bakery Elsternwick | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#12 Dawn Eatery — 390 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.7/5 (200 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: *“Wow - what a find.
Service and food was amazing.
The drinks are however the standout. I had a Coconut Matcha Cloud and my wife had the Sakura Match…”*
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Dawn Eatery | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
More Cafes in Elsternwick
| Cafe | Address | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Damm Good Cafe | Unit 1/478 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia | ★ 4.7 |
| The Elstern Social | Cafe & Brunch Elsternwick | 572 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia |
| The Kooyong Road General | 437 Kooyong Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia | ★ 4.7 |
| Copycat Bar & Restaurant | 9b Gordon St, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia | ★ 4.6 |
| Mandoline | 432n Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia | ★ 4.5 |
| Terracotta Elsternwick | 356 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia | ★ 4.4 |
| Harriet | 228 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia | ★ 4.9 |
| Bissel B. | 312-314 Glen Huntly Road | — |
| Green Remedy | 211 Glen Huntly Road | — |
| Bagelicious | 1-3 Carre Street | — |
| Mister Baker | 467 Glen Huntly Road | — |
| Cocorico Cafe | — | — |
| Le petit lapin | — | — |
| Glovers Station | — | — |
| Spot On Ripponlea | — | — |
| Tip Top | — | — |
Melbourne Coffee Culture — A Quick Guide
If you have just moved to Melbourne or Elsternwick, here is what you need to know:
- Flat white is the default — this is a Melbourne invention. Order it with confidence
- No drip coffee — if you want filter, ask for batch brew or pour-over
- Milk alternatives — oat milk is the standard non-dairy option. Most places charge $0.50–$1.00 extra
- Takeaway cup debate — bring a KeepCup. Seriously. Melbourne judges disposable cups
- Tip the barista — not mandatory in Australia, but a buck in the jar gets you remembered
- The 3pm coffee — Melburnians do not stop at one morning coffee. The afternoon pick-me-up is cultural
How to Find Your Regular
Every Elsternwick resident needs a regular cafe — the place where the barista starts making your order when they see you walk in. Here is how to find yours:
- Week 1: Try three different cafes near your home or office
- Week 2: Return to the one that got the milk temperature right
- Week 3: Start ordering “the usual”
- Week 4: You now have a regular
Related Guides
- Best Restaurants in Elsternwick
- Best Cafes in Elsternwick
- Best Bars in Elsternwick
- Cost of Living in Elsternwick
- Elsternwick Neighbourhood Guide
- Family Guide to Elsternwick
- Is Elsternwick Safe?
- Elsternwick Transport Guide
Last updated: March 2026. This guide is refreshed when OpenStreetMap data changes — new openings, closures and corrections are reflected automatically. Found something wrong? Let us know.
Sources
- OpenStreetMap Contributors — openstreetmap.org — accessed March 2026
- ABS Census 2021 — abs.gov.au/census
- REIV Quarterly Median Prices — reiv.com.au
💬 Discussion
Join the conversation — no account needed