Elsternwick sits in Melbourne’s south east 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.
Stop 1: Coffee
The Little Store — 235 Nicholson Street
One of Elsternwick’s hidden gems. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Atlas Works — 88 Anderson Drive
One of Elsternwick’s best-kept secrets. 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.
Stop 2: Snack
Vera Pantry — 7 Anderson Drive
One of Elsternwick’s genuine highlights. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Ash’s — 31 William Place
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-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Stop 3: Main Meal
Theo — 126 Anderson Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 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 owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
New Place — 359 Anderson Drive
One of Elsternwick’s genuine highlights. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Stop 4: Dessert
The New Social — 94 Fitzroy Lane
One of Elsternwick’s genuine highlights. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Tall Post — 81 Anderson Drive
One of Elsternwick’s genuine highlights. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Stop 5: Nightcap
The Southern Lane — 50 William Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Theo — 40 William Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Elsternwick.
Best time to visit: Sunday afternoons — the suburban pace suits it.
Budget: A full day exploring Elsternwick — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $90 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Smith Place is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Elsternwick 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 Elsternwick |
| Best for | Elsternwick local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Brighton — also worth exploring
- Elsternwick Cafes
- Elsternwick Restaurants
- All Elsternwick Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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