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.
Fashion
Golden Cellar — 211 Anderson Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
The Green Standard — 320 Fitzroy Lane
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. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Wide Cellar — 287 Fitzroy Lane
One of Elsternwick’s hidden gems. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Homewares
The Green Store — 119 Fitzroy Lane
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Old Kitchen — 143 Anderson 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.
Stella’s — 212 Smith Place
One of Elsternwick’s hidden gems. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Books & Records
Gus Bench — 139 Fitzroy Lane
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
River’s — 378 Fitzroy Lane
One of Elsternwick’s genuine highlights. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Lucky Post — 336 Fitzroy Lane
One of Elsternwick’s genuine highlights. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Food & Specialty
Sunny Table — 303 Nicholson Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Oliver Yard — 165 Anderson Drive
One of Elsternwick’s most underrated spots. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Hugo — 17 Anderson Drive
One of Elsternwick’s hidden gems. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Markets
Oliver Quarter — 221 Fitzroy Lane
Opened in 2025 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Honest Yard — 247 William Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Kai’s — 380 Nicholson Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. 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 $115 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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