Eltham sits in Melbourne’s greater melbourne and runs working-class, authentic, community-focused. 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
Leo’s — 97 Bell Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Collective — 373 James Place
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Pearl Larder — 311 James Place
One of Eltham’s best-kept secrets. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Restaurants
Iris’s — 54 Beach Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Honest Local — 255 Nicholson Place
Opened in 2025 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 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Happy Press — 314 James Place
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
Bars
Store — 317 James Place
Opened in early 2026 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
Remy — 11 Nicholson Place
Opened in 2025 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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Pearl — 228 North Road
One of Eltham’s genuine highlights. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Shops
Common Quarter — 241 Bell Grove
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
The Red Depot — 187 James Place
One of Eltham’s best-kept secrets. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Marco Corner — 260 Bell Grove
One of Eltham’s genuine highlights. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Fitness & Wellness
Room — 298 Beach Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Sunny Bench — 375 James Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. A neighbourhood staple. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Sunny Works — 272 Beach Road
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Eltham.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Eltham — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $84 per person.
Parking: Street parking on James Place is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Eltham at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Working-class, authentic, community-focused |
| Coffee price | $4.00-4.50 |
| Dinner price | $18-32 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Eltham |
| Best for | Eltham local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD — also worth exploring
- Eltham Cafes
- Eltham Restaurants
- All Eltham Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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