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.
Fashion
Kai’s — 56 Nicholson Place
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Southern House — 5 Bell Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Kai — 113 Beach Road
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Homewares
Ash — 245 Bell Grove
One of Eltham’s hidden gems. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Lena Local — 294 Nicholson Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Old Works — 243 James Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Books & Records
Theo — 218 Beach Road
One of Eltham’s hidden gems. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Ash’s — 237 James Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Good Mill — 30 Beach Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Food & Specialty
Ada Kitchen — 249 James Place
One of Eltham’s hidden gems. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
The Good Bench — 27 Bell Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 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 space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Common Local — 333 Bell Grove
One of Eltham’s genuine highlights. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Markets
Rosa Quarter — 227 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Ivy’s — 296 North Road
One of Eltham’s most underrated spots. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Cleo — 291 Nicholson Place
Opened in 2025 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Eltham.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Eltham — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $71 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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