Forest Hill sits in Melbourne’s east and runs residential, friendly, growing. 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
The Common Place — 155 Bridge Road
One of Forest Hill’s most underrated spots. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The Black Standard — 210 Bridge Road
One of Forest Hill’s best-kept secrets. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The Little Works — 308 Plenty Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Restaurants
Ash’s — 324 King Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Assembly — 23 Barkly Grove
One of Forest Hill’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
New Store — 131 Bridge Road
One of Forest Hill’s hidden gems. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Bars
Black Local — 257 Bridge Road
One of Forest Hill’s most underrated spots. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Rex’s — 102 Bridge Road
One of Forest Hill’s most underrated spots. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The Old Corner — 27 King Grove
One of Forest Hill’s hidden gems. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Shops
Ivy’s — 99 King Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
The Happy Place — 285 Bridge Road
Opened in early 2026 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
The Common Local — 314 King Grove
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Fitness & Wellness
Nina — 126 King Grove
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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Otto’s — 132 Young Place
One of Forest Hill’s best-kept secrets. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The High Bench — 365 Plenty Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm. Worth the trip. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Forest Hill.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Forest Hill — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $111 per person.
Parking: Street parking on King Grove is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Forest Hill at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Residential, friendly, growing |
| Coffee price | $4.50-5.00 |
| Dinner price | $22-38 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Forest Hill |
| Best for | Forest Hill local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Box Hill — also worth exploring
- Forest Hill Cafes
- Forest Hill Restaurants
- All Forest Hill Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
- Things To Do in Forest Hill
- Date Night in Forest Hill
- Hidden Gems in Forest Hill
- Shopping Guide in Forest Hill
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