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.
Best WiFi
Ivy’s — 174 Plenty Drive
One of Forest Hill’s most underrated spots. The staff 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.
Nico’s — 348 Plenty Drive
One of Forest Hill’s most underrated spots. The team 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.
Sunny Works — 282 Plenty Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Most Spacious
Good Kitchen — 158 Plenty Drive
One of Forest Hill’s genuine highlights. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Nina’s — 186 King Grove
Opened in 2025 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Mia — 224 Bridge Road
One of Forest Hill’s best-kept secrets. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Quietest
Pearl Standard — 33 Plenty Drive
One of Forest Hill’s hidden gems. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Theo’s — 218 Plenty Drive
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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Depot — 277 Young Place
One of Forest Hill’s genuine highlights. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Best Coffee While Working
Kai’s — 298 Bridge Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 6 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Worth the trip. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Oliver Place — 268 Plenty Drive
One of Forest Hill’s genuine highlights. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Ash’s — 119 Young Place
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. 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 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Co-Working Nearby
Yard — 103 Young Place
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Green Depot — 337 Plenty Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Sunny Store — 248 Barkly Grove
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. 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 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Forest Hill.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Forest Hill — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $104 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
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