Guides sits in Melbourne’s greater melbourne and runs unpretentious, multicultural, value-driven. 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
Green Lane — 230 Church Parade
Opened in early 2026 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-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Leo Bench — 282 Fitzroy Avenue
One of Guides’s hidden gems. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Atlas — 182 Blake Grove
One of Guides’s best-kept secrets. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Restaurants
Mabel’s — 263 Church Parade
One of Guides’s genuine highlights. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Luna — 32 Fitzroy Avenue
Opened in 2024 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Iris Corner — 28 North Lane
Opened in 2024 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-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Bars
White Table — 337 Fitzroy Avenue
One of Guides’s best-kept secrets. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Pearl Bench — 256 Blake Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Mia’s — 199 Fitzroy Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Shops
River Works — 342 Blake Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Nell Bench — 76 Church Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
River House — 7 Pine Crescent
Opened in 2024 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
Fitness & Wellness
The Little Bench — 175 North Lane
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 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Ada’s — 327 Blake Grove
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
The Blue Commons — 16 Church Parade
One of Guides’s most underrated spots. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Guides.
Best time to visit: Saturday for the full buzz.
Budget: A full day exploring Guides — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $96 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Fitzroy Avenue is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Guides at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Unpretentious, multicultural, value-driven |
| Coffee price | $4.00-4.50 |
| Dinner price | $18-32 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Guides |
| Best for | Guides local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD — also worth exploring
- Guides Cafes
- Guides Restaurants
- All Guides Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
Useful tools:
💬 Discussion
Join the conversation — no account needed