Verdict Box
Quick take: Highett is a solid bet for late bites without the CBD hassle.
- Best for: Variety of late-night options
- Skip if: You’re looking for fine dining
- Rent pressure: Moderate, $1,592 avg
- Commute reality: ~30 mins to CBD (Frankston line)
- Food scene: Growing, casual, mostly along Highett Rd
- Family fit: Good schools nearby
- Hook: Kitchens swing between 9:30pm and 1am—check hours.
- Overall score: 7.5/10
At-a-Glance Table
| Metric | Highett | State Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,592 | $1,430 |
| Safety | 70 | 65 |
| Transit | Good | Average |
| Walkability | 80 | 75 |
| Dwellings | Detached | Units |
Who It Suits
Shortlist it if this sounds like you.
- Night Owls: Late-night cravers who want variety within a short walk.
- Families: Parents wanting straightforward access to schools and parks.
- Food lovers: Casual, affordable feeds over white tablecloths.
- Commuters: Frankston line users needing quick station access.
What most guides miss: late-night options ramp up on Fridays and Saturdays.
Rent & Property Reality
Rents are climbing but still beat inner-Bayside hotspots.
One-bed median sits around $1,592 per month, above the state average of ~$1,430. Stock is a mix of 2000s apartments, newer infill, and pockets of classic weatherboards. Two-bed townhouses near Highett Rd draw the biggest competition.
Here’s the move: shortlist early and watch weekly updates on Domain or REA.
Local Reality & Pockets
Late-night action clusters tight—and times matter.
Highett Road around the station is your strip for pizza, burgers, Thai and pub eats. Royal Avenue adds dessert and quick bites within a 3–5 minute walk. On weekends, the Frankston line runs all night, so getting home is easy.
Here’s the kicker: kitchens can close before bar last-call, so confirm on Google or by phone.
Signature Craving
When the clock hits 11, one name still answers.
Frank’s Pizza Bar is the reliable go-to for a hot slice and garlicky sides. Portions are generous, prices land mid-range, and service stays brisk late. Pair a classic pepperoni with cheesy garlic bread for the win.
The honest reality: it’s popular—expect a short wait after footy nights.
Comparisons Table
| Suburb | Rent (1BR) | Late-Night Density (0–10) | Parking | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highett | $1,592 | 8 | Street | Variety of options |
| Cheltenham | $1,543 | 7 | Street | Quick dining |
| Sandringham | $1,680 | 6 | Off-street | Scenic dining |
| Moorabbin | $1,480 | 5 | Street | Budget eats |
Trust Block
Author: Marcus Cole Data sources: Domain, REA, ABS. Not financial advice.
FAQ
Q: Which Highett venues still serve food after 11 pm on weekends? Frank’s Pizza Bar (often till ~1 am Fri–Sat), The Highett Pub (kitchen usually to ~9:30–10 pm, bar later), plus select takeaways on Highett Rd. Always check current hours.
Q: What time does Frank’s Pizza Bar kitchen close on Fridays? Typically around 1 am on weekends, but hours can shift seasonally—confirm on Google Maps or call before you head out.
Q: Where can I get dessert after 10 pm near Highett Station? Try Sweet Affection on Royal Ave for late sweets on weekends. Hours vary—look up live closing times before you go.
Q: Is there late-night fish and chips in Highett? Highett Fish & Chips on Highett Rd often trades later on Fri–Sat. Expect earlier closes midweek; check the day’s hours.
Q: Are any pubs in Highett serving meals after 9:30 pm? Most pub kitchens wind down around 9:30–10 pm. The bar may stay open later, but plan to eat earlier or switch to takeaway.
Q: How safe is the walk from Highett Station after midnight? It’s a short, well-lit walk to Highett Rd and the area rates around 70 for safety. Stick to main roads and usual late-night common sense.
Q: Does Highett have all-night public transport on weekends? Yes. The Frankston line runs all night on Fri–Sat as part of Night Network. Night buses are limited; trains are your best bet.
Q: Where do I park for late-night eats on Highett Rd without fines? Street parking is common. Many timed zones end by 6 pm, but always read signs and watch for clearways near intersections.
Q: What’s the cheapest late-night feed under $15 in Highett? Go for fish-and-chip packs, a classic cheeseburger at Burger Bites, or single slices at Frank’s. Expect $10–$15.
Q: Do Highett venues deliver after midnight? Delivery via Uber Eats/DoorDash thins after 11 pm. Pickup from the strip is usually more reliable late.
Q: Do I need a booking for a 10 pm Friday table in Highett? Usually no. For groups of 6+ or if you want a specific spot, a quick call helps—especially during footy finals or holidays.
Q: Which nearby suburbs run later than Highett for food? Cheltenham and Moorabbin often keep a few kitchens open to midnight on weekends. Sandringham tends to wind down earlier.
