Hillside 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.
Romantic Restaurants
Nico’s — 193 Young Drive
One of Hillside’s genuine highlights. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Corner — 193 Elizabeth Grove
Opened in 2024 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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
The White Bench — 176 Fitzroy Crescent
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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Wine Bars
Ivy — 154 Chapel Road
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
The Little Larder — 190 Elizabeth Grove
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Rosa’s — 231 Bell 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 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Fun Activities
Bellbird — 10 Chapel Road
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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
The White Union — 314 Fitzroy Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Good Union — 175 Chapel Road
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
Budget Dates
Blue Local — 307 Fitzroy Crescent
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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Cellar — 18 Young Drive
One of Hillside’s best-kept secrets. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Common Larder — 57 Chapel Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Special Occasions
River’s — 342 Bell Grove
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
River’s — 342 Fitzroy Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Bright Union — 177 Young Drive
One of Hillside’s genuine highlights. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Hillside.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Hillside — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $106 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Fitzroy Crescent is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Hillside 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 Hillside |
| Best for | Hillside local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD — also worth exploring
- Hillside Cafes
- Hillside Restaurants
- All Hillside Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
- Best Restaurants in Hillside
- Best Bars in Hillside
- Best Cocktail Bars in Hillside
- Things To Do in Hillside
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