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.
Cafes
Cleo’s — 344 Bell Grove
One of Hillside’s genuine highlights. 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.
Lena — 83 Young Drive
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 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Iris’s — 272 Fitzroy Crescent
One of Hillside’s hidden gems. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Restaurants
Finn Larder — 28 Chapel Road
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 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Ruby Post — 314 Fitzroy Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Nico’s — 243 Fitzroy Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Bars
Felix Room — 83 Elizabeth Grove
Opened in early 2026 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Sol Table — 17 Bell Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Red Mill — 206 Chapel Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Shops
Cardinal — 218 Fitzroy Crescent
One of Hillside’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Assembly — 103 Young Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Southern Larder — 82 Bell Grove
Opened in 2025 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Fitness & Wellness
Zara’s — 109 Bell Grove
One of Hillside’s best-kept secrets. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The New Bench — 103 Chapel Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Cleo Store — 204 Chapel Road
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
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 $110 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
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