Kew sits in Melbourne’s inner east and runs established, leafy, well-maintained. 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
Sol’s — 277 Johnston Avenue
One of Kew’s most underrated spots. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $15-22. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Stella Yard — 9 Bell Road
One of Kew’s genuine highlights. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $15-22. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Wide Mill — 373 Smith Parade
One of Kew’s hidden gems. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $15-22. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Restaurants
Little Larder — 290 Bell Road
One of Kew’s most underrated spots. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $15-22. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Wagtail — 311 Johnston Avenue
One of Kew’s genuine highlights. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $15-22. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Cleo Bench — 285 Rowan Drive
Opened in 2024 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 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Bars
Sparrow — 232 Johnston Avenue
Opened in 2024 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Southern Place — 309 Rowan Drive
Opened in 2025 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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
The Tall Quarter — 46 Smith Parade
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Shops
The Common Standard — 6 Rowan Drive
One of Kew’s best-kept secrets. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $15-22. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Anchor — 64 King Terrace
One of Kew’s genuine highlights. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $15-22. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Ash’s — 37 Bell Road
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Fitness & Wellness
House — 307 Smith Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 7 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Worth the trip. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
Commons — 309 Rowan Drive
One of Kew’s hidden gems. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $15-22. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Theo’s — 55 Rowan Drive
One of Kew’s most underrated spots. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $15-22. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Kew.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Kew — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $102 per person.
Parking: Street parking on King Terrace is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Kew at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Established, leafy, well-maintained |
| Coffee price | $5.00-5.50 |
| Dinner price | $35-55 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Kew |
| Best for | Kew local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Richmond — also worth exploring
- Kew Cafes
- Kew Restaurants
- All Kew Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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