Kooyong sits in Melbourne’s inner east and runs refined, quiet, prestigious. 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
The Southern Standard — 257 Bourke Terrace
One of Kooyong’s genuine highlights. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $15-22. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Commons — 199 George Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Don’t miss this one. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
The Happy Lane — 145 Smith Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
Restaurants
White Works — 256 Bourke Terrace
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
The Tall Press — 8 Park Road
Opened in 2025 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Mia Depot — 49 Bourke Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
Bars
Sol Standard — 100 George Avenue
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. 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-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
The Good Room — 317 Smith Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
The Northern Table — 226 George Avenue
Opened in early 2026 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 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Shops
Stella’s — 154 Park Road
Opened in 2025 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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Mabel’s — 81 Smith Parade
One of Kooyong’s best-kept secrets. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $15-22. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Ruby’s — 189 Bourke Terrace
One of Kooyong’s hidden gems. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $15-22. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Fitness & Wellness
Luna’s — 337 George Avenue
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-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Operator — 142 George Avenue
Opened in 2025 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Nina’s — 43 Smith Parade
One of Kooyong’s hidden gems. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $15-22. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Kooyong.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Kooyong — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $77 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Bourke Terrace is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Kooyong at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Refined, quiet, prestigious |
| Coffee price | $5.00-5.50 |
| Dinner price | $35-55 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Kooyong |
| Best for | Kooyong local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Richmond — also worth exploring
- Kooyong Cafes
- Kooyong Restaurants
- All Kooyong Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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