Mentone sits in Melbourne’s bayside and runs creative, walkable, authentic. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
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Oliver Place — 283 Brunswick 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
The Tall Post — 290 Ash Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Bright Local — 219 Brunswick Avenue
Opened in 2025 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 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
Most Spacious
The Honest Larder — 292 Brunswick Avenue
One of Mentone’s hidden gems. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The Golden Press — 254 Market Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Pearl — 351 Lygon Avenue
Opened in 2024 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 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
Quietest
Finn Room — 208 Flinders Lane
One of Mentone’s hidden gems. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Ava Cellar — 84 Flinders Lane
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.
Hugo’s — 276 Market Parade
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
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Northern Lane — 339 Market Parade
One of Mentone’s genuine highlights. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Bright Corner — 117 Market Parade
Opened in 2024 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Felix’s — 280 Brunswick Avenue
One of Mentone’s best-kept secrets. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Co-Working Nearby
Honest Larder — 248 Ash Terrace
One of Mentone’s best-kept secrets. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Bright Store — 116 Ash Terrace
One of Mentone’s genuine highlights. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Canvas — 253 Lygon Avenue
One of Mentone’s best-kept secrets. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. 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 Mentone.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Mentone — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $64 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Brunswick Avenue is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Mentone at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Creative, walkable, authentic |
| Coffee price | $4.50-5.50 |
| Dinner price | $28-45 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Mentone |
| Best for | Mentone local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Sandringham — also worth exploring
- Mentone Cafes
- Mentone Restaurants
- All Mentone Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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