St Kilda sits in Melbourne’s inner south and runs beachside, eclectic, faded glamour. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
Stop 1: Coffee
The Honest Store — 234 Fitzroy Street
Opened in early 2026 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-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Lena’s — 180 Carlisle Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
Stop 2: Snack
Leo’s — 67 Grey Street
One of St Kilda’s genuine highlights. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $15-22. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Luna House — 331 Fitzroy Street
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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Stop 3: Main Meal
Rex’s — 66 Carlisle Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Don’t miss this one. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
Pearl Post — 62 Acland Street
One of St Kilda’s genuine highlights. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $15-22. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Stop 4: Dessert
Felix Corner — 16 Fitzroy Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
Gus’s — 99 Barkly Street
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $15-22 per person.
Stop 5: Nightcap
The New Press — 374 Grey Street
One of St Kilda’s best-kept secrets. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $15-22. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Max’s — 46 Carlisle Street
One of St Kilda’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $15-22. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Practical Info
Getting there: Tram 96 (Acland St), Tram 16 (Fitzroy St).
Best time to visit: Sunday afternoons — the suburban pace suits it.
Budget: A full day exploring St Kilda — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $98 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Fitzroy Street is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
St Kilda at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Beachside, eclectic, faded glamour |
| Coffee price | $5.00-5.50 |
| Dinner price | $35-55 pp |
| Getting there | Tram 96 (Acland St), Tram 16 (Fitzroy St) |
| Best for | Luna Park, Esplanade, cake shops, Sunday market |
Nearby
- Balaclava — also worth exploring
- St Kilda Cafes
- St Kilda Restaurants
- All St Kilda Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
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- Best Italian in St Kilda
- Best Vegan in St Kilda
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