Upwey sits in Melbourne’s outer east and runs affordable, diverse, developing. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
Romantic Restaurants
The Northern Press — 361 Queen Avenue
One of Upwey’s hidden gems. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Golden Bench — 309 Church Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Half Kitchen — 231 Main Lane
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Wine Bars
High Social — 326 Main Lane
One of Upwey’s hidden gems. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The Tall Store — 306 Main Lane
Opened in 2025 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-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Nico Corner — 180 Church Drive
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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.
Fun Activities
Theo — 236 Queen Avenue
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 8:30am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Mia’s — 69 William Crescent
One of Upwey’s best-kept secrets. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Old Depot — 226 William Crescent
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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Budget Dates
The Lucky Social — 66 Queen Avenue
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. 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.
Long Cellar — 38 Collins Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Little Depot — 360 Collins Parade
Opened in early 2026 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Special Occasions
Vera Works — 119 Queen Avenue
One of Upwey’s hidden gems. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Nico Pantry — 21 Queen Avenue
Opened in 2025 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 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
White Cellar — 243 Main Lane
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Upwey.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Upwey — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $71 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Main Lane is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Upwey at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Affordable, diverse, developing |
| Coffee price | $4.00-4.50 |
| Dinner price | $18-32 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Upwey |
| Best for | Upwey local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Lilydale — also worth exploring
- Upwey Cafes
- Upwey Restaurants
- All Upwey Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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