Vermont South sits in Melbourne’s east and runs suburban, welcoming, family-oriented. 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
Larder — 260 Bell Drive
One of Vermont South’s genuine highlights. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Otto Place — 129 Rowan Street
One of Vermont South’s best-kept secrets. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Ada — 112 Blake Street
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Wine Bars
The Southern Union — 311 High Terrace
One of Vermont South’s most underrated spots. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
The Bright Mill — 253 High Terrace
One of Vermont South’s most underrated spots. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The Long Quarter — 97 Spring Avenue
One of Vermont South’s genuine highlights. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Fun Activities
Red Mill — 103 Rowan Street
One of Vermont South’s best-kept secrets. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Yard — 72 Rowan Street
One of Vermont South’s genuine highlights. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Half Cellar — 88 Spring Avenue
Opened in 2025 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Budget Dates
Zara Standard — 59 Rowan Street
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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Half Yard — 298 Bell Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Social — 71 Bell Drive
One of Vermont South’s genuine highlights. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Special Occasions
The High Commons — 279 High Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Rosa — 210 Bell Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Gus — 267 Bell Drive
One of Vermont South’s best-kept secrets. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Vermont South.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Vermont South — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $105 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Spring Avenue is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Vermont South at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Suburban, welcoming, family-oriented |
| Coffee price | $4.50-5.00 |
| Dinner price | $22-38 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Vermont South |
| Best for | Vermont South local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Box Hill — also worth exploring
- Vermont South Cafes
- Vermont South Restaurants
- All Vermont South Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
- Best Restaurants in Vermont South
- Best Bars in Vermont South
- Best Cocktail Bars in Vermont South
- Things To Do in Vermont South
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