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.
Cafes
Half Commons — 38 Bell Drive
One of Vermont South’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Cardinal — 174 Rowan Street
Opened in 2024 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Sol — 281 Rowan Street
Opened in 2025 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Restaurants
Northern Cellar — 5 Rowan Street
One of Vermont South’s most underrated spots. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Theo’s — 372 Bell Drive
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
The Wide Union — 311 Bell Drive
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
Bars
Nico Bench — 47 High Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Oliver Mill — 116 Bell Drive
Opened in early 2026 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Press — 321 Bell Drive
One of Vermont South’s hidden gems. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Shops
The Lucky Depot — 5 Bell Drive
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 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Kai Post — 60 Blake Street
One of Vermont South’s best-kept secrets. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Otto Lane — 61 Spring Avenue
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Fitness & Wellness
Half Cellar — 262 Rowan Street
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
High Post — 367 Spring Avenue
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 8am-4pm. Don’t miss this one. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Merchant — 8 Blake Street
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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
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 $69 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:
- Things To Do in Vermont South
- Date Night in Vermont South
- Hidden Gems in Vermont South
- Shopping Guide in Vermont South
Useful tools:
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