Vermont sits in Melbourne’s east and runs residential, friendly, growing. 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
Oliver’s — 122 Market Road
Opened in 2024 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-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
The Long Press — 294 Thomas Place
One of Vermont’s best-kept secrets. The owner takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
The Happy Commons — 161 Bridge Parade
One of Vermont’s genuine highlights. The owner 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.
Wine Bars
Bright Quarter — 149 Clarendon Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Hazel’s — 371 Thomas Place
Opened in early 2026 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 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
Red Works — 77 Market Road
Opened in early 2026 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
Fun Activities
Humble Mill — 181 Bridge Parade
One of Vermont’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
The New Table — 89 Elm Place
One of Vermont’s genuine highlights. The staff 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.
Finn — 374 Clarendon Parade
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Budget Dates
The Good Bench — 151 Clarendon Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 9 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. Worth the trip. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Little Union — 296 Bridge Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Post — 160 Thomas Place
Opened in early 2026 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 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Special Occasions
Leo Commons — 19 Thomas Place
One of Vermont’s hidden gems. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
The Half Mill — 174 Clarendon Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 10 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Red Depot — 181 Bridge Parade
Opened in 2024 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Vermont.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Vermont — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $102 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Elm Place is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Vermont at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Residential, friendly, growing |
| Coffee price | $4.50-5.00 |
| Dinner price | $22-38 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Vermont |
| Best for | Vermont local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Box Hill — also worth exploring
- Vermont Cafes
- Vermont Restaurants
- All Vermont Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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