The Best Eateries in Elsternwick
I’m lucky enough to call the buzzing neighbourhood of Elsternwick home, and the dining scene here sure does boast a huge range of different cuisines.
There’s many more places I’d love to feature on this list however I’ve narrowed it down to my top 5 eateries. These are the ones that I just keep going back to and that consistently offer a great dining experience.
Moon 88
This is a new art cafe where they plate beautifully creative breakfast and lunch dishes. Every meal certainly has a ‘wow’ factor with the attention to detail shown and it is all backed up by the delicious taste and quality too.
My favourite dish here is their Cocoa Smoothie Bowl. The consistency is just perfect, so smooth and creamy. I love that it tastes like a naughty chocolatey breakfast however it’s actually made of banana, cocoa powder, almond butter, avocado and dates.
Another dish I’d highly recommend are their Zucchini & Corn Fritters. This is no ordinary fritters dish though, there are both savoury and sweet elements on the plate which work so well.
Find them at 4/376 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185
Bang Bang
Located in the heart of Elsternwick, Bang Bang is one of those venues that would be perfect for a boozy brunch, dinner celebration with friends or just to try out some unique Indochine-inspired dishes. The ambience is lovely (especially the outside area) and the service is top notch.
As for the food, the Popcorn Cauliflower was the best cauliflower dish I’ve ever tried - they were perfectly crunchy and the XO Buffalo sauce was amazing. Also make sure to try the Smoked Lamb Ribs and Pangsit Udang (wonton).
Find them at 294 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185
Farang Farang
If you’re a lover of authentic Thai cuisine, Farang Farang is a restaurant you need to try. I first discovered this place during the never ending Melbourne lockdowns and ordering here was my highlight of the week!
The Massaman Beef Curry is full of authentic flavours and I appreciate that none of their dishes taste too oily. You also can’t go wrong with their Pad Si-Ew, it has more flavour than some I’ve had in Thailand.
With regards to the venue, it’s cosy but modern, and the staff here really care to make sure that you are enjoying their food.
Find them at 10-12 Riddell Parade, Elsternwick VIC 3185
Umbrella Lounge Bar
I have to preface that this was my first time to ever try Georgian cuisine, but if this place is anything to go by, I definitely want to get more familiar with it!
It’s such a relaxed atmosphere where the owner is so friendly, passionate, charismatic and a bit cheeky too. I visited on a Saturday night and they had a great musician there playing the hits of Elton John.
First, we tried the Xachapuri which is homemade Georgian bread filled with a selection of cheeses and served with a side of cabbage salad. It was delicious! Can’t beat warm bread with oozy cheese. We also had the Grilled Barramundi which although served cold, was in a very tasty, rich tomato sauce. A big thank you to the chef for introducing me to the satisfying flavours of Georgian food.
Find them at 338-340 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185
Copycat
Copycat is a newly opened bar & restaurant that are conveniently located right next to the Classic Rooftop cinemas. Featuring a seasonal menu that celebrates local and fresh ingredients, this gem is definitely a welcome addition to the neighbourhood.
My favourite part about Copycat was the beautiful and well designed interior. With the intimate yet chic dining room and cosy cocktail lounge, this really is a great spot for date night. All the cocktails we tried truly were delicious and I can’t wait to visit next time and try out their dessert menu - they all look amazing.
Find them at 9b Gordon St, Elsternwick VIC 3185