Hidden gems of Kensington

Head into Kensington and discover these hidden cafes, bars, pubs, breweries, boutiques and more.

Luncheonette

Discover the quaint and cosy Luncheonette, across from Kensington train station. Duck in for a Reuben sandwich, tuna melt or a classic avo toast. Enjoy the sun in the outdoor seating area and bring your pup, it’s pet friendly!

520 Macaulay Road

Have you discovered this hidden gem tapas restaurant yet? Head to 520 Macaulay Road for a little taste of Spain every Wednesday and Thursday night. Feast on seafood, chicken, chorizo or veggie paella for $15 per person. Throw in a glass of fruit-loaded sangria for just $8 a pop. There's also a stacked menu of big and small plates from fish tacos and bao to pulled pork burgers.

Henry Street Brewhouse

Discover the hidden gem, Henry Street Brewhouse, and sip on one of 10 beers on tap. It's named after Kensington’s own Henry Street, where the founders began their brewing journey in the backyard. This artisan microbrewery uses only the finest ingredients to create its fresh ales and beers. Pop in from Friday to Sunday and enjoy a glass or two.

La Tortilleria

You can't miss the bright blue building that houses La Tortilleria on the corner of Stubbs street. Tuck into fresh, authentic Mexican street food. Known for its house-made tortillas, try the chipotle chicken, birria beef or spicy pork tacos. For dessert, enjoy traditional flan, made from Gerardo’s grandmother’s special recipe.

White Rabbit

Browse the unique collection of vinyl records while sipping your fave cocktail at White Rabbit Record Bar. This groovy spot is a hybrid music store, cafe and bar. Try the selection of tapas and enjoy the laid-back courtyard while guest DJs spin tracks.

Mama Le

Mama Le is the best of mum's cooking with a modern twist. This hidden gem fills multiple levels with luscious plants, neon lights and unique artwork. Order the crispy pork gua bao to start, followed by the salt and pepper chilli chicken ribs. Head to Rebel's Bar for Vietnamese chilli-infused tequila and bubble-topped cocktails. Book ahead for large groups.

The Premises 

Step inside a traditional Kensington building, and find The Premises. Serving sophisticated cafe food with homemade jams, chutneys, preserves and sauces. The menu changes seasonally and includes the chili scramble, potato rosti benedict, and an array of fresh salads.

Cassette

With a zero food waste approach, Cassette offers a unique, farm-to-table style menu. Think rice pudding with toasted coconut flakes, tofu scramble with kimchi, and loaded hummus toast. Designed by Six Degrees Architects, the light-filled space is a glorious mix of terrazzo tile and raw metals. There's also an extra wide entrance ramp to assist visitors with access needs.

Bonehead Brewing

Bonehead Brewing is a laid-back Kensington brewpub, serving up fresh and creative drops. Its four signature beers were perfected over years by the founders. The 'sweet pea' is a must try, a malty dark lager with a hint of coffee. With an 80 person capacity, this space is the perfect warehouse-style bar for you and your mates. Families and pets are all welcome too.

Tempted

Unique gifts and one-of-kind trinkets are what you’ll find at Tempted. From Myrtle and Moss shea butter soap to Elk necklaces and Japanese ceramics. Pick something up for the kids, decor for the house, cookbooks for friends and more. Open seven days a week from 10am.

Brickville

If you’re a LEGO head, Brickville needs to be your next port of call. This local gem deals in hard-to-find, decommissioned and retired LEGO sets. If there's a particular Simpsons minifig or pre-loved Star Wars set you're after, this brick-loaded wonderland has it all sorted. Brickville recently moved to bigger digs just down the road. That means double the bricks and double the fun!

Rumble Coffee

Go beyond the roller door and discover Rumble Coffee. After six years of roasting and selling coffee beans, the team have started selling cups of coffee. These legends of the java game have been making small-batch beans for yonks. Try the Cascara Spritz, made from coffee cherries and tonic water, just in time for summer. Stop by Monday to Friday until 2.30pm.

Double Dutch Bakery

Follow your nose to Kensington's friendly community bakery. Double Dutch Bakery is a delicious spin-off from the team behind Rumble Coffee. Order a coffee and snack on indulgent toasties, loaded baguettes, fresh cinnamon buns and more baked goodies.

1565

1565 is the year gelato was invented, and it's also the name of a seriously good ice cream spot. This Kensington cafe has mastered the art of gelato. Taste test inventive flavours, inspired by Italian cuisine. Try ricotta and honey; poached fig; orange and fennel or a refreshing watermelon and mint.