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!

The exterior of a blue cafe with tables on the footpath and a red door.
Luncheonette

Mikasa Fusion

Asian and Latin cuisines are an uncommon pair, but Kensington’s Mikasa Fusion really makes it work. Start with kimchi empanadas and plantain spring rolls. Then tuck into eggplant katsu tacos, Chinese-Peruvian fried rice and soy braised ribs. And be sure to leave room for sweet treats like guava and dulce de leche wontons or traditional Mexican flan with seasonal fruits.

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.

Table with corn chips, guac, nachos, and cocktails.
La Tortilleria

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.

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.

A table set with colourful Vietnamese dishes and cocktails.
Mama Le

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!

Couple playing with a table of LEGO on a couch in the store. Lot's of LEGO sets in the background.
Brickville

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.

More hidden shops in Kensington

Aerial Studio

Aerial Studio

A beautiful space where healthy hair and the client experience comes first.

Erinbank Crafts & Gifts

Erinbank Crafts & Gifts

Erinbank has a huge and eclectic range of wares, including clothing, jewellery, homewares and toys.

Explore more hidden gems in Kensington

Fruits of Passion

Fruits of Passion

A great spot for a scrumptious all-day breakfast.

Gertrude Grocer

Gertrude Grocer

Gertrude Grocer offers a range of fresh produce, fresh breads, continental goods and more.

Hardimans Hotel

Hardimans Hotel

Great food, wine and beer at this iconic Kensington pub.

La Tortillería

La Tortillería

Casual Mexican dining featuring house-made tortillas using an ancient Aztec recipe.

Eco Collective

Eco Collective

Shop sustainable brands in fashion, lingerie and beauty at this new hub.

Pressed Tin Christmas Decorations

Pressed Tin Christmas Decorations

Create and decorate your own pressed tin ornaments in this fun workshop.

Last updated on Wed 20 Aug 2025

Only In The City

Melbourne's best cafes that open late

Melbourne's best cafes that open late

These Melbourne cafes are open late for evening coffee runs.

The best brunch spots in Melbourne

The best brunch spots in Melbourne

Find bottomless brunch, Japanese breakfast sets, Sunday brunch spots and more.

Things you can only eat in the city

Things you can only eat in the city

Where to find the city's most iconic dishes.

Discover more

The best things to do under $20 in Melbourne

The best things to do under $20 in Melbourne

The best cocktail deals, cheap eats and low-cost activities in Melbourne.

The best new cafes and bakeries in Melbourne

The best new cafes and bakeries in Melbourne

The best new spots for brunch, iced coffee, Japanese treats and more.

Where to eat and drink in Carlton during Now or Never festival

Where to eat and drink in Carlton during Now or Never festival

Seeing a Now or Never show at the Royal Exhibition Building? Find the best spots to eat and drink.

The ultimate karaoke guide to Melbourne

The ultimate karaoke guide to Melbourne

Book a private booth or take centre stage at Melbourne's best karaoke bars.