Princes Hill sits in Melbourne’s greater melbourne and runs working-class, authentic, community-focused. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
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Rosa’s — 97 West Grove
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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
High Press — 375 James Parade
One of Princes Hill’s most underrated spots. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Happy Press — 40 West Grove
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 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm.
Most Spacious
Assembly — 339 Main Place
Opened in 2024 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 community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
Blue Works — 342 Cecil Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 7 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Red Union — 360 Main Place
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Quietest
Max — 137 James Parade
One of Princes Hill’s genuine highlights. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Nico Depot — 372 James Parade
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Long Room — 218 Main Place
Opened in 2025 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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Best Coffee While Working
Operator — 162 Rowan Drive
A local institution that has been operating for over 5 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
The Old Larder — 81 West Grove
One of Princes Hill’s hidden gems. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Hazel — 242 Rowan Drive
One of Princes Hill’s most underrated spots. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Co-Working Nearby
The Black Press — 245 West Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 8 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Anchor — 281 Cecil Crescent
One of Princes Hill’s best-kept secrets. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The window seats are the best for people-watching. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Finn’s — 329 Cecil Crescent
One of Princes Hill’s hidden gems. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Princes Hill.
Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.
Budget: A full day exploring Princes Hill — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $61 per person.
Parking: Street parking on James Parade is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Princes Hill at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Working-class, authentic, community-focused |
| Coffee price | $4.00-4.50 |
| Dinner price | $18-32 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Princes Hill |
| Best for | Princes Hill local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD — also worth exploring
- Princes Hill Cafes
- Princes Hill Restaurants
- All Princes Hill Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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