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A locals guide to Moonee Ponds

3 min read

Moonee Ponds is the epicentre for food, entertainment and family-friendly activities in Moonee Valley. This neighbourhood has both quirky cafes, casual eateries, and newly- acquainted after-work wine bars, to offer a variety of dining options for all demographics. If you want to know about all things Moonee Ponds keep reading. We’ve created a compilation of the best attractions from the area for you to discover.

Cafes

Moonee Ponds is brimming with funky cafes, from on-the-go coffee shops to Sunday catch-up spots.

Brother Hen is our go-to breakfast destination. The chicken coop – which granted the café its name – is situated in the back garden and is the perfect entertainment for kids on family outings. When you’re not feeding the community hens, locals can be seen sipping their oat lattes, alongside a perfectly presented avocado toast. The café's signature ‘Golden Gaytime Bao Buns’ are also a must-try for all the sweet tooths of Melbourne.


Another breakfast location is the apt named Dear Abbey café, situated in the heart of a renovated church with an interior that radiates gothic charm in the centre of Moonee Ponds. A crowd favourite dish is their artfully decorated hotcakes— topped with flowers and delicious fresh fruits. Serving up the perfect mix of sweet and savoury plates, there’s something for everyone at Dear Abbey!


Feekah is the newest establishment in the Moonee Ponds area, but don’t let that deter you from its brightly coloured walls, food, cutlery, and menu. The pretty in pink café will satisfy your childhood Barbie aesthetic dream, whilst also serving up an array of delicious pink meals. From bubble waffles and acai bowls to scrambled eggs, it’s our go-to Sunday brunch spot on Mt Alexander Road.


Old Man Drew is for the plant enthusiasts of Moonee Ponds! The magical café is dripping with lush plants - making it the most relaxing place to unwind with a book and a coffee. The café offers brunch foods equally as pretty (and tasty) as its interiors, as well as an assortment of high tea options including a glass or two of champagne.


For the on-the-go-breakfast people, there are plenty of options for you too. Ritzy’s Bread, Coffee, Bagels is a small bakery specializing in artisan bagels and situated right off the busy Puckle Street. You may prefer the classic cream cheese and salmon option or opt for something atypical like their eggplant parma. They also offer an array of pastries that change seasonally!



Drinking and Dining

Moonee Ponds is overflowing with exciting new bars and restaurants of varying calibres.

Whether you’re after a relaxed family outing or a Saturday night drink with friends, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Il Caminetto is a little Italy in the heart of Moonee Ponds, literally. The owners being Italian themselves means the food, and atmosphere couldn’t be more authentic. The menu boasts perfect woodfired pizzas, and pasta’s from across all regions, making it your one-stop-shop for all things Italy (well, until the borders open up again).


Another stand out dining experience is Chef Dave Stewart’s beloved Ascot Food + Wine. With a focus on a seasonal modern Australian pallet, the menu offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Don’t be fooled by its modest exterior - their vodka pasta, and lobster rolls are exquisite, especially when accompanied by the moody interiors, and a glass of their vintage red!


For an after-dinner, work, Uni or ‘anything in between’ drinks the newly refurbished Holmes Hall is the place to be. Fronted as a craft beer supply store the quaint area opens up to a laneway bar that was given a funky makeover in early 2020. Serving your standard pub meals with a twist – think sides of burrata, and cauliflower buffalo wings. There’s never a dull moment at this hidden gem.


Last but not least, Penny Young Bar ticks all the boxes for dinner and drinks turned Saturday night boogie. Tucked away in a converted laneway warehouse the bar offers everything from live band music to melodic techno, Monday through till Sunday. Serving woodfire pizza to nibble on alongside your cocktail of choice, the bar definitely ticks all the boxes!



Shopping

Established in 1980, The Flower Merchant has made its mark as one of Melbourne’s best florists. Their team are passionate about spreading joy and other heartfelt emotions through their gorgeous floral creations. Located on Puckle Street, The Flower Merchant is your go-to local florist whether you're looking for a gift or something to simply brighten up your home.



If you’ve made it this far, you might be ready to make the move to Moonee Ponds! Be sure to stay up to date with our latest Sales & Rental listings. Thinking of opening your own restaurant, bar, boutique or café in the area? Keep an eye out for our Commercial listings!
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