The secret is out. Between beaches and bars, ice skating and indoor golf, we’ve uncovered Melbourne’s hidden gems in Kingston.
From dawn till dusk, Melbourne’s seaside pocket is ripe for an action-packed day of exploration, with hidden gems just waiting to be uncovered.
Lucky for you, that’s exactly what we did. We’ve compiled a guide to show you the hotspots that you may otherwise miss. This is your one-stop shop for all the best parts of Melbourne’s south side. This is Kingston.
Stroll the backstreets and meander down the main roads with us as we take you on an AM to PM guide through Kingston.
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Robin’s Deli
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The only way to kick off a big day of exploring is with a hearty bite at Cheltenham’s beloved Robin’s Deli. This local sandwich hub draws everyone in, from the lunchtime office crowd to weekend wanderers. Originally a weekday fixture, Robin’s recently opened on Saturdays due to demand from locals. And there’s no question why: with toasted sandwiches and muffins as tasty as they look, this spot is a local gem. The must-try? The Nashville fried chicken with spiced hot honey, best enjoyed outside in the courtyard with a freshly brewed coffee in hand.
PowerPlay Moorabbin
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Once you’re fuelled up, it’s time to amp up the adventure at PowerPlay in Moorabbin. Featuring electric karts and a two-level track, this spot is every racer’s dream. With ramps, bridges and tunnels, you’ll be zipping through in no time, competing with mates as you chase the thrill. When you’re ready to switch gears, the game zone awaits with classic arcade games and hoops to keep the excitement going.
El Mercado
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When hunger strikes mid-adventure, head to El Mercado, a charming slice of South America in Cheltenham. Nestled in a quiet corner, this bakehouse will transport your taste buds with its classic treats and warm, homey vibe. Dig into the assortment of South American goodies, like the beloved Alfajor or the classic Portuguese tart. The main attraction is their wide variety of empanadas, which the locals line up for. It’s a perfect midday stop for a sweet pick-me-up.
Olympic Ice-Skating Centre
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Oakleigh South’s Olympic Ice-Skating Centre is straight out of a nostalgic ‘90s romcom. No need to be an expert – whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned skater, this rink has you covered. With penguin aids and friendly staff ready to share skating tips, it’s a great escape from the heat – a perfect activity to cool off while having a blast.
Naked Racer
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For those with a need for speed, Cheltenham’s Naked Racer combines Australia’s largest antique motorcycle museum with a killer dining, live music and all-round entertainment experience. Rev-heads, gig-goers and foodies alike will feel right at home here. Wander through the collection of vintage bikes, then settle in for some fantastic local artists, a tantalising meal or a drink by the fire in this quirky bar, venue and restaurant.
Morris Moor
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If you’re still hungry, or just chasing a sunny spot for an afternoon pint, look no further than the vibrant hub of Morris Moor. This expansive complex on Cochrane’s Road breathes new life into a former cigarette factory. Wander through Morris Moor’s sleek industrial spaces and open-air dining setups to find the perfect place to settle in. From Royal Stacks‘ juicy burgers to the seafood and souvlaki at Pony Boy and the delectable pastries at Penny For Pound, the food options here are stacked. When it comes to drinks, Stomping Ground Brewery is the undeniable standout. This beloved local institution serves up all the tap classics you know and love, making it the ultimate stop for both locals and newcomers.
Archie Brothers and Holey Moley
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The adventure continues around Morris Moor with some epic games to inject a dash of excitement into your afternoon. Check out Archie Brothers, an all-ages hotspot featuring all things Cirque Electriq. Boasting a cocktail and snack bar, arcade centre and bowling alley, this retro-themed venue will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.
Adjacent to Archie Brothers is another iconic hands-on activity of entertainment, Holey Moley. Holey Moley Golf Club Moorabbin is your chance to show off your golf swing to all your mates, but in miniature form. This 18-hole mini golf course swaps out the big leagues for big fun, with themed holes and eccentric accessories to wear while you swing from hole to hole and putt your way through the afternoon.
The Smash Room Moorabbin
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If you’re not quite adventured-out yet, then it’s about time to check out The Smash Room Moorabbin. Smash Room is a retro-themed world of neon lights and colour, with even the protective boiler suits they have you wearing looking very swanky. Boasting the title of the largest smash room in the world, this entertainment venue is also the only one of its kind that allows groups of people to smash in a room together, so no one needs to miss out on the fun. Choose your weapon of choice (our personal favourite is the crowbar), chuck on your face shield and get smashing away.
Non
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Fancy a wine break without the buzz? Non is famous for its award-winning non-alcoholic wines. Their Cheltenham HQ offers tastings led by passionate experts, where you can explore the craft behind their guilt-free bottles. Make sure to check out the tasting-room tour that will take you behind the scenes and send you away with a newfound appreciation of non-alcoholic wine, as well as a bottle to take home for later.
Kingston Arts Centre
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Stopping off between drinks, we couldn’t go past the resplendent Kingston Arts Centre, a hub of Kingston’s vibrant arts spaces, exhibitions and artists. When we spun by, the Melbourne Comedy Showcase was taking place featuring an all-star lineup of comedian pros, including Dave O’Neil, Geraldine Quinn and Billy Styles and Brad Oakes. Check out what’s on here.
2 Brothers Brewery
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After a day exploring Kingston, there’s no better way to end than at a standout brewery. Moorabbin’s 2 Brothers Brewery is a local legend, known across the state for its brews and laid-back vibes. A hit with locals, the brewery offers an expansive beer garden, with umbrellas and picnic tables spilling onto the footpath. Inside the converted warehouse, you’ll find an impressive lineup of taps and a friendly crew that knows their way around a beer recommendation or two. We couldn’t resist a pint of their Kung Foo Lager, a crisp rice lager that’s perfectly refreshing. Topping off the day under fairy lights, we raised our glasses to the setting sun. It was the perfect ending in this tucked-away slice of Melbourne.
For more information on Kingston, follow This Is Kingston on Instagram here and head to the website here.
This article was made in partnership with Kingston.
