Posted by Cafes and restaurants in Preston, Victoria, Australia, offer a vibrant mix of culinary experiences that reflect the area’s diverse culture. I know that there are a lot more that we should try, ranging from cozy brunch spots that serve artisanal coffee to unique eateries that showcase international cuisines. Each visit reveals new flavors and charming atmospheres, making every dining experience special. Looking forward to expanding this list further, as we are now based in Australia, and I can’t wait to explore hidden gems and local favorites that this thriving community has to offer. The journey of tasting and discovering new dishes is just beginning, and I am excited about what lies ahead.
Note: For those who’d like to dive deeper into our travels, our book Exploring Around Australia has now been published and is available on Amazon, capturing our journey across the country through personal stories and experiences:
https://www.amazon.com.au/Exploring-Around-Australia-Nathanael-Nunag/dp/B0GDQR28KR
1.) The Stampton
We had our breakfast buffet here for 3 days at The Stampton, as this is an in-house restaurant of Novotel Melbourne Preston. The variety of options available was impressive, featuring everything from fresh pastries and seasonal fruits to hot dishes like scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. Each morning, we enjoyed the inviting atmosphere, which was complemented by attentive staff who made sure our experience was nothing short of exceptional. The hotel’s location also provided a perfect start to our day, as we ventured out to explore Melbourne, fully fueled and ready to take on the vibrant city. Overall, the breakfast experience at The Stampton made our stay even more delightful and memorable. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
2.) DenDeke Japanese Bar & Dining
DenDeke Japanese Bar & Dining in Preston is a lively izakaya-style spot that brings an authentic taste of Japan to Melbourne’s north. The menu features a range of delicious small plates, yakitori skewers, and comforting ramen, best enjoyed with a glass of sake or Japanese beer. With its warm lighting, friendly staff, and upbeat atmosphere, DenDeke is perfect for a casual night out with friends or a cozy dinner date.
3.) Arepa Days
Arepa Days in Preston is a cozy Venezuelan café known for its authentic Latin flavors and welcoming vibe. Their arepas are freshly made, crisp on the outside and soft inside, filled generously with savory ingredients like pulled beef, black beans, or cheese. It’s a cheerful spot perfect for brunch or a casual meal, bringing a taste of Venezuela to Melbourne’s north.
4.) My Tho Vietnamese Restaurant
My Tho Vietnamese Restaurant on High Street, Preston, is a local favorite known for its fresh, comforting, and authentic Vietnamese dishes. Their pho is rich and aromatic, the spring rolls perfectly crisp, and the servings generous. With friendly service and a relaxed, no-frills setting, it’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back for genuine home-style Vietnamese cooking.
5.) Tasties Cafe
Tasties Café on High Street, Preston, offers a cozy ambience with charming wall paintings and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. The staff are polite and attentive, making the experience even more pleasant. We enjoyed their coffee and pastries, which were both satisfying and well-prepared. Next time, we’re keen to try their pho — a popular choice among other guests that looked absolutely inviting.
6.) Plenty & More Cafe
Plenty & More Café on Plenty Road, Preston is a cosy spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, offering favourites like smoked salmon bagels, schnitzel with potato scallops, and hearty bacon and egg rolls. The coffee is consistently praised, and the friendly staff make the experience even more inviting. What makes it stand out further is its commitment to sustainability—they use bamboo straws and organic cups, a thoughtful touch that not only complements the good food and coffee but also shows care for the environment.
7.) Street Taste
Street Taste in Preston is a vibrant Mexican-inspired restaurant on High Street, known for bold street-food flavours like birria tacos, juicy burgers, ribs, and loaded fries, plus refreshing drinks and desserts. It has a casual, lively vibe and is popular for dinners, takeaway, and delivery.
8.) Jackson Dodds Cafe Melbourne
Jackson Dodds is a well-loved café in Preston (611 Gilbert Road) offering breakfast, brunch and lunch in a relaxed, friendly setting. Their menu ranges from creative options like halloumi stacks, red velvet hotcakes, and shakshuka, to more comforting classics; there are lots of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The coffee is frequently praised, the staff are welcoming, and the space is warm and lively, with indoor greenery and good vibes. They open early (around 6:30 am weekdays) and stay open until the early afternoon, making it a reliable spot for morning or mid-day catch-ups.
9.) Kick Ass Burgers
Kick Ass Burgers in Preston is a standout burger joint known for its generous size, bold flavour, and wide appeal. The menu includes classics like beef and southern-fried chicken burgers, plus solid vegetarian and vegan options, with everything made daily—including grass-fed Angus beef patties and sauces made in-house. It’s halal friendly, and there’s a casual, community-vibe space with an alfresco/back-garden seating area. The service is friendly, portions are hefty, and people often comment on how tasty the sides are (onion rings, chips etc).
10.) Zen Arcade
Zen Arcade in Preston is a vibrant eatery known for its relaxed, modern atmosphere and creative menu offerings. We tried some of their dishes that perfectly balance flavor and presentation, making it a great spot for casual dining or catching up with friends. Its welcoming vibe and thoughtfully prepared food make Zen Arcade a standout choice in the Preston dining scene.
11.) Koffeetrak
Koffeetrak is a charming café that combines specialty coffee with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Known for its expertly brewed coffee and friendly service, it’s a great spot to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done. With quality drinks and a welcoming vibe, Koffeetrak has quickly become a favorite for coffee lovers in the area.
12.) Blue Lily Cafe
Blue Lily Cafe in High St, Preston is a relaxed, friendly café serving up hearty brunch‑ and lunch‑style dishes (think burgers, bagels, bao buns, big breakfasts, and comfort café fare) and solid coffee — a nice go‑to if you’re after a casual meal or a laid‑back catch‑up over good food and coffee.
13.) Phuong Nam Vietnamese Restaurant
Phuong Nam Vietnamese Restaurant on High Street, Preston is a welcoming spot for authentic Vietnamese flavors served in a clean, family‑friendly atmosphere. It’s known for generous bowls of pho, hearty noodle soups, flavorful salted-fish chicken fried rice, and other classic dishes, all praised for their freshness and good value. The casual, comfortable setting, vegetarian-friendly options, and friendly staff make it a reliable go-to for satisfying Vietnamese cuisine.
14.) Ria
Ria – Indonesian Since ’98 is a beloved spot that brings the bold, comforting flavors of Indonesia to life. The menu features authentic dishes like nasi goreng, beef rendang, and satay, all bursting with rich spices and perfectly balanced seasonings. With its warm ambience, attentive service, and nostalgic touch of home-style cooking, Ria stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Indonesian cuisine.
15.) Pad Cha Thai Contemporary
Pad Cha is a contemporary Thai restaurant on High Street in Preston known for its modern take on Thai favourites and relaxed dine‑in or takeaway vibe. It’s popular for classic dishes like Pad Thai, curries, stir‑fries and more, with options for vegetarian and gluten‑free diets. Reviews often mention generous portions, friendly service and bold flavours, making it a solid choice for Thai dinner in the area.
16.) Charcoal Sheesh & Shawarma
Charcoal Sheesh & Shawarma in High St, Preston is a casual eatery known for its flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a variety of juicy, marinated kebabs and freshly prepared shawarmas. The menu features tender grilled meats infused with aromatic spices, served with warm flatbreads, fresh salads, and rich sauces that enhance every bite. With its cozy, approachable atmosphere and emphasis on authentic flavors, it’s a great spot for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or a satisfying takeaway experience.
17.) Cheshire Cafe
Cheshire Café in Preston is a warm, inviting spot for breakfast and brunch with a strong Modern Australian vibe. Their menu is big on creativity — think eggs benedict, the “Big Chesh,” chilli scramble, smashed avo on multigrain, and a solid variety of sweet treats. The café also gets praise for its friendly service, cozy atmosphere, and plenty of options for different dietary needs like vegetarian and vegan dishes. They open early, are good for a casual sit-down or takeaway, and tend to fill up, especially on weekends.
18.) Kampot Kitchen
Kampot Kitchen is a highly rated Cambodian-inspired eatery on High Street in Preston, loved for its fresh, flavourful menu and casual vibe. It specialises in Cambodian-style num pang baguettes with fillings like lemongrass beef, pork belly, and tofu, plus skewers, rice bowls, and small bites made with aromatic Kampot pepper. Reviews praise its friendly service, quality ingredients, and unique flavours.
19.) Pho Tau Bay
Pho Tau Bay is a Vietnamese restaurant along High Street, Preston, known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic cuisine. One of our top favorites would be the sliced beef and fat pho, which is a deliciously aromatic dish that warms the soul with its rich broth and tender meat. The pork with vegetables in claypot is another standout, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with the pork being succulent and the vegetables perfectly cooked to retain their freshness. Guests often rave about the freshness of ingredients used in each dish, making every meal a memorable experience. With generous portions and friendly service, Pho Tau Bay is not just a meal, but an experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese dining culture. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
20.) Hanoi Pho
Hanoi Pho is a Vietnamese eatery in Preston (4 Cramer Street, VIC 3072) celebrated for its generous bowls of pho, fresh spring rolls, and a menu that accommodates vegetarians and halal diets. Their broths — whether beef or chicken — are slow-cooked and deeply flavourful, making each bowl a satisfying and comforting meal. The setting is casual and unpretentious, ideal for a relaxed solo dining experience or a friendly meal with others.
21.) Pho Hung
Pho Hung restaurant, located at 447 High St, Preston, is renowned for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the region. This charming establishment offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, such as the famous pho, spring rolls, and banh mi, all prepared with fresh ingredients and age-old recipes. In addition to its delectable food, Pho Hung also prides itself on exceptional customer service, making every dining experience memorable. Whether you’re a regular patron or visiting for the first time, the restaurant’s commitment to quality and hospitality ensures that you’ll leave satisfied and eager to return.
22.) Bear Crumbs
23.) Cedar Coffee
Cedar Coffee’s Best Specialty Boutique Roaster, located at 33/35 High St, Preston VIC 3072, stands out as a premier destination for coffee enthusiasts seeking a unique and high-quality experience. With a commitment to sourcing the finest beans from around the world, Cedar Coffee prides itself on its artisan roasting techniques that enhance the natural flavors of each variety. The cozy atmosphere combined with knowledgeable staff creates an inviting environment for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike. In addition to their exceptional coffees, customers can also explore a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a perfect stop for a relaxing break in the heart of Preston.
24.) Nan Yang
Nan Yang in Preston is a casual eatery specializing in Singaporean and Malaysian cuisine, serving flavorful dishes that are both hearty and satisfying. Known for its bold spices and authentic flavors, it’s a favorite spot for those craving a taste of Southeast Asia. The relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere makes it perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family.
25.) Red Bean
26.) Raqwa
27.) McDonald’s
We tried our first McDonald’s in Australia here in Preston. They call it Macca here, a charming nickname that many locals use affectionately. The atmosphere was lively, with families enjoying their meals and friends gathering over fries and burgers. We were surprised to discover that rice was not on the menu, a staple we had expected to find. Instead, we indulged in the unique Australian offerings, such as the iconic McOz burger, which features beetroot, a distinctly local twist. It was fascinating to experience how even a global brand like McDonald’s adapts to regional tastes, making our visit a memorable culinary adventure.
28.) Caffe Rustico
Caffe Rustico in Preston is a warm and inviting café known for its quality coffee and Italian-inspired menu. From perfectly brewed espresso to hearty breakfast and lunch options, it’s a great spot to enjoy a relaxed meal or a quick coffee break. With friendly service and a cozy atmosphere, Caffe Rustico has become a local favorite for both coffee lovers and food enthusiasts.
29.) Calavera
Calavera Coffee Shop in Preston Market is a cozy spot known for its expertly brewed coffee and relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Perfect for taking a break while exploring the market, it offers a friendly vibe and quality drinks that keep locals and visitors coming back. With its convenient location and attentive service, Calavera is a great place to enjoy a coffee pause amid the bustling market.
30.) Rhubarb Organic Grocery
Rhubarb Organic Grocery in Preston Market isn’t just a haven for fresh, organic produce—it also serves a delightful coffee that pairs perfectly with the store’s wholesome vibe. Visitors can enjoy a freshly brewed cup while browsing the aisles of natural and sustainable products. It’s a cozy, feel-good spot for coffee lovers who appreciate quality and conscious living.
31.) Publique French Artisan
Publique French Artisan, located inside Preston Market, is a charming French-style bakery where you can enjoy both freshly baked pastries and surprisingly strong, well-crafted coffee. The casual market-style setting makes it perfect for a quick coffee stop while exploring, and pairing a latte or flat white with a buttery croissant or sourdough treat is a real delight. Known for its quality and freshness, Publique offers a cozy yet vibrant spot for coffee lovers amid the bustling market atmosphere.
32.) Contraband Coffee Traders
Contraband Coffee Traders, located inside Preston Market, is a specialty coffee spot celebrated for its precise brewing methods and in-house roasted single-origin beans. From pour-over and Aeropress to cold drip and espresso, each cup highlights distinct, refined flavors crafted with care. Whether grabbing a quick takeaway before exploring the market or enjoying a sit-down coffee, Contraband offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a truly elevated coffee experience in Melbourne’s north.
33.) Brown Bear Specialty Coffee
Brown Bear Specialty Coffee in High St, Preston is a cosy neighbourhood café known for its quality specialty brews, warm service, and comforting brunch favourites. Whether you’re in the mood for perfectly pulled espresso, flaky pastries, or hearty all-day breakfast plates, it’s the kind of spot that feels welcoming and relaxed—ideal for a peaceful solo morning or an easy catch-up with friends.
34.) Boundary Espresso
Boundary Espresso in Preston is a cozy café that’s perfect for coffee enthusiasts seeking a quality brew in a relaxed setting. Known for its smooth, well-crafted espresso and friendly service, it’s a great spot to enjoy a morning pick-me-up or a leisurely catch-up with friends. The inviting atmosphere and consistent coffee make Boundary Espresso a local favorite in the area.
35.) Lucchini Cakes & Cafe
Lucchini Cakes & Café on High Street, Preston, is a delightful spot known for its beautifully crafted cakes and freshly brewed coffee. The café offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for a casual catch-up or a sweet treat break. With a wide selection of pastries, desserts, and friendly service, Lucchini is a favorite for locals seeking quality cakes and a relaxing café experience.
36.) Crown Indian Grocery & Food Store
Crown Indian Grocery & Food Store serves up home‑style Indian food on High Street in Preston — a great option if you want comfort food that hits close to what you might cook at home. Their menu features popular favourites like butter chicken, dal makhani, paneer dishes, and rice combos, along with street‑food inspired snacks such as vada pav and pav bhaji.
37.) Chill Tea
Chill Tea is a refreshing spot that specializes in a variety of teas and bubble tea drinks, perfect for a sweet, satisfying pick-me-up. Their menu offers creative flavors and customizable options, making each visit a fun experience. With a casual and friendly atmosphere, Chill Tea is a great place to relax or grab a drink on the go.
