Create the Ultimate Day in Camberwell, Melbourne (And Not Just Glide Through)
Camberwell is a place where the city slows down just enough for you to catch your breath. The streets are tree-lined and inviting. They’re bustling but never rushed, with a sense of rhythm that encourages you to take your time.
It’s not about grand attractions or headline moments; instead, it’s the small things that stay with you—the scent of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, the sound of a friendly exchange at a shopfront, or the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot.
Fortunately, I followed the quiet buzz about this tucked-away gem and found myself right in the middle of its charm. So, let me take you through a day in Camberwell and show you why this suburb is more than just a picturesque escape—it’s a vibe all its own!
Where is Camberwell?
Camberwell is a tree-lined suburb located just 10 kilometers east of Melbourne’s CBD. It’s nestled in the heart of Melbourne’s inner east.
What is the main street in Camberwell?
Burke Road is the main street in Camberwell. This bustling street has a little bit of everything: stylish boutiques, gourmet food stores, and the occasional busker adding a melodic backdrop to your stroll.
How to Get to Camberwell
Closest train station: Catch a Belgrave or Lilydale Line train from Flinders Street Station. In around 20 minutes, you’ll arrive at Camberwell Station, right in the heart of the action.
Via private car: Take the Monash Freeway eastbound from the CBD, exit at Burke Road, and follow it straight into the suburb. You’ll be ready to explore Camberwell’s charming streets in less than half an hour.
What to Do and See in Camberwell
Shop for vintage finds at Camberwell Market
– Media Credit: camberwell_sunday_market
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Sunday: 7:00 AM–12:30 PM
You would absolutely love Camberwell Market—it’s like stepping into a chest where something special is waiting for you at every corner.
There are several stalls overflowing with vintage clothes, quirky knickknacks, and handmade jewelry. You can find everything from a classic leather jacket to antique trinkets.
And the vibe? It’s buzzing with energy but still chill enough to let you wander at your own pace, coffee in hand, soaking in the atmosphere.
Take a scenic stroll through Camberwell’s leafy avenues
– Media Credit: cinematxstudios
Pricing: Free
You’d fall in love with these streets—trust me. The trees form these beautiful arches over the footpaths. Depending on the season, you’ll either see a canopy of lush green leaves or vibrant bursts of autumn reds and golds.
As you walk, the homes are impossible to ignore—grand old Federation-style houses with intricate lacework balconies, charming Edwardian cottages, and manicured gardens.
If you go around 4 or 5 PM, you’ll catch the golden hour light. It’ll make everything even more magical. Take your time, let yourself wander, and sit for a bit if you spot a little bench along the way.
Where to Eat and Drink in Camberwell
La Perla Bar and Restaurant
– Media Credits: laperla_melb
Address: 625 Camberwell Rd
Phone: +61 478 571 209
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Wood-fired pizzas come with 48-96 hour fermented dough
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday–Wednesday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Thursday–Saturday: 12:00 PM–10:30 PM
La Perla is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped into a family-run trattoria in Italy.
They use 48-hour fermented dough for their wood-fired pizzas, giving the crust that perfect chew. The toppings on the pizza are fresh and simple, just like they should be.
I had the prosciutto and rocket pizza, and it was fantastic. The saltiness of the prosciutto paired beautifully with the peppery rocket, all tied together by a drizzle of olive oil.
The pasta dishes are just as incredible. Their lamb ragu pappardelle is rich and flavorful, with tender meat that practically melts into the sauce.
Greenhart
– Media Credits: greenhart_camberwell
Address: 1226 Toorak Road
Phone: +61 3 9889 5888
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Great crispy pork belly bao and soft-shell crab in chili caramel
Operating Hours:
- Tue–Thu: 4 PM–10 PM
- Fri–Sat: 12 PM–3 PM, 4 PM–10 PM
- Sun: 4 PM–10 PM
The crispy pork belly bao in Greenhart is a must-try. The buns are soft and fluffy, while the pork belly is cooked to perfection. It’s crispy on the outside, and melt-in-your-mouth tender inside, with just the right balance of sweet and savory from the hoisin glaze.
And then there’s the soft-shell crab with chili caramel—it’s a flavor bomb. The crab is crunchy and light, and the sticky caramel sauce has this perfect mix of heat and sweetness.
The wagyu beef stir-fry is another highlight. It features tender slices of beef, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
Viet Table
– Media Credits: viettablecamberwell
Address: 1/555 Riversdale Road
Phone: +61 3 9112 8646
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Serves great Vietnamese cuisine, especially crispy pork belly banh mi
Operating Hours: Mon–Sun: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
You’d be obsessed with the food at Viet Table—it’s fresh, vibrant, and so full of flavor that it’s impossible not to fall in love.
Their rice paper rolls are the perfect start, packed with crunchy veggies and vermicelli noodles. You also have three protein choices for them—prawns, chicken, or tofu.
Then there’s the pho. The broth is rich and aromatic, simmered for hours, and comes loaded with tender slices of beef or brisket that melt in your mouth.
If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of crunch, their crispy pork belly banh mi is everything you want it to be—crusty bread, juicy pork, and that hint of pâté that ties it all together.
Italy 1 Camberwell
– Media Credits: italy1camberwell
Address: 823 Burke Road
Phone: +61 3 9804 0944
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Signature dishes include linguine marinara and slow-braised veal shanks
Operating Hours: Mon–Sun: 12 PM–10 PM
You would absolutely adore Italy 1. The menu is a beautiful homage to classic Italian flavors, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Honestly, I was sold when I took a bite of their linguine marinara. The seafood—prawns, scallops, mussels—was so fresh, and the sauce had just the right touch of garlic and chili to make it pop.
Their slow-braised veal shanks are pure comfort food. They’re served with silky smooth saffron mash, and the gremolata on top adds a burst of brightness that ties it all together.
Sam’s Bar & Grill
– Media Credits: samsbarandgrill
Address: 736 Burke Road
Phone: +61 3 9988 3499
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Offers premium steaks, including 40-hour cooked beef ribs
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Wed: 5:00 PM–9:30 PM
- Thu–Sun: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
You need to hear about the menu at Sam’s Bar & Grill because it’s seriously next-level. The steaks are the absolute stars here—wagyu rump, rib eye, and grain-fed Scotch Fillet. Each is cooked to perfection, with just the right balance of smoky char and tenderness.
And then there are the ribs. They slow-cook the beef ribs for 40 hours and the pork for 28 hours, which means they’re ridiculously tender and full of flavor.
For something lighter but just as flavorful, the salmon dish is a must-try. It’s served with a crisp and tangy celeriac and apple remoulade that complements the fish beautifully.
Where to Shop in Camberwell
Camberwell Place
– Media Credit: camberwellplace
Address: 793 Burke Road
Phone: +61 3 9813 4190
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Wed: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM
- Thu–Fri: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Sat: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Sun: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Boutiques in the Cambewell Place have some of the best finds, from trendy clothing to unique gifts you won’t see anywhere else. Last time I was there, I found this gorgeous scarf at a local store—it was stylish, affordable, and felt like such a good find.
What I really love is the atmosphere. Everything feels thoughtfully designed, from the layout to the displays, making shopping easy and enjoyable. It’s not overwhelming like some shopping centers—it’s cozy but still has so much to offer.
Kmart Camberwell
– Media credit: kmartaus
Address: 15/25 Station Street
Phone: +61 3 9834 4300
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Sat–Sun: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM
You need to check out Kmart Camberwell—it’s my go-to for literally everything. Their homewares section is a goldmine. I found these super cute throw pillows for under $10 that completely transformed my living room and their kitchenware—don’t get me started.
Their fashion range has been surprising lately, too! I grabbed a pair of joggers and a cozy knit sweater that I’ve been living in—perfect for lounging but stylish enough to wear out.
And if you’re shopping for kids or gifts, the toy section is stocked with everything from puzzles to action figures, and it won’t blow your budget.
Witchery
– Media credit: witcheryfashion
Address: 2/580 Burke Rd
Phone: +61 3 9813 0953
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM
- Fri: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Sat: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Sun: 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Witchery is one of those stores where you walk in and immediately feel like you’re about to find something special. Their collection is effortlessly chic, perfect for building a wardrobe that’s stylish but still wearable every day.
Their blazers are a standout—they’re tailored to perfection and instantly elevate any outfit. Pair one with their soft, flowy blouses (they have the prettiest patterns and fabrics), and you’ve got a look that works for both the office and a night out.
Oh, and the knitwear? So cozy but polished at the same time. I picked up this oversized wool sweater there last season, and I swear, I wear it at least once a week.
Where to Stay near Camberwell
Camberwell Serviced Apartment Hotel
– Media Credit: camberwellsa3123
Address: 85 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East
Phone: +61 3 9804 0920
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Camberwell Serviced Apartment Hotel is everything you’d want for a comfy, hassle-free getaway. The apartments are spacious and modern. They have this really cozy feel like you’re staying in your own little home.
The best part? They come with a fully equipped kitchen, so you can whip up your own meals if you feel like staying in. They’ve even got a washer and dryer in the unit, which is such a lifesaver, especially for longer stays.
The bedrooms are super inviting, with plush bedding and blackout curtains that make it so easy to get a good night’s sleep. I also loved the living area—it’s got this airy vibe with lots of natural light.