Malvern: The Melbourne suburb that's a haven for foodies

Malvern is home to some of Melbourne’s most idyllic and well-kept parks, and a haven for coffee and brunch lovers.

In the centre of the suburb, and neighbouring Malvern Primary, the sprawling Malvern Public Gardens was originally the site of a natural spring used by the Wurundjeri people. Now it’s a great place for picnics, kids, dogs and pensive walks.

Just up the road, you’ll find the library and the Malvern Cricket Ground where teams play on the weekends – and dogs run around when there aren’t any games on.

For coffee and brunch there’s Neon Tiger – named for the song by The Killers and home to one of the best scrambles in town – and Clubhouse, a bright cafe inspired by golf clubs, and a great spot to catch up and linger with friends. 

Order coffee from the window at Winter Malvern or pick up a loaded focaccia from the neighbouring outpost of Little Sister, a family-run bakery known for 72-hour sourdough loaves. 

On Glenferrie Road, you’ll find some of the best Chinese food in the suburbs at Sichuan Legacy and Wang Wang BBQ (where you can cook your own Wagyu over charcoal), plus warming Spanish dishes like paella at Remy.

For something Italian, Pizza Religion has been a neighbourhood staple for years and is known for inventive non-traditional toppings like smoked beef brisket with green chilli slaw and house-made pickles and pulled lamb shoulder with olive tapenade, feta and cherry tomatoes. Or if you’re more interested in classic slices, check out Teo’s Pizza & Bar for napoletana and margherita pies. 

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Venture towards Malvern Central then keep going onto Claremont Avenue for the hidden gem that is Millstone Patisserie, where you’ll find a display cabinet filled with sponge cakes and other classic bakes. Or cross to the other side of Glenferrie Road and visit Mietta by Rosemary for multi-layer carrot cake and peanut butter cookies made by a former Attica head pastry chef.

In the afternoon and evening, stop by Milton Wine Shop. Order a glass or a bottle and settle into the window-facing bar seats or footpath tables – both excellent spots for people-watching.

This article first appeared in Domain Review, in partnership with Broadsheet.