Father’s Day: Fun things to do in Elsternwick Village

Father’s Day is the perfect moment to honour the dads, grandfathers, and father figures who’ve helped shape our lives.

It’s a time to express appreciation, not just through thoughtful gifts but by sharing meaningful experiences together – and there’s no better place to do that than Elsternwick Village.

Whether your dad is into fitness, food or just taking it easy, you’ll find plenty of ways to make him feel special in the heart of the shopping precinct.

And when you shop, dine, or explore Elsternwick Village this Father’s Day, you’re not just giving back to Dad, you’re also supporting the local community. Many of the traders are fathers too, and your support helps brighten their day in return.

Here are some great ways to spend Father’s Day in Elsternwick Village:

Share a meal and a laugh

A relaxed lunch is a timeless way to celebrate Father’s Day, and Elsternwick Village has you covered with a diverse range of eateries that cater to all tastes.

Enjoy freshly prepared food at Damm Good Cafe, where the team takes pride in serving hearty sandwiches and tempting sweets. Mothers Instinct is another top pick, offering gourmet lunches, top-notch coffee, and a warm, welcoming setting that is perfect for family catch-ups.

For something with flair, try Dawn Eatery, where the menu fuses modern Australian dishes with Japanese and Korean influences. Or sample the vibrant flavours of Vietnam at Hanoi Hannah, with their pho, banh mi, rice paper rolls, and classic street food staples.

Prefer a comforting favourite? Head to Etto Pasta Bar for a generous serve of fresh pasta, pizza, salads, and desserts. Or opt for a nostalgic bite with crispy fish and chips from Tommy Ruff Fish Bar – a family favourite done right.

Raise a glass to Dad

Say cheers to Dad with a drink at one of Elsternwick Village’s many unique bars and lounges.

Copycat delivers on ambiance and elegance, pairing stylish interiors with a refined food and drink menu. At Leena’s Bar, enjoy handpicked local wines and Victorian spirits, matched with a delicious cheese board.

If Dad loves a lively atmosphere, Umbrella Lounge Bar offers authentic Georgian fare alongside live music, while Bang Bang serves up flavourful Indochine-inspired cuisine in a funky, laid-back setting.

Want to transport Dad to a bygone era? Antique Bar offers just the ticket with boutique wines, classic cocktails and vintage furniture that create an atmospheric 1920s vibe.

Create unforgettable experiences

This Father’s Day, go beyond the usual and treat Dad to a day of new experiences and quality time together.

If he’s into fitness, hit the gym together at Anytime Fitness or 6 Degrees South Health and Fitness. Both gyms offer friendly, modern environments for a shared workout.

For some well-earned relaxation, book a session at The Reflexology Studio, where Dad can enjoy soothing treatments designed to recharge the body and mind.

Feeling creative? Get your hands dirty at a pottery class at Ceramiques – it’s all about the laughs, the process, and the memories (even if the final product is a little lopsided). Or head to Sossy and Canvas, the gallery and studio of local abstract artist Sossy Kinderman, for a hands-on art workshop experience you won’t forget.

If Dad is a vintage treasure hunter, take him on a self-guided op shop adventure. Elsternwick Village is home to several second-hand stores brimming with books, records, clothes, and homewares. It’s perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind finds.

Prefer a low-key evening? Wind down with a movie at the iconic Classic Cinemas, where plush seats and a charming atmosphere elevate the traditional movie-going experience into something truly memorable.

Father’s Day gift ideas he’ll actually love

Forget the usual socks and jocks – this year, pick out something that truly suits Dad’s interests. Elsternwick Village is packed with great gift ideas, and many stores offer vouchers so he can enjoy his gift at his leisure.

Here are some gift ideas for Father’s Day:

• For book-loving dads, explore the shelves at Avenue Bookstore, from inspiring biographies to page-turning thrillers.
• Give him the gift of grooming with a classic cut and shave at one of the local barbers.
• Is your dad into tech? Head to Centre Com for the latest gadgets and accessories.
• For the adventurous dad, browse snow, surf and skate gear at Bumps.
• Discover a wide range of gifts at Dalgarno’s and Ruby’s Gifts, from stylish accessories to home and lifestyle items.

Make this Father’s Day one to remember

Father’s Day is more than a date on the calendar – it’s an opportunity to spend quality time with the person who’s always been in your corner.

Whether you’re enjoying a meal, discovering new experiences, or finding the perfect gift, Elsternwick Village is the ideal place to make it all happen.