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

Father’s Day is that one special day set aside to honour and celebrate the dads, grandfathers, and father figures who have shaped our lives. It’s a day to show appreciation, not just with gifts, but with memorable experiences that bring joy and strengthen family bonds – and in Elsternwick Village, you’re spoiled for choice.

Whether your dad is a fitness enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who enjoys a laid-back day, in Elsternwick Village you’ll find the perfect way to celebrate and say thank you.

When you spend Father’s Day in Elsternwick Village you’re doing more than buying the perfect gift and creating lasting memories, you’re supporting other dads in your community; the local shop owners, the retail workers, the dads whose names you may not even know, but whose own Father’s Day’s will be made so much brighter by seeing you in their stores.

Here are some fun ways to spend Father’s Day in Elsternwick Village.

Treat him to lunch

Taking Dad out for lunch is a much-loved Father’s Day activity and with good reason!

Elsternwick Village is full of eclectic cafes and restaurants where the whole family can spend a relaxing few hours eating great food and enjoying vibrant and lively conversation.

Damm Good Cafe serves up delicious food made with quality ingredients, including freshly made sandwiches and sweet treats, all prepared in-house. Mothers Instinct, known for its great coffee, smoothies and gourmet lunches, puts on a fantastic Father’s Day lunch in a beautiful, inviting environment.

Looking for something a little different? The chefs at Dawn Eatery draw inspiration from the owners’ Japanese and Korean culinary heritage, featuring Australian-style dishes infused with vibrant Asian flavours, while Hanoi Hannah brings the taste of Vietnam to your table with traditional pho, rice paper rolls, banh mi, and Vietnamese street food, all served in a casual and friendly setting.

Father’s Day is also a great time to embrace family favourites. Etto Pasta Bar specialises in fresh pasta and the menu also features pizza, healthy salads, sides, and delectable desserts. Or relive your childhood feels with classic fish and chips from Tommy Ruff Fish Bar.

Say cheers to Dad

He’s been your biggest support and your loudest fan – and Father’s Day is a great time to raise a glass to all Dad’s achievements, and to say thanks. And with all the eclectic bars in Elsternwick Village, finding the best one to suit Dad is easy.

Copycat brings together stunning interiors, exquisite food, and a sophisticated drinks list, while at Upstairs Cellar you can savour local wines, Victorian spirits, and a uniquely Australian cheese board.

Umbrella Lounge Bar is your go-to spot for delicious, authentic Georgian cuisine paired with live music in a relaxing atmosphere, and Bang Bang offers an Indochine-inspired menu of delicious food and drinks, in a funky, relaxed atmosphere.

To be transported to another time, take Dad to Antique Bar, where you can enjoy boutique wines, premium spirits and seasonal cocktails all in a 1920s-style setting, complete with moody lighting and vintage furniture.

Make it an experience

The memories that last forever are the ones of shared experiences, and this Father’s Day is the perfect time to create some new ones.

Grab Dad and work up a sweat together at one of Elsternwick Village’s bright and inviting gyms, including Anytime Fitness and 6 Degrees South Health and Fitness, or treat him to a relaxing reflexology treatment at The Reflexology Studio.

If Dad has always wanted to explore his inner artist, Elsternwick Village is the place to do it. Book into a pottery class at Ceramiques, and while you might leave with a wonky mug or vase that you wouldn’t dare show a professional, you’ll also have hours of fun, laughter, and creativity.

At UpVibes Paint & Sip Studio, professional artists will guide you through a painting step by step, and help Dad create his very own masterpiece – all over drinks and nibbles. Sossy and Canvas is a gallery that features the work of abstract artist Sossy Kinderman and also holds in-person art workshops, where you can indulge your creative side through a fully immersive art experience.

If Dad has a treasure hunter buried deep inside, he’ll love an Elsternwick Village self-guided op shop tour. Elsternwick Village is home to a variety of op shops, featuring books, records, clothes and homewares. Start at one end and work your way through them all.

If a more sedate, intimate experience is your dad’s cup of tea, treat him to a night at the movies at the gorgeous Classic Cinema, where a night at the flicks becomes a memorable experience.

Father’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s an opportunity to create cherished memories with the man who has been there through thick and thin, and spending Father’s Day in Elsternwick Village is the perfect gift for the whole family.

Looking for more Father’s Day gift ideas?

If you want to impress dad with a gift that’s more interesting than socks and jocks this year, here are some gift ideas available from Elsternwick Village. Many of the stores offer gift vouchers so they can be enjoyed at a time that suits Dad:

• Whether he likes an inspirational biography or some gripping crime fiction, find Dad a new read from Avenue Bookstore
• Treat him to a visit to a barber for a trim and shave
• For the latest technology and gadgets, head to Centre Com
• Get dad some snow, surf and skate gear at Bumps
• There are also a wide range of gifts for men available at Dalgarno’s and Ruby’s Gifts.