Kensington is one of Melbourne’s most charming inner-city dining suburbs, with a village feel that makes it different from nearby North Melbourne, Flemington and the CBD. Around Macaulay Road, Bellair Street and the streets near Kensington Station, you can find Italian restaurants, historic pubs, African and Middle Eastern food, specialty coffee, brunch spots and easy takeaway dinners.
This guide focuses on five Kensington restaurants worth knowing: Rick’s Place, Hardimans Hotel, Sahara Restaurant, The Premises and Bubba Pizza Kensington. Each one suits a different kind of meal, from Italian dinners and pub food to halal-friendly feasts, brunch, coffee and pizza nights.
1. Rick’s Place
Rick’s Place is one of Kensington’s strongest choices for Italian food with a modern Australian edge. Located on Macaulay Road, it brings a warm, neighbourhood restaurant feel to the suburb and works well for dinners, dates, group meals and casual catch-ups where you want something more polished than takeaway but still relaxed.
The menu direction is Italian-inspired, with pasta, seafood, meat dishes, drinks and options designed to suit different dietary needs. Rick’s Place is especially useful for mixed groups because it offers halal-certified meat, along with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. That makes it easier to organise a table where people have different preferences without choosing somewhere too plain.
The appeal is comfort and flexibility. You can use Rick’s Place for a quiet dinner, a birthday meal, a casual drink and bite, or a more complete Italian-style meal with shared starters, mains and dessert. It has enough atmosphere for an occasion, but still feels local rather than overly formal.
Rick’s Place is best for Italian dinners, seafood, pasta, date nights, group meals, halal-friendly dining and anyone looking for a warm Kensington restaurant on Macaulay Road.
Address: 507 Macaulay Road, Kensington
Rick's Place Menu
Featured Items
Calamari Salad (GF)
Eggs Benny
Margarita
Rick's Parma
Slow Cooked Nonna's Meatballs
Vegan Penne
ENTRÉE
Garlic, Herb & Cheese Bread (V)
Bruschetta (V)
Diced Tomato, Basil, Onion and Feta on Crust Bread
Mussels Pescatore (GF)
6 Fresh Mussels cooked in Napoli Sauce with Chilli.
Southern Fried Buffalo Chicken (GF)
Southern Fried Chicken in Spicey Buffalo Sauce.
Arancino Ai Funghi (V) (GF)
Crumbed Mushroom & Cheese Rice balls served with Aioli & Parmesan.
Calamari Sale e Pepe (GF)
Calamari, Lightly Floured, Or Grilled with Parsley, Salt & Pepper.
Chilli Garlic Prawns (GF)
4 Prawns pan fried & tossed with butter, chilli & garlic.
MAINS
Flamin’ Buffalo Chicken (GF)
Southern Fried Buffalo Chicken Strips served with Chips & spicy salad
Parmagiana (V) (GF)
Choice of Chicken OR Eggplant Schnitzel with Napoli & Mozzarella with Chips & Salad.
Sauteed Beef (GF)
Marinated Beef in a rich Asian Inspired flavours with a Soy & Chilli based sauce with mixed Seasonal Veg, served Saffron Rice.
Sizzling Beef (GF Available N/C)
Delightful Marinated tender Beef, Onions, Dip & Pita Bread with Chips & Salad.
Scaloppine Di Pollo (GF)
Scalloped Chicken Breast in a creamy Mushroom, Onion & Garlic Sauce, with Roast Potatoes & Seasonal Veggies.
Grass Fed Scotch Fillet (GF)
Scotch Fillet Steak, Roast Potatoes & Seasonal Veggies. With your choice of Mushroom or Peppercorn Sauce.
Calamari Sale e Pepe (GF)
Calamari, Lightly Floured or Grilled with Parsley, Salt & Pepper with Chips, Salad & Aioli.
Sorpressa Di Mare (GF)
Grilled Barra, Salmon, Pickled Orange & Dill, Seasonal Veg, Rice & Citrus dressing.
Lamb Shank (GF)
Slow cooked Shank with Mash, Broccoli, Carrot & house made Mediterranean gravy.
Gamberi All’aglio (GF)
Garlic Prawns & Onion, Served with Saffron Rice & Seasonal Vegies.
Burgers
Classic Cheeseburger & Chips
GF Beef Pattie, Cheese, Pickles, Caramelised Onion, Mustard & Tomato Sauce.
Aussie Beef Burger & Chips
GF Beef Pattie, Lettuce, Tomato, Bacon, Onion, Beetroot, Pickles, Cheese, Mustard & Tomato Sauce.
Hawaiian Burger & Chips
GF Beef Pattie, Bacon, Cheese, Charred Pineapple, Onion, Lettuce & BBQ Sauce.
Big Rick & Chips
2 GF Beef Patties, Bacon, Double Cheese, Pickles, Lettuce, Onion & Rick’s Special Sauce
Buffalo Chicken Burger & Chips
GF Southern Fried Chicken Fillet, tossed in Buffalo Sauce, Lettuce, Tomato, Jalapeno, Bacon, Caramelised Onion, Corn Chips, & Cheese.
Parma Burger & Chips (Chicken or Eggplant)
Southern Fried Parma with Lettuce, Tomato & Mayo & Chips.
Ultimate Veggie Burger & Chips (V)
Veggie Pattie, Onion, Tomato, Cucumber, Cheese, Lettuce & Aioli.
SALADS
Caesar Salad (GF)
Grilled Chicken, Lettuce, Bacon, Parmesan Cheese, Croutons & Boiled Egg.
Sumac Salad (V,GF)
Tomato, Cucumber, Lettuce, Capsicum, Cabbage, Crispy Bread, Raspberry & Sumac Dressing.
Greek Salad (V,GF)
Tomato, Red Onion, Feta Cheese, Cucumber, Kalamata, Olives, Capsicum & Lettuce.
PASTA/RISOTTO
Risotto Al Pescatore (GF)
Prawn Cutlets, diced Barra, Mussels, Calamari, Tomato, Garlic & Chilli.
Nonna’s Linguini Bolognese
Slow Cooked Beef with Nonna’s Secret Herbs & Spices.
Lasagne Di Manzo (GF Available)
Slow Cooked Beef Bolognese sauce with Mozzarella & Parmesan.
Penne Matriciana
Napoli, Salami, Bacon, Olives, Capsicum, Jalapeno, Onion, Garlic & Red Peppers.
Prawn & Chorizo Linguini
Napoli, Prawns, Chorizo, Cherry Tomato, Chilli, Spinach & Garlic.
Linguini Carbonara
Bacon, Onion, Garlic, Mushroom, Cream, Spinach & Parmesan.
Penne Al Pollo
Chicken, Mushroom, Spring Onion, Spinach, Garlic, Cream & Parmesan.
Gnocchi Di Zucca (V, VG & GF)
House Made Gnocchi Lightly Fried in Butter, Roasted Pumpkin, Green Beans, Spinach, Black Cracked Pepper & Parmesan Cheese. Add Pesto & Cream $2.50
Pasta Allo Scoglio
Prawn Cutlets, diced Barra, Mussels, Calamari, Tomato, Garlic & Chilli.
Risotto Vegetariano (GF, V & VG)
Napoli Sauce with Zucchini, Eggplant, Mushroom, Peas & Red Peppers.
Risotto Di Manzo (GF)
Arborio Rice, Slow Cooked Beef, Peas, Spinach, Tomato, Onion, Garlic.
DESSERT
Zeppole Italian Donuts (GF & DF)
Includes Chocolate Ganache & Ice Cream.
Warm Chocolate Brownie (GF)
Includes Chocolate Ganache, Fresh Fruit & Ice Cream.
Sticky Date Pudding (GF & VG)
With Butterscotch Sauce & Ice-Cream .
Carrot & Pineapple Pudding (GF & VG)
Seasonal Fruit & Ice-cream.
Crème Brule (GF)
Turmeric infused Vanilla.
Chocolate Lava (GF)
Decadent warm Chocolate cake with a gooey centre.
Mochaccino Lava (GF)
Decadent warm Mocha cake with a gooey centre.
Affogato (GF)
Short Black served with Ice Cream & your choice of Kahlua, Bailey’s or Frangelico shot.
Kids Ice - Cream (GF)
Choice of Choc, Banana, Strawberry, Caramel, Vanilla, Lime or Mango topping.
DRINKS
Tea
English Breakfast, Peppermint, Chamomile & Green
Chai Latte
Vanilla or Spiced Chai
Turmeric & Vanilla Latte
Coffee or Hot Chocolate
Short Black, Long Black, Piccolo, Short Macchiato, Flat White, Cappuccino, Latte, Mochaccino.
Iced Drinks
Chocolate, Coffee & Mocha
Smoothies
Red Dragon or Green Goblin
Milkshakes
Choc, Banana, Strawberry, Caramel or Vanilla, Lime or Mango topping.
Soft Drinks
Cola, Diet Cola, Lemonade, Lemon, Orange.
Ginger Beer, Raspberry or Lemon Lime Bitters
KIDS MENU
Includes Apple or Orange Juice
Penne Napoli & Garlic Bread
Calamari & Chips (GF)
Southern Fried Chicken & Chips
Cheeseburger & Chips
Vegan Menu - Entrée
Garlic Herb & Vegan Cheese Bread (GF Available @ N/C)
Southern Fried Cauli & Vegan Aioli (GF)
Mushroom Arancini & Vegan Aioli (GF)
Vegan Menu - Salad
Sumac Salad (GF)
A taste of the Middle East, Tomato, Onion, Cucumber, Lettuce, Roast Capsicum, Crispy Noodles, Cabbage, Raspberry & Sumac Dressing.
Vegan Menu - Sides
Mash Potato
Sweet Potato Chips
Bowl Of Chips
Seasonal Veggies
Vegan Menu - Mains
Parmigiana (GF)
House Made Eggplant Schnitzel with Napoli, Vegan Mozzarella, Chips & Salad.
Vegan Burger & Chips
House made GF Vegan Pattie, Onion, Tomato, Vegan Cheese, Lettuce & Vegan Aioli.
Sauteed Veg (GF)
Asian Inspired mix of seasonal veg served with Saffron Rice
Risotto Vegana (GF)
Arborio Rice, Napoli Sauce, Zucchini, Eggplant, Mushroom, Peas & Red Peppers.
Lasagna Verde (GF)
Rich Lentil & Vegetable Bolognese Sauce with Vegan Béchamel.
Linguini Puttanesca
Napoli Sauce, Onion, Garlic, Capers, Olives, Chilli & Red Peppers.
Penne Bianco
Zucchini, Eggplant, Mushroom Red Peppers, Garlic & Onion in a white wine sauce.
Penne Bolognese
Rich Lentil & Vegetable Bolognese Sauce & Vegan Parmesan.
Gnocchi Vegana (GF)
House Made Gnocchi Lightly Fried in Nuttelex, Roasted Pumpkin, Green Beans, Spinach, Cracked Pepper & Vegan Parmesan.
Vegan Menu - Dessert
Sticky Carrot & Pineapple Pudding (GF)
Carrot & Pineapple Pudding served with Lemon Sauce, fruit & Vegan Ice Cream.
Sticky Date Pudding (GF)
served with Vegan Butterscotch, fruit & Vegan Ice-Cream.
Lower Carb Menu - Entrée
Grilled Calamari & Aioli (GF)
Chilli Garlic Prawns (GF)
Prawns pan fried & tossed with butter, chilli & garlic
Lower Carb Menu - Salads
Caesar Salad (GF)
Lettuce, Bacon, Parmesan Cheese & Boiled Egg.
Greek Salad (V,GF)
Tomato, Red Onion, Feta Cheese, Cucumber, Kalamata Olives, Capsicum & Lettuce.
Lower Carb Menu - Sides
Cauliflower Mash (GF)
Grilled Calamari with Parsley, Salt & Pepper & Choice of Salad or Vegetable medley & Aioli.
Lower Carb Menu - Mains
Grass Fed Scotch Fillet (GF, G & OF)
Scotch Fillet Steak, Cauliflower Mash & Vegetable medley, with your choice of Mushroom or Peppercorn Sauce.
Lamb Shank (GF, G & OF)
Slow cooked Shank with Cauliflower Mash, Vegetables & house made Mediterranean gravy
Sorpressa Di Mare (GF, G & OF)
Grilled Barramundi & Salmon, Cauliflower Mash, Pickled Orange & Dill, Vegetables, Onion & Citrus Vinaigrette.
Scaloppine Di Pollo (GF)
Scalloped Chicken Breast in a creamy Mushroom, Onion & Garlic Sauce, with Roast Cauliflower & Vegetable medley.
Lower Carb Menu - Dessert
Cheesecake Frozen Fat Bomb (GF)
Low Carb frozen Cheesecake inspired dessert.
2. Hardimans Hotel
Hardimans Hotel is one of Kensington’s landmark venues. Sitting on Macaulay Road, it has the kind of historic pub presence that gives the suburb character. It works for casual drinks, pub meals, family dinners, group catch-ups, birthdays and nights when you want something easy but still full of atmosphere.
The food direction is classic pub dining with a more polished local feel. Think burgers, steaks, wood-fired pizza, drinks, beer, wine and meals that suit a broad range of diners. That makes Hardimans especially useful for groups because not everyone has to want the same kind of meal. One person can order a full pub classic, another can keep it lighter, and the table can settle in for drinks.
Hardimans also works well because of its location. It is close to Kensington Station and sits right in the heart of the suburb’s village strip, making it an easy meeting point for locals and visitors. The pub format gives it flexibility: lunch, dinner, drinks, functions and casual events can all fit the same venue.
Hardimans Hotel is best for pub meals, craft beer, burgers, steaks, pizza, family-friendly dining, group catch-ups and anyone looking for a classic Kensington local.
Address: 521 Macaulay Road, Kensington
Hardimans Hotel Menu
SHARING
TASMANIAN PACIFIC OYSTERS
YOUR CHOICE, NATURAL OR KILPATRICK GF
KINGFISH CEVICHE
COCONUT, LIME, GREEN CHILLI GF
CHARCUTERIE
SELECTION OF SMOKED & CURED MEATS, PICKLES, TOMATO CHUTNEY,
TRIPLE CREAM BRIE
EGGPLANT RELISH, CHARGRILLED SOURDOUGH CBGF
NACHOS
TOTOPOS, QUESO, HOT SALSA, CREMA, BLACK BEAN, GUACAMOLE, JALAPENOS, HOT SAUCE GF V ADD CHORIZO + $7
CHARCOAL BEEF SKEWER
BULGOGI BBQ, KEWPIE, KIMCHI, TOGARASHI
BEEF RENDANG SPRING ROLLS
GEM LETTUCE, SAMBAL, SPICY GREEN MANGO PICKLE (3)
HUMMUS EGGPLANT RELISH & FLATBREAD
V VE CBGF
QUATTRO FORMAGGI ARANCINI
AIOLI, KALAMATA, MARINARA SAUCE (4) V
CAESAR SALAD
BABY COS, PROSCIUTTO, PECORINO, PANGRATTATO, WHITE ANCHOVIES, CHOPPED EGG, CHIVES CBGF
BEETROOT SALAD
LABNEH, BABY BLACK KALE, DUKKAH, GREEN PEPPER ZHOUG V GF CBVE N
STEAMED SEASONAL VEGETABLES
NDUJA BUTTER, CHILLI CRISP CBV GF
CHIPS WITH AIOLI
LG V CBVE
ENTREES
CHICKEN PARMIGIANA
SMOKED HAM, CHIPS, MIXED LEAF SALAD, HONEY MUSTARD VINAIGRETTE (EGGPLANT OPTION AVAILABLE V CBVE)
CHEESEBURGER & CHIPS
BEEF PATTY, AMERICAN & SWISS CHEESE, SPECIAL SAUCE, ONION, DILL PICKLES, LETTUCE CBGF GF BUN + $3 ADD BACON + $3
SPICY FRIED CHICKEN BURGER & CHIPS
CHIPOTLE MAYO, HOT SAUCE, JALAPENOS, CHEESE, LETTUCE ADD BACON + $3
GRILLED HAPUKA
CITRUS BEAURRE BLANC, PIPPIES, KIPFLER POTATO, WAKAME, SORREL
LAMB RAGU
HAND CUT PAPPARDELLE, GREMOLATA, PECORINO CBGF
PAN FRIED RICOTTA GNOCCHI
JERUSALEM ARTICHOKE VELOUTE, CAVOLO NERO BROWN BUTTER, SALT BUSH, CASHEWS V GF N
GRILL
250G CAPE GRIM GRASS FED PORTERHOUSE
CHIPS, MIXED LEAF SALAD, HONEY MUSTARD VINAIGRETTE CHOICE OF PEPPERCORN SAUCE, TRUFFLE JUS, BEARNAISE OR GARLIC BUTTER LG
250G BASS STRAIGHT GRASS FED SCOTCH FILLET
MASHED POTATOES, GREEN BEANS, BEARNAISE SAUCE GF
WOOD GRILLED CHICKEN
MASHED POTATO, SHALLOTS, LARDONS, MUSHROOMS IN WHITE WINE SAUCE GF
DESSERT
APPLE PIE
SALTED CARAMEL & VANILLA BEAN ICE CREAM
STICKY DATE PUDDING
SALTED CARAMEL & VANILLA BEAN ICE CREAM
BASQUE CHEESECAKE
PINEAPPLE, SPICED RUM, GINGER NUT BISCUIT, LIME GF
PIZZAS
GREEN GARLIC BUTTER & CHEDDAR
V CBVE*
MARGHERITA
SAN MARZANO TOMATO, MOZZARELLA, BASIL, OREGANO, STRACCIATELLA V CBVE*
SPICY PORK
SAN MARZANO TOMATO, MOZZARELLA, NDUJA, JALAPENO, HOT SALAMI, MARINATED PEPPERS
PROSCIUTTO
SAN MARZANO TOMATO, MOZZARELLA, ROCKET, STRACCIATELLA, BALSAMIC GLAZE
SEAFOOD
SAN MARZANO TOMATO, MOZZARELLA, PRAWNS, MUSSELS, CALAMARI, CHILLI, GARLIC, ONION, PARSLEY
PEPPERONI
SAN MARZANO TOMATO, MOZZARELLA, SMOKED HONEY
CAPRICCIOSA
SAN MARZANO TOMATO, MOZZARELLA, SMOKED HAM, MUSHROOMS, ARTICHOKE, OLIVES, ONIONS
SAUSAGE
VODKA SAUCE, MOZZARELLA, STRACCIATELLA, GUINDILLA, BLACK GARLIC & BASIL
MUSHROOM
KALE, TALLEGIO & PECORINO V CBVE*
ADD WHITE ANCHOVIES
GF BASES AVAILABLE
3. Sahara Restaurant
Sahara Restaurant adds African, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours to Kensington’s Macaulay Road dining strip. It is a strong choice for diners who want something generous, spice-driven and halal-friendly, especially when the group wants food that is made for sharing.
The menu direction is built around warmth and comfort: grilled meats, slow-cooked dishes, rice, bread, dips, salads, falafel, wings and richly spiced mains. It suits the kind of meal where the table orders several dishes and builds a spread rather than everyone choosing one plate and leaving quickly.
Sahara works particularly well for family meals, group dinners and casual celebrations because the food has a generous, communal feel. The halal focus also makes it useful for diners looking for a reliable halal restaurant in Kensington without sacrificing atmosphere or variety.
Sahara Restaurant is best for African and Middle Eastern food, halal dining, grilled meats, shared plates, family dinners, group meals and anyone wanting bold flavours on Macaulay Road.
Address: 465 Macaulay Road, Kensington
Sahara Restaurant Menu
Mains
FAHFAH(include Lamb Soup)
Lamb soup, slow cooked traditional Somali way with vegetables Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati or Ugali. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
UGALI WITH SUQAR
Semolina cooked Sahara style served with Sukuma (kale), Suqar(diced lamb). Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
LAMB KALANKAL
Somalian stir-fry with lamb, mushrooms, onions and capsicum. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
LAMB MANDI
Lamb slow cooked in traditional African spices with fried vegetables. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
CHICKEN SALAD
Grilled chicken pieces, mix salad, feta cheese, red onion pickles and olives.
SHISH CHICKEN
Grilled Pieces of marinated boneless chicken, alongside grilled green chili, and tomatoes. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
SHISH KOFTA
Grilled lamb kofta, alongside grilled green chili, and tomatoes. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
SHISH LAMB
Grilled Pieces of marinated backstrap lamb, alongside grilled green Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
LAMB CUTLET
3pcs of grilled pre marinated lamb cutlets. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
OCEAN DELIGHT
Fresh grilled Salmon with creamy mushroom sauce. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
HOT PLATE
Sizzling Plate with your choice of 4pcs lamb cutlets or 3 skewered boneless chicken, rested on a bed of vegetable alongside grilled green chill and tomatoes. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
CHICKEN KALANKAL
Somalian stir-fry with chicken, mushrooms, onions and capsicum. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
SUQAR
diced lamb meat cooked with Sahara Style herbs and vegetables. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
CREAMY CHICKEN
Grilled boneless chicken cooked with creamy mushroom sauce. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
MIX GRILL
Combination of marinated and grilled lamb kofta, shish chicken, shish lamb, and lamb cutlet. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati, Ugali or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
SAHARA CHICKEN WINGS
8pcs signature chicken wings deep fried and coated with Sahara’s Spicy & Tang Special Sauce. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Chapati or Chips. Plated with Complimentary Salad, Tzatziki and chili.
Vegetarian
FALAFEL SERVE
3pcs of falafel topped with tzatzikı sauce, rested on Sukuma(kale), alongside garden salad and chili. Served with your choice of Rice, Pasta, Ugali, Chapati or chips.
VEGE UGALI
Semolina cooked Sahara style, rested on mixture of vegetables and Sukuma (Kale), plated with complimentary Vegetable Sauce, Tzatziki and Chili.
WADANI
Sahara Style fried mix of Corn, Beans, Onion, Tomatoes, Capsicum, and Green Chili. Served alongside Salad and Chapati.
Sides
FAHFAH
Lamb soup, slow cooked traditional Somali way with vegetables
FALAFEL SERVE
5 pcs falafels topped with tzatziki sauce, rested on Sukuma(kale), alongside Garden Salad, and Chili.
OCEAN DELIGHT
SALMON With Mushroom Sauce and salad
LAMB CUTLET (1PCS)
LAMB MANDI (2PCS)
UGALI 1 EXTRA PCS
CHICKEN SHISH (1 extra skewer)
LAMB SHISH (1 extra skewer)
BOWL OF CHIPS
BOWL OF RICE
BOWL OF PASTA
8PCS DEEP FRIED CHICKEN WINGS With Salad
8PCS SAHARA’S SPECIAL CHICKEN WINGS (TANGY & SPICY) With Salad
GARDEN SALAD
CHAPATI
SUQAR
MUSHROOM SAUCE
KALE
HOT PLATE
Sizzling Plate with your choice of 4pcs lamb cutlets or 3 skewered boneless chicken, rested on a bed of vegetable alongside grilled green chili and tomatoes.
Kids Meal
NUGGET MEAL
6pcs Chicken Nuggets & Chips with Tomato and BBQ sauce
WINGS MEAL
4pcs Chicken Wings & Chips with Tomato and BBQ sauce
Hot Drinks
SAHARA TEA With CARDAMON, CINAMON, BLACK PEPPER
Cup $5.00 Pot $15
ENGLISH TEA
Cup $5.00 Pot $15
Soft Drinks
CAN OF COCA COLA/SPRITE/FANTA
JUG OF SOFT DRINK (COCA COLA/SPRITE/VIMTO)
JUG OF MANGO LASI/ LEMON MINT
ANY SWEET AND DESSERT
Please ask the waiter
Cold Drinks
Lemon Mint
Vimto
Mango Lassi
Strawberry Frulato
Banana Frulato
Mocktails
Strawberry
Orange
Blue Lagoon
Passionfruit
Mint
4. The Premises
The Premises is one of Kensington’s key cafe names. Located on Bellair Street, close to Kensington Station, it gives the suburb a reliable brunch, coffee and daytime dining option. It is the kind of cafe that works for locals, commuters, weekend brunch seekers and anyone who wants a proper Melbourne cafe experience without heading into the CBD.
The appeal here is coffee and daytime food. The Premises is especially useful for breakfast, brunch, lunch, casual meetings and relaxed catch-ups. It has the neighbourhood cafe feel Kensington does well: friendly, walkable, easy to reach and good for both quick visits and slower meals.
The menu sits in modern Australian cafe territory. Think coffee, eggs, brunch plates, sandwiches, sweets, seasonal dishes and lighter lunch options. It works for mixed groups because cafe menus usually cover a range of appetites, from a simple coffee and pastry through to a fuller brunch plate.
The Premises is best for specialty coffee, brunch, breakfast, lunch, casual meetings, weekend catch-ups and anyone looking for a strong cafe near Kensington Station.
Address: 202 Bellair Street, Kensington
The Premises Menu
Bowls & Stacks
Mango Muesli
Overnight oats soaked in mango purée, coconut water, topped with fruit, pistachio & coconut yoghurt. V / VG
Loaded Chunky Avo
Smashed avo, heirloom tomatoes, feta, beetroot hummus, radish, dill & pomegranate on sourdough. V / GFO / VGO (+ poached eggs $5.5)
Halloumi Stack
Grilled halloumi, beetroot hummus, tomato, poached eggs & balsamic on sourdough. V / GFO (+ mushrooms $5)
Green Mama Bowl
Quinoa, broccoli, avocado, beetroot hummus, radish, lemon dressing & greens. VG / GF (+ grilled chicken $6.5)
Big Mama
Eggs your way, bacon, chorizo, tomato, mushroom, hash brown, relish & kale on sourdough. GFO / VO
Make It Veg
Grilled halloumi replaces bacon, smashed avo replaces chorizo. V / GFO
Chilli Scramble on Croissant
Scrambled eggs, chipotle, chilli, herbs & parmesan in a buttery croissant. (+ bacon $6 / + calamari $7)
Waffle Chicken
Southern fried chicken, Belgian waffle, mascarpone, maple syrup & sweet potato flakes. (+ bacon $6)
BLAT
Bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato & garlic aioli in focaccia. (+ steak fries $6)
Portuguese Chicken Wrap
Grilled chicken, bacon, spinach, tomato, red onion, garlic aioli in spinach wrap. (+ steak fries $6)
Southern Fried Chicken Burger
Crispy chicken fillet, slaw, jalapeño, cheese & chipotle aioli on milk bun. Served with steak fries.
House Beef Burger
Beef patty, tomato, caramelised onion, aioli, lettuce & cheese. Served with beer-battered steak fries.
Toast with Spreads
Sourdough, multigrain or fruit toast with butter & choice of jam, peanut butter, or Vegemite. V / GFO
Free Range Eggs on Toast
Poached, scrambled or fried eggs on buttered sourdough or multigrain. GFO
Mushies on Toast
Marinated mushroom, sumac spice, parmesan, poached eggs & herbs on toast. GFO (+ bacon $6)
Drinks
Iced Coffee / Chocolate / Latte
Iced Matcha / Mocha / Chai
Iced Batch Brew
Soft Drinks – Coke / Diet
Still Water – $4 / Sparkling
Cold Press Juices – Orange / Apple
Milkshakes
Classic flavours: Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla, Caramel, Banana
Stairway to Heaven
Kale, spinach, ginger, orange juice, apple juice
Bananarama
Banana, strawberry, yoghurt, chia seeds, honey, almond milk
Good Vibrations
Mango, blackberries, mint, lemon, orange juice
Coffee
– Black / White – $4.5 / $5 – Mocha – $5 – Magic – $5
Hot Chocolate (Koko Deluxe)
Gluten & nut free
Filter Coffee (Batch Brew)
Wellness Lattes
– Matcha – $5 – Turmeric – $5 – Chai Latte (Prana blend) – $6 – Chai Latte (Powder) – $5.5
Coffee Flavours
Vanilla / Caramel / Hazelnut / Honey
Alternative Milks
Bonsoy (soy), MilkLab (lactose-free / almond), Alternative Dairy Co (oat)
Loose Leaf Tea
English Breakfast, Supreme Earl Grey, Lemongrass & Ginger, Spring Green, Chamomile Blossoms, Peppermint, Honeydew Green
Boozy Brunch
Mimosa
Orange juice & prosecco. A brunch essential.
Aperol Spritz
Prosecco, Aperol & a splash of soda. Light, bubbly, refreshing.
Espresso Martini
Vodka, Kahlua, Frangelico & a shot of espresso – smooth and bold.
House Red – Shiraz
House White – Sauvignon Blanc
Corona Extra (Mexico)
150 Lashes Pale Ale
Smooth & hoppy, perfect with burgers or fries.
Sides & Add-ons
Bacon
Chorizo
Grilled Chicken
Pulled Pork
Smoked Salmon
Fried CalamariFried Calamari
Egg
1 piece
Smashed Avocado
Grilled Halloumi
Sauteed Mushrooms
Baby Spinach
Grilled Tomato
Hollandaise Sauce
Bread & Carbs
Toast (Sourdough / Multigrain)
Gluten-Free Toast
Hash Brown (House-made)
Steak Fries – Side
Steak Fries – Bowl
5. Bubba Pizza – Kensington
Bubba Pizza Kensington is the easy pizza option on this list. Located on Gower Street, it is built for takeaway, delivery, casual dinners and nights when the group wants something fast, familiar and satisfying. It gives Kensington a practical pizza choice that works for families, students, locals and anyone after a low-pressure meal.
The menu is built around classic and gourmet pizzas, with sides, desserts and drinks rounding out the order. Bubba Pizza is especially useful for nights when you do not want a formal restaurant booking but still want something more substantial than a snack. It also works well for group orders because pizza naturally suits sharing.
This is not trying to be a white-tablecloth Italian restaurant, and it does not need to be. Its role is convenience, choice and comfort. You can order for pickup, delivery or a casual dinner, and the menu gives enough variety for different tastes, including vegetarian-style options.
Bubba Pizza Kensington is best for takeaway, delivery, family pizza nights, casual dinners, group orders and anyone looking for an easy pizza option in Kensington.
Address: 1 Gower Street, Kensington
Bubba Pizza - Kensington Menu
Half/Half
Half/Half
Deals
Cheeky Lunch Combo
Any Small Pizza + a Can Of Drink
Bubbas Best Deal
1x Large Bubba Faves Pizza, a Garlic Bread + a 1.25L Drink
Cheap Eats Combo
2x Large Bubba Faves Pizzas, a Garlic Bread + a 1.25L Drink
Good Times Combo
3x Large Bubba Faves Pizzas, a Garlic Bread + a 1.25L Drink
Pan-Tossed Pasta Combo
Any 2 Pastas, a Garlic Bread + a 1.25L Drink
Family Feast
2x Family Bubba Faves Pizzas + 2x Garlic Bread
Weekday Wonder
Any Large Pizza
Dubba Bubba
Choose any 2 Large Bubba Faves or Traditional pizzas. Available for Pickup Only!
Pasta 1
1 Large Bubba Faves Pizza + 1 Pasta
Pasta 2
1 Large Bubba Faves Pizza + 1 Pasta + 1 Small Garlic and Cheese Pizza + 1.25L Drink
Pasta 3
2 Pasta + 1 Small Garlic and Cheese Pizza + 1.25L Drink
Pasta 4
2 Large Bubba Faves Pizza + 2 Pastas
Pasta 5
3 Pastas + 1 Small Garlic & Cheese Pizza
Grab 5 Pizza Deal
5 Large Bubba Faves Pizzas
Grab 10 Pizza Deal
10 Large Bubba Faves Pizzas
Pasta
Bolognese
A hearty slow-cooked beef bolognese infused with parmesan cream, tossed through pasta and finished with freshly grated parmesan. A classic the whole family will love.
Calabrese
Bold continental calabrese salami and kalamata olives in a spiced tomato sauce, topped with parmesan and a hit of chilli. Big flavours, real Italian attitude.
Carbonara
Crispy streaky bacon and a rich parmesan cream sauce, folded through pasta and finished with a generous sprinkle of parmesan. Creamy, comforting and utterly satisfying.
Chicken Bacon Alfredo
Succulent chicken breast and crispy bacon tossed through a smooth parmesan cream with spring onion. Rich and satisfying — a family favourite waiting to happen.
Amatriciana
Crispy bacon and a rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce with a kick of chilli, topped with parmesan. Bold, rustic and packed with flavour.
Pollo Funghi
Tender chicken breast and sautéed mushrooms in a silky parmesan cream with spring onion. Comforting, flavoursome and always a crowd pleaser.
Primavera
Fresh zucchini, baby spinach and cherry tomatoes dressed in a light napolitana and parmesan cream. Colourful, fresh and full of flavour — add chilli flakes if you want a little kick.
Pesto Cream
Fragrant basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes swirled through a creamy parmesan sauce. Fresh, vibrant and absolutely delicious.
Napolitana
A simple, slow-simmered tomato sauce enriched with parmesan cream and topped with freshly grated parmesan. Sometimes the classics are classics for a reason.
Tuscan Chilli Chicken
Tender chicken breast with baby spinach and a spiced tomato cream, finished with parmesan and a proper chilli kick. Full of warmth and bold flavour.
Creamy Mushroom
Sautéed mushrooms and spring onion in a velvety parmesan cream, topped with parmesan cheese. Rich, creamy and seriously good.
Lasagne
Layers of rich beef bolognese, creamy béchamel and melted mozzarella between tender pasta sheets, baked until golden and bubbling. A proper, homestyle lasagne — just like it should be.
Bubbas Faves
Garlic & Cheese
Garlic and mozzarella
Pepperoni
Tomato base, hot salami, and mozzarella
Peri-Peri Veg
Tomato base, mushrooms, capsicum, Spanish onion topped with peri-peri mayo
Margherita
Tomato base, mozzarella and oregano
Smoked Ham and Cheese
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham and mozzarella
Spicy Pumpkin
Tomato base, Spanish onion, zucchini, pumpkin, chilli flakes and mozzarella
The Roman
Tomato base, kalamata olives, hot salami, mushroom, garlic, chilli flakes, mozzarella and oregano
Tropical
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham, pineapple and mozzarella
Vegetarian
Tomato base, mushrooms, capsicum, Spanish onion, kalamata olives, pineapple and mozzarella
Traditional
Aussie
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham, streaky bacon, Spanish onion, egg and mozzarella
BBQ Beef
BBQ base, slow-cooked beef, Spanish onion and mozzarella topped with aioli
BBQ Chicken
BBQ base, slow-cooked chicken, Spanish onion, mushroom and mozzarella
Big Bubba Mac
Tomato base, streaky bacon, slow-cooked beef, Spanish onion, roasted capsicum and mozzarella topped with special sauce
Capricciosa
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham, mushroom, Kalamata olives and mozzarella (Anchovies optional)
Fancy Margherita
Tomato base, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, bocconcini and mozzarella
Hellboy
Tomato base, fresh basil, hot salami, mozzarella, oregano and chilli flakes topped with hot honey
Meatlovers
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham, hot salami, streaky bacon, slow-cooked beef and mozzarella (BBQ base optional)
Mexican
Tomato base, Bubba's Original smoked leg ham, hot salami, capsicum, kalamata olives, jalapenos, chilli flakes and mozzarella
Peri Peri Paneer
Tomato Base, Spring Onions, Roast Capsicum, Paneer Cheese, Mozzarella, Garlic, Chilli, Peri Peri Mayo, Lemon Wedge
Spicy Paneer
Tomato Base, Red Onions, Green Capsicum, Mushroom, Paneer Cheese, Mozzarella, Garlic, Chilli Flakes, Peri Peri Mayo
Superveg
Tomato base, zucchini, baby spinach, Kalamata olives, roasted capsicum, Spanish onion, mozzarella and feta cheese topped with pesto mayo
Supreme
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham, mushroom, Spanish onion, capsicum, hot salami, kalamata olives, pineapple and mozzarella
The Sinatra
Tomato base, fresh basil, hot salami, slow-cooked beef, jalapeno and mozzarella topped with ranch
Queenslander
Tomato base, Garlic Marinated Prawns, Pineapple, Chicken, Mozzarella
Gourmet
Big Bubba Cheat Mac
Tomato base, Spanish onion, roast capsicum, seasoned cheat beef, mozzarella cheese, finished with special sauce
Bubba Special
Tomato Base, Bubba's Original Smoked Leg Ham, Salami, Garlic-Marinated Prawns, Mushroom, Spanish Onion, Kalamata Olives and Mozzarella
Cheat Mexican
Tomato base, capsicum, seasoned cheat beef, kalamata olives, jalapenos, mozzarella cheese, chilli flakes
Club Sandwich
Tomato Base, Spanish Onion, Baby Spinach, Bacon, Slow-Cooked Chicken, Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella topped with Ranch
Jerk Chicken
Tomato Base, Spanish Onion, Capsicum, Slow-Cooked Chicken, Cherry Tomato, Mozzarella topped with Jerk Seasoning and Ranch
Peri-Peri Chicken
Tomato Base, Slow-Cooked Chicken, Spring Onion, Roasted Capsicum, Feta Cheese, Mozzarella and Chilli Flakes topped with Peri Peri Mayo and Fresh Lemon
Spicy Cheat Beef
Tomato base, seasoned cheat beef, baby spinach, Spanish onions, jalapenos, feta cheese and mozzarella topped with tzatziki and fresh lemon
Spicy Lamb
Tomato Base, Spicy Slow-Cooked Lamb, Baby Spinach, Spanish Onion, Jalapenos, Feta Cheese and Mozzarella topped with Tzatziki and Fresh Lemon
Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori Base, Slow-Cooked Chicken, Spanish Onion, Capsicum, Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella topped with Tzatziki
Vegan Pumpkin Lovers
Tomato base, vegan cheese, Spanish onion, roasted capsicum, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes and pumpkin
Vegan Supreme
Tomato base, vegan cheese, spring onion, mushroom, zucchini, roasted capsicum and kalamata olives
Meals
Plain and Simple Schnitzel
Served with a fresh lemon wedge
Classic Parma
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham, and mozzarella
Tropical Schnitzel
Tomato base, Bubba's original smoked leg ham, pineapple and mozzarella
Hombre Schnitzel
Tomato Base, Salami, Spanish Onion, Capsicum, Jalapenos, Chilli Flakes And Mozzarella
BBQ Bacon Schnitzel
BBQ Base, Bacon, Spanish Onion, Mushroom and Mozzarella
Peri-Peri Schnitzel
Tomato base, roasted capsicum, spring onion, and mozzarella topped with peri-peri sauce
The Southern Gentleman Schnitzel
Buffalo sauce, jalapenos, pickles, and mozzarella topped with ranch
Sides
Garlic Bread
Traditional Garlic Bread
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Our favourite buttery garlic bread loaded with mozzarella cheese
Bubba Chips
Served with a Dipping Sauce
Lamb Snack Pack
Bubba Chips loaded with Slow-Cooked Lamb, topped with Buffalo Sauce, BBQ Sauce and Aioli
BBQ Beef Snack Pack
Bubba Chips loaded with Slow-Cooked Beef, BBQ Sauce and Aioli
Mac Snack Pack
Bubba Chips loaded with Slow-Cooked Beef and Special Sauce
Mozzarella Sticks
Served with a dipping sauce
Onion Rings
Served with a dipping sauce
Salted Caramel Choc Mousse
Dipping Sauces
Choose from aioli, ketchup, peri-peri mayo or ranch
Oven Roasted Chicken Wings
Bubba’s Oven Roasted Chicken Wings With Your Choice Of Seasoning. (Add Hot Honey Or Buffalo Sauce For $2 Optional)
Drinks
Coke
Coke No Sugar
Diet Coke
Fanta
Sprite
Fanta Lemon
Mt Franklin (600ml)
Final word
The best restaurants in Kensington Melbourne cover a useful mix of meals and occasions. Rick’s Place is the Italian pick for pasta, seafood and flexible dietary options. Hardimans Hotel is the historic local pub for drinks, burgers, steaks and group meals. Sahara Restaurant is the halal-friendly African and Middle Eastern option for shared feasts and bold flavour. The Premises is the Bellair Street cafe favourite for coffee, brunch and daytime dining. Bubba Pizza Kensington is the easy Gower Street choice for pizza, takeaway and casual dinners.
Together, they show why Kensington is such a useful Melbourne dining suburb: compact, local, easy to reach and strong for everything from morning coffee to relaxed dinners and group-friendly nights out.