Portman Street is Oakleigh's main commercial strip, running through the centre of the suburb and connecting the train station to the Eaton Mall precinct. It has the character of a working suburban high street — a mix of Greek delis, independent grocers, bakeries, fruit shops, and service businesses that cater to the local community rather than to visitors.
The delis and grocers on and around Portman Street are worth exploring if you are interested in Greek food beyond the restaurant experience. You can find imported Greek cheeses, dried pulses, Greek olive oils, and pastries to take away. The shops have a practical, everyday quality that the more tourist-facing Eaton Mall strip does not always have.
Walking from Oakleigh Station along Portman Street to Eaton Mall takes about five minutes and gives you a useful orientation to the suburb before you settle in for food.