New Openings in Ashburton — 2026

Ashburton sits in Melbourne’s south east and runs evolving, community-driven, emerging. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.

Cafes

One of Ashburton’s genuine highlights. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.

Ivy — 196 Rowan Crescent

Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.

Tall Local — 45 Main Crescent

One of Ashburton’s hidden gems. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.

Restaurants

Store — 136 Johnston Road

Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.

Gus Mill — 93 Rowan Crescent

One of Ashburton’s most underrated spots. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The back area is where the regulars sit. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.

Hazel’s — 370 Main Crescent

Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.

Bars

Old Kitchen — 169 Rowan Crescent

One of Ashburton’s best-kept secrets. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.

The Black Yard — 278 Young Avenue

A local institution that has been operating for over 12 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.

New Depot — 181 High Street

A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. Worth the trip. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.

Shops

Little Store — 26 Main Crescent

One of Ashburton’s hidden gems. The team has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $12-18. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.

Theo’s — 223 High Street

A local institution that has been operating for over 15 years. The service is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Worth the trip. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.

Felix Standard — 216 Young Avenue

One of Ashburton’s hidden gems. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $12-18. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.

Fitness & Wellness

Theo — 287 High Street

A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.

Hazel’s — 157 Main Crescent

Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Prices are fair for the quality. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.

Northern Kitchen — 222 Johnston Road

A local institution that has been operating for over 7 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $12-18 per person.

Practical Info

Getting there: Public transport options in Ashburton.

Best time to visit: Early evening for the transition from day to night scene.

Budget: A full day exploring Ashburton — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $105 per person.

Parking: Street parking on High Street is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.

Ashburton at a Glance

Category	Quick Answer
Vibe	Evolving, community-driven, emerging
Coffee price	$4.50-5.50
Dinner price	$28-45 pp
Getting there	Public transport options in Ashburton
Best for	Ashburton local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle

Nearby

Last updated: March 2026

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