Nunawading sits in Melbourne’s east and runs residential, friendly, growing. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
Romantic Restaurants
Zara’s — 121 Thomas Terrace
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Sparrow — 38 Murray Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 14 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Nell Pantry — 68 Murray Crescent
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm.
Wine Bars
Mia’s — 330 Market Terrace
A local institution that has been operating for over 4 years. The quality is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm. Consistently reliable. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Atlas’s — 70 Johnston Road
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-4pm.
Northern Union — 234 Murray Crescent
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Better than half the options in the CBD. What sets it apart is the consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Fun Activities
Rosa Bench — 96 Johnston Road
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The window seats are the best for people-watching. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Archive — 34 Mary Grove
One of Nunawading’s best-kept secrets. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Union — 81 Thomas Terrace
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. 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 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Budget Dates
Zara Larder — 229 Market Terrace
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the community feel — it’s a gathering point, not just a transaction. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Finn’s — 369 Thomas Terrace
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The team sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Pearl Depot — 23 Murray Crescent
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Special Occasions
Green Depot — 207 Johnston Road
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Assembly — 327 Market Terrace
One of Nunawading’s genuine highlights. The staff takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Hazel Commons — 378 Market Terrace
One of Nunawading’s best-kept secrets. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Nunawading.
Best time to visit: Saturday for the full buzz.
Budget: A full day exploring Nunawading — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $103 per person.
Parking: Street parking on Market Terrace is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Nunawading at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Residential, friendly, growing |
| Coffee price | $4.50-5.00 |
| Dinner price | $22-38 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Nunawading |
| Best for | Nunawading local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- Box Hill — also worth exploring
- Nunawading Cafes
- Nunawading Restaurants
- All Nunawading Guides
Last updated: March 2026
Keep Exploring
More in this area:
- Best Restaurants in Nunawading
- Best Bars in Nunawading
- Best Cocktail Bars in Nunawading
- Things To Do in Nunawading
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