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.
Cafes
New Social — 262 Murray Crescent
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The staff remember regulars and greet newcomers warmly. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Hazel’s — 314 Market Terrace
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3pm.
Humble Bench — 169 Market Terrace
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The staff sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Restaurants
Black Room — 375 Thomas Terrace
One of Nunawading’s best-kept secrets. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Otto Corner — 148 Market Terrace
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Vera — 219 Murray Crescent
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The fit-out is minimal but thoughtful. The kind of place you tell friends about. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm.
Bars
Blue Pantry — 250 Mary Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 3 years. The value is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm. Consistently reliable. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $10-16 per person.
Hazel — 361 Murray Crescent
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. 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.
The Humble Room — 350 Johnston Road
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The staff has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $10-16. The space feels bigger than it looks from outside. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Shops
Otto’s — 283 Johnston Road
One of Nunawading’s hidden gems. The staff knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Black Corner — 148 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3:30pm.
New Pantry — 330 Mary Grove
One of Nunawading’s most underrated spots. The owner knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Fitness & Wellness
Gus’s — 54 Thomas Terrace
Opened in 2025 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 personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-4pm.
Vera Larder — 369 Murray Crescent
One of Nunawading’s hidden gems. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $10-16. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. Saturday morning is the best time to visit.
Iris — 113 Market Terrace
Opened in early 2026 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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-3:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Nunawading.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Budget: A full day exploring Nunawading — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $116 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:
- Things To Do in Nunawading
- Date Night in Nunawading
- Hidden Gems in Nunawading
- Shopping Guide in Nunawading
Useful tools:
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