Thomastown sits in Melbourne’s outer north and runs affordable, diverse, developing. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re visiting for the day, this guide covers the best of what the suburb offers.
Best WiFi
Sol Works — 217 Ash Grove
One of Thomastown’s most underrated spots. The owner sources everything locally. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Happy Table — 308 Ash Grove
One of Thomastown’s genuine highlights. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The fit-out is unpretentious but considered. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Bright Local — 366 Ash Grove
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The vibe is laid-back and unpretentious. 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 7:30am-3pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3pm.
Most Spacious
Tall Room — 188 North Grove
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 attention to sourcing — everything is local or ethical. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
The Happy Kitchen — 74 North Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 13 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-2:30pm. A neighbourhood staple. The owner is a local who genuinely invests in the community. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Northern Place — 370 King Parade
One of Thomastown’s best-kept secrets. The team takes genuine pride in what they do. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. They close earlier than you’d expect — check before heading over.
Quietest
Felix — 171 North Grove
One of Thomastown’s hidden gems. The owner has been perfecting this for years. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Come on a weekday for the full experience without the crowd.
Ada’s — 365 North Grove
A local institution that has been operating for over 11 years. The atmosphere is what keeps people coming back. Open Mon-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-2:30pm. Don’t miss this one. The space has been renovated recently but kept its original charm. Expect to spend $8-14 per person.
Table — 136 North Grove
Opened in early 2026 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. Check their socials for weekly specials. What sets it apart is the personal touch — the owner is usually on site. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm.
Best Coffee While Working
House — 111 Ash Grove
Opened in 2024 and already a regular stop for locals. The space is bright and welcoming. 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-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
River — 90 Rowan Street
Opened in 2025 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 consistency — every visit delivers the same quality. Open Mon-Fri 8am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am-3:30pm.
River Depot — 67 North Grove
One of Thomastown’s genuine highlights. The team knows every regular by name. Price range: $8-14. The back area is where the regulars sit. Their social media is worth following for event announcements.
Co-Working Nearby
Sol — 6 Fitzroy Road
Opened in 2025 and already a regular stop for locals. The design is industrial-meets-cozy. 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-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Ruby Depot — 95 Ash Grove
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-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-2:30pm.
Rex’s — 250 North Grove
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 8:30am-2:30pm.
Practical Info
Getting there: Public transport options in Thomastown.
Best time to visit: Sunday afternoons — the suburban pace suits it.
Budget: A full day exploring Thomastown — coffee, lunch, activity, and drinks — runs approximately $74 per person.
Parking: Street parking on King Parade is available but competitive on weekends. Side streets usually have 2-hour unrestricted zones. Public transport is the better option.
Thomastown at a Glance
| Category | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Vibe | Affordable, diverse, developing |
| Coffee price | $4.00-4.50 |
| Dinner price | $18-32 pp |
| Getting there | Public transport options in Thomastown |
| Best for | Thomastown local shops, community feel, suburban lifestyle |
Nearby
- South Morang — also worth exploring
- Thomastown Cafes
- Thomastown Restaurants
- All Thomastown Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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