Nestled just a few streets away from the water in one of South Australia’s most popular coastal towns, Yeo Haus is an iconic symbol of Port Elliot’s thriving society of surfers, shops, and snacks. Inspired by surf, art and the environment, the brand seeks to provide hospitality with an open mind and open doors.
What started as a t-shirt and screen printing venture nine years ago, the brand, owned by beach bum and self-taught designer Benjamin Hewett, now has its roots firmly planted in South Australia, with its name paying homage to his home on Yeo Avenue in Highgate.
Yeo Haus initially operated from a shed next to DeGroot Coffee Co before moving to “The Strand”. Since 2018 the brand has expanded organically, evolving from trendy apparel to embrace a variety of specialties and services, including surfboards, gin, accessories, hospitality, recycling and more.
It’s a special brand, because it isn’t just about clothing and surfboards: it’s a lifestyle venture that captures the essence of coastal living, adopting sustainable, clean business practices and collaborating with worthwhile projects like Breathe Easy Revegetation, an environmental initiative working to protect and revitalise the ecology of South Australia.
Ben was also part of the team that organised Field Good Festival in 2018 and 2019, a camping festival celebrating South Australian music, arts and culture at Alma’s Hem Amphitheatre (also the home of Space Jams Festival).
In January 2024, Yeo Haus launched its latest venture in Port Elliot, opening up a sprawling warehouse hub at the “Refreshment Centre”. Combining all aspects of the brand’s expertise by merging a bar, cafe, and retail space under one roof, the new Refreshment Centre represented Yeo Haus’ shift towards becoming an all-encompassing lifestyle brand.
“We’d had our eyes on the space for a long time, and when the opportunity finally came up, we were in the right position to make it viable”.
“It’s housed in an old sawtooth warehouse with a rustic red brick facade that once housed sand-paving materials. I got my Dad to help fit it out with everything we needed over a 3-4 month period; let’s just say it was a real family experience”, says Hewett.
The warehouse space shows off a stunning 7-metre bar, featuring a mural by renowned potter and surfer Gerry Wedd. Clerestory windows allow natural light to flood in, giving the venue a modern yet beachy vibe.
The cafe at Yeo Haus Warehouse offers classic cafe food to vegan pastries. Burgers, including classics like cheese and mushroom, are on the menu, complemented by an impressive selection of craft beers, like the Yeo Haus Draught and the Yeo Haus Steam Ale.
They’re also serving up two exquisite gins: the Yeo Haus Gin Liqueur, known for its long-lasting flavour, and the Yeo Haus Gin, boasting a balanced blend of juniper and hand-crushed botanicals.
As well as its cafe and bar offerings, Yeo Haus stocks a range of Yeo Haus branded surf gear, clothing, and accessories. The brand is conscious of their footprint on the planet, working closely with its manufacturing partners in Australia and abroad.
The Refreshment Centre is also be the home of live music and events. As a doorway to coastal experiences, Yeo Haus don’t shy away from reaching far to bring entertainment to the coast. The venue has already hosted performances by Steve Spacek and Chali 2na, and the iconic Hot Chip are performing on January 11th.
“Our vision is to become a regional venue where up-and-coming artists from Adelaide or interstate can perform”.
While Yeo Haus has certainly evolved into a broader community space, the surf culture is alive and well. The space remains a hub for surfers and non-surfers alike to meet, relax, and enjoy the unique blend of good food, great music, and local vibes.
“It’s all about providing a place where people can connect, whether they’re grabbing a drink or hanging out. Maybe someone’s shaping up a new board while their buddy plays in the band.”
Looking to the future, expansion into new markets may well and truly be on the cards, but Ben wants to make sure the Port Elliot flagship store remains the base of operations. For now, he’s focused on solidifying Yeo Haus as a go-to destination for locals and weekenders alike.
With its unique blend of surf culture, live music, great food, and a strong sense of community, the business is firmly planted as a cornerstone of Port Elliot’s community.
WHAT: Yeo Haus
WHEN: Open from 9am daily
WHERE: 5/10 Elliot St, Port Elliot SA 5212
For more information, click here.
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