Overview
Few cafés have shaped Melbourne’s brunch culture quite like Hardware Société. Originally opening in the city’s Hardware Street laneways in 2009, the venue quickly gained a cult following for its fresh approach to breakfast—introducing bold flavours, refined presentation, and a hint of Paris to Melbourne mornings.
Now located in a larger, light-filled space on Katherine Place, Hardware Société retains its signature creativity while offering a more expansive dining experience. The menu blends French technique with global influences, showcasing dishes like lobster benedict with saffron hollandaise, baked eggs with chorizo and potato, and delicate soufflé pancakes with seasonal toppings. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are thoughtfully integrated, ensuring inclusivity without compromise on quality.
Coffee remains central, with expertly brewed espresso and filter options, alongside specialty teas and fresh juices. A small but considered selection of brunch cocktails, including mimosas and espresso martinis, adds a celebratory edge for weekend visits.
The interior is chic and contemporary, with marble tables, pastel tones, and playful accents that nod to both Parisian cafés and Melbourne’s design aesthetic. Service is friendly and efficient, even during the venue’s famously busy peak hours.
Whether you’re a long-time local or a first-time visitor to Melbourne, Hardware Société offers a breakfast and brunch experience that is quintessentially Melbourne—creative, social, and endlessly photogenic.
Last update August 2025
