By Nestled in Melbourne’s iconic Hardware Lane and expanded to the streets of Paris, The Hardware Society has become a beacon for foodies who crave exceptional brunch and world-class coffee. Renowned for its commitment to quality, creativity, and artisan craftsmanship, this café has cemented its place in both local and international dining scenes.
This article takes you deep into the experience, highlighting the story, menu, ambience, and why The Hardware Society remains a must-visit café.
A Brief History: From Melbourne to the World
The Hardware Society began its journey in Melbourne’s Hardware Street, a bustling laneway known for its boutique charm. Founded by Di and Will Keser, the café quickly rose to popularity with its innovative approach to brunch. Rather than the standard smashed avo and flat whites, they offered seasonal menus, artisan produce, and a European-inspired vibe.
Their success led to the opening of The Hardware Société Paris, situated near Montmartre — bringing Melbourne brunch culture to France.
What started as a laneway café has now become a global brand in artisanal brunch excellence.
The Vibe: A Cozy Fusion of Melbourne and Paris
Step into The Hardware Society and you’re welcomed by a space that feels both intimate and eclectic. The Melbourne location features:
- Bright interiors
- High ceilings
- Antique chandeliers
- Open kitchen and communal seating
Meanwhile, the Paris location combines vintage European elegance with contemporary Australian café style — cozy, energetic, and beautifully presented.
The design complements the food: artistic, warm, and inviting.
The Brunch Menu: Inventive, Hearty, and Elegant
The Hardware Society doesn’t settle for predictable café fare. Their menu changes seasonally and is rooted in French-Australian fusion. Expect elevated brunch classics with gourmet twists.
Highlight Dishes:
- Benedict Eggs with Pork Belly
Slow-roasted pork belly with poached eggs, apple cider hollandaise, and sautéed kale on brioche. - Lobster Croquettes
Crispy, indulgent, and served with a spiced aioli and pickled vegetables. - Chorizo Baked Eggs
Served in a skillet with rich tomato stew, goat cheese, and grilled sourdough. - French Toast with Lemon Curd and Pistachio
Fluffy brioche with house-made lemon curd, crushed pistachios, and torched meringue.
Portions are generous and presentation is elegant. The brunch experience here feels more like fine dining, yet without the pretense.
Coffee Culture: A Caffeine Lover’s Dream
Coffee at The Hardware Society is treated with reverence. Beans are sourced ethically, roasted with precision, and brewed by skilled baristas.
Coffee Options:
- Espresso & Long Black
- Café Latte / Flat White / Cappuccino
- Cold Drip and Pour Over
- Mocha with Melted Chocolate
- Alternative Milks (Oat, Soy, Almond)
They also offer specialty blends and rotating single origins, often from local Australian roasters. Whether you prefer a bold espresso or a silky flat white, it’s brewed to perfection.
The Latte Art is worth a mention too — almost too pretty to sip.
Paris vs Melbourne: Same Heart, Different Pulse
While the soul of The Hardware Society is consistent across both cities, each café offers its own distinctive feel.
Melbourne Location:
- More casual, with laneway buzz
- Popular with locals and business crowd
- Typically busier, especially weekends
Paris Location:
- Nestled near Sacré-Cœur
- Quieter, with an upscale European dining vibe
- Popular with tourists and brunch-savvy Parisians
Both cafés share the same signature dishes, but each adds locally inspired items to reflect the seasonal produce and culinary trends of the region.
Dietary Considerations: Inclusive and Diverse
The Hardware Society caters to a wide range of dietary preferences. Many dishes are marked clearly for:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- Nut-Free
- Dairy-Free or Vegan on Request
They take allergy concerns seriously, and the staff are well-informed to guide diners accordingly.
From a gluten-free hazelnut pancake to dairy-free almond lattes, the options are thoughtfully crafted — not just afterthoughts.
Why The Hardware Society Stands Out
With a brunch scene as competitive as Melbourne’s (and now Paris’s), why does The Hardware Society remain iconic?
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Elevated Brunch Experience: You get chef-driven dishes, not just café staples.
- Artisan Everything: From bread to jam, quality is uncompromised.
- Unforgettable Coffee: Both in flavor and presentation.
- Ambience: A comforting blend of laneway energy and French romance.
- Consistency: Despite its growth, the service and food remain exceptional.
It’s not just a café — it’s a ritual for regulars and a must-visit for travelers.
Conclusion
The Hardware Society isn’t just a trendy café — it’s a pioneering force in the global brunch culture. By blending Melbourne’s artisan ethos with Parisian charm, they’ve elevated what brunch can be.
Whether you’re a local looking for your new weekend spot or a tourist on a culinary pilgrimage, this café delivers an experience that goes beyond eggs and espresso. It’s brunch, redefined with love, flair, and finesse.
So the next time you find yourself on Hardware Street or near Montmartre, make your way to The Hardware Society — and come hungry.
FAQs
1. Where is The Hardware Society located?
- Melbourne: 120 Hardware St, Melbourne VIC, Australia
- Paris: 10 Rue Lamarck, 75018 Paris, France (Montmartre district)
2. Do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, due to high foot traffic.
3. Is The Hardware Society kid-friendly?
Yes! The café welcomes families and provides high chairs. Some menu items can be customized for children.
4. Are vegan options available?
Yes, several items are either vegan or can be made vegan on request. Just inform the staff when ordering.
5. What are the typical prices at The Hardware Society?
- Brunch mains: S$18–S$26 / €14–€22
- Coffee: S$4.50–S$7 / €3–€5
- Sides & pastries: S$6–S$10 / €4–€7
Also read: Sufood Raffles City Menu | Latest Plant-Based Dishes & Prices
