Bawa Cafe Hawthorn

Bawa Cafe Hawthorn is a bright, modern café on Burwood Road, next to Bunnings, with a setting designed for lingering over breakfast, brunch or lunch. Natural light, greenery, comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere shape the space, while private booths and window seats offer a little more privacy. There is also covered outdoor seating, including a pet-friendly area, making it a practical choice for catching up with friends, studying, working remotely or dining with a dog.

The menu covers all-day breakfast, brunch and lunch, with options for different appetites and dietary needs. Named breakfast favourites include the Classic Big Breakfast, Smashed Avocado, pancakes, Acai Bowl, Eggs Benedict and Vegan Breakfast Bowl. Lunch brings more substantial choices such as Fried Chicken Po Boys, Warm Spiced Beef Salad, Super Green Salad and Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank, along with Chunky Chips with Roasted Garlic Aioli for sharing or a side. The café says vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options are available, with some dishes able to be customised.

Coffee is a central part of the offering, with specialty coffee made by baristas using locally sourced beans and professional brewing methods. The drinks list also includes fresh juices, smoothies, milkshakes and premium teas, as well as signature cocktails mentioned for lunch and later visits. For a quicker meal, takeaway is available, while online bookings make it easier to plan a table.

Beyond everyday café dining, Bawa has a flexible event space that changes atmosphere by night. The venue can host private celebrations, parties, weddings and corporate meetings, with capacity for up to 70 guests for cocktail events or 45 for sit-down dinners. Gift cards are also available in-store or online. With its spacious layout, varied menu and central Hawthorn position near Swinburne University, Glenferrie Road and the local shopping and business precinct, it suits casual solo visits, brunch dates, family meals, work lunches and larger gatherings.