TL;DR
A modern cafΓ© sanctuary where nature meets design in the heart of Hawthorn.
Bawa blends vibrant food, botanical interiors and a calm, light-filled aesthetic for one of Melbourneβs most photogenic brunch spots.
Bawa: Brunch in Bloom
Bawa isnβt just a cafΓ© β itβs a mood. Named after Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, the space channels his tropical modernist style through natural textures, soft light and abundant greenery. Timber, concrete and sunlight form the backdrop to a cafΓ© that feels effortlessly tranquil, even when itβs buzzing with brunch crowds. Itβs become a local landmark for those who value design as much as good coffee.
The Menu: Vibrant, Wholesome and Local
The kitchen delivers clean, colourful plates that feel as good as they look. Expect poached eggs over beetroot hummus, chilli scrambled eggs with feta and herbs, and pancake stacks that strike the right balance between indulgent and fresh. Seasonal produce drives everything β from the summer granola with tropical fruit to the winter toasties filled with slow-cooked mushrooms and truffle oil. Vegetarian and vegan options get genuine attention, not just token spots on the menu.
Drinks are equally considered: rich Allpress espresso, matcha lattes, cold-pressed juices and smoothies that taste like sunshine. Itβs clear that health and indulgence can coexist beautifully here.
The Experience: Calm, Curated, Consistent
Bawa feels designed for long mornings. The light shifts through the day, catching the plants and polished surfaces just so. Service is warm but unfussy, matching the cafΓ©βs relaxed rhythm. Whether youβre meeting friends, working from a corner table or just pausing between errands, Bawa manages to feel both inspiring and restorative β proof that good design can nourish the appetite and the mood alike.



