Though many Melbourne cafes aim for an industrial vibe, very few actually have factories as neighbours. Hendriks Cafe used to be a carpet and flooring showroom. The space has an exposed ceiling and big open windows overlooking the golf course.

All the other Melbourne cafe hallmarks are here – light wood, brass fittings, Prana Chai and Mörk Hot Chocolate. But nothing about Hendriks is contrived. The steel for every handmade table is from a factory around the corner, the coffee is Five Senses’ Tightrope blend, straight from the roastery 10 minutes away in Cheltenham.

Co-owner Lee Eman was head barista at The Merchant's Guild. And with chef Adam Owens (Miss Jackson, Axil Coffee Roasters) the pair serves a breakfast-focused menu, with some smart twists on the favourites.

The Indo Fritters – a nod to Eman’s Indonesian heritage – is the most popular dish: crisp corn fritters served with a son-in-law egg, swimming in chili caramel. There’s a refreshing take on the ubiquitous smashed avo, brightened with house-made ricotta and sprouted seeds.

For lunch try crisp buttermilk chicken, barbeque pulled pork or southern shrimp served up in a po’boy with slaw and chipotle aioli.

Contact Details

Updated: March 13th, 2018

We do not seek or accept payment from the cafes, restaurants, bars and shops listed in the Directory – inclusion is at our discretion. Venue profiles are written by independent freelancers paid by Broadsheet.

Share