Rummaging around family farms and raiding old sheds and barns worked out well for the owners of The Hardware Store Cafe and Eatery.

Formerly S&L Hardware for more than 50 years, business partners Sean McCann and Guy Hodgson adopted the space with the belief it was important that it reflect its background. So in came rusty tools and hardware paraphernalia to adorn the delicately stripped original brick walls.

A passion for product is evident in the menu. McCann says some customers have threatened to quit coming if items are removed or changed. Popular morning dishes include herbed, crumbed poached eggs and corn tortilla (brekkie burrito).

Lunch includes fish tacos; pulled-pork sandwiches; and zucchini-and-sweet-corn fritters. Fresh juices are a hit with dog walkers on their way to the coast. Get the lemon ginger blast for a hit of citrus zing. The cafe is also proud to be one of a handful in Perth serving Campos coffee.

A pop-up restaurant for dinner occurs about twice a month, giving McCann and Hodgson free rein to experiment and be creative.