Restaurant

Saint Helen Cafe

173 Riversdale Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122, Australia

Recommended by 21 people

Updated

Find Saint Helen Cafe

173 Riversdale Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122, Australia

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HoursMonday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM Sunday: Closed

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About Saint Helen Cafe

Hawthorn locals duck into Saint Helen Cafe for generous morning plates layered with distinct Levantine accents. Expect sourdough piled with beetroot hummus, Persian feta, and za’atar alongside bowls of rose-scented porridge. Tables fill early for iced strawberry matcha and smooth flat whites, while the room hums with friendly neighborhood chatter and framed family photos. Midday brings mezza plates with smoky baba ganoush and spiced shawarma.

  • Middle Eastern brunch twists: Breakfast staples feature thoughtful Levant touches like za’atar, beetroot hummus, Persian feta, and rose porridge.
  • Creative specialty sips: Regulars order iced strawberry matcha, house-brewed chai in ceramic teaware, and freshly pressed juices.
  • Welcoming neighborhood hub: Owner Helen greets neighborhood regulars by name against a backdrop of vintage family photos.

What's On at Saint Helen Cafe

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Visit Saint Helen Cafe

Distinctive Lebanese flavours, handcrafted drinks, and family warmth in Hawthorn

  • Middle Eastern Twists on Classic Brunch

    Breakfast dishes blend classic cafe staples with Lebanese and Middle Eastern elements like zaatar, beetroot hummus, and Persian feta.

    Unique middle eastern take on traditional dishes.

    Troy Stoll
  • Abundant, Fresh Morning Portions

    Generous, vibrant breakfast plates feature wholesome produce that provides hearty, rejuvenating nourishment.

    The produce was so fresh and not to mention their very generous serving sizes!

    Adrianna Sant
  • Standout Specialty Drinks

    Innovative beverage creations such as iced strawberry matcha and traditional tea offerings elevate routine morning drinks.

    The strawberry matcha was such a standout – so tasty!

    daniella A
  • Heritage Decor & Bespoke Charm

    The cafe interior is adorned with family photographs and authentic Lebanese artifacts that deliver a personal, storied ambiance.

    The family photos and pieces of Lebanese history and Knick knacks are unique and add to the bespoke feel of the cafe.

    Lachlan Marshall
  • Genuine Community Belonging

    Helen and her team cultivate a hospitable neighbourhood retreat where patrons are welcomed by name.

    the owner were so sweet and friendly, she remember all her regular’s name, it’s awesome.

    Lee Yu Xuan
  • A Warm Refuge with Sunny Hospitality

    The warm, energetic hospitality transforms the venue into a reassuring refuge from grey days and hectic routines.

    A great hiding spot away from the cold and wet weather with the staff serving some sunshine!

    Foxcozo R

Other favorites

Specialty handcrafted drinks and juices

  • Iced strawberry matcha

    I also had an iced strawberry matcha which was absolutely delicious.

    Adrianna Sant
  • Chai

    the best chai in town served in the most beautiful teaware

    Foxcozo R
  • Watermelon juice

    The best watermelon juice

    M J
  • Soy latte

    Excellent soy latte.

    Bruna Ciprovac

Beyond the menu

Thoughtful touches and cultural details that elevate every visit to Saint Helen Cafe

  • Middle Eastern Culinary Flourishes

    Dishes are thoughtfully elevated with distinctive Middle Eastern accents, from zaatar touches to sourdough crowned with beetroot hummus and Persian feta.

  • Artful Teaware & Specialty Drinks

    House-made drinks include an iced strawberry matcha and freshly brewed chai served in curated, beautiful teaware.

  • Lebanese Heritage & Family Memorabilia

    The dining space features family photographs and pieces of Lebanese historical memorabilia that create a warm, bespoke atmosphere.

  • Personalised Regular Recognition

    Owner Helen and the team build an uplifting neighbourhood connection, taking time to chat and personally remembering regulars by name.

Before you head over

Practical tips on finding, seating, and ordering at Saint Helen Cafe

  • Look Closely Along Riversdale Road & Park On-Street

    Keep an eye out along Riversdale Road so you do not pass it by, and utilize the convenient street parking when arriving for weekend brunch.

  • Plan for Peak Morning Crowds Indoors

    Expect a cozy, bustling dining room during peak morning hours without an outdoor seating area, though indoor seating is accommodated well.

  • Look for Middle Eastern Twists on the Menu

    Beyond classic morning cafe fare, explore the Middle Eastern twists like the St Helen's breakfast with beetroot hummus and Persian feta or the lunchtime shawarma.

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