Imagine that you are reclining in a comfortable wicker couch, sipping an exotic cocktail while crisp linen drapes and palms shift lightly in the breeze. No, you’re not on some tropical holiday (sorry) – you are simply enjoying the bright atmosphere of Hawthorne’s newest locale, British Colonial Co. The spot is owned and operated by familiar Hawthorne faces Angela and Mark Kennedy (who have also run local cafe Bungalow 4171 for more than four years), who noticed that the suburb was desperate for a sophisticated bar and eatery where patrons could enjoy good food and drink without having to cross the river. The opportunity arose to take over a portion of the new development at Hawthorne’s Cineplex, with enough space to create two distinct sections in one venue. British Colonial Co. proper boasts the more casual and relaxed 86-seater setting, while an upstairs 66-seater diner called The Residence will open to the public later in the year, featuring degustations and champagne high teas.

The offering at British Colonial Co. is less fine dining and more refined dining, with all-day brunch, lunch and share-plate dinner options curated by head chef Darryn Bonhome (ex-Cinco Bistro). The kitchen creates a modern Australian menu base enhanced by flavours from different corners of the world such as Africa, the Middle East, Southern Asia and Europe. These flavours are found in abundance in dishes such as the spicy Middle Eastern sujuk sausage, sweet corn za’atar arancini, and fennel Sri Lankan chilli pork belly, complemented by cheese and charcuterie boards and desserts.

For opening hours and contact information, head to the Stumble Guide.