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South Melbourne

The Kettle Black offers a sophisticated dining experience in a heritage-listed terrace house, combining classic design with modern architecture. The menu features refined seasonal dishes, and the venue is known for its specialty coffee and event spaces.

Discover The Kettle Black: South Melbourne's Chic Brunch Spot

Tucked away at 50 Albert Road in vibrant South Melbourne, The Kettle Black is a modern Australian café that masterfully blends heritage charm with contemporary sophistication. Housed within a beautifully restored terrace house, its bright white walls and sleek modern lighting set the stage for a brunch experience that’s both stylish and welcoming. This hotspot has quickly become a must-visit for food lovers and digital nomads seeking a chic yet comfortable place to savor refined seasonal dishes and specialty coffee.

An Inviting Atmosphere With A Flair For Quality Dining

Step inside The Kettle Black and you’ll be greeted by an abundance of natural light filtering through greenery that adds a fresh and airy vibe to the space. The attentive and friendly staff contribute to an inviting ambiance where every visit feels special. Whether you’re settling in for a weekend brunch or a midday coffee, the café’s carefully crafted menu showcases fresh, attractively presented dishes with an innovative twist on classic Australian fare.

Innovative menu combining seasonal, fresh ingredients with creative plating

 — enjoy dishes that are both photogenic and palate-pleasing.

Specialty coffee crafted to elevate your brunch experience

Chic venue inside a restored terrace house offering a clean, modern aesthetic

 that’s perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions.

Accommodates groups and pet-friendly policy

While the café is praised for its outstanding presentation and excellent service, some patrons have noted that the flavor profile occasionally falls short of expectations, and the venue’s popularity can result in busy periods and longer wait times. However, these are often outweighed by the overall quality, ambiance, and friendly atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors coming back.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Kettle Black

What are the operating hours of The Kettle Black?

 Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

 Yes, The Kettle Black is pet-friendly and welcomes dogs.

Does The Kettle Black offer gluten-free options?

 Yes, The Kettle Black provides gluten-free options on their menu.

Can I make a reservation at The Kettle Black?

 Reservations can be made by contacting the restaurant directly at (03) 9088 0721.

Is there parking available at The Kettle Black?

 The Kettle Black does not have on-site parking; street parking is available nearby.

Whether you’re after an Instagram-worthy brunch, a peaceful coffee escape, or a welcoming venue for a catch-up with friends, The Kettle Black in South Melbourne promises a memorable experience. Its blend of classic and modern design elements, engaging community vibe, and commitment to quality make it a standout café destination. Stop by to enjoy a dynamic menu, sip on expertly brewed coffee, and soak in the bright, leafy atmosphere that locals adore.

Australia

Nestled in the heart of South Melbourne, The Kettle Black is a chic café that effortlessly blends modern Australian cuisine with a warm, inviting atmosphere. This stylish venue, located at 50 Albert Road, is renowned for its vibrant brunch scene and beautifully presented dishes that make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. The café's design features sleek white walls, contemporary lighting, and an abundance of natural light, creating a perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal.

The Kettle Black is not just a place to eat; it's an experience. Whether you're enjoying a quiet morning coffee or a lively brunch with friends, the ambiance is always welcoming. The café is particularly famous for its signature dishes, including the luscious lemon meringue waffle, a delightful creation that combines fluffy waffles with tangy lemon curd and a cloud of toasted meringue. Another standout is the fried chicken burger, which features crispy, succulent chicken paired with fresh slaw and a zesty sauce, all nestled in a soft bun.

The Kettle Black prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, which shine through in every dish. The menu is diverse, catering to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Guests can enjoy a range of beverages, from expertly brewed coffee to refreshing juices, making it an ideal spot for any time of the day.

A fun fact about The Kettle Black is its unique location within a charming terrace house, which adds character and a cozy feel to the dining experience. The café's design is a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and classic architecture, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Conveniently located in South Melbourne, The Kettle Black is surrounded by a vibrant community filled with shops, parks, and cultural attractions. Just a short walk away, visitors can explore the beautiful Albert Park, known for its scenic views and recreational activities. The café is also close to the bustling South Melbourne Market, where you can discover fresh produce, artisan goods, and local delicacies.

The Kettle Black is renowned for its vibrant brunch offerings, particularly the lemon meringue waffle and fried chicken burger.

Yes, The Kettle Black offers outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal in the fresh air.

The café accepts various payment methods, including credit and debit cards.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, The Kettle Black is the perfect spot to indulge in a delightful brunch experience. With its inviting atmosphere, exceptional dishes, and friendly service, it promises a memorable outing. Don’t miss out on the chance to savor the flavors of South Melbourne—come visit us today!

Modern Australian cafe fare served in a chic terrace house with white walls & modern lighting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2Z2V6dTV3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJrVqwpwJo1moRJ5oA8Rm_SBY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2Z2V6dTV3RRAB

Came for Mother’s Day and don’t remember it being a bad experience but also nothing special. Food was just typical brunch food but what I did like was the amazing service and the presentation of the food which was lights out. Close to being a 5 star but just lacked the flavour a bit.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzaXJyUGdRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJrVqwpwJo1moRJ5oA8Rm_SBY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzaXJyUGdRRRAB

A charming cafe nestled among contemporary buildings, this venue is perfect for a lovely brunch.  The dishes are fresh and attractively presented, with prices that correspond to the quality. The friendly and welcoming staff add to the experience, and the inviting ambiance features plenty of natural light and greenery.

I've brunched here several times, and it consistently impresses.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYckl1eUVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJrVqwpwJo1moRJ5oA8Rm_SBY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYckl1eUVREAE

Food is nice, but it’s overpriced for what’s it’s offering. This is especially true for the lemon meringue waffle 🧇 and fried chicken burger 🍔.

Would suggest booking if you prefer seating indoors, but there’s outside seating available too.

Food took a while to arrive, but it’s nice when the orders arrive together.

Overall a nice place for brunch.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3bmQ3YW9BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJrVqwpwJo1moRJ5oA8Rm_SBY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3bmQ3YW9BRRAB

A little more expensive than nearby cafes but also a little different, so worth the extra for a treat. Nice looking place full of character, nestled amidst some high rise apartments. Had the lemon meringue waffle and it was amazing! It was busy but they found us a seat. Service was good, food and coffee was good. Will definitely go again to check out some of the fantastic looking things going by on plates...

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURma08yUElnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJrVqwpwJo1moRJ5oA8Rm_SBY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURma08yUElnEAE

I had the chilli scrambled eggs and it was okay. Would’ve been better with sourdough than focaccia. The chilli used could have been better/had more flavour.

I was a bit let down but the matcha latte. It tasted like a low grade matcha and also very mild. Similar to having warm milk with a slight matcha taste. It was also packed with ice so it watered down very quickly.

The Kettle Black: Chic South Melbourne Brunch Cafe

The Kettle Black is a modern Australian café and restaurant located in a heritage-listed 1880s terrace house in South Melbourne. It is part of the Darling Group, known for its sophisticated dining venues.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Breakfast

Serves Brunch

Serves Coffee

Serves Dessert

Serves Vegetarian Food

The Kettle Black is a charming café in South Melbourne offering modern Australian café fare in a chic terrace house. Known for its inviting atmosphere and exquisite brunch menu, it features specialty coffee and beautifully plated dishes made with local produce.

The Kettle Black

The Kettle Black is a charming café in South Melbourne offering modern Australian café fare in a chic terrace house. Known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious brunch options, it is a perfect spot for coffee lovers and foodies alike.

A selection of refined seasonal breakfast and lunch dishes, including signature items like Ricotta Hotcakes and Chilli Scrambled Eggs.

Ricotta Hotcakes

Chilli Scrambled Eggs

Coconut Set Chia

Hotcake

Chocolate Polenta Porridge

Seasonal Avocado

Eggs Your Way on Toast

Raw Kingfish on Spelt Grain

Pastrami

Seasonal Local Mushrooms

Kale, Cauliflower & Seasonal Greens Salad

Buttermilk Fried Chicken in a Brioche Roll

Beans

Cape Grim Beef

Miso Cured Salmon

The Kettle Black Menu

Nestled in the vibrant heart of South Melbourne, The Kettle Black offers a modern Australian café experience brimming with refined seasonal dishes that are both visually stunning and delectably satisfying. This chic terrace house venue serves up a curated selection of breakfast and lunch options, ideal for foodies and brunch lovers seeking quality and innovation in every bite.

Begin your meal with delicately balanced starters like the Seasonal Avocado, featuring fresh citrus notes atop perfectly toasted bread, finished with a sprinkle of local kelp salt for that subtle oceanic touch. The Raw Kingfish on Spelt Grain offers a masterful combination of pickled cucumber pesto, mustard seeds, and crispy fried curry leaf, delivering layers of flavor and texture that tease the palate.

The mains showcase a remarkable range of choices, from hearty to healthy, all crafted with seasonal ingredients and creative flair. Indulge in the iconic Ricotta Hotcakes generously topped with blueberries, drizzled with maple syrup, and served alongside double cream, seeds, and nuts – a sumptuous dish that perfectly balances sweetness and texture.

 are a savory highlight, featuring Mooloolaba crab, confit sobrasada, and whipped cow’s milk fetta, creating a richly flavored brunch classic with a spicy twist. For those craving a taste of the land, the Cape Grim Beef burger combines house-made mustard, seasonal fruit relish, fresh leaves, and a signature Kettle Black bun for a mouthwatering experience.

The Buttermilk Fried Chicken in a Brioche Roll is a crowd-pleaser with kale and cashew slaw, sriracha mayonnaise, and pickled chili offering a delightful spicy crunch. Vegetarian diners will appreciate the Kale, Cauliflower & Seasonal Greens Salad, tossed with miso, almond hummus, avocado, poached egg, and salted seeds, delivering a nourishing and satisfying plate.

Finish your meal with beautifully crafted desserts like the Coconut Set Chia, which features seasonal citrus, pineapple, and toasted macadamias for a tropical, refreshing finish. The Chocolate Polenta Porridge combines rich cherry and coconut flavors, offering a decadent yet wholesome treat that perfectly complements the café’s brunch vibe.

The Kettle Black complements its exquisite food menu with an impressive lineup of coffee selections and a carefully curated wine list, perfect for pairing with your meal. Whether you prefer a robust espresso or a light white wine, the beverage offerings enhance the overall dining experience in this light-filled, greenery-adorned oasis.

 combining creamy ricotta, fresh blueberries, maple syrup, double cream, seeds, and nuts.

 with Mooloolaba crab, confit sobrasada, and whipped fetta for a rich, spicy brunch experience.

 featuring kale & cashew slaw, sriracha mayo, and pickled chili for an irresistible crunch and heat.

Discover The Kettle Black in South Melbourne—where stunning brunches meet vibrant ambiance. Savor locally sourced delights today!

The Kettle Black: Brunch Cafe in South Melbourne

Port Phillip City Municipality

Custom Darling Blend made from specialty coffee beans sourced directly from the world’s best producers.

Specialty Coffee

Available all day, including Espresso Martinis and Mimosas.

Signature Cocktails

A selection of wines to complement your meal.

Local and Imported Wines

Available for take-away, featuring a variety of fillings.

Gourmet Sandwiches

Freshly baked items available for take-away.

Pastries and Cakes

Discover The Kettle Black in South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, a culinary gem that blends modern Australian cuisine with a chic terrace house ambiance.

Nestled at 50 Albert Road, The Kettle Black invites foodies, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers to indulge in a sophisticated brunch and lunch experience. Known for its white walls and modern lighting, the venue combines contemporary style with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for groups and solo visitors alike.

Exceptional menu offerings to satisfy every craving

The Kettle Black serves up a tempting array of dishes designed to delight your palate. From freshly brewed specialty coffee to gourmet sandwiches, each item is thoughtfully prepared using high-quality ingredients.

 Custom Darling Blend made from specialty coffee beans sourced directly from the world’s best producers.

 Available all day, including fan favorites like Espresso Martinis and Mimosas, perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up.

 A curated selection of wines that perfectly complement your meal, priced accessibly to elevate your dining experience.

 Available for take-away, featuring a variety of fillings that satisfy both classic and adventurous tastes.

 Freshly baked delights available for take-away, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with excellent service and amenities

Guests consistently praise The Kettle Black for its friendly and welcoming staff, who create an inviting ambiance filled with natural light and greenery. Whether you prefer indoor seating or the outdoors, the café accommodates with comfortable spaces perfect for casual meetups or working sessions.

Accessibility and payment convenience are a priority, with options including debit and credit cards as well as NFC payments for a seamless experience.

Located conveniently in South Melbourne, The Kettle Black is ideal for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Reservations are welcomed, especially if you prefer indoor seating, while outdoor options offer a relaxed vibe for sunny days. The venue does not serve dinner, beer, or cocktails, focusing instead on quality coffee, wine, and fresh food to energize your day.

Victoria

Discover The Kettle Black in South Melbourne! Enjoy modern Australian dishes, vibrant ambiance, and specialty coffee. Join us for brunch today!

The Kettle Black: Chic South Melbourne Café

Indulge in a delightful brunch at The Kettle Black, featuring Ricotta Hotcakes and Chilli Scrambled Eggs amidst charming surroundings. Reserve now!

Amazing Brunch at The Kettle Black, South Melbourne

Get insider tips for a perfect visit to The Kettle Black. From menu highlights to parking advice, we've got you covered for a delightful experience!

the kettle black menu overview

starters and light bites

mains to satisfy every craving

desserts to end on a sweet note

beverages and drinks

specialties to try