Hot Poppy Cafe - South Melbourne

In South Melbourne, The Hot Poppy Cafe specialises in the sort of all-day eating that feels effortless yet satisfying. From classic breakfast comforts to more creative lunchtime plates, it leans into generous flavours and a relaxed rhythm that suits early risers and midday grazers alike.

Egg lovers find their compass in the benedicts: the signature Poppy Benedict sets poached eggs on a house-made potato rosti with silk-smooth hollandaise and a scatter of chorizo crumbs, while the salmon benedict pairs smoked salmon and capers with that same golden rosti. Sides of mushroom, cherry tomatoes, spinach and avocado allow for a little tailoring on the plate, keeping things bright and fresh without fuss.

To finish or to begin, there are Portuguese tarts and almond croissants beside a steady pour of espresso, latte, mocha, hot chocolate, chai latte and iced coffee. A concise list of premium wines, both white and red, from near and far, rounds out the offering, and families are well considered with simple comforts on the kids' menu, from bacon and eggs on toast to chicken nuggets and fries.

Drop in for breakfast that can drift into lunch, and let The Hot Poppy Cafe do what it does best: make the day pop.