Hidden Grounds Cafe , Kirrawee

Hidden Grounds sits in the South Village precinct at Shop G01, 580 Princes Highway, Kirrawee, and its plant-wrapped outdoor seating has made it the easy dog stop in the strip. The cafe opens 7am Monday to Saturday and 7:30am on Sundays, closing at 3pm, so it covers breakfast and lunch rather than dinner. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas, which matters in a precinct where half the foot traffic seems to have a leash in hand.

The dog setup

The undercover outdoor seating wraps the cafe and is sheltered by greenery, so it works on drizzly mornings as well as sunny ones. Dogs stay out of the indoor dining area as usual, but the outdoor space is generous by Kirrawee standards. Water bowls are usually around; confirm with staff on arrival if you are arriving dry.

The vibe

This is a specialty coffee and brunch operation rather than a bare-bones espresso bar. The menu runs wholesome and varied, with homemade fritters, signature salmon bowls, breakfast bagels and porridge, plus vegetarian options throughout. The cabinet pulls its weight too: cinnamon scrolls, croissants and fresh juices, and reviews repeatedly mention the courteous staff and the warm welcome.

Getting there and parking

South Village has ample underground parking off the Princes Highway, with time limits on the spots so check the signage before you settle in for a long brunch. Kirrawee Station is a short walk away if you are arriving by train with the dog on a lead.

While you're out there

The Helena Street fenced dog park is right in Kirrawee, with separate sections for large and small dogs, shade and a covered patio, an easy pairing with a cafe visit. For another dog-friendly coffee, Kirrawee's Quick Shot Cafe on Oak Road is famously welcoming and keeps fresh water bowls out, and Brick Pit Espresso is the local alternative near the brick pit. More options are on the dog friendly cafes in New South Wales page.

Pepsi: fritters for her, cinnamon scroll crumbs for me. The plants make it feel like our backyard.