Kawaii Takeover! Hello Kitty and Friends Café Lands in Melbourne

Hold onto your bows and boba teas, besties, Melbourne Central is getting a major dose of cuteness this May! Opening Friday, 9 May 2025, the brand new Hello Kitty and Friends Café is officially bringing Sanrio magic to the heart of the city, and it's the first of its kind in Australia. That’s right, Hello Kitty, Kuromi, Cinnamoroll, My Melody, and the whole adorable crew are moving in. 

Step into a pastel dream across four whimsical spaces, each bursting with Japanese pop culture, playful art, and sweet surprises. Whether you're meeting up with your fave people for a cute catch-up or treating yourself to some kawaii self-care, this café is your new happy place.

The star of the show? Cinnamoroll World! With its soft blues and cloud-like decor, this space is designed for dreamy hangouts and Instagrammable moments. The menu is a Japanese twist on café favourites, think fluffy strawberry sandos, colourful poke bowls, and bento boxes that are almost too cute to eat. (But don’t worry, you’ll still devour every bite.)

In a hurry between shops? Pop by the Hello Kitty Corner for the cutest coffee or pastry to go. It’s the perfect pit stop to power your kawaii adventures.

Around the corner, you’ll find the Friends Garden, a pastel playground of original artwork honouring Hello Kitty’s besties and some of Melbourne Central’s iconic landmarks like the Clock and Shot Tower. Because this isn’t just any Sanrio café it’s one with true Melbourne flair. 

And yes, there's merch. (Screaming!!!) Every month, an exclusive merch drop will bring you Sanrio x Melbourne must-haves: embroidered patches, plushies, caps, sweats, keyrings, greeting cards and more. All designed with love by Aussie legends like art director Eddie Zammit and illustrator Travis Price.

Silvia Figini, Sanrio’s COO for EMEA, India, and Oceania, says it best: ““This one-of-a-kind experience is a true celebration of two icons — Hello Kitty and Friends, and the vibrant city of Melbourne.” 

We couldn’t agree more. Whether you're a lifelong Sanrio fan or just here for the vibes, the Hello Kitty and Friends Café is about to become your go-to for kawaii energy, good eats, and magical memories.