A bespoke, pop-up Hello Kitty Cafe to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sanrio’s ‘much-loved’ character will open at Chadstone in Melbourne, Victoria from 20 September.
Fans, foodies and pop culture enthusiasts young and old are invited to join Chadstone in celebrating the milestone event which will include an installation by prominent street artist Sofles, limited-edition merchandise, and a school holidays program.
Presented in collaboration with Sanrio, the Hello Kitty Cafe will welcome visitors from 10am on Friday, 20 September. Located within The Social Quarter at Chadstone, the kawaii cafe is expected to open to ‘great fanfare’ and will present a menu inspired by Hello Kitty’s favourite foods.
Diners can expect strawberry sandos, themed bento boxes, strawberry iced matcha lattes, cakes, cookies, and coffees. A sea of red and pink, the all-day diner will provide a feast for all senses and endless photo opportunities.
The 30-seat cafe will accommodate walk-in only and will offer a grab-and-go counter for takeaway Hello Kitty themed snacks and drinks. A pop-up shop within the Cafe will present a new range of limited-edition Hello Kitty and Sofles collaboration products ranging from t-shirts and hoodies, totes and caps, to keyrings and drink bottles.
Coinciding with the Cafe’s opening, renowned Australian graffiti Artist, Russell Fenn, known by his alias Sofles, will unveil a large-scale multidimensional artistic installation inspired by Hello Kitty. Sofles says he was humbled by the creative opportunity, his largest single work to date at 9m tall.
“The concept merges my underground art with Hello Kitty. I did this one for my kids, to show them that you can dream big,” Sofles said.
“With so much negativity in the world right now, this is my way of lifting people up. I love that Sanrio let me express myself fully. This is my true take on one of the most iconic characters of our generation.
“Sometimes, you have to break the rules to make your voice heard,” he said.
The Hello Kitty festivities at Chadstone will underpin the popular school holidays program, with a dedicated kids precinct; Hello Kitty Main Street will treat the cute character’s youngest fans to activities including designing their own Hello Kitty tote bags and keychains, craft, and even a silent disco. The program will run from 21 September to 6 October, with tickets available to purchase for $5 per child. Ticket sales open on 9 September, with sessions every 10 minutes daily from 10am until 4:20pm daily*.
For Hello Kitty fans seeking the ultimate immersive experience, Hotel Chadstone Melbourne – M Gallery by Sofitel is offering a limited accommodation package in celebration of the 50th anniversary. From $387 per night, Hotel Chadstone’s Hello Kitty package provides overnight accommodation for two adults and up to two children inclusive of breakfast and a merchandise pack comprising a Hello Kitty tote bag, cap, and mug. Altus Rooftop Bar at Hotel Chadstone will run Hello Kitty High Tea from Thursday to Sunday weekly from 20 September to 20 October. The bespoke menu offers Hello Kitty-themed savoury and sweet treats with packages starting at $85 per adult and $45 per child.
The Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary celebrations reflect Chadstone’s commitment to providing world-class experiences as a cultural epicentre 20-minutes from Melbourne.
*Bookings are available only via Chadstone.com.au. Very limited walk-ups available. See website for further T&Cs and full session details. Workshop program suitable for children aged 4-12 years old.
