Hayes Common

Chanced upon Hayes Common when we were driving through Hamilton on our way to Auckland and it was amazing. We dropped in for brunch. I had the Hibiscus and Strawberry matcha which was refreshing and yum. I also had the eggs Benedict on a hash brown that was fab. The table also ordered The Common, The Uncommoner and the Free Range eggs with chilli and everyone had a great experience. The service was lovely and the atmosphere wonderful. It’s the perfect neighbourhood restaurant. We paid around $150 for the food and a coffee each. Would definitely recommend.

🌿 Totally loved our entire experience at this Cafe 🔥💚🔥 from being ushered at the front door, in house service and exceptional gourmet meals; by far the tastiest big brekky (commoner with scrambled eggs) I’ve ever devoured 😋🤤🥰 Ngā mihi nui (big thanks) H Town, we will be back 🌿

Absolutely loved this place! Such a great spot to eat, and the coffee was absolutely delicious, definitely one of the best I’ve had in a long time! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a really relaxed vibe. From the moment we walked in, the staff greeted us with big smiles and genuine friendliness, which instantly made us feel at home. What stood out to me the most was how well the team worked together, you could see the staff laughing, chatting, and really enjoying what they do. You don’t see that everywhere, and it made the whole experience even better. The food was fantastic! I had the chili scrambled eggs with thick-cut bacon, and wow, perfectly cooked, packed with flavour, and beautifully presented. Every bite was delicious, and I’d go back just for that alone! As someone whose job takes me all over the world every week, I’ve tried a lot of cafés and coffee spots, and I can honestly say this would be in my top 10 coffees worldwide. Smooth, rich, and absolutely spot-on , a real standout, so well done to the barista, and whoever sources those coffee beans! Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area. Amazing coffee, fantastic food, and such a welcoming team. Can’t wait to come back!

Hayes Common offers a light and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed breakfast. The scones are exceptional—fresh, buttery, and perfectly paired with their house-made spreads. If you’re looking for something lighter, the yoghurt is a standout, with a minty finish and beautifully presented with toasted coconut and seed toppings. The menu leans heavily toward egg-based dishes, so if you’re an egg enthusiast, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Overall, Hayes Common delivers a delightful experience with quality ingredients and a cozy vibe that keeps you coming back.

Very friendly staff. Seemed like the UN with a very multicultural staff. The location is wonderful. Definitely popular with the ladies in the afternoon. We stooped to have coffee and beer while we were on a walk along the mighty and spectacular Waikato river.

First time visiting this place. We stopped by on our way to another city with two friends, and it turned out to be a great choice. The atmosphere was lovely, the staff were friendly, and the food was delicious. One of my friends who loves taking photos especially enjoyed the place. There was also plenty of street parking, which was a bonus. Highly recommend!

A Delightful Brunch Spot Hayes Common is a charming restaurant café nestled in a quiet, friendly neighbourhood — the perfect place for a relaxed brunch. I ordered the Eggs Benedict, served on perfectly toasted English muffins with rocket hollandaise and roast mushrooms. The flavours were beautifully balanced, rich yet fresh, making each bite sumptuously delicious. My strong, full-bodied long black coffee paired wonderfully with the meal. For dessert, I indulged in a perfectly baked pain au chocolat — crisp, buttery layers with just the right amount of chocolate. The staff were attentive, warm, and accommodating, making the experience even more enjoyable. Calm and inviting, with a welcoming vibe that suits both solo visits and gatherings. Vegetarian options are available, and dietary adjustments are happily accommodated. It’s also kid-friendly, with plenty of easy parking nearby. A brunch here is a treat worth repeating.

Friendly, welcoming staff. Our first time dining here and was not disappointed! Seated and served water which always makes me happy. They have table service, not many cafes do anymore so it was nice. It was busy but food didn't take long. Coffees were perfectly made. My grilled eggplant salad was so tasty and filling, best salad I've had in a long time. Hubby had scrambled eggs on toast with bacon (didn't get a pic). Large serving and delicious. We look forward to going back again.

Great stop for breakfast in Hamilton! I loved the vegan breakfast plate (uncommoner) as there were many different aspects that came together well and were very filling. My partner loved the rosti Benedict as well. Tea selection was great and staff were very friendly

Great place, great atmosphere and great food. They had adequate vegan options and the food was delicious. I'd sure like to see more vegan options in the future. By the way, the coffee is delicious.

This is my local - In that I live not so far from here. For a neighbourhood cafe it's pretty stylish. The decor is tasteful, with cosy corner seating, long tables and two separate dining areas - one sort of bar the other cafe and also the outside seating. There's room for a bit more colour - It's so very tasteful! The food is really well prepared. Today I had a single Bao with belly pork and pickles. The pork was perfectly sticky, tender and delicious. I looked across at another table where they were eating a spectacular looking European raised pancake. I've seen them in books but not at a cafe before. The filling looked a bit fussy for my taste but still a dramatic brunch option. The apple tart my partner had was lovely too. Great presentation. Coffee very good. I had a cocktail seeing as it was the long weekend... that was nice. Other things to note - very well heeled clientele. Nice big bunch of flowers on one of the tables. Blankets for the knees if you're sitting outside and it's not a summers day.

Really great place for a Sunday morning breakfasts in the sun. The chia seed pudding with rhubarb was really tasty and wife's eggs bene was better than most.

Had a very pleasant brunch here this morning. After spending the night in Hamilton I went googling to find a decent cafe and came across Hayes Commons, which looked to have Auckland-yuppie hipster vibe, with a hint of industrial style... With high hopes we ventured out and were not disappointed with what we found. Good coffee, good food, good service. Recommend to any home-sick Aucklanders looking for a modern cafe in Hamilton, far surpassing the old fashioned cafes and lunchbars on the main street. (*Written by a patronising Auckland resident who ventured into the hinterlands one rainy weekend)

Great menu, welcoming staff and bustling vibe! Loved the decor and the range of craft beers too! Croque Madame and potato skins both major winners!! Great addition to the River Kitchen stable :-)

The 15 of us (adults youth and kids) walking in at 12:30 without a booking. The staff were super friendly and accomodating. The vibe is great, menu is interesting and diverse, coffee and food - fantastic ! Thank you!