Images Pony and Cole
For almost a decade, a sweet Hindmarsh cafe has become a neighbourhood sanctuary. Where regulars are greeted like old friends, the menu is kept fresh and some locals have been known to drop in twice in the same day.
That community-first approach has now earned Pony & Cole another major accolade at the 2026 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence, taking out Casual Dining of the Year for the second time as well as winning the Café Dining category.
The Café Dining win came against a strong showing of South Australian finalists, including Caffe Buongiorno in O’Halloran Hill, Café Va Bene in Campbelltown, Crafers Bakehouse in Crafers and Home Ground in Adelaide.
For owner and head chef Nicolle Hahn, the double win was as unexpected as it was emotional.
“Honestly, it was a surprise because we were up against such great casual restaurants … I just couldn’t believe it, I was blown away,” Nicolle said.
“I am humbled by this incredibly special moment. To win these two awards is a testament to my staff and the commitment of our whole team, who work hard every day to bring their best.”
While the food and relaxed atmosphere undoubtedly play a part, Nicolle believes the real foundation of Pony & Cole is the people behind the counter, in the kitchen and around the tables each day.
“I think it’s getting people who genuinely care and then really supporting them.”
That philosophy means placing a strong emphasis on staff education, giving team members opportunities to grow and taking the time to understand who they are beyond their role at the cafe. It is an approach that has helped shape the relaxed, familiar atmosphere Pony and Cole has become known for.
“We play tunes and the staff are extremely friendly … as soon as someone walks through the door, they’re greeted by everyone around them.”
That same sense of familiarity extends beyond the cafe doors.
“I’m just part of the community. I love helping out and have a great relationship with the businesses around here too.”
“That’s probably the key to our success, just be yourself and get out there and help people.”
The menu rotates every few months, giving regulars something new to come back for while keeping a handful of favourites firmly in place like the steak sandwich. The monthly pancake special gives Nicolle room to tap into her long-held love of breakfast food. This month’s Pancake of the Month features a fresh combination of blood orange and rhubarb.
The latest accolades also arrived at particularly fitting moment for the team, doubling as an impressive ninth birthday present. Next year, Pony and Cole will celebrate a decade in Hindmarsh, and Nicolle says there is plenty being planned behind the scenes that she cannot wait to reveal over the coming months.
After nine years of changing menus and countless conversations, Pony and Cole has become more than somewhere to grab a meal. Its latest additions to the trophy cabinet suggest the wider hospitality industry has taken notice too.
Pony and Cole
Where: 6 Manton St, Hindmarsh SA 5007
For more information visit their website.
Click here to view the full list of winners.
