Living in Melbourne with my husband and our three kids, I’ve spent years exploring every corner of this vibrant city.
From early morning coffee runs before school drop-offs to weekend brunch dates with friends, I’ve made it my mission to find the best spots that offer delicious food, great coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Brunch isn’t just a meal in Melbourne—it’s a cultural experience. Whether I’m savoring fluffy ricotta pancakes at a cosy café, enjoying third-wave coffee in a bustling laneway, or indulging in a long brunch with my family on a lazy Sunday, I know that finding the perfect spot matters.
So, if you’re wondering where to get the best brunch in Melbourne, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of my favorite cafes, each offering something unique and memorable.
Contents
- 1 Top 15 Brunch Spots in Melbourne
- 1.1 1. Archie’s All Day
- 1.2 2. The Kettle Black
- 1.3 3. St Ali (South Melbourne)
- 1.4 4. Flovie Florist Cafe (Carlton)
- 1.5 5. Operator 25 (CBD)
- 1.6 6. The Hardware Société (CBD)
- 1.7 7. Higher Ground (CBD)
- 1.8 8. Rustica Sourdough (Hawthorn)
- 1.9 9. Two Birds One Stone
- 1.10 10. Light Years
- 1.11 11. Brick Lane
- 1.12 12. Bowery to Williamsburg (CBD)
- 1.13 13. Axil Coffee Roasters (Hawthorn)
- 1.14 14. Three Bags Full (Abbotsford)
- 1.15 15. Miss Frank (Camberwell)
- 1.16 Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne
- 1.17 Best Restaurants in Melbourne
Top 15 Brunch Spots in Melbourne
1. Archie’s All Day
Archie’s All Day is my go-to spot for a fun, energetic brunch experience.
The first time I visited, I was hooked by their ricotta hotcakes with lemon curd and yuzu meringue—a good dish I still dream about!
Whether you’re catching up with friends or soaking in Fitzroy’s creative vibe, Archie’s never disappoints.
- Best for: Lively atmosphere & creative brunch dishes
- Location: 189 Gertrude St, Fitzroy, VIC 3065
- Hours: Mon- Sun, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
2. The Kettle Black
Tucked inside a Victorian terrace, The Kettle Black is as beautiful as it is delicious. I came here for a special brunch with my husband, and their hotcakes blew us away with seasonal berries, double cream, and maple syrup—a dish so photogenic and flavorful that it’s now a staple on our brunch dates.
- Best for: Instagram-worthy brunch in a historic setting
- Location: 50 Albert Rd, South Melbourne, VIC 3205
- Hours: Mon- Fri, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Sat- Sun 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
3. St Ali (South Melbourne)
If you’re a serious coffee lover, St Ali is non-negotiable. I was introduced to this place by a fellow coffee enthusiast, and after my first sip of their signature Colombian pour-over, I knew I’d found my caffeine haven. Their My Mexican Cousin corn fritters are also a must-try!
- Best for: Specialty coffee & industrial-chic ambiance
- Location: 12-18 Yarra Pl, South Melbourne, VIC 3205
- Hours: Mon- Sun, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
4. Flovie Florist Cafe (Carlton)
I first stumbled upon Flovie while looking for a cosy cafe to unwind after a busy morning with the kids. The floral-themed decor and peaceful ambiance were precisely what I needed!
Their rose latte and delicate chiffon cakes are an absolute treat, making it one of my top choices for a quiet, refreshing brunch.
- Best for: A relaxing brunch with floral vibes
- Location: 279 Victoria St, Carlton VIC 3053
Hours: Mon- Sun, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
5. Operator 25 (CBD)
Melbourne’s multicultural food scene shines at Operator 25. I remember bringing my foodie friend here, and we were blown away by their matcha hotcakes and Korean-style fried chicken burger. This is the place to be if you’re in the mood for something different and exciting.
- Best for: Asian-fusion brunch with bold flavors
- Location: 25 Wills St, Melbourne, VIC 3000
- Hours: Mon- Fri, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM; Sat- Sun, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
6. The Hardware Société (CBD)
My love affair with The Hardware Société started years ago when I stumbled in on a cold winter morning, craving something warm and comforting.
Their lobster benedict was a revelation—rich, indulgent, and perfectly balanced. Paired with a creamy cappuccino, it instantly became one of my favorite Melbourne brunch experiences.
Their European-inspired dishes and cosy ambiance make this an ideal spot for a slow, relaxing brunch—whether catching up with friends or enjoying a solo meal with a book.
- Best for: French-inspired brunch with a cosy vibe
- Location: 10 Katherine Pl, Melbourne, VIC 3000
- Hours: Mon-Sun, 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
7. Higher Ground (CBD)
Stepping into Higher Ground feels like entering a New York loft meets a five-star hotel. With lofty ceilings, natural light, and sophisticated decor, this is where I go when I want to treat myself to a refined brunch experience.
The first time I visited, I was torn between their spiced cauliflower scramble and house-made crumpets with whipped ricotta and honeycomb—both were exceptional. It’s the kind of place where every dish feels like a work of art, making it perfect for special occasions or a brunch date with someone you want to impress.
- Best for: Upscale brunch in a grand setting
- Location: 650 Little Bourke St, Melbourne, VIC 3000
- Hours: Mon-Sun, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
8. Rustica Sourdough (Hawthorn)
If there’s one thing I never skip at brunch, it’s excellent bread—and Rustica Sourdough does it better than anyone. Their charcoal sourdough avocado toast is my go-to, but I’ve also fallen in love with their lamington croissant (yes, you read that right!).
I love swinging by Rustica for a laid-back brunch with the kids—they adore their freshly baked pain au chocolat, while I enjoy a firm, flat white and a buttery croissant. If you’re a pastry lover, this is a must-visit.
- Best for: Artisanal bread and baked goods
- Location: 501 Toorak Rd, Toorak, VIC 3142
- Hours: Mon- Sun, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
9. Two Birds One Stone
Nestled in South Yarra, Two Birds One Stone is a spot I visit when I want a quiet, elegant brunch experience. The interior is minimalist and modern, creating a peaceful escape from the buzz of the city.
Their ricotta pancakes with honeycomb butter are blissful, and their corn fritters with avocado salsa always hit the spot. It’s also one of the best places to have a proper conversation over brunch, thanks to its relaxed vibe and impeccable service.
- Best for: Fresh, seasonal dishes in a stylish setting
- Location: 12 Claremont St, South Yarra, VIC 3141
- Hours: Mon- Sun, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
10. Light Years
Light Years is one of Melbourne’s newer brunch spots, but it has quickly earned a place on my favorites list. The first time I visited, I was drawn in by their sleek, modern design, but their menu won me.
Their charcoal waffles with coconut ice cream and mango are a game-changer, and their smashed avo with house-made dukkah is among the best I’ve had. Light Years is for you if you love cafes that push the boundaries with flavors and presentation.
- Best for: Creative, seasonal brunch dishes
- Location: 132 Camberwell Rd, Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
- Hours: Mon-Sun, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
11. Brick Lane
Tucked away in a charming laneway, Brick Lane combines Melbourne’s love for coffee and brunch with a modern twist. I first visited on a spontaneous brunch outing and was instantly impressed by their colorful smoothie bowls and hearty breakfast burritos.
Their buttermilk pancakes with mascarpone and fresh berries are a personal favorite, and if you’re feeling adventurous, their chai-spiced French toast is a must-try.
Plus, their hidden-laneway location makes it feel like a true Melbourne gem.
- Best for: Contemporary brunch with global influences
- Location: 33 Guildford Ln, Melbourne, VIC 3000
- Hours: Mon-Sun, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
12. Bowery to Williamsburg (CBD)
If you love New York-style bagels, pastrami sandwiches, and bottomless coffee, Bowery to Williamsburg is your go-to brunch spot.
I first came here craving something different from Melbourne’s usual brunch fare, and their Reuben sandwich and homemade pickles blew me away.
Their cream cheese-stuffed bagels are some of the best in town, and their banana bread with espresso butter is pure indulgence. It’s the perfect place if you’re after a hearty, satisfying brunch with bold flavors.
- Best for: New York-style brunch with a Melbourne twist
- Location: 16 Oliver Ln, Melbourne, VIC 3000
- Hours: Mon- Fri, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM; Sat- Sun, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
13. Axil Coffee Roasters (Hawthorn)
Coffee lovers, this one’s for you! Axil Coffee Roasters is my go-to spot for a perfectly brewed flat white paired with a simple but delicious brunch.
I remember visiting with a friend obsessed with single-origin coffee, and we spent the morning sampling their expertly brewed espressos.
Their chilli scrambled eggs with feta and herbs are a must-try, and their pastries are baked fresh daily. If coffee quality is your top priority, Axil never disappoints.
- Best for: Specialty coffee & casual brunch
- Location: 322 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn, VIC 3122
- Hours: Mon- Sun, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
14. Three Bags Full (Abbotsford)
Three Bags Full is the place if you’re looking for a warm, welcoming brunch spot with a local community feel. I first discovered this café after a Sunday morning stroll along the Yarra River, and it quickly became one of my favorite places to unwind.
Their slow-cooked pork shoulder on toast with poached eggs is rich and flavorful, while their smashed avocado with beetroot hummus is light yet satisfying. It’s the perfect brunch spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a great meal in a relaxed setting.
- Best for: Cosy brunch with a local feel
- Location: 60 Nicholson St, Abbotsford, VIC 3067
- Hours: Tue-Fri, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Sat-Sun: 8.00 AM to 3:00 PM, Mon- Closed
15. Miss Frank (Camberwell)
As a mum, I love finding brunch spots that cater to families without compromising quality, and Miss Frank ticks all the boxes.
The first time I brought my kids here, they devoured their banana pancakes while I enjoyed a house-made granola bowl with fresh berries and yogurt.
With plenty of space, friendly staff, and a relaxed atmosphere, Miss Frank is one of my top picks for brunch with the family. The smoothies and fresh juices are an excellent stop for a healthy, nourishing meal.
- Best for: Family-friendly brunch & wholesome dishes
- Location: 200 Through Rd, Camberwell, VIC 3124
- Hours: Mon- Fri, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sat- Sun: 8.00 AM – 4.00 PM
Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne
Melbourne’s love for brunch gets even better when paired with bottomless cocktails, sparkling wine, or mimosas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a leisurely weekend feast, the city offers a variety of bottomless brunch options to suit every taste.
From stylish rooftop venues serving free-flowing spritzes to cosy cafés offering unlimited espresso martinis, there’s no shortage of great spots to explore. If you’re looking for the best bottomless brunch experiences in Melbourne, check out Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne for a guide to the top venues serving endless drinks and delicious food.
Best Restaurants in Melbourne
Melbourne’s dining scene is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from fine dining to hidden laneway gems. Whether you’re craving modern Australian cuisine, authentic Italian, or innovative Asian fusion, the city has it all.
If you’re looking for top-rated restaurants that deliver unforgettable meals, check out our Best Restaurants in Melbourne guide. It highlights must-visit spots, from renowned establishments to hidden culinary treasures.