Whether you're strolling through the Illawarra’s coastal calm or drifting into Brisbane’s leafy inner suburbs, brunch has long transcended its mid-morning timeslot to become a cultural institution. It’s more than just a meal - it’s a mood, an indulgence and, at its best, an excuse to linger a little longer.
We’ve scoured both coasts to uncover five venues where brunch isn’t just good - it’s the main event. Expect housemade brilliance, bold pairings and a strong caffeine game to match.
Here are five standouts delivering brunch with serious style:
Bombora Seafood - Wollongong, NSW
Overlooking the glimmering expanse of Wollongong Harbour, Bombora Seafood is where coastal elegance meets relaxed dining. This waterfront gem sits directly on the jetty, boasting a breezy, open-air charm and a smart-casual atmosphere that suits everything from morning Mimosas to late lunches. While the waves crash below, you’re cocooned in a space that feels deliberately slow-paced - ideal for lazy brunches with friends or long-awaited catch-ups with the family.
On the menu, the star of the show is the 'Roaring Bombora': a generous plate of signature scrambled eggs topped with smoked salmon, seared prawns and a blistered roast tomato, all piled high on toasted sourdough. The seafood is as fresh as the salt-kissed air outside, making this dish a fitting tribute to its location. Pair it with a crisp white or an early espresso Martini and prepare to settle in.
Ready to dine with a view? Book your table at Bombora and indulge by the sea.
Minnamurra General Store - Minnamurra, NSW
Tucked away in the quiet beauty of Minnamurra, this charming café is as much a community hub as it is a destination brunch spot. The Minnamurra General Store blends small-town warmth with elevated café culture - think rustic interiors, an open kitchen and the intoxicating scent of fresh baking that drifts through the air. Locals linger over coffee while sandy-footed beachgoers arrive fresh from a dip in the river, drawn in by the wholesome energy and hearty plates.
The falafel bowl is a standout for the plant-based crowd and anyone craving something colourful and nourishing. It arrives loaded with spinach, grated carrot, cherry tomato, red onion and chickpeas, with housemade tzatziki and beetroot hummus bringing freshness and tang. It’s vibrant, satisfying and the kind of dish that makes you feel good about your choices.
Drop in after a beach stroll and secure your spot at Minnamurra’s favourite brunch escape.
Camp Hill Antique Centre & Tart Cafe - Camp Hill, Qld
Eclectic, whimsical and utterly original, Tart Café inside the Camp Hill Antique Centre is where vintage vibes collide with standout brunch fare. Nestled among retro treasures and colourful collectibles, this café is like dining inside a time capsule - albeit one where the coffee is hot and the food refreshingly modern. With a bustling atmosphere and ever-changing displays, it’s a feast for the eyes before your plate even hits the table.
Don’t miss the crisp gnocchi - a surprising brunch dish that delivers comfort with flair. Served with roasted butternut pumpkin, fresh peas and tomato, all wrapped in a silky tomato fondue, this one’s finished with peppery rocket and creamy bocconcini. It’s an unexpected hero on a menu full of morning staples, making it perfect for those who want something a little different.
Craving nostalgia with your gnocchi? Reserve your spot at Tart Café now.
One Table Cafe Kenmore - Kenmore, Qld
Overlooking native treetops with a chilled-out deck perfect for soaking up Brisbane’s subtropical air, One Table Café is a local secret that deserves a broader audience. This laidback retreat feels more like a good friend’s verandah than a restaurant, with its pet-friendly policy, earthy tones and ever-cheerful baristas. From quiet solo brunches to group get-togethers, it’s the kind of spot that makes you want to linger long after your last bite.
Simple done well is the mantra here, best exemplified by the eggs your way on toast offering. Think perfectly poached or scrambled eggs resting on thick-cut sourdough, served with a side of serenity. You can dress it up with extras like mushrooms, smashed avo or grilled halloumi, but even in its base form, it’s a brunch classic done right.
Chasing a peaceful morning in Kenmore? Book your seat at One Table Café today.
If you’re searching for brunch with personality and punch, Silver Spoon in Beachmere is your go-to. This beachside café brings coastal cool with an inventive menu that refuses to play it safe. Inside, there’s a lively local energy, but for maximum vibes, grab a table outside and soak in the ocean breeze while sipping your flat white.
The brekky burger here is a banger - stacked high with double bacon, fried eggs, smashed avo and a drizzle of housemade Hollandaise, all packed into warm toasted buns. It’s the kind of thing you order when you’re hungry and leave feeling like you just made the best decision of the day. It’s salty, creamy, crunchy and hits every craving note without apology.
Up for a bold bite by the beach? Lock in your brunch date at Silver Spoon now.
Whether you're craving a soul-nourishing salad, a seafood spectacle or just the perfect poached egg, these venues prove that brunch isn’t a time - it’s a lifestyle. From harbour views to antique-laden interiors, the scene is as diverse as the dishes.
So go on - brunch like you mean it.
