There’s a certain charm to a late lunch. The midday rush has settled, the light softens and the best tables are finally up for grabs. For those who play by their own rules or simply can’t stomach a midday meal before 2 pm we've rounded up a collection of venues that not only stay open but shine during those off-peak hours.
From health-driven cafés and coastal seafood escapes to elevated pub feeds and Cali-Mexican cool, these are the best places to pull up a chair and indulge between lunch and dinner.
Bay City Burrito – St Kilda, Vic
Bringing a burst of San Francisco soul to Melbourne’s coastal playground, Bay City Burrito on Shakespeare Grove is a haven for those chasing flavour and sunshine well past lunch hour. The venue’s rainbow-hued wooden panelling and open kitchen layout bring a breezy, communal energy, making it a natural late lunch hangout. It's relaxed without being sleepy, vibrant without being loud - just the right kind of place to roll into with mates or solo, ready to tuck into something seriously satisfying.
Start with the smoky sweetness of Mexican grilled corn slathered in chipotle mayo and cheese or go bold with popcorn chicken and a squeeze of Kewpie mayo. The burritos are the stars here - try the carnitas-style pulled pork wrapped in a Roma tomato tortilla, loaded with brown rice, pineapple, pico de gallo and red chilli salsa. Not into pork? The crispy prawn tacos are a killer alternative, topped with chipotle mayo and lime for that perfect citrus kick.
Book your spot and stay long enough to watch the sunset roll in.
Railway Hotel – Gilgandra, NSW
Tucked into the historic bones of a building that’s stood proud since 1910, the Railway Hotel in Gilgandra is a time capsule with modern flair. Its warm, pub-style hospitality draws a loyal crowd of locals and travellers alike, especially those cruising through the afternoon with a hunger that’s more than a snack but not quite dinner. Expect vintage charm, cool beers and hearty plates that taste like comfort on a plate.
Go for the schnitzel burger - crispy, golden chicken between toasted buns - or get social with a pizza to share. The Old Italian is a standout, pairing sun-dried tomato and feta with capsicum and ham over a herb-flecked tomato base. Prefer pub classics? A juicy steak burger and golden chips are ready to meet you at the bar.
Take a detour and call ahead to reserve a table for the ultimate late-arvo unwind.
Gabriella’s at the Grove – Hurstville Grove, NSW
Gabriella’s at the Grove, nestled in leafy Hurstville Grove, hits the sweet spot between local gem and café sophistication. Bathed in natural light and buzzing with chilled-out energy, this Seymour Street spot knows how to cater to everyone from laptop warriors to leisurely lunchers looking to decompress after a long morning. Here, lunch blends into late arvo with ease and no one’s watching the clock.
The spaghetti with blue swimmer crab brings coastal elegance to the suburbs, cooked with sun-dried tomato, lemon and fennel for a fresh yet rich bite. Alternatively, dive into fish tacos with battered flathead, pickled slaw, creamy avocado and a hit of chilli-lime mayo - a textural masterpiece with just enough zing.
Swing by for a table under the trees or ring ahead to beat the lunch-to-dinner lull.
Unicorn Seafood Restaurant – Broadbeach, Qld
At Unicorn Seafood Restaurant in Broadbeach, the ocean isn’t just a view it’s the inspiration behind every plate. White-washed interiors, nautical blues and fairy lights set the scene for an unexpectedly enchanting late lunch. Whether you're escaping the beach crowd or looking for a luxe refuel post-swim, this is your go-to destination for seafood with style.
The showstopper is the seafood platter stacked with everything from King prawns and smoked salmon to BBQ bugs and lobster mornay. It’s indulgent, generous and just the right kind of messy. Prefer your ocean fare with carbs? Go for the smoked salmon fettuccine - silky, creamy and kissed with pesto and herbs.
Call ahead and make it a long lunch you won’t want to end.
Body and Mind Café – Carina, Qld
Located just steps from a gym and pool, Body and Mind Café in Carina is a sanctuary for health-conscious diners who don’t want to compromise on flavour. With its laid-back atmosphere and nutrient-packed menu, this Brisbane café is proof that wholesome can still be delicious and that lunch at 3 pm can be just as energising as your morning spin class.
The grilled salmon tacos are a tropical delight, laced with mango, herbs and a hit of lime, while the steak sandwich comes stacked with BBQ sauce and crispy onions. For something more substantial, the pesto-crusted chicken with quinoa, sun-dried tomato and feta offers both comfort and nutritional punch.
Get in early or order ahead to fuel your afternoon the tasty way.
Whether you're sneaking in a long lunch or bridging the gap between brunch and dinner, these venues offer more than just good food; they offer atmosphere, soul and that rarest of luxuries: time well spent. So, skip the sad desk snack or the takeaway rut. Linger, sip and savour the quiet glory of the late lunch club.
