As they say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Even when you eat too much and end up in a food coma before mid-day. When it comes to eating out for breakfast, we’re spoiled for choice with places to get a good feed in Brisbane. So we’ve rounded up some of our favourite spots to make things easier for you. Here’s our pick of 12 legendary Brisbane breakfast spots to check out.
1. Morning After, West End
Ever heard of breakfast carbonara? It’s the signature dish at West End spot Morning After. The innovative breakfast and brunch menu here features dishes like a moreish wagyu beef kapow and flavour-packed baked eggs.
But the real showstopper is the indulgent carbonara, complete with runny egg.
đź“Ť Cambridge St, West End
2. Little Hideout Café, Balmoral
In 2022, Little Hideout Café in Balmoral was named best avo toast in Australia. Yes, it’s a bold claim to say that something is the best in the country, but Avocados Australia went ahead and made their decision. And they’re the industry body representing Australian avocados so, look, they might know what they’re talking about.
We thought their avo on toast was delicious and we do recommend trying it for breakfast.
đź“Ť2/185 Riding Rd, Balmoral
3. Blue Bear Coffeehouse, New Farm
An absolute favourite when we’re out and about in New Farm, Blue Bear Coffeehouse is the perfect spot for a breakfast date. If you’re a fan of seafood in the morning, look no further than their delicious Salmon Bagel (I always get it). The Karaage chicken toastie is pretty darn good too.
đź“Ť92 James St, New Farm
4. Illusions by no.5, Fortitude Valley
We’re always on the hunt for interesting venues in Brisbane, and Illusion by no. 5 definitely fits the bill – the café and bar on Ann Street looks like something straight out of a black-and-white graphic novel.
At this mind-bending spot, you can expect to see a piano, furniture, murals and other small objects which have been drawn on by hand to create the 2D effect.
While the interiors may seem like the main attraction, Illusion by no. 5 also serves up a range of tasty breakfast and brunch eats, plus cocktails and coffee.
A highlight from their all-day breakfast menu is the weekend brunch boards for two, which include a bit of everything – grilled bacon, roasted tomato, mushrooms, hash browns, poached eggs, toasted sourdough, chorizo, halloumi, hollandaise, kale, yogurt and more. There’s even a vegan brunch board for plant-based eaters.
đź“Ť713 Ann St, Fortitude Valley
5. Lune Croissanterie, South Brisbane & Brisbane City
The pastries at Lune Croissanterie are the stuff of legend. In 2016, the New York Times declared that they had the best croissants in the world. And look, they could be right. Lune’s freshly baked pastries are an absolute treat, perfect for breakfast, and any other meal of the day.
đź“ŤBurnett Lane, shop 10/79, Adelaide St, Brisbane CBD / 15 Manning St, South Brisbane
6. To Be Or Not To Be, Westlake
Calling all lovers of classic literature, and those who find it equally romanticising. There’s a café tucked away in the heart of the Brisbane suburbs which is dedicated entirely to William Shakespeare, which includes a mural of Will himself, holding a cup of coffee in one hand and a skull in the other.
On the breakfast menu, you’ll find a selection of classic dishes such as eggs benny, breakfast tacos, paninis, burgers, salads, as well as sweet potato pancakes.
đź“Ť180 Westlake Dr, Westlake
7. Doughcraft, Albion
Located in Craft’d Grounds, Doughcraft is inspired by the tasty bread, pasta and pastry havens you might find in France or Italy.
Treat your sweet tooth to a selection of gourmet treats such as doughnuts, cruffins, Danishes, and flavoured meringues.
However, if you’re more of a savoury sailor, then you’ll also find meat-filled pastries, sausage rolls, beer-infused buns, gorgonzola breadsticks, and heartwarming paninis.
đź“Ť181 Mary St, Brisbane CBD
8. Project Salubrious, Burpengary
If you’re a foodie who eats free of gluten and dairy, this is one venue you’ll want to check out. Project Salubrious is nestled on the northside, and they’re serving up health-conscious plates that’ll bring your breakfast date to the next level.
On the brekky menu, you’ll find soft and fluffy pumpkin pancakes, cashew brioche with ham, spinach and mustard cream, as well as an omelette of the day.
đź“Ť143 Rowley Rd, Burpengary
9. Rise Bakery, Portside Wharf
Live out your Parisian dreams with all the pastries you can think of at Rise Bakery. Located at Portside Wharf, this elegant French bakery serves up everything from creamy ham and cheese croissants to quiches, tuna baguettes, desserts and more.
Rise Bakery even has a French champagne bar onsite in case you wanted to pair a glass of bubbles with your breakfast and brunch food.
đź“ŤShop 7.01F/39 Hercules St, Hamilton
10. Sorelle Eatery, St Lucia
One of Brisbane’s most stunning cafés is Sorelle Eatery, which is located in St Lucia. Grab the gang for an Italian-inspired breakfast or brunch, whether it be a spring onion crepe, Sicilian chilli scrambled eggs or lemon coconut ricotta hot cakes.
The eatery also doubles as a homewares store, so you can stock up on decor and fragrances while you’re there.
đź“Ť242 Hawken Dr, St Lucia
11. Picnic Café, West End
Say yes to all day breakfast. Because that’s what Picnic CafĂ© in West Village is all about. Think brekky ’til 2.30pm with options like Hong Kong-style French toast, eggs your way, Korokke Benedict, avo smash, and more.
đź“Ť111 Boundary St, West End
12. The New Black, Fortitude Valley
Offering breakfasts as healthy as they are plentiful and unique, this trendy spot puts its own spin on the classics with options like espresso waffle, zucchini & corn fritter and beef brisket croque madame on the menu.
You can also build your own breakfast at The New Black, and wash it down with one of their piping hot, quality brews.
đź“Ť694 Ann St, Fortitude Valley