Brunch Bliss: The Best Spots for a Delicious Morning in Melbourne

 

Melbourne is known for many things—vibrant street art, world-class coffee, and a thriving food scene. But if there’s one meal that Melburnians take seriously, it’s brunch. Whether you’re after a classic smashed avocado on toast, a decadent stack of pancakes, or a hearty big breakfast, Melbourne’s brunch scene has something for everyone.

From cosy neighborhood cafés to chic city hotspots, here’s your ultimate guide to the best brunch restaurants in Melbourne.

1. Rocksalt – The Instagram Mable Brunch Spot

📍 360 Bay St, Brighton VIC 3186, Australia

Rocksalt is one of Melbourne’s most iconic brunch destinations, offering an elevated dining experience with its striking interiors and flavor-packed dishes. Housed in a heritage-listed building, this café-meets-restaurant hybrid delivers a sophisticated twist on classic brunch fare.

Must-Try Dishes:

🥑 Ricotta Hotcakes – Served with seasonal berries, maple syrup, and double cream. A must for sweet brunch lovers.

🍞 Smashed Avocado on Sourdough – Featuring whipped feta, sesame seeds, and a citrus dressing.

🍳 Chilli Scrambled Eggs – Perfectly spiced and served with thick-cut sourdough.

☕ Why You'll Love It: Stunning interiors, beautifully plated dishes, and an extensive coffee menu.

2. The Kettle Black – A Melbourne Brunch Classic

📍 50 Albert Rd, South Melbourne

A sister café to Higher Ground, The Kettle Black seamlessly blends refined dining with relaxed café vibes. The elegant white Victorian terrace contrasts beautifully with its modern, minimalist interiors, making it one of Melbourne’s most picturesque brunch spots.

Must-Try Dishes:

🥞 Hotcakes with Seasonal Fruit – A signature dish that’s just as delicious as it is photogenic.

🥑 Avocado & Polenta Toast – A fresh twist on the classic avo toast, served with lime and coriander.

🐟 Kingfish Crudo with Poached Eggs – A sophisticated dish for seafood lovers.

☕ Why You'll Love It: A stylish setting, gourmet-style brunch dishes, and an indulgent all-day menu.

3. Top Paddock – A Café with a View

📍 658 Church St, Richmond

Nestled in the heart of Richmond, Top Paddock is a Melbourne institution known for its innovative brunch menu, fresh seasonal produce, and bustling atmosphere. Whether you're meeting friends for a long, leisurely brunch or grabbing a quick bite before exploring the city, this café never disappoints.

Must-Try Dishes:

🥑 Smashed Avocado with Smoked Curds – A flavour-packed take on the Melbourne classic.

🍤 Blue Swimmer Crab Scramble – Creamy scrambled eggs with fresh crab and house-made chilli oil.

🥓 Top Paddock Breakfast – A full breakfast plate featuring free-range eggs, bacon, chorizo, and house-made relish.

☕ Why You'll Love It: Spacious indoor and outdoor seating, excellent specialty coffee, and fresh, seasonal produce.

4. Lune Croissanterie – The Best Croissants in Melbourne

📍 119 Rose St, Fitzroy & 161 Collins St, Melbourne CBD

If you prefer a Parisian-style brunch, Lune Croissanterie is the ultimate spot. Known for its meticulously crafted croissants, Lune has become a Melbourne icon, drawing both locals and tourists for a taste of its world-class pastries.

Must-Try Dishes:

🥐 Classic Croissant – Buttery, flaky, and perfectly golden.

🥐 Pain au Chocolat – Rich chocolate encased in a crisp, delicate pastry.

🥐 Almond Croissant – A crowd-favourite filled with almond frangipane and topped with flaked almonds.

☕ Why You'll Love It: The croissants here are often called the best outside of France, and the minimalist café setup allows the pastries to shine.

5. Hardware Société – A French-Inspired Brunch Spot

📍 10 Katherine Pl, Melbourne CBD

A Melbourne brunch staple, Hardware Société combines French flavours with classic brunch favourites. With an inviting atmosphere and a menu full of rich, indulgent dishes, this café is perfect for those who like their brunch with a European twist.

Must-Try Dishes:

🍞 Brioche French Toast – Topped with berries, vanilla mascarpone, and maple syrup.

🍳 Baked Eggs with Chorizo – Served in a rich tomato sauce with crusty sourdough.

🦞 Lobster Benedict – A luxurious take on the classic eggs Benedict.

☕ Why You'll Love It: A charming Parisian-style café with indulgent, flavour-packed dishes.

6. Auction Rooms – The Coffee Lover’s Haven

📍 103-107 Errol St, North Melbourne

For those who take their coffee seriously, Auction Rooms is a must-visit. Located in a converted auction house, this industrial-chic café is known for its exceptional house-roasted coffee and hearty brunch offerings.

Must-Try Dishes:

🥑 Avo & Dukkah on Toast – A Middle Eastern-inspired twist on smashed avocado.

🍳 Chilli Scrambled Eggs – Perfectly spiced with fresh herbs and served on sourdough.

🍔 Breakfast Burger – Featuring a fried egg, bacon, cheese, and house-made relish.

☕ Why You'll Love It: Some of the best coffee in Melbourne, combined with a relaxed, airy setting.

7. Industry Beans – Brunch with a Side of Specialty Coffee

📍 3/62 Rose St, Fitzroy

Located in Fitzroy, Industry Beans is a modern café and coffee roastery that has made a name for itself with its specialty coffee and creative brunch dishes. If you’re a coffee aficionado, this is the place to be.

Must-Try Dishes:

🥞 Coffee-Rubbed Wagyu Burger – A unique brunch burger featuring wagyu beef seasoned with coffee.

🥑 Avo & Sourdough with Beetroot Hummus – A fresh and colourful take on a Melbourne staple.

🥛 Cold Brew Flight – A must-try for coffee lovers looking to experience different brewing techniques.

☕ Why You'll Love It: Cutting-edge coffee innovations paired with a thoughtfully curated menu.

8. Archie's All Day – The Ultimate All-Day Brunch Spot

📍 189 Gertrude St, Fitzroy

As the name suggests, Archie’s All Day serves brunch favourites from morning until evening. Located in hipster-friendly Fitzroy, this café has a relaxed atmosphere, a pet-friendly outdoor area, and an eclectic menu.

Must-Try Dishes:

🍳 Shakshuka – A Moroccan-inspired baked egg dish with spicy tomato sauce.

🥑 Green Breakfast Bowl – Featuring quinoa, kale, avo, and poached eggs.

🥞 Ricotta Pancakes – Light, fluffy, and topped with seasonal fruits and honey.

☕ Why You'll Love It: A laid-back vibe with great food, all-day breakfast, and excellent cocktails.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s brunch culture is second to none, offering everything from classic smashed avo on toast to high-end French pastries and globally inspired creations. Whether you're after an elegant dining experience or a casual café vibe, there’s a spot in Melbourne to satisfy your brunch cravings.

Next time you plan a brunch date, check out one of these top Brighton restaurants and indulge in the city's best morning meals! ☕🥞🍳