Faradays cage:
Nestled in a side street in Fitzroy this café is bread filled sanctuary, with all breads and pastries made on sight. They have got all your favourite dishes, but without the same ol’ tired ingredients. Putting a fresh spin on the Melbourne favourites, Smashed Avocado (we know you’re sick of hearing about it) and Croque Madame are something to write home about.
325/329 Gore St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Archie’s All Day:
From the people who brought you the original Bluebird café, Archie’s All Day has established itself as a front runner for Melbourne brunch MVP. Archie’s is that friend you can always call, they are reliable and supportive. The coffee is excellent, the staff are always welcoming and the food is worth travelling for. Did I mention they serve damn fine Bloody Marys all day and you can book tables too? For your next birthday brunch look no further.
189 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Smith Street Alimentari:
If alimentari is Italian for ‘good food and camaraderie’, they had me at good food. Not only is the fit out an outdoors on the inside haven but the crew at Smith St bring their A game everytime with the freshest and tastiest food – special shout out to their toasted paninis. A tip on the sly for those immobilised by Saturday night behaviour, the rolls are available for take away, there is heaps to choose from and they’re truly amazing.
304 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066
Touchwood:
Touchwood is a veteran in the brunch game but there is a reason people still talk about it. The spacious café offer something for the ‘clean eater’ and plenty of options for those who prefer to indulge. Anywhere that can nail a ‘California Superfood Salad’ and a Double Cheeseburger before midday is a place you should visit. The Bridge road treasure has plenty of tables so if you’re not in a 20 minute-wait-mood Touchwood is a good option.
480 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121
Left Field:
The people who gifted Melbourne with Tall Timber and Rustica Canteen have again struck gold with this Middle Eastern accented brunch spot. You probably never had a reason to visit Carnegie, until now. The dishes are not only aesthetically pleasing, as flavourful as they are Instagram-able. The Smashed Pea Bruschetta with prosciutto, pesto, zucchini ribbons, goats cheese, all topped off with a poached egg is truly a brunch made in heaven.
358 Koornang Rd, Carnegie VIC 3163
Top Paddock:
Two words, ricotta hotcakes. These guys are to thank (or blame depending on who you’re asking) for edible flowers on your pancakes. Truly though, believe the hype about their blueberry ricotta maple soaked hotcakes. Just be prepared to wait, amongst the tourists for a table on the weekend.
658 Church St, Richmond VIC 3121
Square and Compass:
A happy medium between East Melbourne sophistication and new age trendy Melbourne café Square and Compass offer delicious food in a cosy nook of a hospital dominated area. Bridging the gap between old and new with smoothies, broccolini bowls and old favourites such as their daily house made tart. If you’re feeling bold on your next visit, try their signature crunchy peanut butter and cherry tomato dish. Sources say it’s delicious.
222 Clarendon St, East Melbourne VIC 3002
