Melbourne is hands down Australia’s food capital. Eating in the city is a culinary experience like no other. I’m yet to find another city which can compete with the quality and diversity of Melbourne’s eateries – and I’m from London!
As a Brit, I love breakfast and I’ve become accustomed to the occasional brunch outing. But, I’ve never had brunch like this, not at this level. And that’s simply because Melburnians own brunch! It’s a movement over there with no sign of slowing down. Melbourne’s brunch culture is second to none and I’m not even exaggerating.
I’m talking more brunch cafes than you can count, food sourced from fresh local produce, flavor fusions which will astound your palette, and beautiful food styling where ingredients are transformed into artwork.
Every brunch experience left me longing for more. I’ve never seen such varied brunch menu options where you can order anything from multiple smoothie bowls, burgers with Asian-inspired fillings, protein-packed dishes, vegan varieties, fluffy hotcakes, eggs any way to delicious toast toppings like smashed avocado with feta.
On that note, I’m going to share with you my favourite Melbourne brunch spots…
TINKER – Northcote
My first brunch in Melbourne took place at Tinker in Northcote. Northcote is a trendy suburb with a village feel, home to musicians, artists and hipsters. It gave me serious Shoreditch vibes!
Tinker is a cosy café with welcoming staff. The décor is minimalist which allows the food to do the talking and you guessed right, it was delish!
What we ordered:
- Herb & Feta Smashed Avo with tomatoes, radish and chili on dark rye.
- Jaffa Hot Cakes with orange curd, dark chocolate swirled meringue and vanilla mascarpone.
- Smashed Peas with beetroot, labne, feta, quinoa, halloumi and extra poached egg
- Chilli Scrambled Eggs with bacon, cherry tomatoes, shallots and sourdough.
- Matcha Lattes, Coffees and Peanut Butter & Raspberry Smoothie.
Everyone devoured their plates with everything not only tasting amazing, but looking it too.
MATCHA MYLKBAR – St Kilda
Matcha Mylkbar is situated a stone’s throw from St Kilda beach and its seaside attractions. It’s one of Melbourne’s many plant-based cafes, which produces great tasting food for both vegans and those who enjoy eating green. On the inside, Matcha Mylkbar café has pretty plant interiors giving a bohemian feel.
Their food menu is varied as is their latte selection, with tasty unique options to choose from:
What we ordered:
- Acai Protein Bowl with banana, peanut butter, cacao powder, almond mylk, plant protein powder, summer fruits and granola.
- Nacho Toast with guacamole, chipotle beans, crispy tortillas, sour cream, jalapenos on sourdough toast.
- Blue Algae (Smurf) Latte with live e3 algae, pineapple, ginger, almond mylk, coconut nectar – one of the tastiest blends I’ve ever had.
- Matcha Latte – which oddly enough didn’t live up to our matcha expectations!
It’s the perfect weekend spot for a late breakfast, followed by a relaxing stroll along the beach.
THE GLASS DEN – Coburg
The Glass Den in Coburg has a rather colourful history. What was once a part of Pentridge Prison is now a bright & friendly cafe & courtyard called The Glass Den. Yes, you read right, the prison building has been revived & converted into a popular Melbourne brunch spot! The menu is Asian inspired, with exotic flavours and colours which make you feel like you’re eating the rainbow.
What we ordered:
- Nourish Bowl with salmon, pickled ginger, avocado and edamame
- Gochujang burger featuring spicy Korean style chicken in a beetroot bun with slaw – I didn’t realise the burger was made from chicken thigh, not my favourite 😦 I prefer breast
- Purple Taro Latte with almond milk which is made from the sweet & nutty taro root vegetable – which tasted sweet like candy, amazing!
What’s more, they serve hotcakes, a selection of smoothie and have vegan options too!
BENTWOOD – Fitzroy
Avo-toast is a Melbourne brunch staple. You’ll find it on almost every menu. My favourite has to be Bentwood’s. Bentwood café is located in Melbourne’s hip suburb, Fitzroy. Fitzroy is home to vintage shops, local designers, eclectic bars and corner pubs. It’s got a real urban feel about it with its walls heavily decorated with street art.
Interior wise, Bentwood is pretty spacious with exposed brick walls, yet warm and cosy at the same time thanks to its rich tones of brown, burgundy and orange. I’d read about Bentwood’s wholesome brunch and it didn’t disappoint!
What I ordered:
- Avocado & Feta Smash with fresh chilli, pomegranate and beetroot powder.
- Matcha Latte – great matcha at that!
If you’re in town be sure to stop by Bentwood for a flavoursome, filling brunch worth every bite. And then indulge in some retail therapy!
My one and only complaint about Melbourne cafes is that they close too early! Most spots are shut by 3pm and some by 4pm, if you’re lucky.
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