Looking for the best brunch in Melbourne? Here are 23 spots worth the wait.
By DineGuides Team·Updated March 2026
Finding the perfect brunch spot in Melbourne can feel overwhelming. There are hundreds of options, and not all of them deliver. We’ve done the legwork, considering everything from vibe to value. Whether you’re a local looking for something new or visiting for the first time, these are the brunch spots that consistently impress.
Melbourne’s Top 5 (Verified 2026 Scores)
Eliana Lulu(85) — Weekend brunch
Ming Dining | Peking Duck, Chinese Cantonese Restaurant(85) — Date night
Fandango - Hanoi Vietnamese Restaurant(84) — Weekend brunch
Why do so many brunch spots in Melbourne have long waits even with seemingly empty tables?
Melbourne's brunch culture operates on a table-turn system where venues allocate seatings in blocks rather than seating as tables become available. A table may appear empty but is reserved for a later seating slot. Tables are typically held for 90 minutes to 2 hours, so arriving during peak times (9am-11am weekends) means waiting for the next scheduled seating window, even if some tables sit vacant.
What's the tipping practice at Melbourne brunch venues, and does it differ from dinner?
Tipping in Melbourne is discretionary at both brunch and dinner, though the custom is becoming more common across the hospitality sector. Many venues include a service charge or tip option on card payments, but cash tips are not expected. A 10% tip for good service is considered generous rather than standard, and many diners leave no tip without social obligation.
Are there neighborhood clusters where brunch quality is concentrated, and what's the best time to visit them?
Melbourne's brunch scene clusters strongly in inner suburbs including Fitzroy, Carlton, South Yarra, and the CBD laneways, where you'll find the highest density of options within walking distance. Weekend mornings between 7am-9am tend to have shorter waits than the 10am-noon peak, and weekday brunch outside these neighborhoods often has minimal wait times if you're seeking a more relaxed experience.
This Melbourne laneway cafe serves generous portions of fresh, flavorful food, making it a go-to for breakfast and brunch. The staff are well-regarded for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
🍽️88Food
✨85Vibe
👋88Service
💬
“Great atmosphere. Friendly staff. This was the first place we tried for breakfast and was our favorite during our trip.”
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“The Paella danced in our mouths Fresh prawns, mussels, calamari, chicken and chorizo. The flavours were just Beautiful !!”
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“Perfect place for a brunch in Melbourne, located in one of the most iconic alleyways in the city.”
Ideal for
Weekend brunchGroup diningSolo dining
85DineGuides Score
Ming Dining | Peking Duck, Chinese Cantonese Restaurant
Ming Dining offers a refined take on modern Cantonese cuisine, with a particular highlight being their expertly prepared Peking Duck. The restaurant cultivates a warm and elegant atmosphere, making it suitable for both intimate dates and lively group celebrations.
🍽️86Food
✨88Vibe
👋92Service
💬
“Shawn and Kai were such amazing host made our night very memorable, food was fantastic 10/10 and music was great.”
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“Absolutely amazing experience doing the bottomless here for our friends birthday! Kai took amazing care of us and the food was phenomenal”
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“The new $58 Golden Ming Menu is such amazing value — you get two cocktails or wines included (non-alcoholic options too), and every dish feels like fine dining …”
This North Melbourne cafe offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese flavors, particularly shining with its banh mi and unique coffee creations like the Hanoi egg coffee. It's a welcoming spot with a charming courtyard, making it a great choice for a relaxed meal.
🍽️88Food
✨85Vibe
👋85Service
💬
“I ordered a “banh mi with beef wine stew” and it’s honestly one of the best Viet cuisine I’ve ever had in Melbourne.”
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“This is favorite of a brunch cafe. Looks average from the front but the courtyard seating is beautiful. Been here several times and the food has always been brilliant.”
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“Really fresh and delicious vegan rice paper rolls with tofu and mushroom, with lovely prompt service!”
Cha Ching is a vibrant spot that excels at creative cocktails and flavorful Asian fusion dishes, making it a go-to for celebrations and group gatherings. The staff consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring a memorable experience with attentive service and a lively atmosphere.
🍽️88Food
✨78Vibe
👋92Service
🔊65Noise
💬
“The food was fantastic, the salmon sashimi and wagyu beef tartare being some of our faves , and the drunken chicken is to DIE.”
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“The standout dish was definitely the salmon sashimi. The sauce was incredible and complemented the salmon perfectly.”
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“We did bottomless drinks as a group of 8. Amazing time so worth the money.”
This Melbourne brunch institution offers a creative, French-influenced menu with dishes like baked eggs and fried brioche that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Expect a lively, quirky atmosphere and coffee that's well-regarded, often served with a delightful mini donut.
🍽️88Food
✨85Vibe
👋85Service
⏰65Wait
💬
“The food were perfect and the baked egg was very impressive, this week they have scallop benedict which wasn’t too bad”
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“The café is tucked away in a beautiful laneway, which made for a lovely visual experience.”
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“I had to take away as it was packed and there was a long waiting list. However, my Benedict was still great.”
Ondo offers a modern take on Korean cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients and beautifully presented dishes. It's a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, known for its unique lattes and comforting set meals.
🍽️88Food
✨80Vibe
👋85Service
💬
“My favourite is their raw beef bibimbap and I really like the red date (jujube) latte and black sesame latte.”
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“Cozy and inviting vibe with warm lighting and rustic decor—Ondo café is the perfect spot to relax, sip, and unwind.”
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“Located in the heart of Melbourne CBD, surrounded by bustling offices and companies, this place offers an excellent dining experience.”
This Japanese comfort food spot near Queen Vic Market offers beautifully presented Ichiju Gosai sets and Chazuke bowls. The focus is on fresh, balanced flavors with a delightful matcha program and a cozy atmosphere.
🍽️86Food
✨80Vibe
👋88Service
🔊65Noise
💬
“Arrived to find a line out the front of people waiting for a table, as expected on a beautiful sunny Saturday morning.”
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“The atmosphere was soothing, with beautiful decor and lighting, and the staff were incredibly nice and accommodating”
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“Everything was so delicious!!! Highly recommended the Salt grilled japanese mackerel (crispy fish skin).”
This St. Kilda Road cafe is a go-to for both a relaxed brunch and a lively evening with its full bar. It offers a casual vibe that's also suitable for dates, making it a versatile spot for various occasions.
🍽️82Food
✨85Vibe
👋85Service
💬
“We tried the crushed avocado, veggie schnitzel, arancini, coffee frappe, and coffee — everything was absolutely delicious and well prepared.”
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“The food was delicious, especially calamari and steak. Size of the servings was big. Kid absolutely loved Angus burger and chocolate milkshake.”
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“Portion sizes were generous too. Perfect location. Only 15 minute walk to Albert Park lake!”
This Italian spot on Degraves Street offers a lively European al fresco vibe, perfect for casual meals or date nights. It's known for generous portions of flavorful pasta and pizza, with many diners celebrating specific dishes like the seafood linguine and bolognese.
🍽️88Food
✨85Vibe
👋90Service
🛡️65Safety
💬
“We had the seafood linguine and the Italian prosciutto pizza, and both the pasta and pizza were honestly the best I’ve ever had.”
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“We had a wonderful experience at this Italian restaurant today. The food was absolutely delicious, fresh and full of flavour.”
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“We came before a show at the Forum and we were a little short on time but the service was amazing and the food came out so fast.”
Avocado Moment Cafe is a vibrant brunch spot in Melbourne's CBD that uniquely blends fresh, colorful dishes with a fun, casual atmosphere. Beyond its Instagram-worthy avocado-centric menu, the cafe offers a playful twist with board games and karaoke rooms, making it a lively destination for both food and entertainment.
🍽️90Food
✨85Vibe
👋85Service
🛡️40Safety
💬
“The food looked amazing and tasted even better They have a large collection of the board games to fill out free time.”
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“Staff are very warm and friendly, the atmosphere was cosy and the food and coffee was absolutely delicious!”
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“The heat rush scrambled egg was sensational and one of the best I’ve had in the city.”
Antara is a chic, contemporary spot that excels with its pastries and creative dishes, offering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. It's a place where the aroma of perfectly brewed coffee and the sight of beautifully baked goods greet you, promising a delightful culinary journey from breakfast to dinner.
🍽️88Food
✨80Vibe
👋85Service
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“The shiitake mushroom dish was fantastic. Shiitake can be overpowering if not handled well, but they managed to balance the flavors beautifully.”
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“We had the most amazing time at Antara. The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent.”
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“I've had several fine dining experiences at Antara and quality has varied from outstanding to good to average.”
This casual Vietnamese spot near Queen Victoria Market is a go-to for its fresh, flavorful Banh Mi and comforting Pho. It's a family-run joint that treats customers like kin, offering a warm atmosphere and quick service.
🍽️88Food
✨75Vibe
👋85Service
💬
“This place has some of the best value for money, tasty and carefully prepared food at Victoria Market!!”
💬
“Best pho I've had outside of VN. Reminds me of the stuff we ate in Saigon.”
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“The Vietnamese buns tasted particularly good, the dining environment was quiet, and the service was excellent.”
Ideal for
Families with kidsWeekend brunchQuick market lunch
This bustling Thai spot in Melbourne's basement offers a lively, casual atmosphere with a unique robot server experience. It's known for its authentic, spicy street food and generous portions, making it a great value, especially for groups and families.
🍽️82Food
✨78Vibe
👋78Service
🔊65Noise
💬
“We had the bottomless brunch and it was sooo worth it! The food was amazing! Good options with finger food and main food!”
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“Atmosphere is electric with everyone young around. Its in the basement. Once you are seated you will forget you are in Australia.”
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“The food was enjoyable and well priced, and the laid-back atmosphere with soft background music made it easy to relax and chat.”
Zawaddi Thai Cafe & Restaurant offers a creative fusion of traditional Thai flavors with Western influences, evident in dishes like the signature Tom Yum Carbonara. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and a no-weekend-surcharge policy, making it a popular spot for casual meals and group gatherings.
🍽️82Food
✨78Vibe
👋78Service
⏰65Wait
💬
“The food was delicious and the flavors were very close to authentic Thai food in Thailand.”
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“Omg, the food here is incredibly amazing! The portions are large, and the prices are cheap.”
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“The food here is amazing. Not exactly super authentic, but still delicious.”
This charming French cafe transports you to Paris with its floral decor and cozy ambiance, nestled within the historic Block Arcade. It's a delightful spot for a leisurely brunch or a sweet treat, offering a picturesque escape from the city bustle.
🍽️80Food
✨90Vibe
👋85Service
💬
“Le Petit Chateau Restaurant is a charming little French spot tucked inside the beautiful Block Arcade in the heart of Melbourne.”
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“The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented, showcasing the chef's attention to detail.”
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“The savory gluten-free crepes are absolutely amazing, and the eggs benedict was an excellent choice.”
Magic Mountain Saloon offers a vibrant Thai-Western fusion with bold flavors and a lively atmosphere, particularly known for its popular bottomless brunch and steak nights. While the food often impresses with unique combinations and fresh ingredients, service can be inconsistent, especially during busy periods or for larger groups.
🍽️88Food
✨85Vibe
👋75Service
🔊60Noise
💬
“Great food and amazing service! Mac was fabulous and his recommendation were perfect for us, he is such a treat.”
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“Aidan and Lauren seen to it that this was the best bottomless brunch in town. Unbelievably value for money with even better staff!”
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“Everything was amazing. Our waitress Maddi helped us choose our food and wine. It was all delicious. Highly recommend”
Salam offers a vibrant taste of Lebanese home cooking, particularly shining with its all-you-can-eat breakfast and brunch options. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, often enhanced by live music, making it feel like a gathering with family.
🍽️78Food
✨85Vibe
👋85Service
💬
“Beautiful place for a yummy breakfast, lovely stuff and the ambiance just make you feel like you are in the heart of Beirut”
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“The restaurant is in a beautiful part of Port Melbourne, that is easily accessible from the West Gate Freeway.”
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“The food was delicious. Nothing that we had disappointed us and we will definitely come back again”
This Melbourne cafe is a cozy spot for a coffee and a meal, tucked away in an arcade. It's known for its excellent coffee and a welcoming atmosphere that makes diners feel like regulars. The food is generally well-prepared, with many options for breakfast and lunch.
🍽️85Food
✨85Vibe
👋78Service
⏰60Wait
💬
“Best service friendly. Are you feeling welcome. Everything here is amazing from the coffee to the breakfast, even the toilets are clean and tidy.”
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“We absolutely loved the genuinely friendly and efficient service we received and the food and coffee both spectacular.”
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“The coffee here is SO GOOD, I nearly ordered a second after one sip. I ordered the purple avo toast which was delicious, but unfortunately my poached eggs were hard.”
This Melbourne cafe channels a New York deli vibe with its industrial charm and laid-back atmosphere. It's a go-to for hearty, American-influenced dishes, particularly its generously filled sandwiches and creative brunch options.
🍽️82Food
✨85Vibe
👋70Service
⏰60Wait
💬
“This cafe brings a ton of NYC charm to Melbourne I tried the roasted potatoes and corn and pastrami sandwiches , it was excellent.”
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“The chicken and waffles were delicious! The chicken had a nice seasoning and came with spiced maple syrup. My only hangup is that it didn't come with more.”
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“The Philly cheese is indulgent -rich meaty and delicious I’d recommend them doing red peppers not green , different flavour however would still order it again”
This lively Hardware Lane spot serves up vibrant Mexican fare with a full bar and a casual, energetic atmosphere. It's a popular choice for groups and families, offering a range of vegan and vegetarian options alongside classic dishes.
🍽️85Food
✨85Vibe
👋88Service
🔊60Noise
💬
“Best Mexican food I’ve had in Melbourne Biria tacos to die for got no words.”
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“The atmosphere was warm and vibrant, perfect for catching up with friends or a relaxed dinner night.”
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“Liz our server was very attentive and friendly, would highly recommend”
Lore's Kitchen serves up authentic Colombian comfort food that transports diners straight back home. Generous portions and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere make it a go-to for those craving a taste of Colombia.
🍽️85Food
✨85Vibe
👋70Service
🛡️55Safety
💬
“The service was inconsistent, one of the waitstaff was very friendly but the manager came across as unfriendly.”
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“We waited over an hour for our food, only to be told by the waitress.”
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“The details you have “clarified” on ‘jasmines’ the reception is inaccurate and do not reflect what actually occurred.”
Seedling Cafe is a dedicated gluten-free haven in Melbourne's CBD, offering a vibrant menu packed with healthy and vegan options. It's a go-to for those seeking delicious, safe meals, especially for coeliacs, with a focus on fresh produce and creative dishes.
🍽️80Food
✨75Vibe
👋75Service
💬
“The toasted banana bread with peanut butter on top was amazing, I will be dreaming about it forever!”
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“Everything was absolutely delicious, this was my favorite place I ate at while visiting Melbourne.”
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“The waffles were delicious and so was the coffee! I definitely recommend them.”
Bodega Underground is a lively, dimly lit Mexican spot in the CBD, known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive agave spirit selection. It's a popular choice for those seeking a fun night out with friends or a casual date, especially for its bottomless brunch and late-night offerings.
🍽️75Food
✨80Vibe
👋82Service
🔊60Noise
💬
“Zak and Katherine were our servers and did an amazing job keeping the energy high at our table while making sure drinks were always flowing.”
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“Zach was such an amazing waiter, food was delicious as always! He was dealing with the floor and bar all alone and still was very attentive !”
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“Quite loud space, food and service were amazing, allergies catered for wonderfully, but hard venue to have a conversation”