Cafes

8 Brisbane Cafes By The Water For Breakfast With A View

By Victoria Patapan
16th Feb 2021

a white dining area overlooking the brisbane river at joeys

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and we’re inclined to agree—any meal with waffles on the menu is important in our books. And if you’re sitting down to a morning meal, you’d be wise to pair it with an incredible view (‘cause good views = good vibes). 

Ease into the AM with the stunning sights of Brisbane’s waterfront, paired with a loaded brekky bagel, and a steaming cup of ‘jo (or two).  

Joey’s 

Kangaroo Point

Nestled atop the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Joey’s is the perfect venue for breakfast with a view of our stunning city skyline. The bright and airy space opened late last year after a stunning makeover—so prepare to sit under striped umbrellas, and soak in those European summer vibes. Breakfast starts at 6am for the early birds, and features drool-worthy dishes like banana bread drizzled with honeycomb butter, cacao granola, and sweetcorn fritters. 

Barko & Co

Teneriffe

Word to the wise—when the breakfast menu features huevos rancheros and ham and cheese toasties, you know you’re in for a good feed. Perched right on the Teneriffe River Walk, Barko & Co has found the perfect balance between food that tastes good, and food that’s good for you, so you can binge on brekkie without all the guilt. They also offer an all-day menu, so you can fill up on French toast well into the afternoon. That’s a win-win in our book.  

a table by the river

Ciao Papi

Howard Smith Wharves 

It’s not just the epic views of the Story Bridge visible from their balcony dining area on the river’s edge that makes Ciao Papi one of our fave Howard Smith Wharves dining spots—their tiramisu is honestly life changing. If you need another reason to stop by, their delish talian fare is now available for breakfast, too—but only on weekends. Their breakfast range is short and sweet, curated to feature only the best local produce. We recommend the mortadella, with smoked mozzarella and a fried egg roll, but there’s really no going wrong with a menu like this

Medley

Kangaroo Point

Boasting a prime riverfront location, Medley serves up AM feeds from every corner of the globe. We’re talking orange sugar French toast topped with Australian macadamia and lavender honey, pulled pork crepes topped with mushroom herb tapenade, and even a classic eggs benny. Swing by after 10am for a morning mimosa and champagne cocktail, or keep it clean with one of Medley’s freshly squeezed juices.

MICA

Newstead 

If you haven’t been to MICA, news flash: you’re missing out on some of the best breakfast food in Brisbane. The dual brasserie/patisserie is a foodie’s dream come true, and while the canalside views may not be as pretty as some, there’s definitely still a breezy waterfront vibe. If you absolutely must be within view of the actual river, hit up the patisserie side and stock up on flaky croissants and pastries to take over to Newstead Park (there’s even a tunnel under the road for easy access). But just so you know, you’ll be passing up the opportunity to indulge in the brasserie’s breakfast degustation. 

a plate of crepes topped with bananas at the jetty

The Jetty

South Bank 

With waterfront views out over the city skyline, The Jetty is our top pick for dining in the River Quay precinct. Their mouth-watering menu is packed with plenty of goodies to kick off your day—think Turkish eggs casserole, French crepes, and coconut panna cotta. Our personal fave? No contest—it has to be the potato gems benny. You can’t go wrong with deep fried potato. 

Malt Pier

Newstead 

Dine right on the river at this award-winning inner city eatery in the heart of Newstead. Malt Pier comes from the minds behind Malt Dining, so you know you’re getting quality produce sourced from the south east’s best suppliers. The Pier’s fresh, alfresco feel is sure to liven up your morning, so be sure to book a table for your next culinary adventure. 

Tide On The Jetty

Manly

When it comes to breakfast by the bay, east siders are spoiled for choice—but there’s simply no beating Tide On The Jetty. Brunch spot by day, and bar by night (or let’s be real, early afternoon), Tide offers classic breakfast fare with a gentle sea breeze from their location atop the water. Soak in those ocean views as you chow down on pork and fennel sausage, crispy bacon, and a side of halloumi. There’s plenty of vegan options too—check out their menu for a better look. 

Looking for something a little boozier? Check out Brisbane’s best waterfront bars

Image credit: Joey's, Ciao Papi, The Jetty

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