Rise And Shine: Where To Find The 8 Best Breakfasts In Townsville

Queenslanders are notorious early risers, and in Townsville—where warm mornings and early sunup set the pace—getting out before the heat kicks in is routine. The upside? Plenty of time to track down an excellent breakfast.

Whether you’re after a post-swim refuel, an easy weekend brunch or a reliably good coffee to start your day, Townsville’s cafe scene delivers. From breezy seaside favourites to local spots tucked just off the main drag, here are the best breakfasts in the city right now.

Pedlar Project

320-334 Flinders Street, Townsville City

You know Pedlar Project is doing something right when Townsville restaurateur Matt Merrin (Bridgewater and JAM) is a fan. “Pedlar is a cool little locally owned cafe. The Moroccan eggs are packed with flavour and a nice amount of spice,” he said. This boutique roaster is inspired by 1920s French jazz cafes, with veggie-loaded bowls, buttery croissants and organic fair-trade coffee on the menu. 

With leafy, sidewalk seating and Sunday markets nearby (where the crew also host the Piccolo Pedlar coffee cart), it’s an easy morning favourite. We’ll take Matt’s recommendation and have the Moroccan eggs, thanks.  

Grandma’s

Shop 14/45 Eyre Street, North Ward

Image credit: Grandma's | Instagram

Grandma’s is our go-to for comfort food done exceptionally well. The menu blends recipes passed down from four real-life grandparents, drawing on Mediterranean, North African, Greek and Italian flavours. Expect fluffy ricotta pancakes good enough to rival Bills (IYKYK), thick-cut toast, creamy porridge and rich coffee. With a cosy atmosphere and generous portions, Grandma’s is the kind of neighbourhood spot that feels like your second home. 

HeyDays

482 Flinders Street, Townsville City

Smack bang in the middle of Townsville, HeyDays is a local favourite for brunch and coffee. The menu hits all the classics—smashed avo, granola bowls, and spicy picks like the chilli beef benny and chilli bagel. For something different, build your own breakfast or sip on a new variety of HeyDays’ on-site roasted beans. We’re eyeing off the Tomorrowland blend, bursting with notes of red berries, Champagne and sweet sherbet. Yum. 

The Spirited Goat

62 The Strand, Townsville City

Perfectly positioned along The Strand’s waterfront strip, The Spirited Goat is an easy place to pop in at any time of day. The all-day brunch menu leans into crowd-pleasers—think generously filled bagels, fresh salads, smoothies and premium coffee—while the breezy interiors and ocean views do the rest. On a sunny morning, an outdoor table is prime real estate, complete with sea breezes and first-class people-watching along the promenade.

CBar

80 Gregory Street, Townsville City 

Image credit: CBar | Instagram

Right on the water’s edge, CBar serves panoramic views across to Magnetic Island at every table. The breakfast menu delivers everything from hearty fry-ups to seafood bites such as salmon bagels and Blue Swimmer Crab omelettes, plus house-baked cakes and pastries. With a recently refreshed deck, plenty of outdoor seating and constant sea breezes, it’s a reliable Townsville staple for your morning coffee by the ocean.

Happy Place Cafe

62 The Strand, North Ward

Step into Happy Place Cafe and you’re greeted by sunlit interiors and cheerful reminders to ‘don’t worry, be happy.’ The energy carries onto the menu, which stars colourful acai bowls and refreshing smoothies alongside breakfast faves like eggs benny, bacon and egg rolls, and delicious pancakes. Located on the Strand, this is the (happy) place for a spontaneous morning bite. 

The Beet Bar

21 Stokes Street, Townsville City

This bright, health-centric cafe champions bowls and smoothies with a superfood focus. Locals keep coming back for The Beet Bar’s famous açai bowls—loaded with fresh fruit, house-made granola and vibrant toppings—alongside an array of cold-pressed juices, smoothie blends and all the usual dishes, from waffles to house-made savoury mince with potato rosti. With plenty of choices for every diet, The Beet Bar is our top pick for feel-good breakfasts or post-workout refuels.

Sirens Bayside

1/36 Primrose Street, Belgian Gardens

Credit: Sirens Bayside | Instagram

Dog parents, rejoice—Sirens Bayside is one of Townsville’s most dog-friendly cafes, with a sunny outdoor area made for pups and kids alike. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, serving organic fair-trade coffee, cold-pressed juices, seasonal smoothie bowls and gourmet sourdough toast. With perfectly styled bowls, spotted umbrellas and outdoor picnic tables, it’s a photogenic spot that’s bound to earn a place on your feed.