I spend a ridiculous amount of time hunting down good breakfast spots in Sydney. It’s become a bit of an obsession, really – I’m always looking for places that do something different or just do the basics really well. These are the places I keep going back to, and the ones I send my friends to when they ask for recommendations.
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Rusty Rabbit – Darlinghurst
Tucked into a heritage building near the National Art School, Rusty Rabbit is one of those places that just makes you feel good. The staff are friendly and welcoming greeting everyone with a warm smile. The walls are covered in quirky local artwork, and the latest range of their fun merchandise, which many (including us!) find impossible to resist.
You can grab a table inside or watch the morning crowd from the outdoor seating – both have their appeal, though I tend to prefer being inside where I can check out the art while I eat.
Their signature Lamb Eggs are a must-try, three of my favourite things on a plate. While the fruit pancakes (especially good with a side of bacon) and corn ritters showcase the kitchen’s talent for creative breakfast dishes.
Each plate arrives generously portioned, using fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation. The drinks menu deserves special mention, with fresh juices like their refreshing minty lemonade complementing the food perfectly.
The coffee here is consistently good – I’ve never had a bad cup, even during their busiest periods. Just be prepared to wait a bit on weekends – it gets pretty packed, but I think it’s worth it.
Standout dishes: Lamb Eggs, fruit pancakes, fresh juices
Where: 252 Forbes St, Darlinghurst, also at Concord & St Leonards
When: 7am (8am weekends) to 3pm
Cost: $12-30 l View the menu
Cafe Levant – Greenacre
Drawing inspiration from Lebanese, Syrian, Jordanian and Palestinian cuisines, I recently discovered this gem in Greenacre, and it’s exactly what Middle Eastern breakfast should be. The owners are the real deal – genuinely warm and passionate about sharing their food culture.
Their breakfast board is the star attraction – perfect for sharing and special occasions. The Sultan’s Breakfast comes loaded with organic eggs, sujuk, Lebanese sausage, house-made smoked labneh (the best I’ve ever eaten) and grilled halloumi. The portions are incredibly generous – you definitely won’t leave hungry.
Don’t skip the tea here – it’s nothing like your standard café offerings. Try the Persian Cardamonk tea or the Iraqi dried lime for something special.
Standout dishes: The Sultan’s Breakfast, the chilli mushrooms or a pancake stack
Where: 331 Waterloo Rd, Greenacre
When: Mon-Tue 5:30am-3pm, Wed-Sun 5:30am-4pm
Cost: From $14 The Sultans Platter is $64 l View their website
Kepos Street Kitchen – Redfern
I’ve been coming to Kepos since it opened, and I still get excited about breakfast here. Michael Rantissi’s take on breakfast manages to make even simple dishes feel special without being pretentious.
Their hot wood-smoked salmon salad is my absolute favorite – a beautiful mix of hot-smoked salmon, perfectly poached eggs, quinoa, fresh herbs, and a tangy tahini dressing that brings it all together.
The shakshuka here is also excellent – eggs nestled in a rich Middle Eastern-spiced tomato sauce, served with tahini and Sonoma sourdough. If you’re after something lighter, try their zucchini fritters topped with a poached egg and fresh herbs.
The open kitchen adds to the welcoming atmosphere, and Michael’s presence on the floor makes every visit feel personal. While the café gets busy (especially on weekends), the quality of both food and service never wavers.
Standout dishes: hot wood-smoked salmon salad, Shakshuka, and zucchini fritters with poached eggs.
Where: 96 Kepos St, Redfern
When: Daily 8am-12pm for breakfast – lunch till 3pm
Cost: $15-$30 pp l view the menu
Hyatt Regency Breakfast Buffet – City Centre
Sometimes you want to splash out on breakfast, and the Sailmaker at the Hyatt Regency is my go-to for those mornings. What I love about this buffet is that they don’t just do quantity – they’ve partnered with some of my favorite Sydney producers like Pepe Saya for their butter and Brooklyn Boy for their bagels.
The made-to-order egg station is a highlight (their omelettes are consistently perfect), but what really sets this place apart is their attention to detail. They even have a cocktail station where you can mix your own Mimosa or Kir Royale – though I usually stick to their excellent coffee.
What sets this buffet apart is their attention to dietary requirements, with a dedicated gluten-free station offering an extensive selection of breads, muesli bars and cookies. If you’re gluten-free, you’ll actually have options here – proper ones, not just fruit and eggs. And the Asian breakfast section isn’t an afterthought – it’s as good as the Western options.
While it’s definitely a splurge, the variety and quality justify the price point. Just be sure to arrive hungry – you’ll want to sample as much as possible.
Standout features: Made-to-order eggs, extensive gluten-free options, fresh pastry selection
Where: Sailmaker Restaurant – 161 Sussex Street Sydney
When: Mon–Fri 6:30am – 10:00am Sat & Sun 6:30am – 10:30am
Cost: Adults $46-$48 Kids (6-12 years) $23-$24
Dutch Smuggler Coffee Brewers – City Centre
Hidden away in Sydney Place, Dutch Smuggler is my secret weapon for those mornings when I need something a bit different. Yes, it’s mainly known for toasties, but these aren’t your standard cheese and ham affairs.
Their signature Magic Mi Goreng Toastie, featuring instant noodles, fried egg, and cheese – sounds completely mad but trust me on this one, it’s genius. The Mushroom Truffle option elevates the simple toastie to new heights with black summer truffle and slow-cooked mushrooms, while their Beef Rendang version brings Indonesian flavours to the CBD breakfast scene.
The coffee program here is equally serious, with skilled baristas consistently delivering well-crafted drinks that pair perfectly with their indulgent menu offerings.
Standout dishes: Magic Mi Goreng Toastie, Mushroom Truffle Toastie, Beef Rendang Toastie
Where: 200 George St, Sydney (Sydney Place)
When: Mon-Fri until 3pm (kitchen), 4pm (coffee)
Cost: Toasties $14-21 l See the menu
Speedos Cafe – North Bondi
Yes, Speedos is all over Instagram, and yes, the views are as good as everyone says. But what keeps me coming back is that they actually deliver on the food front – not just pretty plates for social media.
Their signature dishes lean towards modern Australian cuisine with a healthy twist. The Green Falafel Bowl and Protein Bowl cater to the fitness-minded crowd, while classics like their Big Breakfast offer enough fuel for a full day of beach activities. Their Caramelised Banana Pancakes have become something of a local legend, topped with seasonal fruit and pistachio crumb.
While the prices reflect the beachfront location, the portion sizes and quality of ingredients justify the cost. Be prepared for weekend queues – this is a popular spot for good reason.
Standout dishes: Caramelised Banana Pancakes, Protien Bowl, Bondi Rescue
Where: 126 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi
When: Daily 6am-3pm
Cost: Breakfast dishes $14-29
Keeping it Fresh
These are my current favorite breakfast spots in Sydney, but I’m always on the hunt for new places to try. I’ll update this guide whenever I find somewhere that deserves a spot on the list. If you’ve got a suggestion for where I should check out next, feel free to drop me a message.
In the meantime, happy breakfast hunting!
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All GREAT options! I’m going to let you in on a little secret, but please keep it to yourself, ok!? The Eight at Market City in China Town starts Yum Cha at 10am…our family goes once a month, and it seems only a handful of people are in the know. We have the trolleys practically to ourselves, and we’re done before the rush at 11!
I should’ve eaten before reading this scrumptious post! Absolutely ravenous now. I haven’t heard of Garden Kitchen in Glebe before, and I live in Glebe. Thanks for the tip!
I think that might be the first place I head for breakfast when I get back to Sydney in July.
It’s amazing how many gems are hidden right under your nose!
Cottage Point Kiosk in Cottage Point is a favourite of mine. I get there by boat, but you can drive there. Try the breakfast bruschetta or corn fritters while enjoying a peaceful view of the Hawkesbury River. Much less expensive than the Restaurant around the corner.
Wow such an amazing to do list! I love breakfast, especially out in the sun with a wonderful view or the cozy kind of places. But after all, the great food and friendly staff are what makes me cone back. Thanks for this list, saved and shared it. Have a lovely Sunday!