Brisbane's Best Cafes: Brunch, Coffee & River Views

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Brisbane's Best Cafes: Brunch, Coffee & River Views

Brisbane, my sun-drenched city! If there's one thing we do well here, it's cafes. Seriously, around every corner, you'll find a new spot vying for your attention with promises of perfectly poured coffee, Instagrammable brunch, and breathtaking river views. It's a tough life, choosing where to spend your precious weekend brunch funds, right? Well, fear not, friend, because I've done the hard yards (and enjoyed every single minute!) to bring you my personal list of the best cafes in Brisbane for brunch, coffee, and those all-important river views.

Why Brisbane Cafes Are a Must-Try

Before we dive into my top picks, let's talk about why Brisbane's cafe scene is so special. It's not just about the caffeine fix; it's about the whole experience. Think warm breezes, friendly faces, and dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Here's what sets Brisbane cafes apart:

1. The Vibe: Brisbane has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, and our cafes reflect that. You'll find everything from trendy, minimalist spaces to cozy, vintage-inspired havens.
2. The Coffee: We take our coffee seriously here. You'll find skilled baristas crafting perfect lattes and cold brews using locally roasted beans.
3. The Brunch: Forget basic toast and eggs. Brisbane cafes are pushing the boundaries of brunch, with creative dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients.
4. The River Views: With the Brisbane River snaking through the city, many cafes offer stunning waterfront views, making your dining experience even more memorable.
5. The Community: Cafes are more than just places to eat; they're community hubs. You'll often find locals catching up with friends, working on their laptops, or simply enjoying a moment of peace.

My Top Cafe Picks for Brunch, Coffee & River Views

Alright, here's the list you've been waiting for! I've tried to include a mix of different styles and locations to cater to everyone's taste. Remember, this is just my personal opinion, but I'm confident you'll find something you love on this list.

1. Mary Mae's, New Farm

Ah, Mary Mae's. This place holds a special place in my heart. Located on the banks of the Brisbane River in the Powerhouse precinct, it boasts seriously impressive views and a menu that's as delicious as it is inventive. The name "Mary Mae's" itself evokes a sense of old-world charm, inspired by the strong women in Brisbane's history.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Think relaxed, sophisticated, and effortlessly cool. The decor is a mix of industrial chic and vintage charm, with exposed brick walls and comfy seating. The outdoor seating area is the place to be on a sunny day, offering unparalleled river views.
• The Coffee: Their coffee is consistently excellent, using locally sourced beans and expertly trained baristas. I usually go for a flat white, but their cold brew is also a winner.
• The Brunch: The brunch menu is where Mary Mae's really shines. You'll find classics like eggs benedict and smashed avocado, but with a creative twist. I highly recommend the Moreton Bay Bug Benedict if it's on special, it is to die for. They also have a great selection of pastries and cakes for those with a sweet tooth.
• The River Views: Unbeatable. You can watch the CityCats glide by, enjoy the sunset, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the Powerhouse.
• Why I Love It: It's the perfect spot for a special occasion brunch or a casual catch-up with friends. The combination of delicious food, great coffee, and stunning views makes it a winner every time.

2. Coffee Anthology, Brisbane City

For the serious coffee connoisseur, Coffee Anthology is a must-visit. Tucked away in Margaret Street in the heart of the CBD, this cafe is dedicated to showcasing the best specialty coffee from around the world.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Minimalist and modern, with a focus on coffee. The decor is simple and understated, allowing the coffee to take center stage.
• The Coffee: This is where Coffee Anthology truly excels. They offer a rotating selection of single-origin coffees, brewed using various methods like pour-over, espresso, and Aeropress. The baristas are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about coffee, and they're always happy to share their expertise.
• The Brunch: While coffee is the main focus, they do offer a small selection of pastries and light bites to complement your brew. Think croissants, muffins, and toasties.
• The River Views: Not directly on the river, but a short walk will get you there to enjoy your coffee by the water.
• Why I Love It: It's the perfect place to learn about coffee and try new and exciting brews. If you're a coffee lover, you won't be disappointed.

3. Medley Cafe Restaurant, Kangaroo Point

Located right on the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Medley Cafe Restaurant offers spectacular views of the Brisbane River and the city skyline. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its stunning location and delicious food.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Relaxed and casual, with a focus on the view. The outdoor seating area is the place to be, offering panoramic views of the river and the city.
• The Coffee: Their coffee is consistently good, made with quality beans and skilled baristas. I enjoy their cappuccino.
• The Brunch: The brunch menu is extensive, with something for everyone. You'll find classics like eggs benedict, pancakes, and breakfast burgers, as well as some more creative options. I recommend the Eggs Florentine.
• The River Views: Absolutely breathtaking. You can watch the boats go by, admire the Story Bridge, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
• Why I Love It: It's the perfect spot for a weekend brunch with friends or a romantic dinner with your partner. The combination of delicious food, great coffee, and stunning views makes it a truly memorable experience. Plus, you can take a walk along the cliffs afterwards.

4. The Cliffs Cafe, Kangaroo Point

Another gem nestled in Kangaroo Point, The Cliffs Cafe offers a more laid-back and budget-friendly alternative to Medley. It's a popular spot for locals grabbing a quick coffee or a casual bite to eat while enjoying the iconic view.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Relaxed and casual, with a focus on the incredible view. It's a great spot for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking for a low-key dining experience.
• The Coffee: Simple and satisfying. They offer all the usual coffee staples, made with decent beans.
• The Brunch: Expect classic cafe fare like sandwiches, wraps, burgers, and salads. It's not fancy, but it's tasty and affordable.
• The River Views: Just as stunning as Medley, perhaps even better because you're a little closer to the edge! You can watch the climbers on the cliffs, see the ferries chugging along, and enjoy the city skyline.
• Why I Love It: It's the perfect place to grab a quick coffee and a snack while enjoying the beautiful view. It's also a great spot to bring your dog!

5. Joedy's by Hidden, Newstead

Located in the trendy Gasworks precinct in Newstead, Joedy's by Hidden is a stylish cafe that's known for its delicious coffee, creative brunch menu, and chic atmosphere.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Modern and stylish, with a touch of industrial chic. The decor is sleek and minimalist, with exposed brick walls and comfortable seating.
• The Coffee: Their coffee is excellent, using high-quality beans and skilled baristas. They offer a variety of brewing methods, including espresso, pour-over, and cold brew.
• The Brunch: The brunch menu is where Joedy's by Hidden really shines. You'll find creative dishes like the Chilli Scramble and the Bircher Muesli, made with fresh, local ingredients.
• The River Views: While not directly on the river, it's a short walk to the waterfront, and the Gasworks precinct itself is a vibrant and bustling place to be.
• Why I Love It: It's the perfect spot for a stylish brunch with friends or a solo coffee break. The combination of delicious food, great coffee, and a chic atmosphere makes it a winner.

6. South Bank Surf Club, South Bank

Okay, hear me out. A surf club in the heart of the city? Yep! The South Bank Surf Club offers a unique dining experience with fantastic river views and a fun, beachy atmosphere.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Fun, relaxed, and beachy. The decor is inspired by surf culture, with surfboards, lifeguard chairs, and other coastal-themed elements.
• The Coffee: Decent coffee, but the real draw here is the atmosphere and the location.
• The Brunch: The brunch menu features classic surf club fare, like burgers, fish and chips, and salads. It's not fine dining, but it's tasty and satisfying.
• The River Views: Excellent views of the Brisbane River and the city skyline. It's a great spot to people-watch and soak up the South Bank atmosphere.
• Why I Love It: It's a fun and unique dining experience. It's perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. Plus, you can take a dip in the South Bank pool afterwards!

7. Pawpaw Asian Kitchen, Woolloongabba

Okay, this one's a bit of a curveball. Pawpaw Asian Kitchen doesn't exactly have river views, but it's close enough, and the food is SO good that I had to include it. Located in Woolloongabba, this vibrant restaurant offers a modern take on Southeast Asian cuisine.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Funky and vibrant, with a touch of urban cool. The decor is colorful and eclectic, with murals, vintage furniture, and a buzzing atmosphere.
• The Coffee: Decent coffee, but the real star here is the food.
• The Brunch: Forget your standard eggs benedict. Pawpaw offers a unique brunch experience with dishes like Vietnamese pancakes, Malaysian roti canai, and Thai green curry.
• The River Views: Not directly on the river, but a short walk will get you there.
• Why I Love It: It's a unique and delicious brunch experience. If you're looking for something different, this is the place to go.

8. Riverbar & Kitchen, Brisbane City

As the name suggests, Riverbar & Kitchen is all about the river! This popular spot is located right on the waterfront in the CBD, offering stunning views and a lively atmosphere.

What to Expect:

• The Atmosphere: Vibrant and bustling, with a focus on the river views. The outdoor seating area is the place to be, offering panoramic views of the Story Bridge and the city skyline.
• The Coffee: Good coffee, but the main draw is the location and the atmosphere.
• The Brunch: The brunch menu features classic dishes with a modern twist. You'll find things like avocado toast, eggs benedict, and breakfast burgers, as well as some more creative options.
• The River Views: Unbeatable. You can watch the ferries go by, admire the Story Bridge, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
• Why I Love It: It's a great spot for a casual brunch with friends or a after-work drinks. The combination of good food, great coffee, and stunning views makes it a winner.

Tips for Cafe Hopping in Brisbane

Now that you have my list of top cafe picks, here are a few tips to make your cafe-hopping experience even better:

1. Book in Advance: Especially on weekends, popular cafes can get busy, so it's always a good idea to book a table in advance.
2. Check the Menu Online: Before you go, check the cafe's menu online to make sure they have something you like.
3. Consider the Location: Think about what you want to do before or after your cafe visit. Do you want to take a walk along the river? Explore the city? Choose a cafe that's conveniently located.
4. Don't Be Afraid to Try Something New: Brisbane's cafe scene is all about innovation and creativity. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new.
5. Support Local Businesses: By supporting local cafes, you're helping to support the Brisbane community.

Final Thoughts

Brisbane's cafe scene is thriving, and there's something for everyone. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur, a brunch enthusiast, or simply looking for a place to relax and enjoy the river views, you're sure to find the perfect spot in my sunny city. So, grab your friends, put on your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the best cafes Brisbane has to offer! Happy cafe hopping!