MELBOURNE BREAKFASTS
Birdman Eating, 238 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy +61 3 9416 4747
Upon my arrival in Sydney, I was once told off for saying that baked eggs is a Melbourne-centric thing and that I should go back there if I want them. For Birdman Eating baked eggs, I probably would in a second. They have a revolving baked eggs menu that come out in a little iron griddle pan – all are great and you won’t be disappointed with any of the choices. Pair it with a Bloody Mary in exchange for a pocket lobster ($20), and you’re good to go.
New York Tomato, 24/2-6 New Street, Richmond, +61 3 9429 0505
Probably one of my favourite breakfast spots in Melbourne, maybe for nostalgia; it reminds me of certain things, but regardless, this little somewhat secret spot is hidden away on the corners of New and York streets, hence its crafty little title (see what they did there?) Yeah, you did. With a variety of specials, everything is always solid and generously portioned. Great outdoor setting and then upstairs, plenty of seating. Dogs welcome! Love this joint.
Mixed Business, 486 Queens Parade, Clifton Hill +61 3 9486 1606
Such a quaint little spot on the lazy side of Queens Parade; what was once a local general store is now a buzzing cafe that pumps out some great coffees and feeds. Try get a seat out back, it’s like having breakfast in your greek nan and pop’s backyard – great garden, perfect when sunny. Recommend everything. Dogs welcome!
Auction Rooms, 103-107 Errol Street, North Melbourne +61 3 9326 7749
For when coffee is paramount. This place, as the name would suggest, was once an auctioning house. They have a selection of coffee beans on rotation, and when the ethiopian blends are effect, GO IN on it. Recommend the roasted pork belly, served on a corn crepe with coffee BBQ sauce, black cabbage slaw and fried/poached eggs (pictured)
Brunetti, 194 – 204 Faraday Street, Carlton
Whether you’re feeling a sweet or savoury vibe, Brunetti’s will fill that void missing in your morning life. Do what others do, and do both.
Cumulus Inc, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne +61 3 9650 1445
Perhaps one of my favourite dishes is pumped out by Cumulus Inc; the 60/60 eggs. Let me explain: two eggs. 60ºc for 60 minutes, on a bed of smoked salmon, grated apple, dill and baby capers. Seriously, amazing. Not open on Sunday, so if it’s a Saturday, then make sure it’s before 11:30am.
Outpost, 9 Yarra St, South Yarra +61 3 9827 8588
Situated right next to South Yarra station on a sleepy side street – blink and you’ll miss it. Coffee is how you’d expect it to be, seeing as it’s an offspring from the loins of St. Ali. I would thoroughly encourage you to have the French toast with bacon and maple syrup. (Bit sweet, but epic).
Marios, 303 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy +61 3 9417 3343
Perhaps having the most deepest history with Melbourne’s cafe scene (over 25 years), Mario’s has been a staple in Melburnians’ morning rituals, make it one of yours.
Three Bags Full, 60 Nicholson Street, Abbotsford +61 3 9421 2732
Very much a local to the residents of the whole suburb of Abbotsford, it can get very busy, seating can be a bitch, but don’t let that deter you. Coffee is legit and people will swear by it. Decor is pretty great too.
Pope Joan, 77 – 79 Nicholson Street, East Brunswick +61 3 9388 8858
On the other end of Melbourne in East Brunswick, sits Pope Joan, which does its own rendition of traditional English breakfasts. High quality small goods are also on offer. Bit of a destination breakfast trip, but well worth it.
The European, 161 Spring Street, Melbourne +61 3 9654 0811
While this place should not be confined to breakfast alone (see our Melbourne Eats list), you certainly wouldn’t be overdoing it by coming back in the morning post a European supper. It might just rival last night’s meal. Don’t let the high-end breakfast prices scare you; it’s well worth it. Ham hock, house made beans, goats cheese omelettes … you can’t go wrong. They also do brunch till 4pm on weekends.
Duke, 169 Chapel Street, Windsor +61 3 9521 4884
Here it is, my favourite breakfast dish in Melbourne. It’s a piece of multigrain bread with avocado, hummus, dukah spices, with two perfect eggs and candied bacon pieces dressed with watercress. They roast their own coffee beans, and if you look in the back of this fine establishment, you’ll see quite the operation of bean roasting. Dogs are welcome out front, which is a great spot for social spectating – watch the hilarious daywalking gurners make their way out of Revolver. Good times!
By Toby Allen
