8 Best Breakfast Spots in Darwin

June 17, 2024
A black and white silhouette of a wave on a white background.

Ahh, it’s that first morning in the Northern Territory. The heat hasn’t yet arrived, and the idea of a relaxing morning stroll has put a smile on your face. The only question left to answer is: where to eat?


Darwin’s best breakfast spots are spread throughout the city, from the CBD to the beach and into our favourite neighbourhoods. While the town is chock-full of culinary experiences, the brekky scene encapsulates what Darwin is all about.


Yes, you’ll have all your classics, so eggs Benedict aficionados can rest easy. But the city’s culinary diversity and willingness to try different things will provide your morning with a unique kick when you stay at a local vacation home.

1. De la Plage

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Photo Credit: Anna Mente

  • Address: Surf Life Saving Club Lot 9316 Darribah Road, Brinkin
  • Favorite menu item: Brown Sugar Lime Crepes
  • Price point: $$

De la Plage has transformed what was once a surf club storeroom into one of the best breakfast spots in Darwin. A short drive out of the CBD, the brekky haunt looks over the Casuarina Coastal Reserve, ready to welcome early birders and morning surfers.


De la Plage isn’t your regular cafe. The owners, sharing Belgian and Turkish heritage have created a breakfast menu inspired by the flavors of their ancestors with Australia’s flair for brunch added in.


Set alongside your go-to coffee or juice will be sweet and savory breakfast treats. Take your pick from all the classics, in addition to De la Plage’s baklava, crepes, and watermelon salads. As you dine, bask in the fabulous views and maybe take a swim yourself.

2. Karma Cafe

A White Plate Topped with Three Slices of Toast with A Pink Sauce and Mint Leaves — Zen Luxury Retreats in Darwin City, NT

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  • Address: 119/12 Salonika St, Parap
  • Favorite menu item: Walnut-Beetroot Toast w/ Halloumi & Poached Eggs
  • Price point: $$


Parap is home to one of Darwin’s top markets. But it’s Karma Cafe, with its funky ambiance that should also draw you to the town.


It’s tucked away along Saloniki Street, providing you with the sense of discovering a hidden gem. Focusing on healthy eats, the cafe delights patrons with its range of protein-rich, low-fat brekky items. Although they may skimp on the calories, don’t worry, they pack in the flavour.


From our favourite walnut-beetroot toast covered with halloumi, welting spinach, and poached eggs to their amazing smoothie bowls, they don’t miss a spot. Plus, their breakfast bowls are “clean” enough that they can even add on a Biscoff cookie…or two.


The open space is great for the whole crew or meeting friends. You’ll also be a short walk to Fannie Bay.

3. Boatshed Coffee House

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  • Address: 56 Marina Blvd, Larrakeyah
  • Favorite menu item: Corn Fritter Stacks
  • Price point: $$


Set on the port side, Boatshed Coffee House looks out onto Cullen Bay Marina. As you pick out your favourite yacht, the calm breeze fills the Boatshed and the outdoor seating, creating the perfect morning aura.


The gorgeous vistas of sparkling water are a great complement to your morning coffee. The atmosphere is as relaxing as that first sip, while the first bite of your corn fritter stacks, big breakfast, or nutella crepes will revitalise.


The Boatshed Coffee House serves breakfast all day. So even if you’re craving some morning treats at 3pm, they’ll deliver. From the cafe, head to the other side of the headland and sunbathe at Cullen Beach, one of the best in the city.

4. Foreshore Cafe

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  • Address: 259 Casuarina Dr, Nightcliff
  • Favorite menu item: Dutch Pancakes
  • Price point: $$


As the name suggests, the Foreshore Cafe sits right on the banks of the Beagle Gulf. With nothing but a beautiful lawn, some swaying trees, and endless blue to look at, it arguably boasts the best cafe view in the city.


The fresh air, juice (or Bloody Mary?), and smashed avocado is a welcoming combo. Got a sweet tooth in your family? Well, switched the avo for their Foreshore Cafe’s beloved Dutch pancakes, lathered with chocolate sauce. To work it off, enjoy a great walk along the Nightcliff beachfront.


This isn’t just a popular breakfast spot. Come back in the evenings for sunset, mojitos, and live music.

5. Besser Kitchen & Brew Bar

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  • Address: 6/116 Coonawarra Rd, Winnellie
  • Favorite menu item: Lamb Brekky Taco
  • Price point: $$


The Besser Kitchen & Brew Bar has something for everyone. This is epitomised by the menu categories, such as “What You Should Have” and “What You Really Want.”


Renowned for their exceptional espresso coffee, have your choice of healthy and indulgent breakfast dishes. These include the classics, huevos rancheros, our favourite lamb brekky tacos, and delicious French toast.


Want to stay on the move? Grab one of their pastries, donuts, or specialty cakes to-go and walk south into the Charles Darwin National Park.


You won’t have to go alone either. If you’ve brought your four-legged friend to Darwin, Besser has a dedicated puppy menu!

6. Kopi Stop

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  • Address: 1/2 Harriet Pl, Darwin City
  • Favorite menu item: Poached Chicken Congee
  • Price point: $$


Presenting a Southeast Asian twist on your breakfast, Kopi Stop is another example of Darwin’s culinary diversity. You’ll find some of your favourites on the menu, but it’s the perfect chance to switch up your morning ritual.


Rather than your classic latte, settle in for a Singapore kopitiam-style coffee that’s served with condensed milk. In addition, switch out the big breakfast for some poached chicken congee splashed with chili and ginger, served alongside some poached eggs.


Located in the heart of Darwin, you may wish to order a few things as takeaway. The special cakes, Kaya toast, and brownies are a welcome companion on your city explorations.

7. Eva’s Cafe

A White Plate Topped with Four Scones with Jam and Whipped Cream — Zen Luxury Retreats in Darwin City, NT

Photo Credit: Jacek Wojnarowski

  • Address: Gardens Rd, The Gardens
  • Favorite menu item: Jam & Cream Scones
  • Price point: $$


Found in the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, Eva’s Cafe blends the location’s incredible history with exceptional flavours. Some of our top Darwin breakfast spots have gorgeous seaside views, Eva’s doesn’t. However, the result is arguably more scenic.


Alongside the garden’s iconic Wesleyan Church, the cafe is surrounded by lush botanical greenery and an impressive sense of tranquility. Pouring some of the city’s best coffee, it may not get more serene than this.


Before or after your morning stroll through the Botanical Gardens, you can peruse the full breakfast menu and delightful baked goods. Eva’s Cafe is popular for its high tea. So you know their scones will be fabulous.

8. Fannie Bay Coolspot

A White Plate Topped with Eggs Benedict and Hash Browns — Zen Luxury Retreats in Darwin City, NT

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  • Address: 1 Keith Ln, Fannie Bay
  • Favorite menu item: Hash Benny
  • Price point: $$


A block back from Sunset Beach, Fannie Bay Coolspot is a casual brunch spot that provides all of your breakfast classics. This all-day spot serves up great coffee and good food, in the morning or afternoon.


It may not have a clear standout, although we do love the Hash Benny; the Coolspot is just a local joint that does everything well. In addition, there is a great kids’ menu, and their beloved breakfast eats are served all the way until 8 pm.

Eat and Stay in Darwin

By now, I can only assume you’re ripe and ready to discover your favourite breakfast spot in Darwin. Found in all parts of the state capital, you’ll never be far from your day’s adventure.


Looking for a place to stay in Darwin? Zen Luxury has families, friends, and honeymooners covered so you can enjoy the best start to your day.

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