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Several suburbs in and around Melbourne are renowned for their coffee. Fitzroy is no exception, with a cafe found around every corner and down every alleyway. however, if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, here’s our guide to 10 of the best Fitzroy brunch spots.

Breakfast of Thieves

Breakfast Thieves

‘We’re all thieves when it comes to food’ is the motto on the website at Breakfast Thieves — built inside the remains of a chocolate factory. If you’re looking for an Asian twist on typical breakfasts, look no further than Breakfast Thieves. Highlights include black sesame paste or matcha (green tea powder) with your French toast, or an avocado and yuzu (a citrus fruit) mousse with your corn fritters. Although these guys have an inherent flair for the creative, you’ll also find the usual suspects like breakfast rolls, bircher muesli and decadent croissants on the menu.

De Clieu

A polished, stripped-back decor and menu are what make De Clieu remarkable. Found on Fitzroy’s popular Gertrude Street strip, De Clieu offers two large windows perfect for a spot of people-watching with your flat white. De Clieu’s coffee focuses primarily on Arabic coffee beans from Africa and Indonesia, and the rice and buckwheat muesli is a healthy hit not to be missed. However, if eggs and bacon are more your thing, fear not — they’ve got you covered.

Rustica Sourdough Bakery and Cafe

Bakery, Pastry Shop, Cafe, Australian, Pastries, Dessert

There is nothing quite like the scent of freshly baked sourdough bread, mixed with the distinct smell of coffee brewing in the morning. All of this and more can be found at Rustica Sourdough Bakery and Cafe. In addition to artisan breads you’ll also find house-made gourmet pies, both meat and vegetarian, cakes, tarts and seasonal produce. It’s also fully licensed, in case you fancy a small craft beer or a glass of wine with your brunch.

Grumpy & The Dreaded One’s Little Cafe of Awesome

Cafe, Australian, Mexican

If the mouthful of a name is not enough to entice your curiosity, the characters behind this quaint and quirky establishment will. Grumpy & The Dreaded One’s Little Café of Awesome is the creation of Grumpy (Lee), so called because of the fact that he rarely smiles, and The Dreaded One (Ann), so called because of her dreadlocks. Not only is the food at this establishment delicious but the options are endless: from buttermilk pancakes to your more decadent BLT and thick fruit smoothies.

Newtown Specialty Coffee

Newtown Specialty Coffee is obviously an establishment which prides itself on its unique and sophisticated selection of coffee. Home to the creations of the Contraband Coffee Traders, it also provides an array of simple yet special dishes. A top recommendation from the staff is the roasted vegetable salad, a hearty and wholesome option. A real standout for this location is the helpful and dedicated staff — ready to assist you in anyway you may require. If you’re looking for no-fuss, straight-talking breakfast that will leave you suitably satisfied, this one is for you.

Addict Food & Coffee

Colorful plates and fancy coffee distinguish Addict Food and Coffee from the rest. Add vibrant music and a vivid atmosphere and you’ve got a great breakfast stop, whether you are looking for a relaxing dine-in experience or rushing to get yours to go. The specialty organic coffee, espresso and filter options on offer are a real highlight.

Martha Ray’s

It would be easy not to notice Martha Ray’s as it blends into the rest of Brunswick Street. Martha Ray’s likes to keep things easy with a single page menu listing all-day food and a delicious Reuben sandwich. It is a busy little place, packed with loyal customers.

Sonido!

Just walking through the door to Sonido! feels as though you’re in South America. Their specialty arepa, a maize flatbread mixed with a variety of other dishes, is a delicious, alternative breakfast option. Don’t forget to check out this spot’s own gallery space, Chiquitica, exhibiting photography and artwork with a South American influence.

Argo Loves Company

Argo Loves Company focuses on all things Fitzroy. It is a delightful and warm location with a strong foundation in Greek traditions. Its focus on family makes their dining room feel like an extension of your own home. It’s a cozy place to sit and take in the history of both the place and the family that built it whilst enjoying sustainable, seasonal produce.

Brunswick Street Alimentari

While Brunswick Street Alimentari is first and foremost a delicatessen, it has quickly become a place for good coffee too. Established in 1998, it has become a great hub for quality paninis, salads or a lunchtime glass of wine from their impressive list.

About the author

Matthew is a recent Monash University graduate with an enthusiasm for writing about the past, present and future of film, television and the arts world in Melbourne. Based in the Yarra Valley, he loves fresh food, a good time out with friends or going for a run.

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