There are cafés and then there are cafés that are just so darn pretty, you’d move in permanently if you were allowed. We’ve done our research and narrowed the choices down to the six places we think are in the prettiest locations, elaborately decorated or simply have the best-looking food—so pretty you’ll want to spam your friends with photos on Insta.
Vibrant colours leap of the plates with menu items like the pink pitaya bowl, Moroccan spiced lamb and detox smoothies are almost too gorgeous to eat. Set against a backdrop of one of Sydney’s most iconic and world-famous beaches, Bondi, you’ll feel the need to speedily upload some skite photos to Instagram. This trendy little café at the north end of the beach is a favourite of Hugh Jackman when he’s in town. It was also featured on Oprah. Even Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton have frequented the joint. Hang out with the beautiful people in one of the prettiest cafés in Sydney.
Open: 7 days a week 6:00am to 5:00pm
Location: 26 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi
Escape the concrete jungle for time out in a lush, leafy atrium with a rustic ambiance. The potting shed has been transformed for winter. Twinkly fairy light, blankets, and a roaring fire with marshmallows to toast create a cosy place to duck out of the cold. The menu has been changed up to reflect the season. As wholesome and Instagram-worthy as the food is, it's hard to beat the 1900's pie factory. The Grounds has become one of Sydney’s most popular venues. It's usually crowded but definitely worth checking out.
Open: Monday to Thursday 7:00am–9:00pm, Friday 7:30am–10pm, Weekends 7:30am-late
Location: 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015
An absolute favourite of ours. Natural textures and a neutral palette combined with artisan industrial style décor to make this one of Sydney’s most photographed cafes. The food in contrast is vibrant with pops of colour. The plant-based menu is a big draw card to those embracing wellbeing with it’s beetroot lattes, but it’s the large array of gluten-free, dairy-free, regret-free slices like the rose choc which have our tastes buds going into overdrive.
Open: Monday to Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm, Saturday 8:30am to 3:30pm
Location: Doody Street, Alexandria Street
Right on the waterfront, and when we say right on the waterfront, we mean you can smell the saltwater, there's not much that beats this view. Beach boho décor from natural wood to marine-inspired colours make for a charming spot to wrap yourself in blankets (provided for outdoor diners) and enjoy a winter-warming hot chocolate or latte. If you feel a spooky sense like you've been here before, it may be that this iconic location also doubles as the Summer Bay diner. Who knows you might even catch a glimpse of Alf.
Open: 7 days a week 7:00am 'til 4pm
Location: Governor Phillip Park, Palm Beach
There’s nothing like antiquing to make you parched and what better place to relax with a coffee than Café Parterre. It’s quite the experience being able to browse antiques, homewares, and sculptures before relaxing in a Parisian courtyard, reminiscent of the 1900s. Set amongst colourful blooms, olive, and citrus trees, you have the option of dining in the ornately decorated, light and airy French glasshouse or alfresco-style in the secluded courtyard.
Open: Breakfast and lunch Tuesday to Sunday
Location: 33 Ocean St, Woollahra
Taking their inspiration from The Grounds in Alexandria, Flowerchild is better described as an indoor garden rather simple as an eatery. Overhead gardens contrasted by earthy terracotta make this spot a welcome escape from the hustle of Chatswood. To complement the vibrant atmosphere, the menu leaps off the plate in a wide array of colours. Whether you're after a breakfast boost with an Acai bowl or the traditional Sunday roast, the memorable dining experience will leave you wanting more.
Open: 7 days from 9:00am to 5:00pm
Location: Westfield Chatswood
Do you have a favourite cafe? Let us know about it or tag us on instagram @fittopialife
