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    Best Cafes in Wollongong: Must Try Spots for an Amazing Breakfast

    Searching for the best cafes in Wollongong for breakfast and brunch? Whether you’re after a perfectly brewed coffee, a flavour-packed bagel, or a cosy cafe to start your day, the Illawarra is home to some incredible spots.

    Here at What’s On in Wollongong, we’ve explored the region’s cafe scene to uncover the best breakfast destinations worth visiting right now. These top picks are serving up delicious morning bites that you won’t want to miss.

    At What’s On in Wollongong, we love sharing the best local food experiences, and if you’re searching for your next go-to brunch spot, these three must-visit cafés should be on your list.

    Altitude 1148

    Breakfast or brunch with a view at Altitude 1148, Bulli Tops

    Where: Southern Gateway Centre, M1 Princes Motorway, Bulli Tops
    Altitude 1148

    Enjoy breakfast or brunch high above the Illawarra at Altitude1148, where panoramic views make every meal memorable. From light, fluffy pancakes to hearty options like eggs benedict, paired with expertly brewed coffee & fresh juices and smoothies, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine and start your day relaxed and refreshed overlooking the Illawarra escarpment.

    Villa D’oro

    Where: Shop 3 12-16 Princes, Highway Fairy Meadow 
    Villa D’oro

    Start your day right at Villa D’Oro in Fairy Meadow! Open Monday to Saturday, they’re serving up all your breakfast and brunch favourites – think fresh panini (we are obsessed!), bacon & egg rolls, donuts, and great coffee. With 20+ years’ experience, Claude Guido and the Villa D’Oro team are Illawarra icons, known for fresh, plentiful Italian-style food. Don’t miss their daily specials, like coffee + a bacon & egg roll for just $10 before 10am, or Donut Fridays ($6 each or $8 with coffee). Perfect for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or a relaxed brunch to fuel your day!

    The Imperial at Clifton

    Where: 315 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Clifton
    The Imperial at Clifton

    The Imperial at Clifton’s breakfast menu has had a glow-up! Start your day at an iconic Northern Illawarra venue perched above the Sea Cliff Bridge. Indulge in gourmet breakfast dishes crafted with fresh, locally inspired ingredients, paired with perfectly brewed coffee, all while soaking in sweeping ocean and escarpment views. Whether you’re after a relaxed morning bite, a decadent brunch with friends, or a special treat to kickstart your day, The Imperial at Clifton serves up a breakfast experience that’s as stunning as its surroundings.

    Amari Bar

    Start your day the right way at Amari Bar on 76 Crown Street, Wollongong, with coffee served from 6:30 am and all-day breakfast from 7 am. Whether you’re craving a loaded breakfast wrap, perfectly smashed avocado, or the indulgent Amari Big Breakfast, there’s something to satisfy every appetite. Pair it with a freshly brewed coffee or specialty espresso for the ultimate morning pick-me-up. With generous portions, friendly service, and a relaxed vibe, Amari Bar is the perfect spot to fuel your day — whether it’s a quick caffeine hit, a leisurely brunch, or a hearty breakfast feast.

    Lee & Me / Wollongong

    Where: 87 Crown Street, Wollongong
    Lee and Me

    Housed in a charming heritage building, Lee and Me is a staple in Wollongong’s café scene. With a quirky and welcoming atmosphere, this café offers a mix of seating options—grab a table out the front for a sunny morning coffee, settle inside for a cosy brunch, or head upstairs for a relaxed and intimate vibe.

    When it comes to food, Lee and Me doesn’t disappoint. Their menu is a journey through flavour, with every dish thoughtfully crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. One standout is the Good by Bad Boy Bagel, perfect for those torn between sweet and savoury. One half features smashed avocado, feta, pesto, chilli, and dukkah, while the other half satisfies your sweet tooth with a cookies and cream topping.

    Lee and Me is a popular weekend brunch spot, so it’s worth booking a table in advance to secure your seat.

    Lilli J / Wollongong

    Where: 67 Corrimal Street, Wollongong
    Lilli J

    If you’re after top-notch coffee and a laid-back atmosphere, Lilli J is the place to be. Recently refurbished in 2024, this café has expanded its space, now offering plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. It’s a great spot to catch up with friends, grab a coffee before work, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to the nearby beach—just a short walk across the road.

    Their coffee is a standout, with expertly brewed espresso and a must-try matcha latte. But it’s not just the drinks that shine here—Lilli J’s daily bakes are always a treat. If you’re after something heartier, their bacon and egg roll is a local favourite, balancing simplicity with bold flavour.

    With its prime location, friendly atmosphere, and consistently great food, Lilli J is a breakfast gem that’s well worth a visit. To plan your visit, you can make a booking here.

    Opus Coffee Brewers / Wollongong

    Where: 118-120 Keira St, Wollongong NSW 2500
    Opus Coffee Brewers

    For a trendy breakfast experience in the heart of Wollongong, Opus Coffee Brewers is a must-visit. Known for its sleek design and high-energy vibe, this café attracts both coffee connoisseurs and food lovers alike. Located on Crown Street, it’s always buzzing, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere.

    While their coffee is undoubtedly a highlight, the food menu is just as impressive. Bagel lovers will appreciate their classic cream cheese and chive option, but for something different, try one of their tartines—open-faced sandwiches with gourmet toppings. The mushroom tartine is a standout, offering rich, earthy flavours on perfectly toasted bread.

    With its trendy aesthetic, quality coffee, and delicious breakfast options, Opus Coffee Brewers is a top choice for anyone looking to start their day in Wollongong with style. If you’re craving a takeaway breakfast, you can place an order here.

    Where Will Your Next Breakfast Be?

    Wollongong is home to an incredible cafe culture, with local favourites offering everything from specialty coffee to creative brunch dishes. Whether you’re indulging in a signature bagel at Lee and Me, enjoying a fresh-baked pastry at Lilli J, or grabbing a trendy breakfast at Opus Coffee Brewers, there’s no shortage of top-tier options to start your day.

    For more food, drinks, and local events in Wollongong, be sure to check out What’s On in Wollongong for the latest recommendations.

    Article Update By: Mikaela San Giorgio, writer for What’s On in Wollongong and content creator at Camperyachties.

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