Brunswick is home to some of the best casual restaurants and cafés, offering a mix of vibrant brunch spots, international eateries, and hidden gems that locals swear by. Whether you’re after a hearty breakfast, a quick grab-and-go meal, or a cozy dinner spot, this guide highlights 30 must-visit places in Brunswick and Brunswick East for food lovers.
The Best 30 Casual Restaurants and Cafes in Brunswick (2025)
A World of Flavors on Sydney Road:
1. Old Durbar Nepalese & Indian Restaurant & Lounge (671 Sydney Rd)
Step into a world of spice and warmth. Old Durbar offers authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine in Brunswick, with rich curries and flavorful momo that transport you straight to the Himalayas. Their warm, inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night out.
2. A1 Bakery (643-645 Sydney Rd)
A Brunswick institution! A1 Bakery is renowned for its fresh, wood-fired manakish, crispy falafel wraps, and affordable, delicious Lebanese fare. The aroma of freshly baked bread alone is worth the visit.
3. Green Refectory (115 Sydney Rd)
Seeking a cozy café experience? Green Refectory serves up homemade cakes, fresh salads, and hearty breakfast options in a relaxed setting. They prioritise fresh, local ingredients, making each dish a delight.
4. Tom Phat (184 Sydney Rd)
A fusion of Southeast Asian flavours and Australian brunch culture, Tom Phat offers unique and exciting dishes in a lively atmosphere. Expect bold flavours and creative twists on classic dishes.
5. Very Good Falafel (629 Sydney Rd)
True to its name, this spot is a haven for falafel lovers. Expect crispy, flavorful falafel served in various delicious ways. Their generous portions and vibrant salads make for a satisfying meal.
6. Mediterranean Wholesalers (482 Sydney Rd)
An Italian deli and café, this is the perfect place to grab an authentic panini, strong coffee, or imported European goods. It’s a slice of Italy in the heart of Brunswick, with friendly service and quality products.
7. Miss Moses (581 Sydney Rd)
A laid-back bar and eatery, Miss Moses is ideal for enjoying craft beers, tasty bar snacks, and live music. The relaxed atmosphere and diverse drink selection make it a popular local hangout.
8. Juanita Peaches (12 Edward St)
If you’re craving burgers and fried chicken, Juanita Peaches is a must-visit. They focus on high-quality ingredients and deliver indulgent comfort food. Don’t miss their signature sides, which perfectly complement their main dishes.
9. Aheda’s Kitchen (Food Truck)
Keep your eyes peeled for Aheda’s Kitchen, a food truck that brings the flavours of Lebanon to Brunswick with its flavorful wraps, meze, and grilled meats. The fresh, vibrant flavours and friendly service make it a standout food truck experience.
10. Bhang (1A Lygon St)
A funky bar and eatery that puts a modern twist on classic Indian dishes, creating a vibrant and exciting dining experience. Their creative cocktails and lively atmosphere add to the unique dining experience.
Victoria Street & Weston Street Delights:
11. Ray’s Café (332 Victoria St)
A local favourite, Ray’s Café offers inventive breakfast dishes and specialty coffee in a stylish setting. Their consistently excellent coffee and friendly staff keep locals coming back.
12. Los Hermanos Mexican Taqueria (339 Victoria St)
Get your Mexican fix at Los Hermanos, where you can enjoy authentic tacos, quesadillas, and mezcal cocktails in a lively atmosphere. The colourful decor and vibrant atmosphere create a festive dining experience.
13. Small Axe Kitchen (281 Victoria St)
This Italian-inspired brunch spot serves up delectable dishes like Sicilian baked eggs and ricotta hotcakes. Their focus on seasonal ingredients ensures fresh and flavorful dishes.
14. Code Black Coffee (15-17 Weston St)
Coffee aficionados will love Code Black, a specialty roastery with an industrial-chic vibe and a creative brunch menu. Their knowledgeable baristas and carefully sourced beans make it a coffee lover’s paradise.
15. Ima Asa Yoru (179 Weston St)
Experience traditional Japanese breakfast, onigiri, and matcha lattes in this small and charming café. The serene atmosphere and authentic flavours make it a unique and peaceful dining experience.
16. Tino (49 Weston St)
Enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients in modern Australian dishes at Tino, a local gem. Their carefully curated wine list complements the menu perfectly.
17. Project281 (281 Albert St)
This stylish café provides high-quality coffee and a Japanese influenced brunch menu. Their minimalist design and attention to detail create a refined dining experience.
18. Rude Boy Burger (482 Albion St, Brunswick West)
For those who love a great burger, this location is a must. Their juicy burgers and crispy fries are a local favourite.
Brunswick East’s Culinary Gems:
19. Chae (73 Nicholson St)
A hidden gem, Chae offers an intimate and homely setting for a Korean tasting menu. The carefully crafted dishes and warm hospitality create a memorable dining experience.
20. Mankoushe (323 Lygon St)
A charming Lebanese bakery, Mankoushe is known for its wood-fired flatbreads, stews, and mezze. The warm, inviting atmosphere and traditional flavours make it a local favourite.
21. Padre Coffee (438-440 Lygon St)
A well-known specialty coffee roaster, Padre Coffee offers a minimalist café space for coffee lovers. Their dedication to quality beans and expert brewing techniques are evident in every cup.
22. Milkwood (120 Nicholson St)
A neighbourhood café with a focus on sustainability, Milkwood serves creative breakfast dishes. Their commitment to ethical sourcing and seasonal ingredients shines through in their menu.
23. Host Dining (176-178 Grey St)
An intimate restaurant with a seasonal, produce-driven menu, Host Dining offers a refined dining experience. Their elegant setting and attentive service make it perfect for a special occasion.
24. Etta (60 Lygon St)
A contemporary bistro, Etta serves modern Australian dishes with global influences. The stylish decor and innovative menu create a sophisticated dining experience.
25. 400 Gradi (99 Lygon St)
An award-winning pizzeria, 400 Gradi is famous for its Neapolitan-style pizzas. Their authentic ingredients and traditional cooking methods result in truly exceptional pizza.
26. Bar Idda (132 Lygon St)
A rustic Sicilian eatery, Bar Idda offers hearty pasta dishes and a warm, homely vibe. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Sicilian dishes make it feel like dining in a family home.
27. Teta Mona (100A Lygon St)
Enjoy fresh, organic, and home-style Lebanese dishes at Teta Mona. The warm, inviting atmosphere and generous portions make it a perfect spot for a casual meal.
28. Eat Pierogi Make Love! (60 Lygon St)
A quirky Polish eatery specialising in delicious pierogi dumplings. The unique menu and fun atmosphere make it a memorable dining experience.
29. Wide Open Road (274 Barkly St)
A modern café is known for its excellent coffee and delicious breakfast offerings. Their spacious setting and friendly staff make it a great place to start the day.
30. Lux Foundry (21 Hope St)
A spacious café set in a former factory, offering fresh brunch dishes and great coffee. The industrial-chic setting and creative menu make it a standout brunch spot.
Visit Brunswick!
Brunswick’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving, offering a diverse and exciting dining experience for locals and visitors alike. So, grab your appetite and explore the flavours of this vibrant neighbourhood!
The Best 30 Casual Restaurants and Cafe in Brunswick (2025)
Brunswick is home to some of the best casual restaurants and cafés, offering a mix of vibrant brunch spots, international eateries, and hidden gems that locals swear by. Whether you’re after a hearty breakfast, a quick grab-and-go meal, or a cozy dinner spot, this guide highlights 30 must-visit places in Brunswick and Brunswick East for food lovers.
The Best 30 Casual Restaurants and Cafes in Brunswick (2025)
A World of Flavors on Sydney Road:
1. Old Durbar Nepalese & Indian Restaurant & Lounge (671 Sydney Rd)
Step into a world of spice and warmth. Old Durbar offers authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine in Brunswick, with rich curries and flavorful momo that transport you straight to the Himalayas. Their warm, inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night out.
2. A1 Bakery (643-645 Sydney Rd)
A Brunswick institution! A1 Bakery is renowned for its fresh, wood-fired manakish, crispy falafel wraps, and affordable, delicious Lebanese fare. The aroma of freshly baked bread alone is worth the visit.
3. Green Refectory (115 Sydney Rd)
Seeking a cozy café experience? Green Refectory serves up homemade cakes, fresh salads, and hearty breakfast options in a relaxed setting. They prioritise fresh, local ingredients, making each dish a delight.
4. Tom Phat (184 Sydney Rd)
A fusion of Southeast Asian flavours and Australian brunch culture, Tom Phat offers unique and exciting dishes in a lively atmosphere. Expect bold flavours and creative twists on classic dishes.
5. Very Good Falafel (629 Sydney Rd)
True to its name, this spot is a haven for falafel lovers. Expect crispy, flavorful falafel served in various delicious ways. Their generous portions and vibrant salads make for a satisfying meal.
6. Mediterranean Wholesalers (482 Sydney Rd)
An Italian deli and café, this is the perfect place to grab an authentic panini, strong coffee, or imported European goods. It’s a slice of Italy in the heart of Brunswick, with friendly service and quality products.
7. Miss Moses (581 Sydney Rd)
A laid-back bar and eatery, Miss Moses is ideal for enjoying craft beers, tasty bar snacks, and live music. The relaxed atmosphere and diverse drink selection make it a popular local hangout.
8. Juanita Peaches (12 Edward St)
If you’re craving burgers and fried chicken, Juanita Peaches is a must-visit. They focus on high-quality ingredients and deliver indulgent comfort food. Don’t miss their signature sides, which perfectly complement their main dishes.
9. Aheda’s Kitchen (Food Truck)
Keep your eyes peeled for Aheda’s Kitchen, a food truck that brings the flavours of Lebanon to Brunswick with its flavorful wraps, meze, and grilled meats. The fresh, vibrant flavours and friendly service make it a standout food truck experience.
10. Bhang (1A Lygon St)
A funky bar and eatery that puts a modern twist on classic Indian dishes, creating a vibrant and exciting dining experience. Their creative cocktails and lively atmosphere add to the unique dining experience.
Victoria Street & Weston Street Delights:
11. Ray’s Café (332 Victoria St)
A local favourite, Ray’s Café offers inventive breakfast dishes and specialty coffee in a stylish setting. Their consistently excellent coffee and friendly staff keep locals coming back.
12. Los Hermanos Mexican Taqueria (339 Victoria St)
Get your Mexican fix at Los Hermanos, where you can enjoy authentic tacos, quesadillas, and mezcal cocktails in a lively atmosphere. The colourful decor and vibrant atmosphere create a festive dining experience.
13. Small Axe Kitchen (281 Victoria St)
This Italian-inspired brunch spot serves up delectable dishes like Sicilian baked eggs and ricotta hotcakes. Their focus on seasonal ingredients ensures fresh and flavorful dishes.
14. Code Black Coffee (15-17 Weston St)
Coffee aficionados will love Code Black, a specialty roastery with an industrial-chic vibe and a creative brunch menu. Their knowledgeable baristas and carefully sourced beans make it a coffee lover’s paradise.
15. Ima Asa Yoru (179 Weston St)
Experience traditional Japanese breakfast, onigiri, and matcha lattes in this small and charming café. The serene atmosphere and authentic flavours make it a unique and peaceful dining experience.
16. Tino (49 Weston St)
Enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients in modern Australian dishes at Tino, a local gem. Their carefully curated wine list complements the menu perfectly.
17. Project281 (281 Albert St)
This stylish café provides high-quality coffee and a Japanese influenced brunch menu. Their minimalist design and attention to detail create a refined dining experience.
18. Rude Boy Burger (482 Albion St, Brunswick West)
For those who love a great burger, this location is a must. Their juicy burgers and crispy fries are a local favourite.
Brunswick East’s Culinary Gems:
19. Chae (73 Nicholson St)
A hidden gem, Chae offers an intimate and homely setting for a Korean tasting menu. The carefully crafted dishes and warm hospitality create a memorable dining experience.
20. Mankoushe (323 Lygon St)
A charming Lebanese bakery, Mankoushe is known for its wood-fired flatbreads, stews, and mezze. The warm, inviting atmosphere and traditional flavours make it a local favourite.
21. Padre Coffee (438-440 Lygon St)
A well-known specialty coffee roaster, Padre Coffee offers a minimalist café space for coffee lovers. Their dedication to quality beans and expert brewing techniques are evident in every cup.
22. Milkwood (120 Nicholson St)
A neighbourhood café with a focus on sustainability, Milkwood serves creative breakfast dishes. Their commitment to ethical sourcing and seasonal ingredients shines through in their menu.
23. Host Dining (176-178 Grey St)
An intimate restaurant with a seasonal, produce-driven menu, Host Dining offers a refined dining experience. Their elegant setting and attentive service make it perfect for a special occasion.
24. Etta (60 Lygon St)
A contemporary bistro, Etta serves modern Australian dishes with global influences. The stylish decor and innovative menu create a sophisticated dining experience.
25. 400 Gradi (99 Lygon St)
An award-winning pizzeria, 400 Gradi is famous for its Neapolitan-style pizzas. Their authentic ingredients and traditional cooking methods result in truly exceptional pizza.
26. Bar Idda (132 Lygon St)
A rustic Sicilian eatery, Bar Idda offers hearty pasta dishes and a warm, homely vibe. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Sicilian dishes make it feel like dining in a family home.
27. Teta Mona (100A Lygon St)
Enjoy fresh, organic, and home-style Lebanese dishes at Teta Mona. The warm, inviting atmosphere and generous portions make it a perfect spot for a casual meal.
28. Eat Pierogi Make Love! (60 Lygon St)
A quirky Polish eatery specialising in delicious pierogi dumplings. The unique menu and fun atmosphere make it a memorable dining experience.
29. Wide Open Road (274 Barkly St)
A modern café is known for its excellent coffee and delicious breakfast offerings. Their spacious setting and friendly staff make it a great place to start the day.
30. Lux Foundry (21 Hope St)
A spacious café set in a former factory, offering fresh brunch dishes and great coffee. The industrial-chic setting and creative menu make it a standout brunch spot.
Visit Brunswick!
Brunswick’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving, offering a diverse and exciting dining experience for locals and visitors alike. So, grab your appetite and explore the flavours of this vibrant neighbourhood!
