18 Scrumptious Cafes In Byron Bay & Beyond

Byron Bay’s cafes are up there with some of the best in the country. Heres a list of some of our favourites.

Byron Bay is one of the few regional towns in Australia that’s on the top of everyone’s destination dining list. The local crowd here is decidedly in the know and one of the many reasons the food culture is so insanely good is because the town’s denizens – a mix of long-term locals and smug sea changers – demand it. Note: make sure you don’t leave it too late in the day, as many cafes don’t stay open past 2 pm, especially when the surf’s up. Here’s the scoop on the best cafes in and around Byron Bay.

1. Folk

Folk is a local bolthole that treats vegetarians as VIPs . It’s also popular with flexitarians who come here to eat and eat well. The garden cafe is tacked onto a caravan park, with tree stumps serving as stools and railway sleepers defining the veggie patch. There’s nothing that will evoke ‘happy holiday memories’ like the smashed avo on organic sourdough (of course) with house-made dukkah and just-plucked garden greens.

Breakfast and hot drinks from Folk in Byron Bay — Come to Folk to eat and eat well. (Image: Jess Kearney)

A fave with hungry surfers is the Folk burrito with spiced biodynamic brown rice and quinoa with organic black beans, spiced kraut and cumin-roasted pumpkin. Craving something sweet? Try the house-made vegan banana bread and chocolate brownies.

a set meal at Folk cafe, Byron Bay — Nourish your tummy and palate with healthy meals at Folk. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Address: Lot 1, 399 Ewingsdale Road, Byron Bay NSW

2. Yulli’s Byron Bay

Yulli’s has taken its vegan venue concept and sprouted in Byron Bay . The plant-based menu, like Yulli’s Brews and Yulli’s Surry Hills, has mod-Asian accents and is paired with a diverse drinks list made up of vegan wines, spirits and cocktails.

Inside Yulli’s Byron Bay — Yulli’s Byron Bay has a standout plant-based menu served inside a funky space.

The turmeric cauliflower pad thai, eggplant involtini and crispy tofu with green papaya and Asian herbs are just some examples of the modern plant-based fare on offer. The space itself is stunning, an extravagance of raw wood and images of Asian pop culture. At night, Yulli’s gets a glow-up thanks to its stunning neon light installations.

Address: 2/1 Carlyle Street, Byron Bay NSW

3. Roadhouse

The Roadhouse (The Roady to locals) is a rustic-chic wonderland that is open for breakfast and lunch daily. Located on Bangalow Road on the outskirts of Byron, The Roady is where you’ll find a crowd of dreadlocked travellers and digital nomads getting revved up over coffee before starting the day.

two people having breakfast at Roadhouse , Byron Bay — Enjoy chill vibes amid the morning rush at Roadhouse. (Image: Oli Ayo)

Grab a spot in the sunny courtyard filled with the comforting fragrance of burning wood for shakshuka in a tomato and capsicum Sauce with olives, feta and sourdough.

guests dining under huge umbrellas outside Roadhouse cafe, Byron Bay — Dine al fresco under huge umbrellas outside the cafe. (Image: Oli Ayo)

Address: 6/142 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay NSW

4. Combi Byron Bay

Combi Byron Bay doffs its hat to the surfers and hippies who converged here in the 1960s and ‘70s in their VWs and helped to shape the northern NSW town. The Combi-sized eatery, located a couple blocks away from Main Beach, spills out onto a courtyard that has a surf-shack groove.

a chic and minimalist cafe interior at Combi Byron Bay — Combi Byron Bay’s cafe interior is chic and minimalist.

Combi is a honeypot for locals and visitors young and old, who stroll down here after a Bikram yoga sesh to inhale cold-pressed juices as iridescent green as the surrounding jungle.

Acai bowl from Combi Byron Bay — Combi is a honeypot for locals and visitors young and old.

Address: 25 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay NSW

5. Vagabond

Join the convoy of van-lifers travelling to this bright and happy space in the Byron industrial estate’s Habitat . The cafe offers nourishing plant-based food and a range of provisions you can procure for a picnic. You’ll find bullet-proof coffee (of course), as well as cold-pressed juices and smoothies, a rotating roster of salads, bowls and cakes that explain the cafe’s cult following.

Outside the Vagabond cafe in Byron Bay — Enjoy healthy smoothies, delicious salads, nourish bowls, unbeatable cakes and fresh flowers at Vagabond.

Arrive early in the morning to get a jump on the queue. Vagabond uses its own 100 per cent organic house blend that has been the blend of choice here for more than a decade. Take your food and kick back on the pretty lawn area with a motley crew of travellers and locals.

Baristas making coffee at Vagabond in Byron Bay — Vagabond uses its own 100 per cent organic coffee blend.

Address: 1 Porter Street, Byron Bay NSW

6. Tones at Soko

Head to Byron Bay’s industrial estate to enjoy a dreamy piccolo made using Allpress Espresso at Tones at Sōko . Part of the appeal of the cafe, which is adjacent to the St Agni fashion store, is that it’s not showy, so rocking up in your Uggs and PJs is an acceptable vibe. Sit outside in the leafy courtyard, which plays host to regular block parties. Open weekdays from 7 am to 2 pm, its the perfect place to recharge and reset with a cuppa.

Address: 4 Acacia Street, Byron Bay NSW

7. The Byron Bay General Store

The Byron Bay General Store is a local institution, proudly serving locals and travellers since 1947 in one of Byron’s oldest commercial buildings. Gather in the earthy eatery, which was once home to Greys Store, Craig’s Store and Macs Milk Bar, to eat, drink and stock up on local goods that include everything from gourmet granola to cold-pressed juices.

Address: 26 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay NSW

8. Federal Doma Cafe

Doma is a charming little cafe , tucked away in the adorable village of Federal and run by two local Japanese chefs. The service at Doma is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is so warm you’d swear you are in a Japanese kissaten. Doma means ‘dirt place’, referring to an area of hard compacted dirt found in the entranceway to most traditional Japanese homes. And it’s a nod to the earthiness of the cafe itself.

an al fresco dining setup with picnic tables and umbrellas at Federal Doma Cafe, Byron Bay — Get closer to nature at Federal Doma Cafe.

Spend the morning surfing then head for the hills to enjoy brunch at the petite cafe, which is housed in a character-filled cottage. Doma does a very nice line of dishes, not all of which have Japanese accents. The sushi is stellar, which is to be expected. But there’s also a thoughtful list of grain bowls and burgers.

a lush garden setting at Federal Doma Cafe, Byron Bay — Federal Doma Cafe is known for its lush garden setting.

On a road-trip from Byron Bay to Sydney? Doma devotees will know to stop off at its sister cafe Qudo in Bellingen, three hours’ south of Byron.

Address: 3/6 Albert Street, Federal NSW

9. Three Blue Ducks Byron Bay

Have you even been to Byron Bay if you didn’t visit The Farm and have lunch at Three Blue Ducks ? The restaurant’s aim is to ‘grow, feed, educate and give back’ while respecting real ingredients, supporting local growers and embracing the artisanal food movement.

People at Three Blue Ducks in Byron — The Three Blue Ducks’ aim is to ‘grow, feed, educate, give back’. (Image: Kitty Gould)

Sit in the rustic farm-style cafe, about 8.5 kilometres from Byron Bay, to enjoy nourishing food and great coffee. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you can also drift around The Farm or order a hamper to enjoy on the grounds.

Food shot from Three Blue Ducks in Byron — The Three Blue Ducks near Byron Bay is open for breakfast, lunch and sometimes dinner. (Image: Kitty Gould)

Address: 11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale NSW

10. Top Shop

A sit-down meal at Top Shop in Byron Bay translates to lazing on a blanket on a lawn littered with friendly folk, who all seem to share a kind of cloud-clearing optimism. The Top Shop has always been the best spot to get the lowdown on what’s happening in Byron.

Whether you’re in search of a cup of expertly made coffee or a bacon and egg roll, the hippy-chic cafe housed in an old 1950s milk bar has an arty ambience and an edgy young crowd of creatives that will see you eavesdropping on their more interesting lives until the early arvo.

Address: 65 Carlyle Street, Byron Bay NSW

11. Bayleaf

Bayleaf Cafe is a long-time favourite with locals and visitors alike. Order up a coffee from Gold Coast roaster Blackboard – a tried and tested blend of ethically sourced beans – while you peruse the menu.

Barista making coffee at Bayleaf in Byron Bay — Bayleaf Cafe is a long-time favourite with locals and visitors alike.

The menu here is packed with goodness, focusing on seasonal, fresh and local ingredients throughout its dishes. Bayleaf has also recently introduced a curated wine, beer and cocktail menu. You’ll find plenty of seating inside and out, but you might have to wait a bit for a table during peak times – it’s worth it. Peruse the well-stocked shelves while you wait.

The Sweet Potato Flatbread made with purple kumara flatbread, pumpkin and confit garlic puree, roasted heirloom Dutch carrots, kale and cherry tomatoes from Bayleaf Byron Bay — Try the Sweet Potato Flatbread made with purple kumara flatbread.

Address: 2A Marvell Street, Byron Bay NSW

12. Beach Byron Bay

The location of the Beach Byron Bay cafe is hard to beat, as it’s one of the only cafes in Byron that has direct access to the beach. You can choose to dine in the more formal restaurant section or order takeaway from the dinky kiosk window.

view of people at the beach from Beach Byron Bay cafe — The beach is just a stone’s throw away. (Image: Nikki To)

The cafe is an everyday spot thanks to the kiosk, where you can grab an egg and bacon roll and a coffee, then head straight down to the beach. Book a table if you’re here with your A-list entourage to enjoy lunch with a view.

Mushroom and halloumi croissant from the Beach Byron Bay — Grab something to eat before heading to the beach. (Image: Nikki To)

Address: 2 Massinger Street, Byron Bay NSW

13. Woods

If you go down to the Woods today, you’re in for a big surprise. And by that we mean delicious seasonal, local and sustainable dining in a very cute, rustic space in boho-chic Bangalow, just a 10-minute drive from Byron Bay.

Exterior of Woods cafe in Byron Bay — Expect delicious seasonal, local and sustainable dining at Woods.

Woods prides itself on building community and spreading good vibes. The cafe is situated near the bustling weekly farmers’ market in Bangalow and first impressions are that it makes the perfect place for a heart-starting java and to nab some fresh produce. It is the place to go to find your tribe and bask in the simplicity of the cafe, set to casual mode. The impossibly hip staff here also aim to please.

Address: 10 Station Street, Bangalow NSW

14. Mangosteen

Mangosteen is a cute local favourite, also tucked behind the main drag of Bangalow. It’s only open for lunch and serves delicious Japanese dishes in a very relaxed and casual setting. Japanese owners Yuki and Kyohei arrived in Bangalow a few years back, when they visited Byron Bay chasing waves.

a plate of dumplings at Mangosteen, Byron Bay — Have a taste of Mangosteen’s umami-rich dumplings.

The eatery serves sushi for lunch, as well as delectable Asian-inspired grab-and-go deli foods. If you visit on Saturday night, you’re in for a good time as it’s Ramen Night! Mangosteen has a sister restaurant and brewery of the same name in Japan.

Address: 38 Byron Street, Bangalow NSW

15. Clunes Store

Clunes Store is so much more than just a general store. The fire-engine red premises is a boutique wine cellar, bustling cafe and post office, an easy-going place with knowledgeable staff and a whole lot of heart. Clunes recently expanded the cafe concept to include lunch, serving a carefully curated list of wine and cheese, local produce and provisions from within.

This is a wonderful, multifaceted cafe/general store in the hills, which is worth visiting on a road trip to Byron. The menu is extensive, so if you can’t see the forest for the trees, order the fresh sticky chai.

Address: 33 Main Street, Clunes NSW

16. High Life

High Life is a tiny little spot tucked off the main road of Byron Bay, where you’ll find some of the best breakfast and lunch options on offer. Byron is packed with cafes, restaurants and bars that do justice to Australia’s most revered dish: avocado on toast. But the ingredients here are both organic and seasonal and the avocado is so freshly smashed it presents like it has a pulse.

a barista mixing coffee at High Life, Byron Bay — Let the barista mix your fave coffee blend.

While it’s neighbouring Nimbin that has a pot festival, the High Life is a wry wink at the stoners who have congregated in Byron for decades. You might find a few here with the munchies, ordering the amazing mushies on toast. Everything here is seasonal and nutritious. The drinks menu includes a range of warm beverages and tonics, including Allpress Espresso coffee. Make sure to swing by during the week as it’s not open on weekends.

the dining setup in high Life, Byron Bay — Pop into High Life for a memorable meal.

Address: Shop 5/103 Jonson Street, Byron Bay NSW

17. Keith

Keith is a gorgeous little cafe in the heart of Murwillumbah, serving specialty coffee by local Byron Bay roaster, Beam Coffee. The new owners of Keith are sensitive to the fact that not all diners in the region are vegan and vegetarian.

Fresh hot pies, toasties with hand-cut Mt Warning smoked ham, brie and caramelised onion jam are great examples of what the little cafe does best. The kitchen team also reach for local seasonal fruit and vegetables for most dishes available.

Address: 132 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah NSW

18. Old Maids

Meet with your motley crew of mates with mullets for a slow morning over coffee and brekky burgers at Old Maids in Brunswick Heads . This old-school burger joint focuses on doing simple things well. It’s Brunswick Heads, so there will always be a plant-based burger on offer. But the meat and poultry patties are also ethically sourced and of the highest quality.

While burgers are the specialty here, you can also grab a range of classic breakfast options as well as smoothies, shakes and cold and hot brews.

Address: 30 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads NSW

Keep reading our Byron Bay travel guide for the latest insider tips and more.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

18 scrumptious cafes in Byron Bay (and beyond)