The 35 best breakfast and brunch in Port Stephens

We went to the cafe for breakfast. The cafe is located outside of Hotel Nelson. The decor and the atmosphere were good. We order the Nelson special, burritos and 2 coffees. The coffees came out quite fast, but not sure why my matcha latte was in the paper cup? The waiters were quite busy, so I didn’t want to bother them. However we had to wait at least 25 mins for our meals, the waiter and I made an eye contact before I was going to hassle her about our meals. The serving of Nelson special was generous for $29. The bacon in burrito was a bit salty, and it could do with some more salad or vegetables. The coffee was nice though.

We came in towards end of service for lunch and the food was excellent. The prawn linguine and the acai bowl were both delicious and great value. Our food arrived quickly and we never felt rushed. Every time we come back to Nelson Bay, we drop in here for a bite and have never been disappointed.

We stopped by The Little Nel Cafe and really enjoyed our breakfast! We ordered the Shishito Scrambled Eggs and Eggs Benedict, and both were delicious. The shishito scrambled eggs had a nice, mild kick from the peppers and were creamy and well-seasoned, a fresh twist on regular scrambled eggs. The Eggs Benedict was classic and tasty, with perfectly poached eggs and a rich hollandaise sauce that wasn’t too heavy. The vibe of the cafe was cozy and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed morning. Service was friendly and attentive. Would definitely recommend for a chill breakfast spot in town.

This breakfast place was one of the recommended places to go to when we're in Nelson Bay. So we decided to give it a go, apart from slow service the food was good. We ordered some items through the counter while waiting, but even after we got a table and informed the table no, they still served the coffee in a takeaway container with no table service. Recommended: Smashed avocado on sourdough.

My new favourite place @thelittlenel in #portstephens Nelson bay. With a brilliant menu it was hard to choose and plates so big I had to takeaway my leftovers. Food, coffee and juice was delicious and I love the little touch of having throws to keep warm while we ate in their beautiful patio setting. Looking forward to visiting over and over and making my way through the exciting menu choices.

Food was well served with good flavors. Service was prompt and outdoor sitting was cosy.

As recent new residents in Nelson Bay we have tried Little Nel on five occasions, with very mixed experiences. Visit 1, the wait time for a coffee was far too long. Visit 2, the coffee came on time but the banana bread didn’t come at all until we asked at the counter. Visit 3 was lunch and that was ok, good food and service was swift, but asking for a carafe for the water was problematic for the staff and when they found one rather than bring it to the table, the server just pointed to the water station and said you pick it up yourself. Visit 4, food and service were good, but it was a Tuesday and a quiet lunch. However, visit 5 exposed the lack of customer service. We have a small dog so can only sit in a few locations outside. But the floor was messy with plant debris. We asked if they had a broom to clear a bit for him to sit under the table and they said no, so we moved to a different table and because he then sat on the bench with us they said he couldn’t sit there and had to go on the floor (the floor that they couldn’t be bothered to sweep quickly). So we left. Unfortunately the attitudes of the young staff is lacking, with very little care for the customer that would have spent close to $100 that day. Although we want to support local businesses, this is an example of one that must lift its game to build loyalty. Sadly, that’s the last time we will try Little Nel. For anyone wanting breakfast or lunch I would suggest The Home Interior or Magnolia where the food and service are consistently excellent.

I came from Sydney for the weekend it was my second visit, and I loved it even more this time. Penny, who looked after me, she was so professional, friendly, and attentive. Her warm smile and kind attitude honestly made my day. The steak was delicious, the coffee was great, and the whole place was bright, clean, and beautifully designed. The manager was also very welcoming and genuine. Everything was just perfect definitely one of the best places I’ve visited in the area . I’ll be coming back for sure!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🫶

We had a beautiful yummy meal with great service - Tayla was such a lovely waitress! Super sweet, always smiling and made us feel right at home. The location was also perfect, thanks team for being so awesome — we’ll definitely be back!

We had dinner upstairs at the Country Club Hotel and it was such a great experience! Tegan, the manager, was absolutely amazing — so friendly, welcoming, and went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect for us. You can really tell she cares about the guests and runs things beautifully. And a big shoutout to the lovely girl with the New Zealand accent — she was just as fantastic! So kind, helpful, and full of good vibes all night. Thanks to the whole team for making it such an easy, relaxed, and enjoyable night. We’ll definitely be back!

Shoal Bay Country Club is one of the most beautiful seaside spots to relax and enjoy great food in Port Stephens. The restaurant has a lively yet cozy atmosphere, with stunning ocean views that make every visit feel like a holiday. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes — from fresh seafood and wood-fired pizza to juicy burgers and refreshing cocktails. Everything is well-prepared and beautifully presented. The service is friendly and efficient, and the staff make you feel genuinely welcome. Whether you’re here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the vibe is always warm and inviting. It’s also a great place to enjoy a drink with friends while watching the sunset over Shoal Bay. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area — perfect for both casual dining and special occasions!

Had the most amazing service by a young girl called grace. We came in for breakfast that morning then she served us again at our friends wedding. The venue is amazing from the food to the venue to the staff will definitely be coming back

Ordered the seafood basket for two, very disappointed the panko crumb prawns not too bad but so much calamari and over supply of chips and some of the fish escaped from the batter for $72 we could only eat a small portion. Just not nice. The only happy part was meeting Lisa she is a delight

Undoubtably the number one venue in Port Stephens for food and entertainment. Also attached is the Ramada, a high-end accommodation venue. This place has the best views and the best bands out of anywhere in Port Stephens. Book lunch at the bistro upstairs and check out the chicken wings and cocktails.

WOW! Incredible all round! Emailed to book as it was after hours and got a confirmation quickly (also after hours). Appreciated placing us at a window table with the view as we were there to celebrate two birthdays. The owners were there working with the staff, chef owner came and saw us after our meal which felt lovely. The atmosphere was a lovely, high end family run restaurant. Service was prompt and food was INCREDIBLE! So fresh, bursting with flavours. We had, and highly recommend: Kingfish cervice (special), raw beef entree- not sure of the name (special), truffle oil Parmesan oysters, lamb shoulder, swordfish (special) and OH MY…. The.. lobster!!! Quite $$$ but being a special occasion we splurged. And could not be disappointed in any $ they was dropped. Delicious! Despite the menu saying it was ‘à l’americaine style’ it was very Thai flavoured in a herb filled sauce with rice which was incredible, light and summery full of fresh flavour. I think the American style is just as it’s served for using your hands with bone crunchers and I got messy - don’t wear white, take a bib 😂. Mandy, the owner had extensive knowledge of the wine menu. Desert was then a special vanilla custardy filled pastry with berries. What a day! I’m rating it the best high end meal I have had in Port Stephens. Date nights, special occasions will forever now be spent at Poyers

An amazing find on our Sydney to Byron Road Trip 😍 we needed some where we could bring our dog in with us as she was recovering and they had beautiful stool seating outside. I didn’t get to take a photo of all the dishes we had as I dug right in and forgot. The Chef and Owner are a husband and wife team, you can really feel their love and presence in the food and service. We had the stuffed zucchini flowers, pippies, oysters and lobster. So much on the menu to come back and try, they work with all the local food producers and the menu really reflected the flavors of the sea with local snails and squid stuffed with hermit crab. It’s rare to find a decent sticky chai or a good tea selection in a restaurant that makes good food and The Poyer’s delivered! Cannot wait to come back! Thank you!

Undoubtedly the best restaurant in Australia. The people are warm, genuine, and full of homely charm. Their authenticity, humility, and personal touch make this bustling spot a true pink diamond in the rough.

What an incredible afternoon!! Having grown up around Port Stephens I thought I’d tried all the local seafood there was to try - I was wrong - sea snails & hermit crab? Absolutely stunning. Such a beautiful way to spend a winters day, fresh, locally sourced seafood, an extensive well thought out wine list, the creative genius and charm of chef Ludo, throw in the classic warm and beautiful old school hospitality from Mandy that is so rare to find, and you have yourself the treasure that is The Poyers. Can’t wait for our next visit ❤️

An excellent dining experience. Lunch was most enjoyable and I will return for dinner. As I was not hungry I sampled 2 entrees. The sea snails followed by Pippies and a glass of Pinot Gris.

Fantastic food try the sea snails absolutely delicious plus dog friendly area and the service is amazing . Wine list is good plus the staff are very knowledgeable in this area go and enjoy

Service is absolutely amazing, all staff are so nice and know the menu so well. Everytime we’re been for dinner the male owner always come out and checks on everyone, it truly shows how passionate he is. Then the food it is ALWAYS unreal, the pippi dish at the moment is insane. The lady owner (forget her name) knew the wine list so well and recommended a beautiful drop. If they have puff pastry desserts on the specials when you go 100% get it. You do have to let them know at the start as takes abit for the pastry but you will not be disappointed. Thank you for another amazing experience guys.

Great food, quick service despite being close to capacity. The coffee was perfection, made by an experienced barista and the food was delightful. Prosciutto scrambled eggs were delish with cheese on top and toasted Turkish soldiers. Brioche Benny was good too.

In House Kitchen is a return cafe for us. We have friends that live locally and they have coffee and food there at least weekly. Reason is simple, consistency. Consistent service, quality and presentation. Well done IHK.

Don’t order the reuben, super disappointing with a barely visible shaving of meat. Whoever made it has clearly never seen a New York reuben. Hubby had the bagel, this was a much better choice. Friendly enough staff and nice to wander through the homewares after an average meal.

Been here two days back to back now - the coffee has been consistently great. Smooth, good temp and hits the spot. One downside is they charge an extra dollar for lactose free milk.

The food was very bland and unpleasant to eat, for a place that’s called “in house kitchen” everything is pre made. I do not recommend this restaurant it’s also over priced.

Great place to enjoy some brunch! Had the French Toast and it was delicious. Love that they added some berries to the dish!

A popular coffee shop for a reason. Coffee was good and the food was delightful, I haven’t had eggs Benedict that good in a while. 10 points to the chefs for getting the eggs and bacon near perfection! The atmosphere was a bit too loud inside to enjoy, the drone of people talking can make it difficult to have a conversation if you have any hearing difficulties (like tinnitus). It would be lovely in quieter periods but holiday period it was packed out and loud. The staff were efficient, polite and courteous. We were given one of the last two tables as a walk-in, and even with how busy they were our food and coffee came out in 15-20 mins. Overall a great experience.

Located in the luxury soldiers point marina. Food was good. Especially sea food was fresh and tasty. They have various cocktails and mocktails menu too. The staffs were extra polite and friendly. I didn't take photos of atmosphere due to too many diners. LOL

We love Restaurant 2317! Tonight we experienced the scrumptious Autumn menu. My husband Andy commented to the delightful server: “If it wasn’t impolite I would have licked the plate!” We always time our visit with the stunning sunset and with atmosphere, food and service - we think it’s the best in the bay! Andy & Nicky (The Copper Whale Bayside) ❤️❤️❤️

We had a street dinner at Restaurante 2317. Our whole street turned up. The food was fantastic. Some neighbours said it was expensive for kids especially if they didn’t each much. But overall we had a great evening. With 2 drinks each and 3 courses we paid about $150 each.

We have been a couple of times now and it is always an extraordinary experience, right from the time you walk in being welcomes by friendly staff always attentive to our needs. This time around was Fathers Day brekkie and again did not disappoint! A true testament to the dedication of their team from wait staff, to the kitchen crew & management!

Such a beautiful location overlooking the marina at Soldiers Point. The staff were friendly & attentive. The food was fresh, gorgeous flavours and presented beautifully.

Dined on my own here last night. Food was excellent. Would highly recommend the sashimi and the seafood platter for one. Likewise, the service was friendly, and welcoming. It was a busy Sunday evening, yet all dishes were served up with perfect timing. I would highly recommend Restaurant 2317 to anyone spending time in the area, and look forward to returning soon.

Thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Restaurant 2317. It was our third visit and it never disappoints. Even though the restaurant was extremely busy being the Australia Day long weekend our host Dean went out of his way to ensure that we had everything we needed. The Passionfruit Soufflé was divine. I can’t wait to visit again when I’m next at Salamander Bay. We also love the sister restaurant Little Beach Boathouse but we can walk to Restaurant 2317!

Fantastic Cafe, wonderful staff. They were so friendly and accommodating for a group of 6 yr 12 girls celebrating together and opened a little early for them. Included a treat of a little fairy floss at the end. How special. Our breakie today was fabulous. Highly recommend Nice Cafe.

Delicious breakfast and great service! The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The staff was friendly and attentive, making the experience even better. A perfect spot to start the day!

Best pick for our breakfast while staying in Soldier's Point at Bannisters. Short drive to the waterfront in Nelson Bay for the most tasty eggs benedict, outstanding hot chai latte and a blt with cheese on Turkish bread. Great value for money. Good spot for a bit of retail therapy too!

THE MOST 5 STAR OF 5 STAR CAFE. Incredible food, the display, the taste, the size - just beyond outstanding. Not only one of the best places to eat in Nelson Bay but truly one of the best cafes I have ever eaten at. Could not recommend more.

Beautiful little spot for a coffee and fill for the afternoon. The service was excellent, chef and front of house were very kind and welcoming. I had the Damn Good B+E Roll and it was exactly that, set me right up for the day!

Delicious fish and chips! The fish was crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and the chips were perfectly cooked. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor — definitely worth trying!

My husband and I visited during a holiday and the staff were lovely, the meal we ordered for breakfast was delicious, and my husband says it’s the best coffee he’s had since moving to NSW! We then went back the next morning for breakfast again. It’ll be our go-to cafe now anytime we visit Nelson Bay. Thank you for your hospitality and kindness.

Stunning views of the water at sunset! Delicious and tender seafood marinara Amazing flambé dessert! Staff were lovely and friendly! Will definitely be coming back. Note - there are small steps going in and out however there is another door which does not have this which can be used if accessibility is a concern. No disabled toilets on premises or nearby.

We came back here after 12 months and to say we were highly impressed AGAIN, is an understatement. The view 👌 The customer service 👍 The food 😋 It is such a great feeling coming back to a place where everything is as good as the last time

We love The Deck , food , customer service, views amazing ! Been coming here for a few years and we travel 1.30 hr drive for lunch , it's worth it ! Beautiful Family owned , we had friends from Perth over , why would we drive that far for lunch they said ,,, when we left they said ,,, ohhh that's why !!! LOL 😆

The service was excellent, staff were friendly and all meals were delicious!! We were all very full with leftovers to take home. Couldn’t fault any part of our visit and looking forward to coming back again!

I had the pleasure of eating at the deck on two occasions for both breakfast and dinner and it was a 10/10. The service, the food, the cocktails and the atmosphere were immaculate. Nick and Ebony were lovely and were really helpful with distracting my toddler so I could enjoy my meal thanks guys 😊, I would recommend to definitely give this place a look you won't be disappointed or dissatisfied! Keep up the good work guys.🤍

Wow wow and WOW! What a restaurant! The food, the atmosphere, the staff. 10/10 honestly could not fault anything. The food is literally fresh, the best squid I have ever tried along with rib eye steak with Diane sauce, the sauce itself wow I am hungry just thinking about it. I would definitely recommend this restaurant. It’s too bad we don’t have something like this in Sydney. Nick the owner is so warm and welcoming - he went out of his way to serve us and make us feel at home. Thank you Nick for your hospitality- we will definitely return in future. God bless

The service was excellent. Location was fine. The food was not bad. Not crazy about the marinara with too much tomato sauce and cheese(?!). Be great to let the natural flavour of the seafood to come through. The fish of the day could have been local catch rather than standard salmon or bara. Otherwise a good night

Excellent location. Amazing views. Beef brisket was very hard to chew and swallow. I ate one piece and stopped. They offer "buratta", but it is not buratta. It is mozzarella, slightly heated up from the freezer and still half frozen, disgusting. The place is a bit dirty. They have bundaberg lemon lime and bitters though, good choice.

The food and service was amazing, we had the avocado smash and it was to die for. The staff are very polite and cannot be faulted. The pricing is very reasonable, the only fault if you could call it a fault is that it needs a bit of a face lift.

Stopped in for some cake today and we were so impressed, firstly with the young man who greeted us at the door. He was so friendly and welcoming, all of the staff were great. The cakes were so good as were the milk shakes. I was looking at the food on other tables and it all looked amazing. I’ll definitely be back for the Smashed Avo.

The Fish and chips were absolutely delicious! Our whole family all agreed it was probably some of the best we have ever eaten! Thank you for a perfect view, service and lunch!

From the moment we arrived we were instantly welcomed by the team at Crest, we do go there quite regularly and requested our favourite table (#28).. beautiful views, amazing breakfast and great coffee - the bonus was the amazing pod of 10-12 dolphins that swam past, almost on cue ! Thanks to Brad and the team

The Eggs Benedict with Bacon and Salmon were very good as well as the Pancakes with Berries and Mapple Syrup. Worth the Stop and I will recommend that cafe to the Michelin Guide with 2 Stars. The targer is high but wothwhile... :) :) :)

Cracking place to spend Fathers Day, weather was perfect, seating was awesome, staff were really friendly, food was quick to serve, fresh and tasty, we’ll be back☀️🌊

We’ve had an amazing experience dining at Nigronis. Very welcoming and great atmosphere. We were seated a bit earlier in the evening and have never regretted our choice. The service was quick. All the meals were exceptionally good. Portions were large and fresh, with lots of ingredients. We’re very excited to come back next time. Our appreciation to the Nigronis team — they’re excellent. We ordered lamb with baked potato, pasta boscaiola, and bruschetta as a starter.

Went for breakfast and was very satisfied. Ordered the poached eggs and toast and a latte. Coffee was great with a good roast flavour. Eggs tomato and toast hit the spot. Perfect quantity for what I needed. Wife had the smashed avo which she loved, especially the relish with it. Service was good and welcoming.

We arrived and ordered around 7:30pm, and the first dish which was a pasta came at 9pm… I asked the waitress how much longer I need to wait for the food at 8:37pm, she said very soon, and that turned out to be at 9pm. The pizza and pasta I ordered tasted alright but the overall experience for waiting time is just terrible. I came here at 7: 30pm to have dinner, not 9pm supper. Sorry but I wouldn’t want anyone or myself to experience this kind of waiting time ever again.

Delicious italian food, with indoor and out door seating, very polite staff. Loved it. Take away available.

Our experience started with an amazing service, and continued with an amazing Greek Salad made with high quality Vegetables and oil and cheese the salad was amazing! Pizza wasn’t the best but nice and thin. Highly recommend there Greek Salad.

Food we had was really good, the pizza was topped very well. Place has a nice little bar as well if you want drinks :) Staff was every friendly. Although a lot of things on their menu had items that weren't available cause of lack of ingredients. The only thing I can say is that the food took a long time to come out, and the atmosphere is nice but still feels very empty even if it's busy. Apart from that, I'd definitely recommend you try this place.

I went during the off-tourist season, so the atmosphere was calm and low key. The food was good and juicy, not great but it was hearty and fills you up (albeit it being pricey). The location is beautiful and the servers very nice.

Ordered açai bowls $18 each plus $3 for extra Nutella Waited 20 minutes and it was relatively quiet. People that ordered after us were getting their chips and coffees etc before us? Once received there was barely any açai, a smear of Nutella on top and the smallest cup ever?! Ridiculous. Won’t be going there again. Overpriced for what you get and the açai was pretty much runny liquid

Turned up on human whale day, so they were really busy.... Food and service was outstanding especially for them being under the pump. Definitely try the falafel bowl... Or/and the eggs Benedict.. with bacon..

The best breakfast we had in Fingal Bay and surrounding area. The service was friendly & outstanding. The location is relaxed and chilled offering various indoor and outdoor seating options. The eggs bennie with mushrooms was so delicious!! Thanks ❤️

Longboat is the one and only Cafe along the waterfront at Fingal Bay. As such, the location is perfect, but the lack of competition it a problem. Longboat had outdoor tables baked in sunshine, takeout tables by the beach, and more tables inside. It's located almost literally on the beach and thus is blessed with an incredible location. The coffee was sadly underwhelming. There was almost no flavour to speak of (and I had both takeout and dine in a few hours apart), and latte art was average. I will say that the decaf tasted much better, so maybe their regular blend just needs dialing in. The food was good quality, but expensive. Without any local competition there's really no reason for them to lower their prices, but the price of their pancakes for example is frankly extortionate for 2 small pancakes. The staff were very friendly, highchairs were available and there was plenty of parking. If I was in the area I'd go back, but only because there's no alternative.

Seriously cannot fault this place. Locals doing their best with a smile on their face. We moved 4 months ago and it’s our favourite breakfast/lunch spot for sure. It is dog friendly too and there is a dog park just 2mins walk away where your pups can run free. Great food and great coffee, right next to the beach with loads of free parking. If you’re in Port Stephens, give them a go. You won’t regret it.

Nice cafe by the Fingal bay beach. The location is a plus as it is bang next to the beach. There is plenty of parking available. They have option for outdoor tables, indoor tables and takeaway window. The food is a bit of the pricey end as there are no other options close by. There is a bit of wait for food and coffee especially on a public holiday or weekends. Food and coffee could be better. The cafe is good for a beach cafe experience.

Lovely cafe in a great location. Had breakfast there yesterday (Sunday 25th May). My wife had the masala scramble, and she said it was awesome. Her coffee was good. I had the eggs benedict on mushroom. As someone who is not a big mushroom lover, it was fantastic! I'm not used to having a big crispy mushroom, but it was well worth it. My hot chocolate was awesome too. Staff were great, made sure our order was right. The only complaint is that a 15% surcharge on a Sunday makes it a bit steep, so we'll probably go on a different day in future.

Parked out front, it was busy inside. Rang to order take away pizza, realised a man in his 30s ginger ish hair was taking my call, after saying what I wanted he asked me to hold, he walked to the back of the store out of sight, return to my vision moments later and I clearly seen him look at the landline he was holding and hang up as I hear the disconnect in my ear. I also could hear inside the shop as he mocked to his colleague about takeaway orders. So I went in pushing through the busy dining area to place an order with a lovely young girl. With an approximate 25 min wait return to my car to free up space. 20 mins later I hear MR NOT INTERESTED softly call my name. The pizza base is thin and super crunchy, nice but my 3 little pigs has roast beef, I'm serious, I guess the little pig went to market! The supreme is not very supreme, overall both pizzas are what I'd describe as " lite" and so little cheese, I honestly don't know if there was any at all🤔. I've now deconstructed it to find cheese, it's there but wafer thin and sporadically sprinkled and melted around.Overpriced but you pay for convenience of not having to go to Shoal Bay. Perhaps if you had a carafe or pint at the Cellar it would be acceptable.

The best salad we’ve had in the whole of Port Stephens! So delicious and reasonably priced. Friendly staff and option to have a cheeky pint whilst you wait for your takeaway.

Very expensive for what it is: $65 for 2 soups, 1 coffee. And a very salty seafood chowder. Is the cook a smoker? Edited to respond to owner: The difference here is that my question makes sense. Cooks who smoke are likely to blunt their taste buds and consequently over-season the food. Your question to me in response? Well, if I was a smoker AND noticed the excess saltiness, then for sure the dish was not just spoilt but destroyed with salt. You want me to admit to being a smoker? Really?

Lovely food and service 🩷🩷🩷 we had the chicken burger which pleased my fussy daughter and the halloumi cheese bites my son said they were amazing.

Had a late afternoon lunch here yesterday and loved everything about the whole place. The food was really delicious, loaded with lots of fresh herbs and ingredients. The decor and atmosphere was excellent, could see myself sitting here having a beverage and enjoying the atmosphere of an afternoon. There's an awesome back deck area that is tucked out of the way and great place to sit. The staff where really genuine and friendly. The amenities where clean and suitable for the area. I will be definitely returning here for a meal or beverage.

Came on a Sunday for brekky. Didn't need to book, sat inside although outside was more popular. Nice food, quick service and good staff. Had a brekky roll on Turkish bread for $16 and a good milkshake $5. Serving was a decent size but could of done with a little more for the price. Situated just back from the beach, parking isn't a problem.

Was a great little spot for a Saturday night dinner.Pizzas were amazing,frozen margs were awesome and the service was awesome too.Didn’t have to wait long for meals to arrive

What fails is the ratty, torn, faded, dirty chair cushions that can't even be washed of the crud that lays within . I felt like I would contract pubic lice or intestinal worms!!!!!!!!! However a spacious cafe with local art pieces and curious pieces. The food was nice and reasonably priced.

Dropped into Essence Espresso for breakfast on Anzac Day, looking for a casual spot near the centre of Nelson Bay. The café has a nice vibe and a convenient location. The coffee was good, though not as hot as I would have liked—a small detail but something that makes a difference, especially on a cool morning. I ordered the shakshuka baked eggs, which was a special on the day. Unfortunately, it missed the mark for me. The onions were undercooked, and the overall flavour was a bit too sharp rather than rich and balanced. While the service and setting were nice, based on this experience, I wouldn’t rush back

Had a lovely breakfast and coffee here over the weekend. The staff are very inviting and friendly. The coffee was top class. The bacon egg roll I had was the best I’ve had in a very long time. Nice decor and clean.

I reached out to Essence Cafe to provide food on the day of my wedding whilst we were getting ready! Without hesitation they said yes! Throughout the whole process the communication with Roxy was very prompt which made it stress free! Roxy kindly delivered the food right on time which was perfect. Dietary needs were met without any issues and everyone was well fed. I ordered a fruit platter, bagels & banana bread for breakfast which was a hit! To graze on later in the day in between photos before heading off to the ceremony, I ordered a large variety of sandwiches! I should have taken better before photos but it was also presented so nicely!! Thank you again! Xx

23 August 2025, I had breakfast at 'Essence cafe' on the recommendation from the staff at Landmark Hotel Newcastle. Great coffee and good food. What impressed me most, was the staff - professional, friendly and staff that look at you in the eyes, smile and welcome you. A special note for the young man who served me - great manners and a 'magical smile.'

Epic coffee, and the first to open in the area. What more could an early bird seemingly want until you’re greeted with a big smile and great service. Thank you…

Essence Cafe catered a lunchtime event for 60 people, offering a delightful selection of sandwiches and wraps that were beautifully presented. The entire process, from organising the event to collecting the food, was smooth and hassle-free.

Had dinner here for the first time (have had breakfast here before) when couldn’t get into other restaurants as too busy and we were pleasantly surprised with their dinner menu. The pasta we had was really nice. The scallops were ok. Pricing fair also. Waiters were attentive. Overall a good option if in Shoal Bay.

A must visit when in the bay Went for brunch after a walk along the shoreline. Staff friendly and welcoming. Cafe - clean, and tidy. Furniture looks new. Soft music playing in the background Tables spaced out and not squished together Cafe directly opposite the water - so decent view Food - we ordered the bacon and egg roll, pear and banana bread, granola plus smoothies and coffee. Food delicious! Very tasty and flavoursome. Coffee was served extra hot - which is what I requested and how I like it - was perfect. Good value for money A must to visit next time you are in the Bay Area

Our new breakfast spot! We have absolutely love the food and service at Zenith Cafe. Staff are friendly and welcoming. The breakfast bruschetta and açai smoothies are our favourites. Can’t go past the toasted pear and raspberry bread either. Definitely a wonderful way to start the day!

Dropped in for lunch. Had a pizza and coffee. A bit too much cheese on the pizza but I think it was the version we chose. Coffee was good and service was attentive and friendly

We arrived at Shoal Bay last night and were heading out for a meal. Had planned on somewhere else but stumbled across Zenith first. Inspected the menu and decided to stay. Best decision ever. Sensational meal and service. We are only here for 2 nights but have decided to go back again tonight. Can't wait. We had the pork cutlet and surf and turf. Have never had a sirloin steak so thick. Juicy, tender and cooked to perfection. Lovely attentive service as well. Highly recommend.

Feels like a Family Cafe and tastes like a five star restaurant.. Thank you for taking care of us HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! 💯

Wonderful breakfast with my son. Generous serve for my egg and bacon roll, my son enjoyed his waffles. Great staff, good prices, great food. Really good coffee!

Mum and I were looking for breakfast and it was only thanks to Google Maps that we found out about this cafe; there was no signage on the road we approached on, and we even had to ask a staff member of the adjacent museum where the cafe was when we did arrive. We were advised there would be a thirty minute wait on the food (it’s always appreciated to be forewarned), but our meal arrived much sooner. I had the big breakfast (I forget the cafe’s local name for it) and it was huge! Seemed like half a packet of bacon. I’m a big fellow and even I was struggling a little to finish. Now, by her own admission, in her dotage?l, my mother has become, shall we say, finicky about her food. She is not shy about requesting alterations to her meal if she is not satisfied. (Note: She has many years of frontline food service experience so has been on both ends.) She said it was possibly the nicest toastie she had ever had and was THE nicest iced chocolate she had ever tasted. She was slurping on the dregs for an hour after we’d left. Praise from Caesar!

Quality and presentation of food has drastically declined. Such a shame as it used to be really good and was well priced. Prices are now higher and quantity and presentation is dismal. Took a photo of my $25.00 breakfast with a small coffee from Fighter Beans Cafe and added another photo of another cafes breakfast for $29.00 with a large coffee…. No comparison. Will not be supporting them any longer

We had the grilled GF chicken burger with chips & chicken salt and GF fish & chips with 2 lactose free ice lattes both rated excellent. Highly rated business big outdoor undercover table area to enjoy the fresh air with our lunch.

I had a fantastic experience at this coffee shop! The food service was quick, friendly, and super attentive. Everything came out fresh and perfectly prepared. I especially appreciated how welcoming and helpful the staff were—they really made the visit feel warm and personal. As for the coffee, it was absolutely top-notch. Rich, flavorful, and clearly made with care. Whether you're a fan of classic espresso or something more creative, they've got it covered. This place has definitely become my go-to spot for both great coffee and great service. Highly recommend

A restaurant on ground floor overlooking the runway of Newcastle airport. The food is delicious and the service fast. Loved the Chai tea! Comfortable seating inside and outside.

One of the best cafes going around for value for the food you get. The team are always welcoming and have a great range of sweets stocked in the cabinet able to meet all dietary needs as well. I don’t think you can find any other cafe which has such low prices for the quality and quantity amount of food you get in return. These days that is rare, great job and highly recommended!

We were visiting Fighter World next door and came in for breakfast first. My partner is ex RAAF so she loved watching/listening to the aircraft taking off as we ate. Delicious Bacon & Egg Burger, my partner said it was very good coffee, my tea was better than expected (a teabag, but at least it was a pyramid bag with good leaf inside), and great friendly service. If you are eating outside and the aircraft take off, be prepared to block your ears! But that's all part of the joy of being right on the edge of a military base!

My partner and I are frequent visitors with our little family (2 dogs and a cat). Yesterday we got engaged and we celebrated this morning with a coffee. The owners gifted us a free coffee in celebration! Such a lovely gift of kindness 💘 this will forever live on our fridge as a memory. Thank you guys 🤍

Dog-friendly outdoor seating. We visited in July so we needed our warm gear as this side of the road is shaded in the morning. Delicious food. We had eggs benny and french toast, coffee (excellent - it tastes like people who enjoy coffee are the ones who make the coffee), and a berry&banana smoothie for our non-coffee drinkers. These people make good food. When they say "crispy bacon", they mean it. People drop by to pickup takeaway coffees, but you're missing out if that's all you get. And they have simple or adventurous alternatives (Haggis, black and white pudding for the adventurous along with raisin toast, a range of hot and cold breakfasts/bruchy foods including lovely plump croissants). Thank you Lisa and the whole team!

Best coffee I cold find in the area. Friendly staff and prompt service.

Enjoyed beef and veg casserole. Perfect pick me up. With warm memories of home cooked filling fabulous food.

The food was decent at a friendly neighbourhood cafe, simple meal, and I thought this must be one of the hidden secrets of salamander Bay Area. We spent just over 50 for 2 adults and 1 eating child, which I thought for the food we got felt little pricy given the decor when we walked in, but then again we are at touristy spot and anywhere else would have costed more. And I loved the family vibe there which was wonderful. Portion was alright, the bruschetta was little small (and unfortunately taken the wrong order) but everything tasted great. Sounded funny but our favourite at least for our kid was the buttery toast which really was fluffy and great. Staffs were friendly, and you know this is really the friendly neighbourhood joint when everyone packs their own cups back to the counters. Weighing everything I thought it was a solid 4-5 stars. If you’re in the area definitely worth checking this beautiful little cafe out.

Great food and value for money. Scrambled eggs were light and fluffy, and bacon delicious. Generous servings. Thanks for a lovely breakfast…we’ll be back!

Woman at front of house was a sour individual. We were made to feel unwelcome. The food looked good though.

Just had THE BEST bacon and egg roll I think I have ever had in my life at Red Eye. $15.50 special including cup of coffee. Good quality bacon and eggs, great flavours, on a beautiful fresh bun. Service friendly and efficient, great range including homemade cakes and slices. Great coffee. Great spot to sit and write and watch the passing parade in Raymond Terrace through the large windows. Everything a cafe should be.

Tried something new. Dined in for breakfast, had Bacon and Eggs and a Chicken, cheese and Avo omelette. They catered to my specific diet needs, and I really enjoyed it. Staff were high class and coffee was great. Very happy. Will be making this my regular haunt. Thanks so much guys.

Had the house pasta and added bacon to it, Absolutely beautiful. So full of flavour and cooked perfectly. The staff were lovely and attentive, and coffee was fabulous! Couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Will definitely be going back!

I was disappointed in my banana bread. It came out cold when I asked for it to be toasted, and it tasted terrible. It had a lump of cold butter in the middle I couldn't spread. I just threw it out. The coffee is nice, though.

My family and I come in all the time on our days off, lovely staff great baristas and they always cater to my needs and odd requests. Such a nice place and I honestly think its one of the best cafes in Raymond Terrace. Their waffles and avo smash are to die for!!!!

Burnt toast and sugar sludge coffee. Summary: Toast 1. A. Burnt toast served burnt side down ruined a good meal for the cost of one piece of toast and maybe invest in a toaster if your "chef" can't cook toast evenly on both sides. 1. B. I advise you implement a "Burnt Toast Inspection and Assessment" protocol so that education regarding this issue can be rolled out to all front and rear of house staff involved in ordering, cooking and serving food. 1. C. In relation to implementing a "Burnt Toast Inspection and Assessment" protocol i sincerely advise that there be a "Burnt Toast Inspection and Assessment Protocol Competency Skills Assessment". This will ensure that all staff not only understand the "Burnt Toast Inspection and Assessment" but also have the necessary skills to implement the policy with an acceptable level of skill. I do not, at this stage, allude to any ownership or intellectual property of the titles given here-in as referenced above as "Burnt Toast Inspection and Assessment" and "Burnt Toast Inspection and Assessment Protocol Competency Skills" so feel free to use them as you please or creat your own. I mean there was some creativity in the air today by whomever decided to hide the burnt side of a piece of toast facing down, genius really unless I am mistaken and the toast was burnt to charcoal on one side and not one person noticed prior to it being served to me. Alternatively if you are stuck for a policy or protocol name I suggest you ask your 3rd party provider trainer that you contract in to assist you with this implementation to supply you with what they have and use their policy titles and content. Yes you will require a contractor as it was evident today no one there has the skills to identify charcoal on a burnt side of the toast, otherwise I wouldn't have eaten charcoal flavoured toast today now, would I now? 1. D. Yes still with the toast. It appears that one side of the toast was darker than the other and unless it was a political statement to continue the end of apartheid by placing black and white together then there are some other options . If it was cooked under a grill then staff were aware it was burnt and still served it up to me. There is a Burnt Toast Reclamation process where toast burnt to that extent can be revived to a lesser level of burnt by an age old piece of toast Technology called "scraping with a knife". I dont condone the often used but taboo "scraping" under normal circumstances but given the level of char I tasted today I think any attempt to improve would have been appreciated. Another piece of technology that often results in perfect toast and has been around for figuratively eons is a toaster. Toasters are fully automated these days and toast evenly on both sides. If you are aware of toasters I apologise for the condescension and if your establishment is using one I suggest you have it put in for service as it's clearly not toasting bread evenly bilaterally. 1. F. This section is still section 1 due to the fact that the toast is relevant to this paragraph still. You may want to get your smoke and fire alarms checked. If I was at home or at work and food was Burnt to that extend there would be alarms going off and potentially there would be a plethora of hot fire fighters arriving enmasse which the sight of may have distracted from the burnt toast. 2. The coffee. I found the sugar at the bottom. Thank you I was not aware it was a partial deconstructed cappucino as the barrista put my sugars in for me. Usually when this occurs my sugars are stirred in for me. Had i been made aware it was a team sport with a DIY component i would have gladly messed up my cappucino foam chocolate dust by stirring it in and thus ruining the cappucino. This is probably why i was picked last in team sports due to failure to communicate effectively with the other team members (i suspect your barrista was similarly in the same boat) Give patrons the spoon and the sugar, clearly no body wants sugar so they can hit sludge at the bottom of the cup.

OMGoodness 😃 Angel is indeed both by name and nature 😇 Her service above and beyond ... plus an amazing memory. A great range of loose leaf teas and cakes/slices to choose from ☕️ 🫖 🍪

Stopped in on a weekday morning, very quiet. Coffee was excellent service was great. Also had the eggs Benny and it was very good. Worth a visit. Good food.

The best fish and chips in the bay. The chips were my fav, crunchy and seasoned so well. Homemade tartare sauce also very good. Pricing is great and portions are very generous! Cant beat the location either

I had a great time at Dolphin Watch Cafe in Nelson Bay, NSW! The people there were super nice and everything we bought was worth the price. The cafe felt cozy and old-fashioned, which was really cool. Plus, it’s right by the beach and looks out over the boats, so we enjoyed some amazing views. We ordered fish and chips, a burger, and calamari and chips. Everything tasted really good and fresh. It was just the right amount of food for the price, too. If you’re ever in Nelson Bay, you should definitely stop by Dolphin Watch Cafe. It’s a great place for families and anyone who wants tasty traditional Aussie beach food with a beautiful view.

Love it and the guy's way of talking and explaining is good. Even so supportive. Food was really nice

We always stop in here when visiting the Bay. The food quality and customer service has had a notable improvement over the past year. We were pleasantly impressed with the gentleman who helped calmed our toddler with some complimentary marshmallows last week. We will definitely be returning and recommending A+

I dropped by recently and found out there’s a new owner and honestly this place has never been better. It’s clean, wellkept, and the staff are so friendly. The food was delicious, and the coffee hit just right. I loved how peaceful it felt sitting there it’s the kind of spot you just want to come back to again and again.

Very nice seafood Great service We eat here everytime we come to Port Stephens never disappointed 😊 Highly recommended

What a great little find. Capuccino is on par with the best I've encountered. The froth was absolutely perfect. Coffee ☕ was not watery or bitter. Just right. Now my go to spot in Raymo.

Great friendly cafe with gluten free options and a bathroom. Sandwhiches and bacon and egg rolls were great

Once again a downfall of the 5 star evaluation. Deserves more than a 3 but not a 4. Service was extremely friendly, efficient and attentive. The coffee, whilst ok was your typical slightly overroasted, a little on the bitter side, old school Italian coffee, although roasted in Australia I believe. The Eggs Benny were nice. Eggs tasted of quality, the bacon was delicious, and the Turkish bread nicely toasted and just the right size but the hollandaise sauce was unusually sweet, almost aioli-ish, but there also seemed to be 2 sauces, with a more savoury hollandaise on top. Whatever it was it was unusual, and plentiful. The hash Brown was your typical frozen fare, and a little oily. Prices are on the more expensive side for the standard of food being served.

Good food and coffee with new range of desserts to go again n again for. Plenty of seating In and Out. Must Visit Cafe!!

Two coffees and a 10% surcharge? You’ve got to be kidding! It wasn’t even Sunday or a public holiday. Definitely avoiding this place next time. Service was provided by a lifeless teen boy with not much of customer experience which made our impression even worse.

Had breakfast at this beautiful little cafe. We ordered bacon and egg rolls cooked perfectly and a generous amount. The service and staff were all lovely and we will be back to try more meals

Passing through town on a roadtrip and stopped for breakfast(served until 12noon) and were met with friendly and efficient service. Food tastes as great as it looks(beautiful presentation). We had the chicken and mushroom melt and eggs benedict with salmon. Both were generous portions with great flavour. I also ordered the Dirty Hippy(dirty chai) and it was delicious. Will definitely be back!

Best Eggs Benny with homemade Hollandaise sauce.....yum!!! Also, one of the best latte's Ive had in a very long time. Well done guys!!! We will be back next time we are in town 😍

The Cafe in Shoal Bay is a lovely and relaxing spot for breakfast or brunch, just a short walk from the beach. The food is beautifully presented and full of flavour — we tried the Wild Mushroom Bruschetta, Beef Burger, and Peanut Butter Toast, and everything tasted fresh and satisfying. The mushroom bruschetta was especially impressive, with a perfect mix of earthy mushrooms, creamy feta, and balsamic glaze on crispy bread. The toast was simple but delicious, and the burger was juicy and well-balanced. The staff were friendly, and the service was quick, making the whole experience very pleasant. The cozy wooden tables and casual atmosphere create the perfect seaside vibe. A great place to start your day in Shoal Bay with good coffee, great food, and a peaceful view!

We found this cafe to be quite peaceful and not too much foot traffic which was great. The service was very nice and all staff were very friendly. The food came out and the presentation was lovely and the overall taste of our meals was great. Definitely worth the price we paid and we will definitely be back in the future!

Went here with four teenagers atmosphere and staff were so nice we had lovely drinks hot chocolates a bacon and egg roll and croissant the wait was fine no issues food was well presented and hot as were drinks people whinging about having to wait please go later or stay at home and cook your own breakfast if your going to whinge about waiting when you can clearly see it’s busy this is a very busy area with tourists people are human and only have one pair of hands I will definitely be returning

This is nice little family run cafe. The service is super friendly and attentive. There is a good amount of spacious alfresco seating with shade. Although, you'd still want to get in early if you want breakfast on a weekend as they can get busy. The menu is your standard cafe menu, but they do bake a lot of their cakes on site. The Brownie is definitely something worth trying. Coffee is done quite well, relatively strong with good flavour. For breakfast, I had the Eggs Benedict with Salmon, in my opinion, I actually prefer the Salmon not to be cooked, but it's no complaint, just a preference. The menu is well priced and won't break the bank. Did I mention the owners are friendly? They are more than happy to have a bit of chat, provided they have the time. Staff are young, but seem to be experienced. I had an enjoyable experience here.

The place is cute and the toastie and coffee was gods. However, the matcha has no taste and even if he was good, there is so much cinnamon on top that you can’t taste anything… If it’s really a ceremonial matcha for me it’s not a good idea to hide the flavour with cinnamon…

Mushroom bruschetta and chilli stack were delicious. Great brunch spot, have no idea why the line isn't around the corner!

The staff were lovely, bringing the food out very fast and offering to take our photo. Food was very tasty and presented beautifully. Lemon and ginger tea is very nice.

I booked a table for lunch today as I know how busy the Greenhouse can get ! I used my member free birthday lunch voucher and enjoyed a salad with slow cooked lamb and beetroot , was perfect! Fast friendly service as usual! My friend enjoyed our usual choice of Caesar salad . Only criticism was the beetroot was slightly undercooked, but otherwise perfect meals .

Great Food and Atmosphere. Background Music was a vibe. Playing all of our favourite country artists. Best way to start our Sunday Morning. Forgot to take photos beforehand, 10/10 Recommend.

Very accommodating restaurant and staff. Coeliac and wheelchair friendly. Great food and atmosphere. We were kindly advised when booking to anticipate longer wait times for meals with large groups, however, it wasn’t really that long of a wait.

We came at a quiet time to eat a late lunch. The staff were super friendly and all our food came fresh and quickly. Sitting outside near the golf course had a great atmosphere and view. We ordered the salmon, barramundi, chicken parmi, schnitzel, and the lasagna. Great food with great serving sizes and would recommend this place to anyone in the area.

Really good food and service priced well. A small but good selection of wines. The staff were great.

Exquisite golf course views and beautifully friendly staff make this a pleasant place to be. Hidden away from the main roads in the area, but very easy to find. The food was fresh and delicious. the atmosphere was peaceful and relaxing. Perfect place for breakfast or brunch with friends.

Place is really dirty. Tables hadn't been cleaned or cleared. Food all over the floor. We had to clear a table so we could sit down. We were there for 40 minutes and no one cleared while we were there. Rubbish bins were over flowing with rubbish. Dirtiest place I have ever seen.

Well if only I could rate them 0. Worst service. Worst place Place was absolutely disgusting! I never go to McDonalds and this is the exact reason why. The boy that was ment to be cleaning the dining area maybe someone should show him how. He walked to the big it was over flowing and he walked away and never come back out to empty it! No worries but 🤢

For $61 (prices gone up) to feed a family of 4, we had to wait 30 mins, chips were upside down in the bag, they gave us the wrong cheeseburger, and forgot our quarter pounder. Worst service ever and worst $61 spent. Tables aren’t clean either, can’t see anyone cleaning them. Ridiculous service. Go a bit further to the next Maccas! Shame on this place.

Rude especially the blond behind the cafe, very abrupt when advised i had been given the incorrect milk in my coffee in the drive through. They make you feel guilty for asking. The staff at the drive through kindly attempted another but it was cold. So went back to the blond and she meets again with hostility. 30/8 at 0850 approximately. No apology from anyone. The mistake originally was from the ordering at drive through.

Arrived before 7pm on a cold winter night to have dinner and to break up a long journey. Walking in we noticed the indoor dining area was blocked by chairs with no diners. The only indoor seating were 6 chairs in the corner near the toilets and they were all taken. When our meal arrived, I asked if we could sit in the blocked off dining area because there were no other seats available inside the store and it was cold outside. I was told that many people had already been told they could not sit in there so no we could not. We had to sit outside in the cold and to top it all off the meal was poor quality. Also, all the bins were full and overflowing. This store is a disgrace to McDonalds.

Unfortunately I can't give a good review. This store has changed. We have always stopped here be it morning noon or night on our way to and from Sydney. They know longer have the nice coffee bar like they used to. On Sunday when we went there we just went wow it's worse than Friday when we stopped. The place was dirty with dirty tables bins over flowing food in crevices on the seats sold out of orange juice. We had to wipe our table before sitting and eating. The ladies toilets were grubby with paper over the floor out of toilet paper in a couple of toilets. The wash basins were dirty and the toilets were not nice to go into. Sorry but its not good enough. I get that staff are short in places but if that's the case the owners have to step up. No tables are being wiped garbages not emptied the place has really changed. We have been going there for over 13 years. I don't think we will go there again. The way things are you have to keep on top of the cleanliness it just doesn't cut it at the moment. I think subway across the road will get the nod.

Ordered ham,cheese and tomato toastie dark toasted, came out light, ordered small chips , got half a packet and warm, sent back, and ordered a coffee EXTRA HOT ,came out like warm. Also asked for table service , got the number but not delivered to table. Worst meal I have had here in all the years I have stopped here. Staff need to put their act together. First time to complain.

Great range of food, very fresh, well staffed and very polite and efficient. Coffee is amazing, quality is very high, close to IGA, a bottle shop and Bar, juice bar and the beach!! Hamburger was delicious, seafood very fresh, pies are awesome, homemade scallops the best!!

We visit this takeaway often when in the Nelson bay/Shoal Bay Area. The best Aussie takeaway by far. Never had a bad meal from here. Expect a longer wait time during the holiday season as they are very popular. I normally order and then head to the beach for a quick swim or call and order before hand. Highly recommend!

Amazing food! Unfortunately, one of your staff ain't amazing, I understand as it was busy on the weekends but no one deserved a service with any rude and harsh interactions.

Absolutely the best Jalapeño n Cheese pies anywhere in Australia, hands down, bar none. I’ve had good ones before, quite a few from all over the place including full throttle, lil birdy and Shmoakseys, as well as various country and city bakeries all up the east coast and these are just next level. We always stock up when we can get there because they really ate the best. Everything i have had from here has been good tho. Really big, good quality burgers, bacon and egg rolls, fish n chips etc.

Possible some of the worst sausage rolls and savory pastries I have tried in many years. We had the butter chicken pie, bacon and cheese sausage rolls, vegetable pasty and spinach and cream cheese roll. Incredibly disappointing and virtually inedible. The staff were lovely though and service was quick.

BEST PIES IN NSW I've had a lot of pies around Sydney and these are the best I've had. Pastry is perfectly soft but maintains structure and filling is generous, tender and flavour. Mainly making this review so I can find this place again in the future💯

The food is always great here, and the service is friendly. Serving sizes are spot-on and price is pretty good. And they have Sprocket coffee which is great for a takeaway!

Thank you to the staff at the Riverhouse Cafe! We were really impressed by the lovely service, yummy food and amazing view. We will definitely recommend and hope to get the opportunity to visit again.

As my kid would say "its mid" Food was ok, prices were ok, the toilets are out the back. Outback if you will, but the most annoying thing was the amount of flies joining us for lunch.

Our Smashed Avo on sourdough with feta etc. was very nice. We added in poached eggs, which were cooked just right. The latte was just 7.5/10 , and my hot chocolate was rather disappointing (lacked body and flavour). Love the outlook from here. We will be back.

I found this perfect hidden gem while on the way to Port Macquarie from Sydney. While the view and its location next to the river is definitely a plus, the food was really good too. I have to say, the bacon and egg roll was definitely better than the ones in Sydney. We ordered 2 bacon and egg rolls, 1 english muffin breakfast, 1 dirty chai, 1 latte, and 1 hot chocolate with a shot of espresso. It cost $65 approx and every item was good. We felt so relaxed after stretching by our legs here and filling our tummies. Happy meal, happy heart. And the cherry on top was that they had parking.

Just had a beautifully flavoursome steak sandwich. Incredibly tender and a good size....taking half of it home. Chips cooked perfectly. Took time out for myself and tried somewhere new. Highly recommend.

Great views of the river and nice balcony to enjoy from, food was okay cafe style nothing too amazing. Service was friendly and brisk.

Great location with the river view. Service was efficient, but could be friendlier.

Visited Port Stephens on holiday last week and ate breakfast here twice. I had the brekky wrap the first time and eggs benny on the 2nd visit. Both meals were delicious, the coffee was great and the service was prompt and friendly. I can imagine service times would increase a lot in the warmer peak periods but that's to be expected.

$13 for two slices of *burnt* toast the size of my palm. This was the "Lubneh slice". Left hand piece, significantly smaller than my palm, and most burnt piece, had what could only be described as a scrape of Lubneh. The scraps of toppings and bread were separated by baking paper, somehow. I placed toppings on top of burnt toast. Hence the presentability. My artistic side. Toast had more olive oil than Lubneh. Must say, the Avo slice was okay, 2/5. Still not worth $13.

We waited over an hour for our food. Ordered the same time as our friends and they received their food 25 mins before ours came out. This was on a public holiday also so had to pay the public holiday surcharge? What were we paying the public surcharge for? Don’t even get me started on the quality of the food that was served to me - my fried egg must of been cooking for that hour. Can’t beat bad service.

Only cafe to open at 6am for a coffee, ordered a soy cap and a smoked salmon bagel for myself, the bagel was fresh and chock a bloc full of avocado, spinach and smoked salmon, definitely decadent and very tasty, it hit the spot. Staff were friendly and welcoming, will be back on my next sojourn to Nelson Bay.

Went for breakfast on Mother's Day, the food was DELICIOUS, the staff were friendly and efficient, the atmosphere was lovely, and it was relaxing. Happy to accommodate food issues, and lots of alternatives , will be back, new Sunday favourite spot.

Naked Alley is one of the few places nearby to stay open mid afternoon, but beyond that there's not much to shout about here. Coffee was bland and poorly presented (see photo), muffin was tasty but nothing exceptional, and staff weren't overly friendly when we visited. Highchairs were available and there's plenty of outdoor seating as well as some indoors.

We stayed over for the weekend and I had to get back home so stopped there to pick up a quick snack. I deliberately chose something from the display to save time and ordered a long back, which takes about 1 minute to make. 25 mins later I’m still waiting, the staff were rude and it was $29 for a bagel and a coffee. Avoid this place, worst service I’ve ever had

Stopped for lunch at Rubi Blue Anna Bay Cafe and we were so surprised by how good it was! The staff were really friendly, and the food was amazing. We ordered a beef burger that was so juicy + crispy fries, and the zucchini fritters was a perfect sweet and sour combo. We also had a cappuccino and a long black that were both great.

The brekkie wrap was great taste in loved it never had this kind of taste of wrap before 🤙🤙 Had great lunch there definitely visiting again 😀 😊

My chicken salad sandwich with gluten free bread was huge, delicious and fresh. The fruit salad was also very fresh and sweet. And my husband enjoyed his burger and chips. The staff were friendly, service was fast, and the price was good too.

Today, I called into Rubi Blue Café for the first time. The young lady at the counter who served me was very friendly and thoughtful … what a pleasant surprise 😃The coffee was very good, but the real highlight was the “burnt cheesecake” (Basque style), it was delicious - well done Chef 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

What a delight to have Rubi Blue open for lunch , and longer again ! Great to have a new owner who serves up great food , and the familiar staff who make you feel so welcome. Make a point of coming here once , the food and staff will ensure you return !

Sunday breakfast was fantastic! Ordered the Big Birubi & Smashed Avocado on sourdough and coffees. Didn’t wait long and it was busy as well. Great work guys !!

I would like to thank michael the owner at Ruby Blue for being there when I really needed it. I was feeling down and a few kind words from michael cheered me up. Sometimes that’s all you need. If you’re going past Ruby Blue,call in and have a coffee or a meal. I highly recommend the bacon and egg roll it’s terrific.

I visit here each time I’m up that way and it’s very popular with the locals. The baked goods have always been good. I went for the big breakfast for something different. Very good and happy with the choice. Coffee is also great.

Stopped in here for a pie and coffee. Big bakery with a huge assortment of hot food and cakes. It was easy to browse the menu, make a selection, and order. Service was five stars because of the red headed chap who served me. He was bursting with charisma and happiness, which out a smile on my face and made it a great start to the day. I ordered a Chilli Steak pie and a flat white. Pie was served the correct way, without a foil base. It was just the right temperature. It was easy to demolish with one hand. It was packed to the brim with filling and the pie maintained its structure until the last bite. A great pie! The coffee was about 7/10. Definitely worth getting a cup. Overall, it's worth your time to stop here and relax with a pie and cake.

We have no complaints on the food as we never got to taste it, the service is something to be desired. I did not get her name but she is middle aged or a bit older, short dark hair and wore glasses. She was rude, did not seem like she wanted to be there, even though I spoke loudly she asked me to constantly repeat myself. She even openly coughed on my food and looked directly at me afterwards expecting a response. I didn’t respond and threw the food away. Never again

I often come here with my son and daughter the 20 minute drive is worth it every time. I got a latte it was excellent. my son got a match stick and my daughter got a cream bun. Service was fast besides being very busy. I understand that because it's so good. Definitely recommend for an excellent breakfast or brunch.

Food is awesome. Always fresh and hot. Best bread getting around. Hot cheese and bacon rolls are a family favorite.

Got a couple of sangas hit the spot, bread was amazingly soft! 5 stars for thr bread! Fillings were quite decent as well

The place is filled with welcoming atmosphere and amazing services, the food quality is top notch, based on my opinion its basically the best bakery in the area.

Totally enjoyed this brekkie Basic eggs your way with bacon, hash brown & tomato added. Coffee was really good. Highly recommended

My mum and I thoroughly enjoyed our relaxing morning tea at The Rectory. We ordered scones and coffee and both were delicious. Thank you to the staff for making our experience so enjoyable. 🌻

Such an awesome Cafe at Raymond Terrace! Was housesitting a friend's dog in Raymond Terrace for a month and was pleasantly surprised to find this hidden gem which is also dog-friendly! The ladies/owners who work there are so friendly and hospitable- always making sure Banjo (friends dog) had enough water and space and the coffee is really good! I also enjoyed their menu. Also really enjoyed the atmosphere-friendly and cosy- There's also a beautiful big old tree which Banjo loved to roam around and plenty of gardens to take him for a nice little walk too! Loved loved the old stone building. A definite must if you're passing through the Terrace, particularly with a 4-legged friend! Thanks ladies for being so kind and welcoming and providing such a friendly, comfy, down-to-earth Cafe in the Terrace! Super happy to have found this hidden gem ☕️ 🐶

This is nice place with friendly staff, unfortunately food portion and ingredient quality was not good. Food had blackish avocado in it. Food portion was not as described in their menu. I hope this is one off incident. Other than this overall I liked this place.

Great little cafe hidden away in Raymond terrace...great food at even better prices

Great food and coffee options. Prices on par with other places in the area

Good food at very reasonable prices. Super convenient to the Tesla charging station - about 2 minutes walk. There are lots of tables set up under trees but it was too cold so we sat inside. Service is quick and friendly. We had a late breakfast plus some of the best scones with lemon curd that I’ve tasted. A much better option than wandering around the shopping centre while your car charges and if you take the back roads you can skip the construction works at Hexham.

What a lovely little oasis for the traveller in this quiet little town. We always stop and use the supercharger at the petrol station to charge our car and we saw this cafe across the road. Greeted by a super welcoming person, the atmosphere inside was clean and appealing and the outdoor seating was perfect for this cool sunny day. The milkshake was huge, coffee great and the banana bread was hot with loads of butter. Will definitely stop there again on our travels up north.

We stopped for a coffee and then decided to have an early lunch. The young man and owner was very easy to deal with and even brought a bowl of water for my service dog.

We stopped across the road for a quick car charge and thought we would grab a coffe while we were there. We were surprised to recieve probably the best coffee I have had in my life! From now on I'm stopping there for a coffee whether I charge up or not. Also it was a beautiful, comfortable cafe and great friendly service. I asked where the public toilets were, he said don't go there use our private one.

Delicious coffee 😋 Bailey is running the place in style, doing a good job. Very experienced Barista - even latte art on our piccolo! 👌 Good attention to detail. Food looked good too

Ordered a large iced latte however the milk to coffee ratio was way off to the point where I feel I'm drinking solely milk - hot tip if ordering a large to get an extra coffee shot or two maybe 🤔 the pesto, tomato and cheese Toasties were nice - maybe a little pricey for what we got. Staff were very friendly and the atmosphere was nice 🙂 oh and if you're in a low car I might suggest parking on the street - bit of a ditch at the bottom 👍 otherwise a nice place to visit with plenty of options on the menu! 😊

Great coffee, great bacon and egg roll, and great service- what more do you need ?

Everyone was lovely and kind. Accomodating for Gluten Free and the food is lovely. Food is much better than it looks in my photo. It already cut/man handled it a bit!

Sit down early morning coffee Xshot wasn't to bad a coffee but lacked in flavour and strength unfortunately. The service was ok but the speed was slow in regards to Coffees being made, also a regular customer who ordered well after us left with their Coffee while we sat and waited. Overall a below average experience.

We went to cafe Kin today for brunch. When we went inside the cafe, we could smell very nice coffee smells. The decor and the atmosphere were very nice. We ordered mushroom medleys and the prawn burger. The coffee and the food were delicious. The service was good too, and the price was reasonable.

We live in Sydney and come to Nelson bay 2 times a year and we only want to get our coffee and breakfast from here. The service, food and atmosphere are ALWAYS 5 stars. Love everything about this place.

Absolutely awesome breakfast and coffee yesterday. Took my two sons for a breakfast experience that they enjoyed immensely.

A lovely eclectic style cafe with excellent food and coffee. There is also a big dog friendly courtyard at the rear. Friendly and quick service.

This place is so cosy and has such a great atmosphere with great music. The food was delicious and the bagel+beef burger was loaded and definitely worth the money! Staff were also super lovely and helpful.

Our experience was great. We were pleased to find vegan options for breakfast in Nelson's bay. Both our coffees were lovely, alternate milks are available, as was cold brew coffee and batch brew filter coffee. The vegan loaded bagel with avo was absolutely loaded and awesome value for money. The maple espresso buckwheat porridge didn't hit the mark though and resembled and tasted like a hot oat coffee with buckwheat and pomegranates In it making it a soup. Atmosphere was beautiful and I loved the living plant decor, it was beautiful.

This restaurant is a very unique place for brunch! You’re outside among the boats which is lovely but a tad chilly on a winter morning! Fortunately blankets and a heater were happily provided to us. Excellent food and coffee mixed with fabulous customer service will ensure we’re back here again!

Found this little place on the jetty by mistake and so glad we did. Floating on the marina in front of the main building is an awesome little food and coffee stop with outside dining. The coffee was lovely and the bacon and egg burger with hash browns was the best I have had. Give this place some support and drive the extra 5 mins from town and you won’t be disappointed. Why this place is not signposted is crazy. Staff were awesome, if I lived here I would be a regular 👍👍

Lovely fresh food. Perfect serving size for lunch. Salt& Pepper squid was light and fresh. Prawns very clean and delicious. Salads were amazing!

Fantastic food, the best coffee in town and the staff are always so friendly! In such a beautiful location too!

Nice food, amazing view, great service, definitely a good choice!!

I am so glad to be able to visit this place for brunch on our last day at Nelson Bay. Their food and coffee are delicious. Staffs are friendly. Atmosphere is particularly enjoyable as you dine in the middle of a marina with beautiful sea view, combined with some lovely sculptures around the marina, making this a prefect place for some relaxing and enjoyable morning and afternoon.

Food great. Had salt and pepper squid, a little light on the squid but salad accompaniment was delicious. Rain downpour ruined visit but staff went above and beyond to help organising umbrellas. What a nice touch. A+ service.

Friendly and helpful staff, tasty fresh food, will try the coffee next time! Music playing is uplifting and comfy bench seats as well as Cool blue chairs! Made waiting for my delayed flight bareable!

The pricing, food taste, and quantitywas all good, until I saw a sharp broken plastic piece in the lasagne, and luckily did not swallow it.

Was overcharged $2 on chicken burger, and the chicken was a patty not actual chicken meat.

$14.95 for a Microwave Quiche says it all - crazy expensive prices for average food. Allpress Coffee is pretty good to be fair.

Paid $15 for an egg and bacon roll that was microwaved and toasted until it was not edible. Bun was so burnt from toasting too long because they were too busy talking, egg was rubbery and bacon was aswell When I told the girls behind the counter, they just laughed and said I should’ve got sauce with it. Unacceptable! If you are going to charge so much at least make it edible

Today I was sat behind the cafe hunter and king at around 10am and witnessed the staff member on the coffee machine yell and swear at another staff member as she was walking past. I was shocked and felt sorry for this young lady, she looked so confused and so did the young man that was with her. I went and checked on this young lady afterwards to make sure she was ok. This behaviour is unacceptable and embarrassing for the company.

Airport product pricing at its best here, and it’s at a “regional” airport as well. Coffee was what you’d expect from a 7-11 yet it comes with a heavy price. In the morning, the queue takes forever just to obtain your order; there’s just no sense of urgency at the register.

Such a sweet setup and friendly service! The food items are delicious (I've tried their danishes, donuts and bagels), they make really good coffee and definitely worth stopping in to

Finally a place to get a coffee that makes you want to come back! Great coffee, great service, great vibe. So cool to see Grace doing it and sharing her passion - check it out!

Popped in for a coffee on our way travelling north and were pleasantly surprised to be there on their 4th Birthday! Good coffee and great people!

Best coffee in Medowie! I'm especially a big fan of their cold brew! Always fantastic service, and great location.

Lovley service here. The workers ___________ and ____________ always chat with you, and always have something nice to say. Their food is amazing, and their drinks are delish.i would deffedently recomend comming here.

Wonderful coffee from the cutest little caravan. Great service and a nice spot to sit in the sun under the pretty Jacaranda tree 💕

Absolutely amazing coffee! I love my visits to the Keen Bean & Co! I highly recommend 👍🏻👍🏻

Had coffee and breakfast here this morning and was so impressed! It’s small but mighty. We had the halloumi burger and mushroom on sourdough, both delicious. We also had coffee which was really nice and an iced strawberry matcha latte (this could have had a bit more matcha, but still really nice). Will definitely be coming back when we return to Nelson’s Bay!

If you're in Port Stephens and looking for a cozy spot to start your day, this charming café at Anchorage Marina is a must-visit. The atmosphere is welcoming and the service is top-notch, making it the perfect place to unwind over a delicious breakfast. The meals are just as impressive as what you’ll find at other well-known cafés in the area—each dish is fresh, tasty, and beautifully presented. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or something lighter, you’ll find something to suit your taste. And let’s not forget the coffee—rich, aromatic, and perfect to sip while enjoying the marina views. Overall, this café offers a great blend of great food, exceptional service, and a peaceful setting. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed and satisfying breakfast experience in Port Stephens!

Great cute little spot for a coffee! The pastries are great and the service is very good! The coffee is definitely the best you can get in corlette! Super peaceful seating on the water, nice surroundings within the marina and definitely worth the visit! Just be mindful drinking liquids the toilet is like 5min walk around the end of the marina!

Love this place! It’s quickly become a local fav. Such good coffee and breakie, and the people are so chilled and friendly. If you park at The Anchorage you just need to walk to the marina and it’s right there. Such a quiet, tranquil, beautiful spot away from the hustle of the main towns. Definitely worth it.

My husband and I were staying at The Anchorage when I noticed this little cafe. It was always busy. I was looking for a takeaway Charcuterie box, so we could watch the sunset with some nibbles and bubbles. The owner was wonderful in make us a takeaway box, all the ingredients was fresh and tasty. Definitely value for money. Great little place. We will be back

Very friendly service from all staff, delicious food and excellent coffee. Not to mention the 10/10 setting. New favourite for us. Also felt comfortable here with our toddler.

Great little discovery on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Yummy treats and a real joy trying the Coffee Flight (sampler). The coffee explanation by our server excellent. Will bring others to discover and enjoy.

Great little coffee shop with wonderful breakfast food! I’m an American, first time in Australia, and this was my first breakfast. Very nice and helpful staff with amazing food and coffee to match. Definitely will be back!

Stopped in for a quick bite and was so impressed! The café has a cozy vibe, the food was tasty, and the staff were genuinely kind and attentive. A great little place worth visiting.

Visited Bayside Fresca many times with my children. Amazing services, exceptional coffee and food and always served with a smile. Very family friendly. It’s our go to for our family!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hands down the best coffee in town! Smooth espresso, cozy vibes, delicious food and the friendliest staff . My go-to spot every time, can’t recommend it enough! ☕✨

Great cafe excellent food and service. Always friendly

This place is a hidden gem! The food was fresh and delicious, and the coffee was spot on. The service was friendly and welcoming. Definitely coming back!

Absolutely love this place! Coffee & Food is spot on. Service 👌 Highly recommend!