Breakfast, Brunch and Bakeries from the Beach to McLaren Vale

Start your day with a beautiful breakfast, relaxing brunch or a quick coffee and pastry pick-up from our favourite cafes and brunch spots around McLaren Vale in South Australia. The delightful sunny spring and summer days are the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day out! 

Uncovering one of the best spots for breakfast or finding the perfect cup of coffee is always a highlight. “It’s a top priority to start the day right,” says Dom Ossa, co-owner of Dawn Patrol Coffee in McLaren Vale. Owners Nick and Dom roast exceptional single-origin coffee which they wholesale in the region, but they also serve coffee and offer tastings and local pastries 7 days a week from 9.30am - 4pm.

“We are really starting to develop a strong coffee culture in our region and local coffee roasters are becoming a specialty. We’re so lucky to be part of a region with amazing local produce, quality restaurants and wine. We also have great cafes and casual eateries, like Harry’s Deli and Manna in McLaren Vale, there are some great cafes in Aldinga, and Willunga is definitely a go-to breakfast spot,” says Dom.

Not only is coffee roasted locally, but much of the produce sourced to make the freshly prepared breakfast delights are local too. Many cafes list the producers on their menus and offer vegetarian, gluten-free or vegan options too. Not sure what to order? Ask your host, as they know the most popular dishes and also often share their personal favourite.

To make your mornings (or afternoon pick-me-ups) simple, here are some top spots to grab a local brew, a baked treat or relaxed morning of deliciousness.

Sam I am Cafe. McLaren Vale,

Offering specialty coffee, all day breakfast/brunch, cakes, pastries, freshly squeezed juices, smoothies and delicious sweets!

Breeze Café & Bar, Aldinga Beach 

Enjoy breakfast, coffee and cake overlooking the sea at this family and pet-friendly Esplanade favourite. They’ve got a delicious smoothie menu, and if you’re after something a bit more substantial later on, they have a lengthy list of pizzas too.

WILLUNGA FARMERS MARKET

As far as breakfasts go, the market has everything morning dreams are made of. From freshly baked toasties, to healthy brekkie bowls and the classic bacon and egg sandwich, there’s something to suit all market-goers. Sip on your coffee and enjoy your breakfast as you stroll.

Stump Hill Cafe, McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre

Locally-brewed Villeré coffee, light meals and homemade cakes or slices are available from the Visitor Centre daily. Sit inside and enjoy a seat inside or relax outside under the vines on the deck and admire the stunning vineyard views. Make sure to grab a local treasure in the providore/gift store on your way out and a map to tour the region.

Agathas Food Store, Port Noarlunga (header image credit)

This ‘Porties’ stalwart has been a popular brekkie spot for years, particularly with locals on weekends, known for their colourful plates and quirky courtyard. Their smoothies and burgers are some of the best in the region and there’s a separate vegan menu too.

Golden Fleece Cafe, Willunga

This Willunga staple is always busy, the outdoor area and adjacent gardens perfect for little ones and pooches. The full brekky here is enough to keep you going for a day of exploring and the smoothies have a cult following.

De-Rose Kitchen , Willunga

A one-stop-shop, you can enjoy a vegetable rosti (regulars favourite) and then take away a picnic lunch. Their providore is always stacked to the brim with goodies. Don’t forget to check out the cute courtyard out the back, complete with fish pond.

Whether you want to whip up a coffee in your B&B or sample one from an expert milk-frother, here are some local roasters to look out for:

• Dawn Patrol Coffee
• Goodness Coffee Co, Aldinga: Goodness Roastery and Cafe.
• Fleurieu Roat Coffee
• McLaren Vale Coffee, McLaren Vale:
• From Humble Grounds (Willunga Farmer’s Market),

A couple of other local coffee shops that have caught our eye include:

Gooby Goose Cafe, Happy Valley are quickly developing a loyal following, priding themselves on great coffee, friendly service and delicious bite-size treats.

Coffee Factory Cafe, Port Noarlunga serving specialty coffee and brekkie all day including vegan options like their apple pie pancakes.

That all-important bakery stop-off is an integral part of exploring any region. Here are some of our favourites:

Beck’s Bakehouse, Port Noarlunga

CJ’s Bakery, Christies Beach

Clarendon Bakery, Clarendon

Espy Bakehouse, Christies Beach

Home Grain Bakery, Aldinga 

McLaren Vale Bakery - McLaren Vale

The Cottage Bakery, McLaren Vale

Willunga Bakery, Willunga