Cairns is a bloody ripper destination for food lovers, especially when it comes to starting your day right with a proper breakfast.

This tropical paradise in Far North Queensland doesn’t just have stunning views of the Great Barrier Reef – it’s also home to some absolutely cracking breakfast spots that’ll have you coming back for more.

Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your morning routine or a foreign traveler wanting to experience the best of what Cairns has to offer, you’re in for a real treat.

From beachfront cafés serving up fresh tropical fruit bowls to cozy corner spots dishing out the ultimate big breakfast, Cairns has something to satisfy every appetite and budget.

The city’s vibrant food scene blends international flavors with true-blue Australian classics, creating breakfast experiences that are uniquely North Queensland.

We’ve done the hard part of exploring the best breakfast places in Cairns, so you can focus on what really matters – enjoying a fantastic meal to fuel your day.

So, get ready to discover the 8 best breakfast spots in Cairns that’ll make your mornings in the city unforgettable.

Best Breakfast in Cairns

1. Guyala Café

Google Rating: 4.7

Located on 2 Smith Street, Guyala Café opened its doors in January 2020 and has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors.

This charming café sits close to the airport, making it perfect for travelers looking for a quality breakfast meal before or after their flight. The relaxed atmosphere welcomes guests who want to escape the usual rush of airport dining.

What sets Guyala Café apart is their commitment to serving breakfast you simply can’t make at home. Their unique menu combines creative dishes with excellent service in a comfortable setting.

The attention to detail shows in small touches like ice served in water and consistently fantastic coffee. Their breakfast menu, available until 11 AM, features beautifully presented dishes that taste as good as they look.

The standout dish is their tropical avocado toast, which goes far beyond regular avocado on toast. This creative twist on a classic breakfast item showcases the café’s innovative approach to familiar foods.

For something heartier, try their ROO-BEN sandwich, which comes highly recommended by regular customers. The amazing staff provides friendly service, and the prices remain reasonable for the high quality you receive.

2. Caffiend

Google Rating: 4.6

Caffiend, located at 72 Grafton Street, proves that breakfast doesn’t have to be boring. This restaurant focuses on great coffee and delicious food made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients.

The freshness and flavor at Caffiend rule every dish they serve. Their Japanese slaw stands out as one of the best you’ll find anywhere in Cairns.

For vegetarian eaters, the vegan Truffle Mushrooms dish delivers amazing flavors with garlic mushrooms on toast, homemade pate, spinach, mozzarella, and truffle oil. Every bite offers something special and memorable.

The coffee here deserves special mention for being absolutely delicious without any bitter aftertaste. Food presentation remains beautiful across all dishes, making your meal as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Also, the relaxed atmosphere makes Caffiend an ideal spot for working or studying with a laptop. Friendly staff members make the overall experience better, and the reasonable prices will keep your accountant happy.

3. Bang & Grind Café

Google Rating: 4.7

Bang & Grind Café, located at 8/14 Spence Street, centers its identity around providing an awesome espresso experience paired with a fresh light breakfast and lunch menu.

This espresso café has earned such a loyal following that customers return multiple times, which speaks volumes about the quality they deliver consistently.

The breakfast menu impresses with fresh fruit juices and excellent service in a dog-friendly environment. Their big breakfast becomes even better when you add avocado and halloumi to create the perfect combination.

The quality bacon shows the café’s commitment to using good ingredients throughout its menu. Staff members serve food with genuine smiles, adding warmth to every breakfast meal.

The clever coffee concept lets you choose between “Bang” or “Grind” preparation methods, showing the café’s playful personality. Whether you’re a serious foodie or just grabbing coffee on your way to work, this place delivers 100% satisfaction.

The portions hit the sweet spot – satisfying without being overwhelming or expensive. Popular menu items include pancakes with milkshakes, acai bowls, smashed avocado, and granola-topped banana splits that provide delicious variety.

4. Muddy’s Café

Google Rating: 4.4

Muddy’s Café, located at 174 Esplanade, offers the perfect combination of great location, delicious coffee, and excellent food with plenty of seating options. The café provides nice views and reasonable prices across their extensive menu choices.

Despite being popular and often busy, finding a table remains possible thanks to their ample seating arrangements.

The breakfast menu delivers consistently great dishes like eggs benedict and chicken salad that keep customers coming back. For those on the quest for quieter dining, outdoor seating provides a more peaceful alternative to the bustling indoor atmosphere.

Their Silly Salmon stands out as a fantastic choice, featuring smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, spinach, aioli, and capers on sourdough that’s fresh, flavorful, and filling.

The atmosphere at Muddy’s creates the perfect morning experience with friendly staff, excellent people-watching opportunities, and a beautiful spot to watch morning clouds roll by.

The location adds to the charm, making breakfast feel like a special occasion rather than just another meal. While the chips taste great, they can be quite salty for breakfast, which represents the only minor drawback to an otherwise excellent dining experience.

Also Read: Best Steak in Cairns

5. Café Strada

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at 79 Lake Street, Café Strada brings Mediterranean breakfast to the heart of Cairns. This modern café offers three distinct seating areas that cater to different preferences.

The main indoor area features beautiful decorations with warm colors, soft lighting, and fresh plants that create a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can also choose the small street-side terrace or the larger, more appealing courtyard area.

The café excels in both coffee and food quality. Their smashed avocado on toast with cherry tomatoes and rocket makes for a perfect light meal, while the Turkish breakfast with added bacon, mushrooms, and an extra poached egg provides a hearty start to the day.

The pancakes and sandwiches are equally impressive, making Café Strada an ideal spot to relax with friends. Amenities include reliable Wi-Fi, clean restrooms with quality supplies, and background music at just the right volume.

6. MI Piace Espresso Bar

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at 1/119 Sheridan Street, Mi Piace Espresso Bar offers an amazing Italian-style breakfast menu.

This breakfast place combines authentic Italian café culture with modern Australian breakfast favorites. The beautiful terrace provides an excellent setting for morning meals, while the extensive pastry variety showcases traditional Italian baking techniques.

The menu features perfectly executed classics like eggs your way, served with crispy bacon and some of the best sourdough bread in Cairns. Each dish receives careful attention to presentation, creating Instagram-worthy plates that taste as good as they look.

The fluffy, soft muffins scattered with fresh berries demonstrate the kitchen’s attention to detail. Their hot chocolate and coffee maintain authentic Italian standards.

The combination of five-star service, exceptional food quality, and elegant crockery creates a premium breakfast experience that justifies every dollar spent.

7. Pete & Paulz Breakfast Bar

Google Rating: 4.6

Located at 35 Sheridan Street, Pete & Paulz Breakfast Bar delivers outstanding value without compromising on quality.

This unpretentious establishment focuses on generous portions and friendly service rather than fancy décor. The extensive breakfast menu covers everything from hearty savory options to sweet treats, ensuring something for every taste preference.

Each meal comes with thoughtful extras like fresh salad or fruit garnishes that add both nutrition and visual appeal. The coffee maintains high standards while the service consistently exceeds expectations.

Although the restaurant lacks air conditioning, powerful fans keep the indoor seating comfortable year-round. The reasonable prices stand out especially when compared to nearby cafes.

Easy parking and accessibility make this spot particularly convenient for families and groups. The straightforward, comfortable setting allows the quality food and excellent value to speak for themselves, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

8. Wharf ONE Cafe

Google Rating: 4.4

Located on Wharf Street at Trinity Wharf, Wharf ONE Café offers a unique waterfront breakfast experience. The café’s indoor-outdoor setup takes full advantage of its prime location, providing diners with beautiful rainforest views and the peaceful sight of boats passing by.

This relaxing atmosphere makes it perfect for leisurely morning meals or afternoon coffee breaks. The extensive menu surprises many visitors with its variety and quality, especially considering the reasonable prices.

The café focuses on healthy options without sacrificing flavor, creating dishes that are both nutritious and delicious. Each breakfast plate arrives as a carefully crafted work of art, showing the cafe’s commitment to both taste and presentation.

The waterfront location adds a special charm to every meal, whether you’re watching the harbor activity or simply enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Pet owners will appreciate the dog-friendly policy, making it an excellent choice for the whole family to enjoy together.