In Sydney, brunch isn't just a meal; it's a cherished ritual. It's the embodiment of the city's laid-back, sun-kissed lifestyle—a leisurely affair involving expertly brewed coffee, beautifully plated food, and a vibrant atmosphere. The city is dotted with countless cafes, each offering its own unique take on the morning meal, from classic ricotta hotcakes to innovative Japanese-inspired breakfast sets. This culture is so ingrained that the Sydney Morning Herald's Good Food Guide even publishes an annual list of the city's top cafes.

Navigating this thriving scene can be overwhelming for a visitor. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you ten of the most talked-about, highly-rated, and quintessentially Sydney brunch spots. From legendary institutions with queues around the block to charming neighbourhood gems, these cafes represent the pinnacle of the city's brunch culture. Prepare to discover why starting the day with a flat white and a delicious brunch is the ultimate 'Aussie Style' experience.

A hotspot in Potts Point, Piña is famous for two things: its exceptional food and the inevitable queue that forms outside. This cafe has earned its place on the Sydney Morning Herald's prestigious list of top cafes and is a must-visit for any serious brunch enthusiast. The wait is well worth it for a taste of their celebrated menu.

• Scrambled Eggs: Hailed as the star of the show, the scrambled eggs are a masterclass in texture and flavour.
• Tuna Sandwich: A surprisingly complex and delicious option, featuring tuna mash with sour radish and crispy onion bits for added texture.
• Sweet Pancake: A decadent treat with a strong buttery aroma, a crispy exterior, and a dense cake-like interior, served with fresh strawberries and blueberries.
• Fried Chicken Burger: For those with a heartier appetite, this burger is a satisfying choice, with juicy, tender chicken.

For a brunch experience that is reliably excellent, look no further than Bills. With a reputation for consistency, it's the kind of place you can choose blindly without fear of disappointment. The cafe, famously recommended by celebrity Hannah Quinlivan, has become a Sydney institution.

Located in the trendy suburb of Surry Hills, Bills offers a menu that is both comforting and sophisticated. While specific dishes weren't detailed in the notes, its reputation is built on perfecting the classics. It's the ideal spot for those who value quality and a guaranteed great meal, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the city's brunch scene. Its location in Surry Hills also places you right in the heart of one of Sydney's most vibrant neighbourhoods.

Nestled directly opposite the perpetually busy Piña, Truffles has earned its own stellar reputation as a must-visit brunch destination. It has become the go-to alternative for those unwilling to brave the long queues next door, but many now visit Truffles as their primary choice.

The menu is packed with tempting options that have garnered rave reviews:

• Ricotta Hotcakes: A signature dish that is a must-try. You can choose to have them served with either banana or mixed berries. The hotcakes are praised for being soft, fluffy, and not overly sweet.
• Chili Oil Noodles: A savoury standout, this dish can be customized with extra toppings like garlic prawns, offering a flavour profile reminiscent of Indonesian stir-fried noodles.
• Signature Hotcakes: Another version of their hotcakes features banana, ricotta, maple syrup, and a unique soy milk sauce, a combination that has won over many diners.

Tucked away in a quiet Surry Hills laneway, Tento is a gem that has rightfully earned its place on the Sydney Morning Herald's list of top cafes. This Japanese-inspired spot is known for its serene atmosphere and meticulously prepared dishes that offer a unique twist on the classic brunch.

It's a weekend hotspot, so expect it to be busy. The menu is a delight for those who appreciate nuanced flavours and beautiful presentation:

• Salmon Ochazuke: A comforting and elegant dish featuring raw salmon slices over a bed of crispy rice, served with a pot of hot broth to pour over.
• Breakfast Setto: A more formal breakfast set that includes perfectly cooked salmon, a delicate onsen egg, and an assortment of small side dishes like spinach and fried eggplant.
• Black Sesame Latte: A standout beverage that is praised for being the best in Sydney—rich and flavourful without being overly sweet.

Sometimes, the highest praise comes in the simplest terms. Described by one enthusiastic visitor as the "best brunch" they had during a ten-day trip, Goodfields Eatery in Lindfield is clearly a destination worth seeking out.

This cafe has earned a reputation for across-the-board excellence. The sentiment from diners is that you simply can't go wrong here—every dish, from the food to the coffee, is delicious. This level of consistent quality and high praise makes Goodfields Eatery a standout choice for anyone looking for a truly top-tier brunch experience. If you're willing to venture to Lindfield, you'll be rewarded with a meal that is, by all accounts, exceptional.

Known as a purveyor of '漂亮饭' (piàoliang fàn, or 'pretty food'), Auvers Dining has built a reputation for dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. This cafe, which transforms into a bar by night, is perfect for those who appreciate artistry on a plate. With locations in both Darling Square and Rhodes, it's an accessible and popular choice.

The menu features creative and indulgent options that are perfect for a special brunch:

• Lobster Omelette: A luxurious and highly recommended dish.
• Wagyu Noodle: Another standout that showcases the cafe's commitment to high-quality ingredients.
• MBS8-9 Wagyu Steak: Available at the Rhodes location, this dish highlights their fine-dining capabilities even during the day.

Auvers also offers set dinner menus, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. More information can be found on their official website.

No list of Sydney brunch spots would be complete without the iconic Grounds of Alexandria. While some locals might consider it a bit of a 'tourist' destination, there's no denying its visual magic and reliable quality. The Alexandria location is famous for its elaborate, seasonally changing themed decorations and beautiful garden setting, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere that is perfect for photos.

Beyond the stunning visuals, The Grounds offers consistently good coffee and brunch fare. It's an experience as much as a meal, and a must-visit for anyone new to Sydney's cafe scene. For a different vibe, their city location often features unique themes as well, such as a Harry Potter-inspired design, making every visit a new discovery.

This Korean-run cafe brings a unique and delicious flair to Sydney's brunch scene. Aslan Coffee has won praise for its well-seasoned, inventive dishes and high-quality ingredients. It's a spot where you can taste the care and thought put into every plate.

• Aslan Bowl: A standout dish packed with diverse ingredients and excellent seasoning.
• French Toast: This isn't your average French toast. It's made with soft brioche bread and topped with a delightful combination of ricotta, fresh cranberries, pistachio crumbles, and honeycomb pieces, creating a symphony of textures and flavours.
• Matcha Brownie: A perfect treat for matcha lovers, this brownie offers a satisfying balance of sweet and salty notes with a strong matcha flavour.

Located in the serene Victoria Park near the University of Sydney, Gardener's Lodge Cafe is a charming spot for a leisurely brunch. Its picturesque setting, with ample outdoor seating for sunny days, makes it a popular choice for students and locals alike.

The food lives up to the beautiful surroundings, with several dishes earning high marks:

• French Toast: A must-order item, this dish is described as exceptionally delicious, served with fruit and cream cheese.
• Fried Chicken and Waffles: A surprising and successful combination of sweet and savoury, with juicy, freshly fried chicken that's best enjoyed hot.
• Steak Sandwich: A solid choice for a more substantial meal, featuring high-quality steak.

If your brunch priority is a beautiful, sun-drenched atmosphere perfect for photos and a relaxed vibe, THEECA in Darlinghurst is your spot. This cafe is celebrated for its stunning outdoor setting, where sunlight streams onto the tables, creating an idyllic scene.

While the food is considered by some to be secondary to the ambiance, it's the overall experience that draws people in. The signature butter milk pancake is a popular choice, though it's noted for being quite sweet with a generous amount of honey. This is the place to go when you want to linger over a coffee, soak up the sun, and capture that perfect, relaxed Sydney brunch moment for your feed.