The Best Cafes in Adelaide

Updated 1 week ago

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Adelaide’s cafe scene has come a long way since Exchange set the standard more than a decade ago. Today we’ve got former fine-dining chefs in kitchens, fit-outs from top interior designers and some of the best roasters and baristas in the country. And don’t forget the efficient yet friendly service that’s gained international attention. The standard is high no matter where you look, but if you’re after the best in the business, look no further.

  • Occupying an iconic corner in Adelaide’s East End, Exchange Coffee has long been at the front of the pack in the city’s specialty coffee scene. Come for Market Lane coffee brewed every which way, produce-driven brunch dishes and a signature sandwich worthy of cult status.

  • You'll find this former Melbourne cafe and roastery in a sprawling warehouse. Barista and roaster Sean Do has brought his cafe – and coffee expertise – home to Adelaide (and enlisted long-time friend Dos Cavuoto). Visit for house-roasted coffee, house-made doughnuts and all-day breakfast.

  • Sustainability is the bottom line at this beloved cafe and workshop space. Come for a no-waste menu of mainly vegetarian dishes, and take home jars of Ben’s pickles and preserves.

  • Lounge on the lush front lawn with a coffee or beer.

  • This stunning indoor-outdoor eatery is full of natural colour tones and textures: think timbers, stucco walls, stone floors and leather seats. The all-day menu draws from a wide range of influences – expect house-made noodles, smoked cocktails and views of the surrounding river and gum trees.

  • Where the Mediterranean meets the Middle East. Starters hew towards the Middle East, while the wood oven in the corner delivers pizzas and house-made pita bread.

  • A little corner of France in Adelaide’s East End, Hey Jupiter has been throwing down champagne breakfasts and Bloody Marys for more than a decade. If you come for dinner, it transforms into a laid-back spot for small plates and big-flavoured French classics.

  • Drink coffee and see it roasted in the one light-filled space.

  • Known for its bright brews without a sniff of coffee snobbery, this cafe and espresso bar serves up air-roasted coffee, steering away from traditional brewing methods. Also on the menu are granolas, sandwiches and pastries from Prove Patisserie.

  • Day through night, this lush alfresco space has you covered.

  • A brunch spot in a historic building in Port Adelaide with a focus on sustainability.

  • A one-stop shop whether you want a coffee and panini to go; sit-down brekkie or lunch; sliced-to-order deli meats; flowers; a loaf of bread; and more.

  • A hybrid coffee roastery and cellar door, surrounded by stunning wine country.

  • Set within the old Norwood squash court, this spacious eatery champions all-SA produce. Come for house-baked pastries and sourdough crumpets, plus farm-to-table dishes starring produce from the owners’ own farm.

  • A brunch and specialty coffee spot that welcomes families with genuine enthusiasm.

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  • Everything a city espresso bar should be, and nothing more.

  • This corner store turned cafe focuses on serving well-made coffee and traditional Serbian pastries. With an emphasis on simplicity and feeling inviting and homey, it features a concise menu of pastries from Skala Bakery and coffee from White Horse Coffee.

  • Adelaide’s most nomadic cafe is back where it all started, in leafy Kent Town. Hit this polished local for the same Industry Beans double ristretto, Bad Boy brekkie roll and community vibe that made it a hit from day one.

  • A small, relaxed city hang serving sandos and pastries with a Filipino twist.