Husband and wife team Giselle and Christophe Massieu fell in love with Au Cirque when they relocated from Europe. So much so, that they went and bought the place.

It seems the rest of Brisbane is a little bit in love too – you’ll often find long lines of hungry devotees drinking coffee outside while they wait patiently for their favourite breakfast.

French native Christophe is a passionate cook and visits the markets twice a week with the chefs. You may find French toast with poached pear, spiced prune chutney and vanilla bean ice cream; or baked eggs with braised beans, spicy sausage and gruyere cheese.

Some cult-classics remain permanently posted on the menu, including sweet corn cakes with smashed avocado and the generously portioned chowdown (and vego chowdown), Au Cirque’s version of a big breakfast with the lot.

Drinks are just as tasty with a long list of T2 teas including the smooth and sweet Madagascan vanilla tea; a spicy bloody Mary; and good old fashioned malted milkshakes.