The Best Cafes in Geelong for Brunching in Style

Victoria’s second-largest city has truly cemented itself as a culinary gem, and its cafe scene is no exception. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re spoiled for choice—think cutting-edge brew bars, trendy sando spots, laid-back family-friendly cafes, and vibrant health-focused havens, all waiting just around the corner.

Grab a coffee to kickstart your coastal wander or linger over a slow brunch post-dip. Whatever your vibe—barefoot and beachy or brunch-ready chic—the best cafes in Geelong deliver the kind of flavour-packed moments that turn everyday sips and bites into laid-back little luxuries.

No. 10 James Street

Your lunchtime vacation can be found in the heart of Geelong. No. 10 James Street is an enchanting cafe and wine bar that brims with character and charm. With its warm atmosphere and inviting vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back brunch or evening unwind. The house-blend 10 Rabbits coffee, roasted locally by Cartel Roasters, offers the perfect pick-me-up, while the carefully curated wine selection invites you to linger. Savour delicious dishes like the Green Avo Stack, or join the lively wine nights for a delightful taste of local culture and community.

Temporarily closed

10 James Street, Geelong

At Randy’s

After losing her mum at 17, Kelly turned her love for cooking and cherished family recipes into At Randy’s, a heartwarming cafe in Geelong that honours her mum, nana, and her beloved Vizsla, Randy. The menu is a tribute to comfort, with dishes that taste like home and coffee that feels like a hug.

Be sure to try the Hummingbird Cake, drizzled with honey and white chocolate ganache—a sweet slice of love in every bite.

84A Hope Street, Geelong West 

Rossco’s 

If you’re in Geelong West and you want a sandwich that’s more than just a snack, Rossco’s is where you need to be. Picture this: a modern-vintage joint, dripping in orange and white, serving up sandwiches that hit you right in the comfort zone. We’re talking thick, pillowy bread stuffed with curried egg that takes you back, a roast chook that’s pure nostalgia, and a Reuben that could make a grown man cry. Plus, the merch? Those beanies are more than just headwear—they’re a statement.

1B Yuille Street, Geelong West 

Rebecchi’s

Rebecchi’s is the new hotspot where coffee culture meets vinyl vibes. This unique cafe and record store at Boom Gallery brings NYC bodega charm to Geelong. Owner Sam seamlessly blends a love for music with culinary expertise, offering New York-style sandwiches like the Italian sub and classic Caesar salad with slow-cooked egg. With tuna melts, chopped cheese sandwiches, and rhubarb sodas also on the menu, it’s easy to see why this spot is a must-visit.

Serving Ona coffee and rotating guest roasters, Rebecchi’s is all about quality, community, and excellent hospitality.

11 Rutland Street, Newtown

Brown Deli

Brown Deli is a must-visit Geelong cafe, thanks to its mouthwatering bagels, toasties, and exceptional coffee. Dive into the fried chicken bagel with Korean fried chicken, sweet chilli sauce, and coleslaw, or the smoky chicken avocado chilli toastie. Other delights include peanut butter porridge, salmon lox bagels, and beef and kimchi toasties. Vegans will love the beetroot hummus, avocado, and rocket bagel. With something for everyone, Brown Deli is a true local favourite.

Sitchu Tip: Don’t miss their strawberry iced matcha!

5 Cunningham Street, Geelong 

Blank Space 

Located at the River End of Pakington Street, Blank Space in Newtown is a dynamic cafe with a strong sense of community. Owners Josh and Katie Armstrong have created a chic NYC-inspired space, offering exceptional Industry Beans coffee and a seasonal menu packed with flavour. From Turkish eggs to a salmon deli plate, each dish is fresh and inventive. With cheeky cocktails to match, it’s one of Geelong’s standout spots for brunch.

4/343 Pakington Street, Newtown

Cafe Go 

Cafe Go is a charming blue weatherboard retreat, serving up creative meals six days a week. Here, comforting cinnamon porridge sits alongside vibrant Persian eggs and hearty Moroccan nourish bowls. Relax with a coffee by the crackling fireplace or unwind in the peaceful leafy courtyard out back. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious, wholesome food, Cafe Go offers the sweetest escape from the everyday.

37 Bellerine Street, Geelong 

Sodi 

Sodi on Pakington Street isn’t just Geelong’s most dog-friendly cafe – it’s a full-on treat for humans and pooches alike. This fully licensed haven serves up more than just tail-wagging approval; think cocktails, Mexican-style zucchini and corn fritters, buttermilk cinnamon scroll pancakes, and avocado toast that might just change your life.

149 Pakington Street, Geelong West 

Neck of the Woods

For specialty coffee and irresistible baked goods, look no further than Geelong’s Neck of the Woods. This charming cafe, run by a husband-and-wife duo, serves up Campos coffee alongside delicious treats and freshly prepared light cafe fare. From classic brekky toasties to fresh berries with granola and yoghurt, and indulgent salted chocolate chip cookies, each bite perfectly complements your coffee. It’s the ideal spot to start your day on a high note in Geelong.

136 Myers Street, Geelong

The Local Geelong

The Local Geelong is the cafe and bakery every neighbourhood dreams of. Serving hand-rolled pastries and multi-day sourdough from 7:30am, this spot uses top-quality local produce to craft a menu that changes daily. Enjoy seasonal delights like croissants, salted caramel scrolls, lamingtons, brioche burgers, potato leek gratin danishes, and salted chocolate cookies. Paired with exceptional coffee from Everyday Coffee, it’s the perfect place to enjoy breakfast and beyond in Geelong. Don’t miss it.

175 McKillop Street, Geelong 

Pavilion

Brunch heaven with bayside views? Yes, please! The storied Pavilion in Geelong, developed in 1927 and recently revitalised, offers a fresh, crowd-pleasing all-day menu. Highlights include smashed avocado with smoked feta, jalapeno sauce and chives, braised mushrooms on toast, blueberry and banana acai bowls, and the must-try eggs benedict with pulled pork brisket and sweet mustard hollandaise.

95 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong

King of the Castle

At King of the Castle, a standout cafe in Geelong, you’ll feel like royalty with every bite. Situated in a stylishly revamped repair garage, it offers a globe-trotting menu worth waking up for. Indulge in brekky tacos with buttery scramble or Thai poached eggs on crispy roti, topped with fresh herbs and chilli jam. With a spacious setup and a dedicated plant-based menu, this cafe ensures there’s something delicious for everyone, making it a weekend favourite.

24 Pakington Street, Geelong West

Winter’s Cafe

Winter’s Cafe is a must-visit cafe in Geelong for those who appreciate a twist on the classics. This spacious spot dishes out an all-day menu that’s as bold as it is delicious. Try the Mexican-inspired Winters Benedict with pulled pork, corn, and chipotle crema, or go for a hearty falafel bowl packed with lemon-pea falafels and hummus. Weekends? Don’t miss the bottomless brunch with free-flowing drinks. Grab a seat, dig in, and enjoy.

Sitchu Tip: Winter’s Cafe is perfect for families, with plenty of room for prams both indoors and outdoors.

330 Pakington Street, Newtown

Kilgour St Grocer

Kilgour St Grocer is where the old-school charm of a corner store that’s been around since the 1960s convenes with modern cafe cool. A local favourite, it serves up specialty coffee, classic sandwiches, and tempting sweet treats, with waffles making a weekend appearance. The vibe is laid-back yet stylish, offering a range of curated hampers online—though nothing beats handpicking your own in-store. It’s a top Geelong cafe where you can grab a quick bite or stock up on gourmet goodies, all while soaking up the unique atmosphere.

164 Kilgour Street, Geelong

Coffee Cartel Brew Bar

This specialty roaster and brew bar serves traceable, ethically grown beans with surgical precision and style. Pull up a window perch or share the communal table as world-class brews pour from barista hands to your cup. Expect rare varietals, experimental roasts, and beans so good they double as gifts.

For true coffee obsessives in Geelong, Coffee Cartel is the ritual, the temple, the experience.

1/80 Little Malop Street, Geelong

Mano Deli

Mano Deli is a retro gem in Manifold Heights, celebrated for its cosy vibes, good old fashioned service and mouthwatering menu. From Zeally Bay sourdough toast and sweet crumpets with berry compote to hearty toasties and sandwiches brimming with local flavours, there’s something for everyone.

Sitchu Tip: Don’t miss the Ode to Iberia sandwich—a delicious nod to the venue’s former life as Iberia.

137 Shannon Avenue, Manifold Heights

Born & Bread Bakehouse

Housed inside a reimagined mechanic’s garage, Born & Bread is where Geelong’s soul meets three generations of baking brilliance. Here, the scent of slow-fermented sourdough mingles with buttery brioche and golden focaccia. Each visit feels like stumbling into a secret neighbourhood ritual—coffee in hand, pastry still warm. Think spicy nduja fougasse, glorious sandwiches, flaky danishes, and cheese-studded scones. Watch the bakers in action, and taste the kind of care you can’t fake. It’s bread, but elevated.

2/364 Pakington Street, Newtown

Travelling through the area and keen to explore post delicious brunch at one of the best cafes in Geelong? Check out these gorgeous places to stay in Lorne or all along the Great Ocean Road. En route, surf your way across our road-tripper’s guide to the best beaches in Victoria.

Writer

Kelsey Harrington

28 April 2025

Kelsey Harrington is a Melbourne-based writer with a sharp eye for the city's ever-evolving food, wine, arts, and culture scene. Her journey into the creative industry took the scenic route—what started as a passion for capturing Melbourne’s energy through a camera lens led her to Sitchu, where she worked her way up to Melbourne Editor. With over four years in the industry, she’s all about uncovering the best places to eat, drink, and explore. Off the clock? You’ll find her diving into a platter of fresh oysters and crudo, gallery-hopping, or sipping an extra dirty martini while plotting her next adventure.