14 of the best Darwin cafes

Once, it was hard to find a Darwin cafe that didn’t serve its coffee in a mug. Those days are long gone.

Whether you’re after a slow brew, pour-over or a quick ristretto, you barely need to work up a sweat sorting out your caffeine and brunch fix (and that’s saying something in steamy Darwin) when it comes to finding the best Darwin cafes.

Searching for dinner? We’ve lined up the best Darwin restaurants for that too.

The Shortlist

Best Coffee: Mad About Coffee
Most Instagrammable: Laneway Specialty Coffee
Best Dog-Friendly Dining: The Foreshore Restaurant & Cafe
Best For Brunch: Ray’s Patisserie and Cafe
Best Pastries: Ruby G’s Canteen & Bakery

1. De la Plage

beachfront dining under shady umbrellas at De la Plage, Darwin — Nab a seat under the shady umbrellas. (Image: NT News)

Housed in a disused surf club storeroom, beachside cafe De la Plage occupies a grassy expanse that overlooks Casuarina Coastal Reserve, 25 minutes north of the CBD.

Run by Claire Pirau and Sevan Guzel, a Belgian and Australian-Turkish duo, the cafe’s menu is inspired by the ladies’ respective heritages. Belgian treats include brown sugar and lime crêpes, while a decadent fig and dark chocolate baklava is among the Turkish offerings. Other favourites include the loaded breakfast burger on ciabatta and a refreshing watermelon salad.

Address: Surf Life Saving Club Lot 9316 Darribah Road, Brinkin

2. Kopi Stop

a cup of coffee at Kopi Stop, Darwin — Sip on excellent coffee.

Take a mini break to Southeast Asia at Kopi Stop , which can be found in Darwin City.

This breakfast nook not only serves coffee (some would say the best in Darwin city), including Singaporean Kopitiam-style with condensed milk, but also creative meals like poached chicken and pork floss congee and ‘Singapore breakfast’ with coconut jam—AKA kaya with toast and soft-boiled eggs.

Address: 1/2 Harriet Pl, Darwin City

3. Four Birds

smashed Avocado with crumbed halloumi at Four Birds, Darwin — Smashed avocado with crumbed haloumi at Four Birds.

Four Birds in the historic Star Village Arcade is a perennial favourite. It is known for its great coffee, simple bagels, and laid-back courtyard vibe. Indulge with dishes like smashed avo with crumbed halloumi, or pick a light option like the acai breakfast bowl.

Address: 2/32 Smith St, Darwin City

4. Laneway Specialty Coffee

a latte cup at Laneway Specialty Coffee — Score a good brew at Laneway Specialty Coffee.

A little farther away from the city, in suburban Parap, snag a spot at the communal table at Laneway Specialty Coffee for excellent Zest Coffee and slick cafe fare. This cafe feels like it’s been lifted straight from a Melbourne laneway and is a local favourite, whether it’s remote workers during the week or families enjoying a lengthy weekend brunch. Opt for a classic smashed avo or treat yourself to the chilli scrambled eggs with sauteed mushrooms, whipped feta, house chilli oil, fresh herbs, and sourdough.

Address: 4/1 Vickers St, Parap

5. Ruby G’s Canteen & Bakery

the strawberry matcha at Ruby G’s Canteen & Bakery, Darwin — Sip on a strawberry matcha at Ruby G’s Canteen & Bakery.

If you’re after a light breakfast, Darwin’s artisan bakery, Ruby G’s Canteen in Coconut Grove, is right up your alley. Pick up a buttery almond croissant or settle in with a plate of shakshuka-baked eggs, plus, of course, some great coffee. Visit on a weekday morning and watch locals line up for boxes of crisp pastries for the office – get in early because they do sell out.

Address: 2 Tang St, Coconut Grove

6. Fannie Bay Coolspot

sunrise at Fannie Bay Coolspot, Darwin — Enjoy a hearty breakfast while looking at the beach. (Image: Tourism Australia/ Allan Dixon)

For some of the best breakfasts in Darwin, head to Fannie Bay Coolspot . This casual brunch ‘n’ lunch spot with aircon is situated super close to the beach, meaning you can go for a stroll on the foreshore before settling in for a plate of pancakes and a fresh tropical juice.

Address: 1 Keith Ln, Fannie Bay

7. The Rabbithole

bacon & egg roll at The Rabbit Hole, Darwin — Tuck into a delicious bacon and egg roll.

This CBD cafe celebrates Darwin’s culinary scene, which is a melting pot. Dishes include black sticky rice with coconut cream, miso brown butter eggs benedict, tropical fruit salad, and refreshing drinks like yuzu iced tea with pearl jam and matcha iced lattes.

Address: Paspalis centre point building, M19 48-50, Darwin City

8. The Foreshore Restaurant & Cafe

a spread of food and coffee at the Foreshore Restaurant & Cafe, Darwin — Order generous brunch plates at The Foreshore Restaurant & Cafe.

Down by Nightcliff Beach, the The Foreshore Restaurant & Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with views of the jetty, sea, and sand. Come here bright and early for a plate of avocado smash or their Foreshore benedict, and you may find yourself back again come sunset for a strawberry mojito and live music.

Address: 259 Casuarina Dr, Nightcliff

9. Eva’s Cafe

hot cross buns at Eva’s Cafe, Darwin — Pair delicious hot cross buns with your coffee.

A cute pit stop after taking the family for an exploration of the famous tropical Darwin Botanic Gardens. Eva’s Cafe is located in what was once a Wesleyan Methodist church, built at the end of the 19th century. Today, the air-conditioned establishment serves breakfasts and lunches, as well as tropical high tea with scones and jam during the dry season.

Address: Gardens Rd, The Gardens

10. Karma Cafe

smoothies at Karma Cafe, Darwin — Treat yourself to guilt-free smoothie bowls at Karma Cafe.

In Parap on a non-market day (or still peckish after perusing the market stalls)? Head to the fresh and funky Karma Cafe . There, have a breakfast of chocolate protein pancakes or vegan corn and zucchini fritters. The smoothie bowls are not to be missed, with delectable options like the ‘Nut Lover’—frozen banana, coconut flesh, peanut butter, granola, and goji berries.

Address: 119/12 Salonika St, Parap

11. Boatshed Coffee House

food and drinks at Boatshed Coffee House, Darwin — Boatshed Coffee House is a lovely spot by the water for all-day breakfast. (Image: Tourism NT/ Christopher Nayna)

Feed shimmering shoals of fish off the jetty before heading into Boatshed Coffee House for your brunch. Located at Cullen Bay, this marina-side cafe has an all-day breakfast available, with classics such as corn fritter stacks and big breakfasts with all the trimmings.

Address: 56 Marina Blvd, Larrakeyah

12. The Cyclone Cafe

a breakfast bowl at Cyclone Cafe, Darwin — Enjoy healthy breakfast bowls at The Cyclone Cafe.

This relaxing eatery for locals and visitors alike in the village of Parap has been around since the mid-90s and remains one of the best cafes in Darwin. Nab one of their comfy sofas to ease back into with an iced latte, and pair this with a lunchtime plate of bulgogi or kimchi fried rice.

Address: 2 Parap Pl, Parap

13. Ray’s Patisserie and Cafe

pouring milk over coffee at Ray’s Patisserie and Cafe — Sip on top-notch coffee.

This sprawling cafe has ample indoor and outdoor seating, so whatever the unpredictable Darwin weather throws at you, you’ll find the perfect seat at Ray’s . Enjoy a full breakfast with plenty of options for vegetarians, or pick up a delicious pastry to go with your oat latte.

Address: 66 Smith St, Darwin City

14. Mad about Coffee

Many locals will tell you that Mad About Coffee , a Parap staple, is the best coffee in Darwin. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you – inside, you’ll find exceptional coffee that rivals the best this country has to offer, plus a few takeaway goodies if you feel like a sweet snack to pair with your fresh brew.

Address: 3 Parap Pl, Parap

In the mood for a pint of ice-cold beer or zesty cocktails? Hop to the best bars in Darwin here.

Originally written by Kate Bettes with updates by Melissa Mason

Spend a few days visiting the real-life Central Australian locations that inspired the new film everyone is talking about, and discover why Alice Springs is such an important part of Australian culture.

In the credits of the new Australian film Kangaroo , the first name under ‘cast’ should read ‘The Northern Territory ’. Not only is Alice Springs (and the surrounding landscape) integral to the movie itself, but the spiritual heart of Australia and its local Indigenous owners also inform the look and feel of every frame, explains Producer Trisha Morton-Thomas of Brindle Films, who also plays Charlie’s grandmother Gwennie.

“By setting Kangaroo in Alice Springs (Mparntwe), the film embraces how visible Aboriginal people are here, and the living Aboriginal culture that is woven through this community,” she explains.

still from kangarro film — See *Kangaroo*, then visit the real-life filming locations.

And while shooting in such a sacred part of the Northern Territory required extra planning, it was something the cast and crew were highly invested in.

“There are incredibly significant sacred sites and places of deep cultural stories in the area, that at times are very gender-specific, which we’ve kept out of the production,” she explains. “Even if overhead drone footage captures a sacred site that isn’t meant to be seen by other people outside of that clan, we’ve made sure to omit it from the film.”

If Kangaroo piqued your interest in a Central Australian holiday, we don’t blame you. Read on to discover eight places featured in the movie that you can visit in real life – and get planning. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat.

1. Alice Springs/ Mparntwe

artist at Many Hands Art Centre — Visit the galleries of Alice Springs, like Many Hands Art Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr/ Many Hands Art Centre)

The red and dusty streets of the film’s fictional town of Silvergum were filmed on the outskirts of Alice Springs. And, while the art gallery featured in the film is fictional, Alice Springs is a hub of creativity. See the work of local artists at the Araluen Art Centre , Yubu Napa Art Gallery , Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre and the famous Tjanpi Desert Weavers .

2. The Kangaroo Sanctuary & Kangaroo Rescue Centre

The Kangaroo Sanctuary Alice Springs, the inspiration for the Kangaroo move — Visit the movie’s inspiration at Kangaroo Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/ Kangaroo Sanctuary)

Kangaroo was inspired by the journey of Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, who founded the now world-renowned Kangaroo Sanctuary based in Alice Springs. For lead actor, Aussie Ryan Corr, the animals were central to the movie, alongside the landscapes.

“The animals in this story were a real calling point for me,” he explains. “What this story tries to tell us about the connection between humans and animals is beautiful.”

To gain a real insight into the fauna and flora of the Red Centre, you can visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary on a sunset tour, where you might even get the chance to hold a baby kangaroo.

3. Ormiston Gorge

woman walking along the edge of Ormiston Gorge near alice springs — Take a dip in Ormiston Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/ @domandjesso)

The film captures the raw beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, known in the Arrernte language as Tjoritja. This national park is rich in Indigenous culture and stark geological wonders.

Only a 15-minute drive from Alice Springs, Tjoritja offers visitors the chance to camp, hike and swim among ancient landscapes (most attractions are less than a three-hour drive away).

Ormiston Gorge , a cooling oasis in among the red desert sands, is one of the most popular destinations, no doubt because of the permanent swimming hole and towering red cliffs. From here, visitors can also embark on the beautiful Ormiston Pound Walk and the shorter – more accessible – Ghost Gum Walk. Bring your bathers – it’s safe for swimming.

4. Standley Chasm

woman walking through Standley Chasm near alice springs — Wander through Standley Chasm. (Image: Tourism NT)

The 1.2-kilometre walk to nearby Standley Chasm will be a highlight for any visitor as the imposing 40 metre-high chasm walls project strength and ancient wisdom.

Visit at midday to experience the path illumined by the midday sun. Not only will you fill your camera roll with vibrant red images of the gorge and its intoxicating shadows, but you can also camp nearby in a powered or unpowered site so you can watch the brilliance of the desert stars fill the night sky after dusk.

5. Simpsons Gap

three people walking on path through simpsons gap near alice springs — Walk the trails of Simpson’s Gap. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr)

Closer to Alice Springs, the photogenic Simpsons Gap is the perfect place to spot the endangered Black-footed Rock wallaby near the permanent watering hole. While swimming isn’t permitted, soaking up the sun and views certainly is.

Explore the area’s numerous walking trails, appreciate the soaring cliffs on either side of the ‘gap’ and pick out the shooting locations of Kangaroo in the area.

6. Ellery Creek Big Hole

aerial of Ellery Creek Big Hole near alice springs — Dive into Ellery Creek Big Hole. (Image: Tourism NT/ Tourism Australia)

When it comes to classic Northern Territory landscapes, you can’t go past Ellery Creek Big Hole/ Udepata : tall gum trees sidling up to a refreshing watering hole (fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges and surrounded by rugged red cliffs.

Swim in the cooling waters, hike the cliff tops, watch for birds and even stargaze as you camp here overnight. It’s locations like this that attracted the film’s director Kate Woods to the project.

“It humbles you to be in this environment: it’s so beautiful, so old and so vast,” she explains. “I was thrilled to get a chance to … shoot such a beautiful story in the incredible landscape of the Northern Territory.”

7. Larapinta Drive

aerial of Larapinta Drive into alice springs — Drive along Larapinta Drive. (Image: Tourism NT)

There is no better way to get a feel for how the characters arrived at the fictional Central Australian town of Silvergum than to travel along the iconic state road, Larapinta Drive.

Connecting Alice Springs to the mighty King’s Canyon in the west, via the historic community of Hermannsburg, this road takes in the West MacDonnell National Park, Alice Springs Desert Park and artist Albert Namatjira’s house, among other attractions. Take your time, bring a camera and prepare for numerous stops along the way.

8. Todd River

competitors in Henley on Todd Regatta, alice springs — Join in the fun of the quirky Henley on Todd Regatta. (Image: Tourism NT/ TImparja Creative)

Meandering through Alice Springs like a lazy Western Brown snake, the Todd River is a central part of Alice Springs culture. Known as an ‘intermittent river’, the Todd can go from a dry dusty riverbed to a flowing waterscape in less than 15 minutes after heavy rainfall.

When it’s dry, the famous Henley on Todd Regatta fills the sandy riverbed with handmade ‘boats’ carried by sailors. This is the world’s only dry river boating event, and it’s referenced in the ‘Silvergum Boat Race’ in the movie. Inspired by the real-life event, the characters built quirky “Flintstones-style boats” and competed in teams.

See Kangaroo in cinemas now, and start planning your NT getaway at northernterritory.com.