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

The Northern Territory is made for road trips, and this one hits all the highlights.

Craggy mountain ranges, inviting waterholes, ochre soil: the landscape of the Northern Territory is asking to be explored by road and foot. There are many iconic road trips to choose from here, but none so all-encompassing than the roughly 3000 kilometres of sealed road that make up Explorer’s Way.

Spend 14 days (or more, to really make the most of it) driving this route from Adelaide, hitting the NT near the small settlement of Kulgera before later finishing in Darwin. Along the way, you’ll find nearly all the territory’s most iconic sights.

Discover some of the top highlights that make Explorer’s Way one of Australia’s most incredible road trips.

1. Alice Springs

echidna at Alice Springs Desert Park — See the locals at Alice Springs Desert Park. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Recently hitting the big screen again with the story of The Kanagroo Sanctuary , there’s a lot to surprise you in Alice Springs.

Three distinct desert habitats – desert rivers, sand country and woodland – are recreated over 1300 hectares at Alice Springs Desert Park . Time your visit for a presentation or a free bird show.

Later, turn your attention to the skies above, taking a dive into local astronomy at Earth Sanctuary . You’ll find a range of experiences, from a 90-minute toe-dip into the stars through to an overnight adventure.

Alice Springs packs a surprising punch with its tasty dining options, including pub grub and unique brews at Alice Springs Brewing Co , tapas and pizza at Epilogue Lounge and tasty cafe fare at the quirky Page 27 .

2. Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park

woman standing at Ormiston Gorge — Dive into Ormiston Gorge. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom and Jesso)

Beginning 15 minutes from Alice Springs and stretching across 161 kilometres, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park is packed with striking ancient landscapes and inviting water holes.

Visit Standley Chasm – traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning ‘Gap of Water’ – to take in its bold red and orange hues, and to observe the diverse bird species, lizards and wallabies that call it home.

Cool off in one of several picturesque natural swimming holes, like Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge.

3. Uluru & Kata Tjuta

three women looking at Kata Tjuta at sunset — Explore Kata Tjuta. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Visiting the Cultural Heart of Australia is something everybody should experience. There are so many side trips in the Red Centre you could easily spend a week here, but to get the most out of a short time, park the car then get out on foot.

Take the 10-kilometre Base Walk around the entirety of Uluru or join a free, ranger-guided Mala Walk along part of the base, learning about Tjukurpa (creation stories) and geology as you go.

For a change of pace, wait until nightfall and wander through the iconic Field of Light display by celebrated artist Bruce Munro, or see the Wintjiri Wiru lightshow that shares the ancient Mala story using drones, lasers and projections.

4. Tennant Creek

pson looking at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) northern territory — See the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

Tennant Creek was Australia’s third-largest gold mining town in the 1930s, and visitors can discover that history at Battery Hill Mining Centre – and even try their own hand at gold fossicking.

For a completely different side of history, pop into Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre , which preserves and shares Warumungu culture through art, performance, a museum and more.

Just outside town, find the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). A site integral to important stories held by the Warumungu, Kaytetye, Warlpiri and Alyawarra peoples, the boulders appear to almost have dropped out of the sky and seemingly continue to defy gravity.

5. Mataranka

aerial of people swimming in bitter springs northern territory — Dive into Bitter Springs. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Ben Savage)

A town made famous by the novel We of the Never Never by Jeannie Gunn (and a movie of the same name), Mataranka is also known for its sandy-bottomed thermal pool, Bitter Springs , within Elsey National Park. Follow a 500-metre loop track around these spring-fed pools that stay a toasty 34°C year-round, before choosing your favourite spot to dive into. Enjoy the local birdlife while you relax.

Elsewhere in the park, find historical sites, several scenic walks and Roper River, which is perfect for boating and fishing.

6. Nitmiluk National Park

Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise — Join a sunset cruise with Nabilil Dreaming. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Lachlan Gardiner)

Nitmiluk National Park is sandstone country, with 13 stunning gorges and plenty of waterfalls waiting to be explored.

One of the most beautiful spots can be found along the 62-kilometre Jatbula Trail, a five-to-six day bushwalk that follows an ancient Jawoyn songline from Nitmiluk Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Numbers are restricted and book out quickly, so be sure to plan well ahead. Not up for the hike? Drive right up to the falls and enjoy a dip without the challenge.

Elsewhere, explore Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Paddle a kayak through the river running through the canyon, or save your energy on a Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise , discovering the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people while enjoying a candlelit dinner as the cliffs around you shift colour and glow with the changing daylight.

Continue your cultural journey at local art centres like Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Art & Culture Centre or Mimi Aboriginal Art & Craft .

7. Litchfield National Park

cathedral termite mounds in Litchfield national park — Be awed by giant cathedral termite mounds. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

Just over an hour’s drive from Darwin lies the beautiful Litchfield National Park. It’s famous for stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, including Buley Rockhole, Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Tjaynera Falls.

Here you’ll also find hundreds of giant – and magnetic – cathedral termite mounds that are truly a sight to see. Ageing up to 100 years old, you won’t find mounds like these outside the northern parts of Australia. Stroll along the accessible boardwalk to see them up close.

8. Darwin

darwin street art — Darwin art is streets ahead. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Mark Fitzpatrick)

This list wouldn’t be complete without the territory’s capital city: Darwin. Situate yourself upon arrival with a stroll through the main streets, admiring the many art murals by local, interstate and international artists. They’re all remnants of the annual Darwin Street Art Festival , one of Australia’s longest running street art festivals.

Stop to recharge along Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct , an area of delectable restaurants, public swimming pools and free events. And, of course, it would be wrong to leave the city without enjoying a bowl of laksa at Mindil Beach Sunset Market as the sun goes down.

Learn more and start planning your Explorer’s Way road trip at northernterritory.com/drive.