Queenscliff is a charming destination at the south-eastern tip of Victoria. From Victorian-era buildings to its historic seaside village, Queenscliff has much to offer especially for those who appreciate relaxing in cafes that offer scenic views, tasteful dishes and family-friendly comfort food. Here, we have put together a list of cafes in Queenscliff you can visit during your stay:
1. Queenscliff General Store - Best Cafe Overall in Queenscliff
Praised for its welcoming brunch experiences, the Queenscliff General Store is one of the most popular Queenscliff cafes. This cafe offers a sunlit, welcoming space with indoor and outdoor seating, where you can relax over a flavoursome cup of coffee paired with lovely brunch favourites.
Whether it’s smashed avo, Turkish egg, or semolina pudding, this cafe is praised for its food menu of brunch dishes that appeal to local and international taste buds of all ages. The dishes are reasonably priced, with generous portions that are perfectly balanced and well-plated servings.
Many diners recommend Queenscliff General Store not only for its delicious food, but also because of the warmth and friendly service they experience throughout their visit.
Queenscliff General Store is ready to serve breakfast and lunch until 2 PM daily except on Wednesdays. There’s ample parking space so you can conveniently take time to rest and enjoy a comforting meal before heading over to your next stop.
Address: 43 King St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia
Here’s what their customers have to say:
“I recently visited this cafe and ordered their coffee along with 4 pastries. The taste was exceptional, making it one of the best experiences I've had.” - Jinnha W.
“You can taste the difference of the food here compared to other cafes out there. Everything is well balanced with good texture and well plated.” - Sue M.
“The best coffee in Queenscliff! Great staff who always give friendly service to customers.” - Samuel B.
2. Cliffe's Cafe & Pizzs - Best Family Freindly Cafe in Queenscliff
Cliffe’s Cafe & Pizza is a go-to spot for families looking for good coffee, shareable selections and even vegan options. From schnitzel burgers to salads, wraps, and hearty pizza, Cliffe’s offers a wide variety of dishes that everyone can enjoy no matter what you’re craving for.
Located next to the beach and boat ramp, Cliffe’s is one of the family-friendly cafes in Queenscliff that you would not want to miss. This family-run business is often praised for its comfort food, excellent coffee, outdoor seating and friendly service.
They are open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and until 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. There’s street parking, so you can dine in or take out at your convenience.
Whether you’re looking for coffee to start your day or searching for good gluten-free options while in town, Cliffe’s will have much to offer you and your family in their charming cafe.
Address: 1 Symonds St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia
Here’s what their customers have to say:
“Cliff’s is by far the best food in Queenscliff. I have tried many places over the past 7 years and theirs is always delicious, fresh and the service is amazing!” - Meli
“Never disappoints. This is our Go To when the Grandkids come to stay. Pizzas are devoured immediately with a big thumbs up from the Kiddies.” -Jenny
“Food is great and good value. Very friendly people who are really passionate about great service.” - Daniël B.
3. Ocean View Kiosk - Best Queenscliff Cafe with Stunning Views
Indulge in coffee and good food at one of the most scenic cafes in Queenscliff. While the Ocean View Kiosk may have a simple setup, it is undoubtedly one of the best places for coffee while overlooking the Queenscliff pier.
Known for their warm and straightforward service, customers can sit back and relax in the town’s great ambiance and enjoy delicious treats. At the Ocean View Kiosk, you can start your day with hot jam doughnuts, bacon rolls, burgers, and chips made from scratch.
Aside from its stunning Queenscliff views, the cafe is also an excellent spot to visit if you plan on exploring the nearby Queenscliff White Lighthouse and other beach areas. If you are driving out, the cafe offers a wide parking area, where you can easily park your car for free and enjoy an exceptional meal with the relaxing atmosphere of the ocean breeze.
Address: 140 Hesse St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia
Here’s what their customers have to say:
“Right on the ocean with lovely staff and amazing food. What more could I ask for.” - Fletcher
“Lovely, relaxed and friendly atmosphere and casual delicious reasonably priced goods. Highly recommended.” - Sandra L.
“The best!! Simplicity, service, extremely affordable and billion dollar views!” - Sarah
4. Le Fleur Café - Best Hidden Gem Cafe in Queenscliff
If you are looking for a quaint, understated gem in Queenscliff, you might want to add Le Fleur Café to your list. This beautiful French café is the perfect place to enjoy your next cup of coffee on a sunkissed day. All year round, customers enjoy sitting back and relaxing in their cosy veranda while savouring their top-notch meals with a garden view.
There is still much to discover in this quiet cafe. While Le Fleur Café offers top-notch meals and excellent coffee, it has received praise for its pasties, such as lemon meringue, baked apples and cream, and orange poppyseed cake. Explore this neighbourhood charm in Queenscliff on your next visit.
Address: 58 Hesse St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia
Here’s what their customers have to say:
“Le Fleur Cafe, a delightful French cafe in Queenscliff. The food is tasty, and the service is top-notch!” - Irina S.
“Queensciff's hidden gem. Le Fleur backs that up with fine food, great coffee, and friendly service.” - Steve T.
“Great lunch in a lovely cafe in Queenscliff. Friendly staff and good food.” - Deborah J.
5. Rolling Pin - Best Cafe for Home Cooked Pie in Queenscliff
Have your coffee with Australia’s best pie. At Rolling Pin, you can savour award-winning baked goods that have won the hearts of many locals and tourists in Queenscliff.
As a proud, locally owned family business, Rolling Pin has relentlessly committed itself to serving nothing less than delicious homemade pies and cakes. This commitment has also earned them the title of Australia’s Best Pie in 2024, 2022, and 2021.
Take a bite of their famous pies ranging from beef to seafood and even their popular Brekky pie made with all our breakfast favourites. You can also explore their pasties and quiche, popular alternatives if you have had your fair share of pie. Whatever you decide to try, these hearty dishes are indeed made with love that you can taste in every bite.=
Address: 68 Hesse St, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia
Here’s what their customers have to say:
“I could not recommend this place more! Fantastic staff and the most delicious pies!” - Tara P.
“Lovely staff. Excellent coffee. Yummy pies and treats.” - Carolyn
“I agree, They do the best pies! No wonder they have won awards. Chunky Beef was awesome.” - Simon
6. Wharf Street Pantry - Best Cafe for Pet Lovers in Queenscliff
Enjoy the best coffee in Queenscliff with your furry companions. Wharf Street Pantry serves locals and visitors alike with breakfast and lunch options at their spacious indoor and outdoor cafe overlooking the water.
From bacon and egg toasties, paninis, housemade pies and more, Wharf Street Pantry is great for enjoying Queenscliff views during brunch hours. While the cafe offers a straightforward menu, the venue provides ample seating space for you and your furry friends to relax outside. A must-try in the menu is their sausage rolls, scallop pie, porchetta paninis, and pizza.
However, if you are in the mood for an afternoon drink by the port, the cafe also serves tapas and wine. From sunrise to sundown, it’s one of the best cafes in Queenscliff where you can revel in the harbour views with good coffee and food in hand, all served by their friendly and welcoming staff.
Wharf Street Pantry, Unit 6/4 Wharf St E, Queenscliff VIC 3225, Australia
Here’s what their customers have to say:
“Indulge in a dining experience surrounded by the captivating harbour views.” - Samiddhi G.
“Fantastic! Such a lovely place to sit by the water with a great range of pastries, sandwiches and drinks.” - Scarlett M.
“Their Scallop pie is simply delicious 🥧Just sit down at the deck and enjoy the view of Queenscliff dock.” - Lo B.
7. Piknik - Best Sustainable Cafe in Queenscliff
Presented as an invitingly converted roadhouse, Piknik is a rustic Quennscliff cafe that started from a business of making preserves out of local fruits picked from the backyards of Bellarine Peninsula. They’re located at the heart of the Bellarine Taste Trail, offering roasted Allpress coffee, fresh cakes and pastries and homemade ice cream.
While Piknik is remotely situated away from busier areas of Queenscliff, this cafe does not fall short on food offerings, local products and condiments you can bring home. Many of the dishes that Piknik serves are made from ingredients that are grown on-site or sourced from the Bellarine Peninsula, giving a sustainable approach to serving communities quality food while supporting locally grown produce.
Get a taste of homegrown food paired with excellent service and a good cup of coffee. Whether it’s their Alchemy bread, spicy eggs, Piknik bruschetta, or milkshakes, Piknik has something for everyone. And don't miss out on picking up a jar of their preserves along the way.
Piknik, 1195 Queenscliff Rd, Swan Bay VIC 3225, Australia
Here’s what their customers have to say:
“Piknik is the best cafe in the entire area, without a doubt beating out all the competitors.” -Nick
“Best coffee, amazing food, lovely staff. What a gem!!” - Margi
“First time visiting. Stopped for a chai latte. It was the best I've had in ages.”
Local Tips for Exploring Queenscliff's Cafe Scene
Make travelling a breeze while exploring this charming town. Here are a few quick tips to help you make the most of your coffee experience at Queenscliff:
- Plan Your Visit. Planning your visit to Queenscliff can make a difference to your experience in this charming coastal town. If you want to start your day with a stunning seaside view, you could begin your adventure with a scenic ride on one of our Searoad Ferries and enjoy picturesque moments across the bay. You could also visit the Searoad Ferries website for an interactive map or pick up a physical copy that you could carry with you while navigating your way through the town’s hidden gems. With a little bit of planning, you’ll uncover the best that Queenscliff has to offer.
- Engage with Locals. Asking locals for tips can give you better recommendations on what to see and do during your Queenscliff visit. You might just be surprised by the restaurants, activities, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that may not be in the guidebooks.
- Try the Local Cuisine. Add more flavour to your coffee experience by trying local dishes and visiting markets to immerse in the town’s culture. Most spots in Queenscliff offer locally roasted brews, hearty meals, and delightful pastries.
- Utilise Local Resources. Make the most of your visit by exploring outside the usual spots in Queenscliff. Check out social media groups or visitor centres on upcoming events and activities that offer unique experiences during your stay.
- Join a Scenic Tour. Pair your cafe visits with activities that present more opportunities to get to know Queenscliff better. Join a tour and experience the coastal landmarks from a unique perspective. At Searoad Ferries, you can embark on scenic tours that offer you an immersive, first-hand experience of Queenscliff’s remarkable views while learning about the town’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Experience the Best of Queenscliff. Your Perfect Cafe Adventure Starts Here!
Queenscliff’s charming cafes offer a delightful taste of local culture and flavour. Plan your visit with Searoad Ferries for a memorable journey exploring these delightful spots. Relax to delicious local brews and heartfelt dishes with cosy atmospheres within the town’s unique attractions. No matter how you spend it, a day in Queenscliff promises a warm experience filled with character. Don’t just travel, be moved. Book your Searoad Ferries tickets today.