It’s a very challenging time for small business in many coastal towns at the moment especially with the inconsistent flux of people visiting between popular holiday dates and the seasonal (ie cooler months) aspects of each year.
Torquay in Victoria, is no exception.
The population explodes and then shrinks depending on events, weather conditions and school holidays. As you can image, this can be very difficult for small business owners to plan for. However they are a resilient group of locals, who love where they work and play !
This local community offers plenty of diverse places to eat in Torquay. There are so many options for both locals and visitors whatever the season, in particular when talking about Torquay cafes and restaurants. So whether you are a resident or a guest in an Airbnb in Torquay, let’s give you some tips on where to buy the best coffee in town – takeaways are also available wherever you go. And don’t forget to add a pastry, or muffin. If you are lucky, a deliciously toasted egg & bacon sandwich may be purchased at the same time.
However, if you have the time available, take advantage of the relaxed ambiance in a Torquay restaurant or café, to sit down and order a meal from a local business. This will make a huge difference to their bottom line.
Walk down the main street and there will always be a number of cafe’s providing delicious coffee in Torquay.
Mavis Mavis has an earthy beach vibe, surf pictures on the walls and very friendly staff. There are always long queues, but don’t be put off by this, as they produce quality brews very quickly.
Pond Cafe, further down on the left, also has an outlook across the grassed area on the Torquay Esplanade with a view to the sea. Sophisticated baristas provide a slick operation and work through the numbers lining up for their brew, dining in and take-away food.
The Torquay Larder is another cafe open daily for delicious coffee. Glance at their display cabinet with tasty treats or their menu with more savoury options, and take a seat at one of their tables outside or in the laneway. Always a great outcome as it’s also a child friendly café, and dogs are welcome too.
Mortadeli is a popular place just off Gilbert Street. It has a European style atmosphere, delicious sandwiches and coffee to match. You can take a casual cafe lunch outside or takeaway coffee and food is also available.
Coffee and sandwiches from Mortadeli
Maple Bakery and Café (behind Bunnings) serves authentic Canadian bakery treats that are highly sought after. From bagels and donuts to all kinds of pastries, all of which are Canadian inspired and very popular. Sit inside or out, and the coffee that is served at this Torquay café is one of the best. It’s frequently a first choice from our side. Don’t forget to try one of their Beaver’s Tails!
Bagels, croissants and donuts from Maple Bakery Surf Coast.
Amitie Textiles Cafe is a craft haven with coffee and cafe food to match. It’s a crafters delight, peaceful atmosphere and provides you an opportunity to look at all the patchwork quilts and craft materials available. Staff are lovely too and super helpful.
Coffee and Cake in a relaxed, peaceful environment at Amitie Cafe.
Ginger Monkey Café at 4 Baines Crescent, Torquay, provides great coffee and offers a TakeAway/Home Delivery menu. Honest, wholesome food prepared with love using locally sourced fresh vegetarian produce. A relaxed cafe vibe.
Ocean Grind is based in the industrial estate of Torquay – in a casual warehouse environment. Take your own takeaway cup and sip the most delicious coffee on the Surf Coast made with their own coffee grind. Why don’t you place an order for your beans to be delivered ? Well known for their environmental sustainability principles, Ocean Grind are frequently leading new initiatives in the area.
The Salty Dog Cafe along the Esplanade is very well known and offers great coffee in Torquay for the early bird dog walkers who are yearning for their caffeine hit. Have breakfast here or you can choose a delicious take-home meal . Don’t forget to consider the rules regarding dogs on the beach – the Surfcoast Shire provides clear points on where dogs are allowed. They are most welcome at this café and it’s a popular pastime to dog watch instead of people watch !
Third Wave Kiosk offers takeaway coffee in Torquay every morning – a great caffeine hit with the best views of the surf beach.
Little Things Big Things. This gem of a cafe is a place to sit and relax with the newspaper, or a good book. They provide regular updates on their specials via social media. You may have already seen Stephen and Mandana’s beautiful vintage caravan around Torquay and at events. Sourcing their coffee from locally owned Mikro Coffee in Torquay, they also offer delicious options to eat.
I don’t believe that Swell Café will need much introduction to most of the locals in both Torquay and Jan Juc. A sought after spot for surfers, tradies, oldies, young families – they cater for everyone. Offering a very child friendly café environment as well as dog friendly too. The Swell Café menu is comprehensive and includes additional specials on the blackboards above the counter. Our family’s favourite.
Would you like to recommend a special café or restaurant in Torquay ? Tell us why you visit ?
Local cafe’s in this community punch way above their weight. They offer delicious food and great friendly service.
And coffee. It’s almost always about the coffee..
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