From pillowy soufflés to decadent brownies, Australia’s café scene is a sweet tooth’s dream come true. Whether you’re craving a freshly baked scone with lashings of jam and cream or a towering stack of PB & J waffles, these dessert havens serve up treats worth traveling for. Here’s where to find the best sweet indulgences across the country.
Tucked inside a charming historic building in the heart of Windsor, George St Loft is a local favourite with a timeless appeal. Guests are greeted by a quaint terrace-style courtyard adorned with flickering candles and lush planter boxes, setting the mood for a relaxed dining experience. Inside, polished concrete floors, intimate table settings and moody lighting create an inviting atmosphere that attracts day-trippers from Sydney and loyal locals alike.
While their café menu delivers on all fronts, it’s the home-baked sweet treats that keep dessert lovers coming back for more. Their buttermilk Devonshire scones are a must-try—light, fluffy and served with rich cream and house-made jam. The dark chocolate brownies are pure indulgence, while the gluten-free friands change weekly, offering something new and exciting for every visit. Be sure to grab a mega muffin fresh out of the oven before they disappear!
Bringing coastal charm to the Central Coast, Café Mocha is an oasis of whitewashed walls, distressed timber and breezy palm murals. Whether you choose to soak up the sun at an alfresco table or sink into a comfy cushion inside, this café is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a sweet pick-me-up after a morning walk along the beach.
One dessert reigns supreme here: the PB & J waffles. This show-stopping dish features golden waffles served with house-made peanut butter and jelly ice cream, crunchy peanut brittle, fresh berries, banana slices and a drizzle of peanut maple syrup. It's a playful yet sophisticated take on the classic peanut butter and jelly combination, offering the perfect balance of sweet, salty and nutty flavours.
Located in a stylish terrace building in Adelaide’s CBD, Miss Malay blends authentic Southeast Asian flavours with a modern, vibrant setting. Neon signage spelling ‘selamat datang’ welcomes guests, while lush greenery and warm timber interiors set the scene for an unforgettable dining experience.
For those with a love of international sweets, Miss Malay serves up exquisite confections from Maison Clément, a patisserie renowned for its French-inspired treats. Whether it’s a delicate macaron, a rich chocolate tart, or a flaky almond croissant, every bite transports you straight to Paris. Pair your dessert with a silky-smooth Malaysian teh tarik for the ultimate fusion of cultures on a plate.
Hidden in the backstreets of Joondalup, Gipsy Boy is more than just a café—it’s a lifestyle destination. Beyond the coffee and cuisine, the venue boasts a curated selection of dried flowers, ornaments, accessories and handmade gifts, making it a delightful spot to browse while waiting for your order.
For the ultimate indulgence, treat yourself to their signature afternoon high tea. Designed for celebrations big and small, the spread includes an artfully arranged selection of sweet and savoury delicacies, perfectly paired with an endless variety of teas. Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, toasting to a milestone birthday, or simply spoiling yourself, Gipsy Boy’s high tea is an elegant affair that guarantees a sugar-filled escape from the everyday.
The Oak at Illawarra – Oak Flats, NSW
A bright and welcoming café in Oak Flats, The Oak at Illawarra serves up all-day breakfast and indulgent treats in a space that feels both stylish and comfortable. Recycled timber floors, grey banquette seating and a striking black iron oak tree wall feature set the tone for a relaxed yet modern dining experience.
Their pièce de résistance? The Japanese soufflé pancakes. Light, airy and delightfully jiggly, these pancakes are a masterpiece, topped with brûlée banana, whipped cream, fresh berries, tangy lemon curd and a drizzle of berry coulis. The perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy zing makes this dish a standout for anyone craving a next-level dessert experience.
From old-school scones to playful peanut butter waffles and sophisticated French pastries, Australia’s café scene proves that dessert is more than just an afterthought—it’s an art form. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a pastry aficionado, or someone who simply can’t resist a well-crafted sweet treat, these venues are worth the visit. So, loosen your belt and get ready to indulge in some of the best desserts the country has to offer.
