Spilling the beans on where I go to switch off!
- Olivia Preston
- May 6
- 3 min read
I thought I would highlight my favourite spots north of the river where I go to unwind and grab my morning coffee! Please don’t take this as gospel, as I know everyone’s experiences and taste buds are different. However, if you’re new to Perth and looking for somewhere to start your day, look no further. In no particular order, I grant you my best suggestions… you’re welcome!
1. Swell, Mullaloo (fun fact- this was my first job in WA).
Think aesthetic, brunch vibes. If you’re after the iced coffee in jam jars with cream (or ice cream), or the sweet, stacked pancakes, this place is for you. Perfect for the girlies! The great thing about Swell, bar the ocean views and beach location, is they set up a little kiosk underneath called ‘boardies’ for people who are just after a casual takeaway! Please note it is only open on limited days, at limited times that can be found online. It is the same coffee menu, and it saves you waiting in what can sometimes be a big queue depending on what day it is!
2. Grafton St, Mullaloo
Funnily enough, this is (more or less) directly opposite Swell! I actually discovered this little hidden gem when Swell was too busy one day. It isn’t a café, just a little kiosk, but it also has some lovely, juices on tap and little sweet treats and toasties. Also, tried and tested matcha- I was a fan! The staff are also super friendly which I love.
3. Dropinz, Mullaloo
This is in one of those IGA complexes that you tend to find everywhere in Perth. It’s tucked away on a corner, but no-one seems to have had trouble discovering it- I hardly see this place empty (must say something right!?). This is a great little breakfast place also, offering wraps and toasties to go as well as an extended dine-in menu.
4. Sistas, Burns Beach
Start your day with a coffee, before hitting the popular coastal path that sits beside it (the perfect morning)! Also, a great place to watch the sunset. It can get very windy, so be warned, however- not enough to scare anybody off. They do have indoor and outdoor seating, and a playground across the road for little ones!
5. Little Bay, North Beach and Little H, Duncraig
These cafes are owned by the same person, so depending on where you are, both offer amazing coffee and breakfast (that tends to change with the seasons). Both spots are very sophisticated- in fact, Little Bay looks like it belongs in Bali! You tend to see a lot of people getting their cameras out here- and for good reason! The strawberry matcha here is one of the best I’ve had, and it does tend to sell out so be quick!
6. Yelo, North Beach
This café was harder to find because it was set back off the main coastal strip. It is very fast paced and can get very busy early on. So, just be mindful there may be a bit of a wait if you need to grab a coffee in a rush! However, it’s a lovely little suntrap if you do have time to sit, and as well as offering other food, I particularly enjoy their Acai bowl!
7. Gipsy Boy, Joondalup
I discovered this after running one of my events nearby! It is such a quaint, little tearoom- type spot. With the charming artwork and comfortable cushioned seating- the décor makes you feel like you’re in someone’s home! Not to mention, the brownies are amaziiinngggg. Me and the other girls couldn’t resist!
8. Luca, Joondalup
This one probably surprised me the most! I don’t know what I was expecting, but this place exceeded all expectations. Not only was the drinks and food menu extremely varied and hard to choose from, but the service was so quick and attentive! Also, this café makes brownies that are now stocked in some supermarkets, so I’ll let that speak for itself! There is a carpark just behind, and it’s a great place to brings friends or family. Located in a luscious green setting surrounded by plants, it’s the perfect place for a summers’ day!
9. Oceans 27 (or ‘The Shorehouse’), Alkimos
This one has views that are very hard to beat! Imagine deckchairs directly facing the beach, believe me, you’re going to want to sit for this one. The breakfast is also lovely, with generous portions! Oceans 27 also put on events and live music, so it’s definitely worth checking this out online!
10. The Beachhouse, Jindalee
This place is a great spot for morning coffee and offers a more refined breakfast menu- what I mean by that, is it’s not your classic big breakfast, you can find things like ‘lobster scramble’ etc! The interior is absolutely stunning, and there are different in and outdoor spots to choose from.



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