The Best Cafes in Fremantle

Updated 3 weeks ago

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Fremantle’s enduring coffee culture is ground up in its high street’s nickname. South Terrace, affectionately known as the “Cappucino Strip”, was long known for its smattering of (mostly Italian) cafes. Some endure, like the late Gino Saccone’s eponymous cafe, which has sat on its corner since 1983. But over the last decade, a new wave of cafe owners and baristas have set up beyond this iconic strip. Relative newcomers like Best Wishes, Little Loaf and Peggy’s offer their coffee alongside laminated pastries and delicious things between bread. While North Freo’s waterfront diner Bib & Tucker serves modern Australian meals with a side of sea breeze. For great coffee, breakfast and lunch, tick off this list of the port city’s best cafes, curated by Broadsheet’s expert food and drink editors.

  • This airy sandwich spot in an 1890s heritage-listed space does cool remixes of classic sandwiches including conti rolls, chicken-schnitty subs and an ode to the Sausage McMuffin.

  • This homage to Japan’s kissatens (coffee shops) serves curries, soups and traditional Japanese breakfast sets. Plus, matcha cheesecake and hojicha crème caramel.

  • A rotisserie and wood-fired oven sit centre stage at this modern Australian diner. Open for breakfast right through till dinner.

  • Coffee, bagels, pastries and good tunes. What more do you need from a local? Best Wishes does the lot from a cool and casual address that doubles as a gallery space.

  • Wild Bakery is a beacon for locals, who often stumble in at the crack of dawn for their daily loaf of bread. Don’t sleep on the outstanding pastries and cakes here.

  • A former antique store is now one of Freo’s best cafes. From cakes to kimchi, it’s all about house-made here.

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  • This bright and breezy cafe has the all-day dining format locked down. Come for restaurant-level brunches, and a high tea that’s more elevated than most.

  • Manna Wholefoods & Cafe has been on the scene since 1988 and is still going strong. Come for a menu of mainly vegan and gluten-free fare.

  • One of Freo's best-loved spots is looking better than ever. The food here is a cut above your average fish’n’chip joint. Choose from different fish fillets at the fry section. Or wander over to the whole-seafood for some sardines and king prawns. Then there's raw and grilled seafood, plus a killer fish burger. It's all backed up by a big wine list and a good roster of bottled cocktails.

  • The Cool Room’s kitchen is miniscule, so it’s something of a shock when elaborate, artfully arranged brunches emerge. Don’t believe the name – this cafe is as unpretentious as they come.

  • This airy cafe brews elite cups of Five Senses coffee, and serves a tight menu of classic brunch fare.

  • Third Wheel is where to go when you need a caffeine fix and your bike fixed at the same time. South City Cycles is right next door to this beachside spot.

  • Inside the historic Moores Building, this homey cafe caters for most dietaries and will fill you up with wholesome, rustic fare before you hit the neighbouring art gallery.

  • The flagship cafe for the popular WA coffee roaster is where it all began, but coffee is only half the story. Settle into the alfresco courtyard for some of Freo’s best brunches.

  • This converted warehouse is home to a handful of small businesses, including a cafe, co-working space and artist studio.

  • Uni students, office workers and beachgoers cram into this convivial cafe for colourful brunches and Dukes Coffee all day long. It’s a bustling place to be no matter when you visit.

  • An upcycled bar and diner that genuinely cares about your dietaries, whether you’re visiting in the morning for brekkie or at night for wine and tapas.