It’s not every day you get to enjoy breakfast while watching racehorses train on the beach. At The Pavilion Café in Warrnambool, this unique scene is just one part of the experience.

Perched in a two-storey building, the café offers stunning views of the Lady Bay, the bustling promenade, and the breakwater with its moored boats. From the upper level, you can also spot the mouth of the Merri River, Merri and Middle Islands—home to protected penguins—and, of course, the beautiful coastline bathed in the golden morning sun.

The Pavilion Café provides a relaxed atmosphere, complemented by friendly staff and an impressive menu. While staples like bacon and eggs, smashed avocado on toast, and pancakes are available, the café also offers more creative options that elevate the breakfast, brunch or if you prefer a sleep-in – lunch experience.

For something unique, consider the gluten free wild rice porridge with vanilla anglaise, spiced poached pears, sticky dates, orange and almond , or if you are feeling hungry, fill up on ‘The Pavilion’ with two free range poached eggs, toast, continental pork sausage, bacon, mushrooms and tomatoes. Seafood lovers – if you’re staying for lunch, try the salt and pepper squid with salad.

On our visit, the avocado toasted pumpkin bread was a standout. Served with whipped fetta, poached egg, seed crisp, sprouts and mint. We had this made gluten free which is an option if you need, and was satisfying and delicious!