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Breakfast isn’t just any other meal—it’s the most important meal that kickstarts your day, keeps you focused, energised, and ready to tackle lectures, assignments, and everything in between.
Skipping it or reaching for something bland and unsatisfying, and you’ll likely be dragging your feet all day.
But let’s be honest—as a student, finding a meal that’s both delicious and affordable isn’t always easy.
Fortunately for you, Canberra’s got your back! This vibrant city is packed with a wide variety of affordable breakfast options that deliver on flavour without flattening your wallet.
Whether you’re after a quick croissant and coffee, a brekkie bowl bursting with goodness, or a sit-down plate that feels like a warm hug, this guide has your morning cravings covered!
Before diving into our top picks, here’s what we reckon makes a breakfast place perfect for students:
Let’s face it, students live on a tight budget, and that avocado toast habit can sneak up on you fast.
A fantastic breakfast spot should offer meals under $15 or, better yet, chuck in a student discount.
Canberra’s full of spots that serve up tasty breakfast without the bougie prices.
A brekkie bargain isn’t really a bargain if it leaves you hungry halfway through your class.
A proper student-friendly spot dishes out generous serving sizes that’ll leave you satisfied without having to order extra.
Think: big bowls, hearty plates, and zero regrets.
When you’re rushing to class or smashing out an assignment before a deadline, location is everything.
The best coffee shops are those that are close to universities, transport links, or your usual haunts, where you already spend a lot of time.
Let’s not forget the vibe! Whether you’re dining in or smashing out some study over toast and a flat white, comfy seating, chill music, and free Wi-Fi are always a win.
A quiet, cosy atmosphere with friendly service can turn a simple breakfast run into a daily ritual.
Image Source: Stand by Me Instagram Account
Tucked away in the quiet suburb of Lyons, this cafe is a local gem known for its eclectic menu and cosy charm with a quirky, warm atmosphere.
The star dish? The Okonomiyaki—a savoury Japanese pancake layered with crispy bacon, a gooey fried egg, and a sweet-salty sauce drizzle that ties everything together. It’s hearty, flavour-packed, and totally Instagrammable!
This cafe also serves Egyptian Baked Eggs (spiced, rich, and served piping hot in a mini skillet) and their legendary French Toast, which is indulgent without being over-the-top.
Portions are generous, so you’re guaranteed to leave full and happy!
Student Tip: Go with friends and share plates—you’ll get to try more dishes for less. The cafe can get busy on weekends, so go early to beat the rush.
Image Source: Silo Bakery Instagram Account
If you’re a fan of classic European-style pastries and sweet treats, Silo Bakery is definitely your go-to spot!
While the interior leans more upmarket and minimal, the prices are surprisingly student-friendly, especially considering the quality you’re getting.
Their best-seller is the Eggs Florentine, made with poached free-range eggs on toasted sourdough with sautéed spinach and a rich hollandaise sauce that’s made fresh in-house.
The pastry cabinet is also worth raiding! Just imagine the buttery almond croissants, flaky danishes, and freshly baked sourdough loaves you can take home.
What’s more, the location is ideal for a leisurely breakfast followed by a lakeside walk at Kingston Foreshore—a favourite weekend ritual for many Canberra locals.
Student Tip: Grab a pastry and coffee for takeaway if you’re short on time. It’s affordable, satisfying, and still feels like a treat.
Image Source: Eighty/Twenty Instagram Account
Located just off Lonsdale Street, Eighty/Twenty is all about balance—80% whole, nutritious foods and 20% indulgence. A fan-favourite for health-conscious students and gym-goers alike!
Their Acai Bowl is a hit among students, and for good reason. It’s refreshing, naturally sweet, and loaded with seasonal fruit, crunchy granola, and coconut shavings.
Alternatively, you can try their Brekky Bowl—filled with scrambled eggs, quinoa, avo, spinach, and grilled halloumi—if you’re craving something warmer.
They also serve smoothies, protein shakes, and great coffee with dairy-free and plant-based milk options at no extra charge.
Student Tip: Their all-day menu means you can still get brekkie after a late night, or if your “morning” starts at noon.
Image Source: The Cupping Room Instagram Account
Run by the coffee legends at Ona Coffee, The Cupping Room is a must-visit if you’re after a strong caffeine fix.
Located conveniently near ANU and Civic, it’s a hotspot for students, professionals, and coffee aficionados alike.
Their signatures, French Toast is more of a dessert-breakfast hybrid—topped with seasonal fruits, whipped mascarpone, and maple syrup—while the Mushroom Toast is a medley of sautéed mushrooms, crispy enoki, and a punchy salsa verde. A hit for those craving something savoury!
Oh, and don’t miss their Avocado Toast, elevated with whipped goat’s cheese, poached eggs, and dukkah.
Student Tip: The coffee menu here is worth exploring—they offer different bean origins and brew styles, so ask the staff for a recommendation based on your taste!
Image Source: Canberra Southern Cross Yacht Club
If breakfast with a view is your thing, you’ll love Southern Cross Yacht Club. Set right on Lake Burley Griffin, this waterfront café offers peaceful vibes, beautiful lake views, and a solid breakfast menu that’s worth the detour.
Their Big Breakfast is a full spread: eggs any way you like, bacon, sausage, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, hash browns, and toast.
It’s the ideal weekend brunch for when you’re absolutely starving—or planning to skip lunch!
Not feeling that hungry? Try their Granola Bowl or Smashed Avo with feta and lemon—lighter, but still delicious.
Student Tip: Go on a sunny day and sit outside by the water. Bring a book, a mate, or just soak in the views. It’s a brilliant study break spot.
Image Source: Local Press Cafe Instagram Account
Local Press Cafe is one of Canberra’s pioneers in natural foods and sustainable dining, and it shows.
Located near the Australian National Botanic Gardens, it’s the place to go if you want your breakfast to be both clean and satisfying.
Their extensive menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients with a focus on classic dishes made from plant-based and locally sourced produce.
A must-try is their Poached Eggs with Smashed Avocado on house-made sourdough, paired with house-fermented kimchi or beetroot hummus for an extra flavour hit.
With a tranquil riverside setting, industrial-chic décor, and a calm energy, it’s the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a nutritious breakfast in a peaceful environment.
Student Tip: They offer a good range of gluten-free and vegan options, so it’s a safe bet if you have dietary preferences.
Want to save even more on breakfast? Here’s how you can do it:
With a little planning and savvy spending, you can enjoy delicious, energising breakfasts throughout the week, without blowing your budget.
Diving into Canberra’s vibrant breakfast scene is easier when you’re living at Y Suites on Moore.
From convenient locations near all the top cafés to our well-equipped shared kitchens, we’ve got everything you need for a delicious, affordable, and energised start to your day.
Add in vibrant communal spaces, a supportive student community, and the perfect balance of study and chill vibes—and you’ve got yourself the ultimate student lifestyle!
✅ Premium, fully furnished student rooms and shared apartments, inclusive of Wi-Fi and utilities
✅ Full access to various common areas for socialising, studying, exercising, and relaxing
✅ A thriving student community where you can connect with like-minded peers from different universities
✅ Excellent security measures to ensure your personal safety
✅ Hassle-free customer service from our friendly, well-trained staff
So why wait? Make the most of Canberra’s best breakfast spots while enjoying a stress-free student living experience at Y Suites.
Book an on-site tour with us!
reservations@ysuites.co
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