From Brekkie to Booths: A Stroll Through Brisbane's Best

 

Sunrise, Pastries & Riverside Wanders: A 7.3km Brisbane Sunday Adventure 

There’s something special about Brisbane on a Sunday morning – when the air is crisp, the river glows gold, and the city hums quietly before waking up. Our Sunday began just like that – early, peaceful, and full of promise. 

A Golden Start at Kangaroo Point 

We parked along Main Street in Kangaroo Point, a leafy thoroughfare lined with heritage houses, towering palms, and an occasional glimpse of the river sparkling between buildings. The city skyline ahead was already glowing under a fiery pink-orange sunrise. With our pup Shari happily in tow, we made our way downhill toward Holman Street, where the historic Holman Street Ferry Terminal still stands, quietly watching over the water. 

Turning onto the Riverside Promenade, we strolled under the gentle shade of fig trees, soaking up the serenity. Cyclists zipped past with friendly waves, joggers paced themselves along the edge of the river, and ferries glided quietly across the Brisbane River. It’s one of those walks that reminds you why you live in this beautiful city. 

Before long, the smell of freshly brewed coffee led us to Medley Kangaroo Point, nestled perfectly at 62 Wharf Street, right where the river bends. This riverside café is a well-known local favourite – and for good reason. Medley brings together a rich tapestry of global flavours with the comfort of Brisbane hospitality. The setting couldn’t have been more picturesque: river views, sun-warmed stone walls, and gentle chatter from fellow early risers. 

The menu was as vibrant as the views. I ordered the Traditional Breakfast, served with melt-in-your-mouth pulled bacon, perfectly poached eggs, and a side of bacon for Shari. Kim went for the Medley Green Bowl. And of course, we both had a strong, smooth coffee. The staff were all smiles, helpful and genuinely warm, which added even more sunshine to our morning. 

Sweet Stops and Riverside Discoveries 

Bellies full, we wandered up Wharf Street, only to be pulled in by the buttery scent wafting from Christian Jacques Artisan Boulanger at 15 Wharf Street. This quaint little bakery is run by a French-trained baker who brings a slice of Paris to Kangaroo Point. If the aroma doesn’t pull you in, the display of golden croissants and rustic loaves in the window certainly will. 

We popped in for a look (and a cheeky snack for later). On our return walk Kim picked up one of their legendary almond croissants – flaky, rich, and filled with almond cream – and I couldn’t go past a baguette traditionelle to take home. This boulangerie is a must-visit for lovers of authentic French baking. 

We continued north along Main Street, the city slowly waking up around us. Crossing the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, the river shimmered on either side, flanked by gum trees and city buildings reflecting in the glassy water. Ahead, the emerald expanse of the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens awaited. 

Inside the gardens, the pathways were alive with families on scooters, couples strolling hand-in-hand, and dogs of every shape and size enjoying the morning. Near the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, we passed by the ever-popular Café Mulga Bills. Though packed with morning coffee lovers, the vibe was cheerful and relaxed. This little café has earned a loyal following for its hearty breakfasts and smooth, locally roasted coffee – and it shows. 

Just a few steps further, nestled on the corner of Alice Street, was the buzzing Riverside at The Gardens Market. This vibrant Sunday market has been a weekend staple for more than 30 years. With rows of white tents stretching beneath the trees, it’s a feast for all senses. 

We wandered slowly, stopping to admire stalls selling artisan jewellery, vintage clothing, handmade candles, and locally grown produce. Shari made lots of new furry friends as Kim chatted with one of the stallholders about handmade soaps. Live acoustic music played in the background, giving the market a relaxed, festival-like vibe. 

Crossing Bridges & Chasing Pastries 

As the sun climbed higher, we made our way toward South Bank, crossing over the Goodwill Bridge. This lesser-known bridge is a great route for pedestrians and cyclists and offers unique views of the city skyline framed by the river. 

At Grey Street, we made a beeline for one of our favourite patisseries – C’est Du Gâteau at Shop 3/161 Grey Street. A little piece of France in Brisbane, this boutique bakery is a treasure trove of flaky, buttery delights. The display case looked like edible art – from delicate tartes aux framboises to glossy éclairs au chocolat. 

Kim chose a pair of pain au chocolat, still warm from the oven. Rich, decadent, and perfectly crisp – they didn’t last long! We strolled through Little Stanley Street, croissant in hand, taking in the laid-back South Bank atmosphere. 

At the end of the promenade, we reached the colourful, eclectic South Bank Collective Markets. These weekend markets offer a mix of local fashion, homewares, art, and of course – plenty of treats. Kim found some irresistible fudges and – for Shari – a Seriously Cute handmade scarf. She wore it proudly as we explored the stalls, drawing lots of smiles. 

A Perfect Brisbane Loop 

By mid-morning, pastries sampled, and coffee cravings well and truly satisfied, we retraced our steps. We crossed the river once more, heading back through the Botanic Gardens, over the Kangaroo Point Bridge, and along the riverside promenade to where we’d started. 

Altogether, our Sunday loop covered 7.3 kilometres, filled with riverside views, warm smiles, hidden gems, and delicious discoveries. It was the kind of day that makes you fall in love with your own city all over again – and we’re already looking forward to next weekend’s adventure. 

 

Want to plan your own Sunday loop? Here are some highlights to pin: 

• Start Point: Main Street, Kangaroo Point 

• Breakfast: Medley Kangaroo Point (62 Wharf St) 

• Bakery Stop: Christian Jacques Artisan Boulanger (15 Wharf St) 

• Botanic Gardens: Entry via Kangaroo Point Bridge 

• Markets: Riverside at The Gardens Market (Alice St) 

• Pastry Heaven: C’est Du Gâteau (Shop 3/161 Grey St) 

• Final Stroll: South Bank Collective Markets & Little Stanley Street 

 

 

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