Overview
Top Paddock is a Melbourne brunch institution that helped shape the city’s now world-famous café culture. Opened in 2013 by a team of hospitality veterans (behind venues like The Kettle Black and Higher Ground), it quickly earned a cult following for its striking dishes, seasonal produce, and slick presentation—without ever feeling pretentious.
The menu blends café classics with restaurant-level precision. Expect signature favourites like the blueberry & ricotta hotcake (a menu mainstay), soft shell crab burger, chilli scrambled eggs, and seasonal vegetarian creations. Every element is thoughtfully sourced, often with a focus on ethical farming, artisan suppliers, and in-house preparation.
Inside, the venue is light-filled and spacious, with clean Scandinavian-inspired lines, plenty of greenery, and polished timber finishes. It’s a café that feels as good as it looks, buzzing with energy from early morning through lunch.
Coffee is a serious drawcard too, with beans roasted by Five Senses and expertly brewed by a skilled barista team. Tea, house sodas, juices, and seasonal mocktails round out the drinks list.
Top Paddock is often busy—but the vibe is relaxed and professional, ideal for everything from solo coffee runs to casual meetings or weekend catch-ups. It’s a showcase of what Melbourne cafés do best: elevate the everyday into something truly memorable.
Last update June 2025
