Jack Gray is a coastal-hued cafe in the sleepy Sutherland suburb of Gray’s Point, where brunch staples get a glow-up. Warming bowls of winter porridge are pretty with poached rhubarb, bruleed bananas and dusted cardamom. Bacon and egg rolls are rich with roast apple and tomato relish. On Friday nights, the chilled spot shifts gears, serving slow-cooked pork burgers and cucumber watermelon margaritas on the tree-lined terrace.

Best for: Post-brekky walk to Swallow Rock Reserve’s tranquil river views.