Menu of Ernies Kitchen in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia

Menu Overview

Ernies Kitchen, tucked away at Shop 1/87 Ocean Parade in Coffs Harbour, is a gem among cafes, delivering a breakfast experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. From the moment you step inside, you are met with warm, attentive service that immediately sets the tone for a memorable dining outing.

The menu stands out for its thoughtful creativity and quality, showcasing breakfast classics with inspired twists. The standout dish, undoubtedly, is their Buttermilk and Ricotta Pancakes. Light, fluffy, and perfectly cooked, these pancakes come paired with a variety of delectable toppings — from crispy bacon with maple syrup to decadent honeycomb. The pancakes themselves strike a delicate balance between airy texture and rich flavor, making each bite an indulgence. Customers repeatedly praise the pancakes as some of the best they've had, and it’s easy to see why.

Equally impressive is Ernies Kitchen’s take on Eggs Benedict, with no less than seven variations on offer. Notably, their classic eggs Benny with bacon delivers a satisfying blend of smoky, savory notes, while the Crab Benny introduces fresh, generous crab meat that elevates the dish to something truly special. For seafood lovers, the Lobster Benny and Crab Omelette showcase the kitchen’s knack for executing complex ingredients with finesse and flavor balance. The hollandaise sauce is rich but expertly tempered, complementing the flavors without overpowering them.

The presence of unique house specialties such as the Housemate Savoury Mince and the crave-worthy bush spiced fried chicken with bacon jam reveals Ernies Kitchen’s embrace of local flavors and bold culinary choices. This diversity in the menu ensures that beyond breakfast staples like flat whites and smoothies, there’s a dish to thrill all palates.

On the beverage side, the coffee here merits recognition — robust yet smooth, consistently well-timed from order to delivery. The Flat White and Iced Mocha have received special nods from patrons who appreciate a well-crafted caffeine fix with their meal.

What truly elevates the experience at Ernies Kitchen is the attention to detail: the carefully considered presentation, the strategic plate positioning for ease and aesthetics, and the open kitchen design that invites diners into the heart of the culinary process. Owner Ernie’s lively personality adds an authentic and welcoming vibe, making the atmosphere both comfortable and engaging.

While some find the bacon on certain dishes a touch salty, this minor critique is overshadowed by the overall excellence of the menu and service. The restaurant’s bustling popularity makes booking ahead a wise choice, but it’s a small price to pay for such a rewarding meal in a clean, inviting space.

In sum, Ernies Kitchen delivers an inspired breakfast and brunch menu that blends traditional favorites with inventive flair and local character. It’s a place where quality ingredients meet careful execution and heartfelt hospitality. For anyone visiting Coffs Harbour or seeking a thorough breakfast experience, Ernies Kitchen is a must-visit. I look forward to returning and exploring their menu further, perhaps indulging in their breakfast bubbles package or savoring the bush spiced fried chicken for lunch next time.