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Restaurant

Swingbridge Cafe

40 Great Ocean Rd, Lorne VIC 3232, Australia

Recommended by 64 people

Updated

Find Swingbridge Cafe

40 Great Ocean Rd, Lorne VIC 3232, Australia

Directions ↗
61 432 208 281
HoursMonday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

Plan your visit

About Swingbridge Cafe

Perched beside the historic pedestrian bridge where the Erskine River meets the sea, this open-air spot pairs barista pours with beachside views. Tucked off the busy Great Ocean Road, travelers and dog walkers gather on the grassy slope for morning flat whites and house-made Argentine empanadas with crisp pastry and savory fillings. Plates range from classic avocado toast and mushroom stacks on fried bread to flaky morning pastries eaten under coastal cypress.

  • Riverside bridge setting: Set directly where the Erskine River mouth opens onto the beach, featuring open-air picnic tables and grass seating away from town traffic.
  • Handmade Argentine empanadas: Freshly baked in-house Latin pastries with crisp crusts served alongside specialty espresso and morning cafe staples.
  • Dog-friendly lawn: Expansive lawn access and outdoor seating welcome four-legged companions on morning beach walks.
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What's On at Swingbridge Cafe

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Visit Swingbridge Cafe

Distinctive coastal dining set by the Erskine River swing bridge

  • In-House Argentine Empanadas

    Handcrafted Argentine empanadas made in-house with delicate, crispy pastry alongside Latin-inspired specialties.

    the pastry is light and crispy

    Dan Logan

  • Generous Breakfast Classics

    Hearty breakfast staples and carefully extracted specialty espresso to fuel Great Ocean Road travellers.

    Big breakfast was excellent with avocado and goat cheese and lots of bacon!

    Nick Booth

  • Panoramic River-Meets-Sea Views

    An open vantage point where the Erskine River flows directly into the ocean beneath the footbridge.

    Beautiful location by a river that runs into the ocean and under a bridge.

    Alexcia Miller

  • Tranquil Estuary Setting

    A peaceful waterside atmosphere positioned directly alongside the historic timber swing bridge.

    Sitting in the light breeze beside the estuary with the beach in view was blissful.

    Two Sheds

  • Dog-Friendly Coastal Stop

    Welcoming outdoor setup tailored for patrons stopping by with their dogs during beachside strolls.

    it's dog friendly...couldn't ask for more

    Jenny Marshall

  • Open Lawn & Hillside Seating

    Spacious grassy hill and bench seating set comfortably apart from busy commercial town traffic.

    The team here have also adapted the space to use the grassy hill with big bench seats and tables to accommodate people to sit in for food and or drinks.

    Cate Jephcott

Signature breakfast plates, Argentine specialties, and coastal lunch favorites

  • Empanadas

    Empanadas we loved, we ordered twice 🤭.

    Chef Poleng

  • Big Breakfast

    Big breakfast was excellent with avocado and goat cheese and lots of bacon!

    Nick Booth

  • AVO Toast

    Best thing on the menu is the AVO toast.

    Brett Boogie

  • Grilled Calamari

    Recommend the grilled calamari.

    Richard Smith

Other favorites

Artisan coffees, comforting chai, and fresh morning pastries

  • Chai Latte

    Chai latte is exceptional!

    Gus Ferguson

  • Croissants

    Croissants are so fresh.

    Chef Poleng

  • Long Black

    My long black was super as well.

    Two Sheds

  • Mocha

    my mocha is as sweet as they are

    BHARATH KUMAR REDDY YADAVALLY

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are welcome. The cafe features outdoor seating and grassy lawn areas where you can relax with your pet.

Are vegetarian or dietary options available?

Yes, the menu includes vegetarian-friendly options such as mushroom dishes, soups, and classic breakfast items, and the kitchen can adapt meals for specific dietary needs.

What should I expect regarding wait times and seating during peak times?

It gets very busy during peak season and sunny days, which can lead to limited tables and lines for takeaway coffee. If tables are full, you can sit on the surrounding grass.

What food items are recommended to order?

Alongside classic breakfast and coffee, house-made Argentine empanadas are a signature specialty, along with poached eggs and toasted sandwiches.

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