Dirty Red

Overview

It's hard to know what to expect from a place called Dirty Red. Thankfully, the words 'coffee' and 'brunch' emblazoned on the venue's baby blue terrace exterior provide some clues. Named after Glebe's Dirty Reds football club (one of the foundation clubs for the Australian Rugby League in 1908), this cheerful cafe has quickly established itself as a go-to for Glebe locals since opening in mid 2018.

With ample seating, including a bright and airy interior and a leafy courtyard, Dirty Red is the type of place you'll want to stay all day. And, in fact, you almost can now as the venue transforms into a cosy wine bar on Friday and Saturday nights, too. Here, plates and snacks like black garlic dip and burrata with peach, romesco and basil are served alongside a tight selection of mostly Aussie wines, Young Henrys brews and spritzes.

Now, back to the main affair: brunch. The extensive, produce-packed menu turns cafe classics up a notch — think eggs and soldiers served with halloumi fries or eggs benedict served on jalapeño and cheddar cornbread. Plus, it has what CP reader @ally_brown88 calls "the best brekkie roll in Sydney".

To pair with your meal is coffee by Mecca, including a nitro cold brew, plus fresh juices and shakes made using gelato from nearby Little Red Gelato. And if you're looking to level-up your brunch session, the cafe also serves booze during the day. This includes a stellar selection of cocktails, like the Brekkie Martini and the Dirty Red Mary. Plus, it does $10 espresso martinis between 2–4pm.