Lillipad Cafe

Lillipad Cafe is a busy, laid-back all-day cafe in the Cairns CBD, known for huge portions and a long menu that covers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free. Dogs are welcome at the front footpath and covered deck tables, so it is an easy brunch stop with the dog in tow.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome in the shaded footpath seating and the covered front deck, not in the main indoor dining room. Both areas are airy and shaded, which matters in the Cairns heat. Staff are friendly to dogs, though pet amenities vary, so bring your own water bowl.

Good to know. The reputation is built on generous, filling breakfast and lunch plates, a genuinely broad menu for all diets, and solid coffee. It is open most days but closed Tuesdays, and Sunday mornings get very busy.

Getting there and parking. Find it at 29/31 Spence St, in the heart of the CBD and walking distance from the Esplanade. There is street parking on Spence St (often busy) and nearby parking garages. On a Sunday, arrive early or be prepared to circle.

Nearby with the dogs. The Cairns Esplanade is a few blocks away for an on-lead walk with water views. Fogarty Park and the Esplanade parklands give green space to stretch out, though dogs cannot enter the lagoon swimming area.

When to go. Weekday mornings or mid-afternoon are calmer and easier for parking and an outdoor table. Good for dogs that settle happily in a busy, social cafe.

Sources

• Dog friendly travel in Cairns · tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
• The Lilly Pad Cafe, Cairns · m.yelp.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.