Isabellas Cafe

Historic café building, originally built in 1882 as a home for the workers building the lighthouse which was completed in 1884. It offers simple pantry style menu for the weary tourist and traveller. Good place for a quick bite and refreshing beverages. They have a good ice cream selection too, for those craving sugar after a long walk. Tap water may not be for everyone, but they do sell bottled water.

Coffee, Cake and Breathtaking Views! Nestled along the scenic Cape Nelson Lighthouse Road, Isabella’s Café feels like a well-kept secret, away from the hustle and bustle of more mainstream dining options. While you might not stumble upon it by chance, finding your way to this charming café is undoubtedly worth the journey. As soon as you step inside, you are enveloped by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The interior is tastefully decorated, combining rustic charm with modern touches that create a cosy environment perfect for relaxation. The friendly staff greet you with genuine smiles, setting the tone for a delightful dining experience. Isabella’s has, without a doubt, breathtaking views. The café boasts panoramic vistas of the surrounding natural beauty, with sweeping views of the rugged coastline and rolling hills. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee or enjoying a leisurely lunch, the stunning scenery complements the experience, making every bite even more enjoyable. The menu at Isabella’s is thoughtfully curated, featuring a delightful selection of both local and seasonal ingredients. From hearty breakfasts to wholesome lunches, each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. I highly recommend trying their signature baked goods, which are fresh and simply divine—perfect with a cup of their expertly brewed coffee. In addition to the food, the café exudes a tranquil atmosphere that encourages you to sit back and soak in the surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for a family outing, a catch-up with friends, or a peaceful solo retreat. If you find yourself near Cape Nelson Lighthouse Rd, make it a priority to stop by this delightful café. It may not be easy to stumble upon, but once you discover it, you’ll surely want to return again and again.

Little hidden gem. Located in a historic stone building next to the lighthouse. Super friendly staff. Delicious selection of cakes and cookies.

Sadly not open on Melbourne Cup Day 2024, however, the Lighthouse and surrounds was just as lovely to see.

The service was great! I loved the tomato relish with the sausage roll.. delicious 😋 👌

Unfortunately my experience here was not the best. Ordered 2 coffees and 2 baby chinos with a toasted sandwich and nachos. Food took 40 minutes to come out but the strangest thing was the mother who works there yelling at her son who was laying all over the couch with toys everywhere. Then the son come over to my table with my family and dumped his toys on my table, ate his chips and spilt crumbs everywhere while the mother lays on the couch saying “I’m on my break”. I asked the little boy to leave as we are about to have some food and he reply’s my mum works here and continues to make a mess, then 5 mins later he walks off leaving his chips and drink bottle on the table and tells another family “I get food for free here” while the mother yells from the back “no ya don’t”. I can only guess that the mother has something to do with the business cause there is no way a boss would allow this to happen, completely unprofessional and a disregard for your patrons. Its just sad cause the food and coffee were good but all ruined by the poor experience that I had.

At the end of the scenic drive from Portland this is a haven. Scones with cream and jam or carrot cake and delicious coffee.

When I was visiting Australia back in 2015 we enjoyed some amazing cakes here, so I wanted to visit it again this time. Unfortunately it did not make the good impression again. Quite dirty floor, dead flies everywhere and a sofa full of stains. Also no amazing cakes to choose from this time. Service was kind and the dessert was good though. Hope it will find back to the standard it ones had.