Imago Cafe & Bakery

Imago Cafe & Bakery is a cosy little spot in Hobart, Tasmania, that works as a breakfast and brunch cafe with a proper bakery side to it. Locals will tell you it's one of the better bakeries in town, and the sourdough and croissants are what people keep coming back for, including a chocolate and raspberry croissant that went down well with one young visitor. Fresh from the oven is the idea here, with baked goods sitting alongside a full cafe menu.

The food leans creative. The shakshouka is the dish people bring up most, with eggplant or lamb sausage as the choice, and the eggs benedict comes with pulled pork rendang and coconut rice instead of the usual bread. If you like trying something a little less typical for brunch, that's the appeal. Smaller portions and bigger brunch-size plates are both on offer, and there are vegetarian and vegan options too. Not everyone loves every dish, and one local felt the rendang wasn't quite authentic and the portions a touch small, so it's fair to say tastes vary on the more adventurous items.

The coffee gets a lot of love. We've heard it described as strong, balanced and some of the best value specialty coffee in Hobart, with a barista named Laura singled out by one holidaying family who came back four days running. Staff are friendly and attentive, and food and drinks tend to arrive quickly.

The space is on the smaller side, which suits couples, solo visitors and small groups, or a quick takeaway stop. People describe the lighting, flowers, artwork and handmade pottery as a thoughtful touch, and there are power points if you need to charge your phone. It's also set up for families, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, and reservations are accepted.

You can dine in or take away, and card payments are fine. They're open seven days a week, mostly through the morning and early afternoon, so check the hours before you head in. For a relaxed breakfast, a decent coffee or a croissant to go in Hobart, it's an easy one to put on your list.