DIGGIES
South Coast, New South Wales

Overlooking a thin curl of golden sand on a busy strip of beachfront, you'll find the white facade of Diggies hemmed in by the hurly burly of hungry gulls, crashing waves and squealing children. The heritage-listed building is a beacon of healthy fare and relaxed vibes, making Diggies the ultimate summer location. Pull up a chair on the raised deck outside or find a quiet nook inside with views of the glittering ocean. Opened in December 2003, the cafe has become a local Wollongong institution and is packed at any time of the day, seven days a week.

Brekkie rush-hour sees the cyclists and pram-pushers savouring fresh juices, smoothies and coffees, or devouring the ever-popular "happy days" breakfast – spelt sourdough laden with rocket, tomato, bacon, egg, asparagus and parmesan. Chef Nigel Farry has crafted Diggies' quintessential summer breakfast and lunch menus, as well as the Friday and Saturday night selection of sharing plates. Bring some friends and a bottle or two for an evening by the sea, where chorizo, pumpkin and fetta empanadas blend artfully with deep-fried whitebait dressed in paprika and lemon. End the meal with a nibble on the Swedish pastry chef's freshly baked desserts and a star-studded stroll along Cliff Road. At week's end Diggies soothes workers' woes with tunes and cocktails on the deck, as a rotating posse of DJs and vocalists entertain from 4pm to 7pm each Sunday. Diggies only takes bookings during the week for groups of 12 or more, who are encouraged to feast on set menus.