Adelaide Brunch & Botanic Garden Walk: A Light and Easy Half-Day Plan

After a few days of heavier meals, I wanted something cleaner and lighter—something my body would actually thank me for. While browsing for Adelaide brunch spots, I found The Nourish’d Kitchen Cafe in Stepney, which looked fresh and uncomplicated. 

It ended up being exactly what I needed. After brunch, I drove to the Adelaide Botanic Garden for an easy post-meal stroll, and the combination turned into one of my favourite simple days in the city.

1. Best Light Brunch in Adelaide: The Nourish’d Kitchen Cafe Review

Opening Hours:

• Mon–Fri: 7:00 AM–3:30 PM

• Sat: 8:00 AM–3:30 PM

• Sun: 8:00 AM–3:00 PM

Mostly street parking around the small alleys. On weekends or lunchtime, you might need a little luck. The cafe itself feels cozy and personal—small indoor seating with a few outdoor tables. I went outside the peak time, so it was quiet enough to enjoy the morning without rushing.

What to eat at The Nourish'd Kitchen Cafe (our picks)

Noourish'd salad Bowl:

This salad is packed with fresh vegetables and well-balanced flavours. I usually go light on dressing, and I forgot to ask for less, so it felt a bit saucy for my taste. It’s low-carb, with the only carbs coming from pumpkin, so while it was filling with coffee, I got hungry again fairly quickly. Adding a side of bread makes it more satisfying.

Prosciutto Toastie:

Soft prosciutto, caramelised onions, and pickled cabbage—simple but full of flavour. The portion is moderate, not overly heavy.

Coffee:

The coffee came in a large cup, smooth and not acidic. I ordered the coffee with oat milk after seeing that they carried my regular brand. The taste was slightly different from what I’m used to, but it was still very satisfying.

The mug was bigger than expected—smooth and comforting.

Prosciutto Toastie (My Husband’s Order)

Packed with fresh ingredients—colourful, crisp, and very refreshing

2. Adelaide Botanic Garden – Scenic Walk After Brunch

From the cafe, it’s roughly a 7–10 minute drive to the Botanic Garden, which makes this route really convenient. We thought Plane Tree Drive Parking (paid) was the easiest and closest option, so we parked over there. 

Check out [Here] for the official website for detailed parking information and fees before you go. With free parking on Sundays and public holidays, a Sunday brunch followed by a stroll through the Adelaide Botanic Garden is a perfect plan.

Opening Hours

Apr–Sep (non-daylight savings)

• Weekdays: 7:15 AM–5:30 PM

• Weekends & Holidays: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Oct–Mar (daylight savings)

• Weekdays: 7:15 AM–6:30 PM

• Weekends & Holidays: 9:00 AM–6:30 PM

Adelaide Botanic Garden Walking Route (1-Hour Itinerary)

I entered through Friends’ Gate, which is convenient if you park at Plane Tree Drive.

• Easy stroll past the lawns and shady areas

• Stop by the Palm House (beautiful Victorian iron greenhouse from 1877)

• Wander through the Rose Garden – totally different depending on the season

• Loop around the main pond, my personal favourite part of the garden

• Return to the entrance

Nothing complicated—just a peaceful loop to walk off brunch.

Extended Adelaide Botanic Garden Tour Options (2–2.5 hours)

If you have more time:

• Explore inside the Palm House

• Visit the Bicentennial Conservatory for tropical plants

• Join the free guided tour at 10:30 AM (daily except Good Friday, Christmas, and days over 36°C)

Best Time to Visit Adelaide Botanic Garden (Seasonal Guide)

• Spring: Wisteria + lots of colour everywhere

• Summer: Roses, lotus pond, bright scenery

• Autumn: Golden leaves and softer light

• Winter: Quiet, calm atmosphere; greenhouses are perfect on cold days

A peaceful moment walking under tall trees with soft morning light.

A red fountain and the palm house as a background

Cactus & Succulent Garden Near the Palm House

Summary – Adelaide Brunch + Botanic Garden Half-day Plan

• Light, fresh brunch at a cozy local cafe

• Short, easy drive to the Botanic Garden

• Relaxed walking route ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers

• Great on sunny days when you want something peaceful but still close to the city

This combo felt just right—nothing too intense, just a fresh brunch and a calming walk. It was a perfect reset day. The weather was lovely that day, and there were quite a few people out for a stroll. To my surprise, there was also a small market where K-pop merchandise was being bought and sold, which added an unexpected but fun touch to the relaxing, easy-going walk.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.