Have you discovered this hidden Northern Beaches’ gem that’s reaching new heights with its food, wine and even art offering?
Perched just moments from the panoramic Harbour views of Tania Park and nestled along the scenic Spit to Manly walk, The Heights Café is a Northern Beaches gem that truly lives up to its name—elevating the local café scene in more ways than one.
Established in 2020 as Ballboy Cafe, the alfresco cafe was only recently renamed ‘The Heights’. However, the rebrand wasn’t just about location—though being surrounded by native gardens with an open bifold-fronted facade certainly helps.
“We felt the name change better matched the quality of what we do,” says Adam, owner and hospitality veteran with over two decades of experience spanning cafés to fine dining. “And it also aligns beautifully with the natural serenity of our setting.”
The new moniker means Chef Luli, who has been at the helm of the kitchen since opening day, has to deliver on any heighteneed expectations, and he does – bringing heartfelt dedication to every dish. “There’s genuine love in every plate,” Adam says. “Luli is essential to our operation—not just for the food, but for the soul of the place.”
The Heights takes a modern Australian approach to breakfast and lunch, with seasonal rotations that keep things fresh but familiar. Signature items are thoughtfully curated and confidently delivered—think fluffy scrambled eggs (with optional lemon myrtle dukkah), and a rice pudding with rosewater poached rhubarb that’s rich, sweet and creamy. Other standouts for brunch read like a morning fine dining menu, such as ‘Sourdough Crumpets with verjuice and thyme macerated strawberries, goats curd and a biscoff crumble’, or the winter warmers such as the ‘Mushroom Medley with optional provolone cheese and sage fried egg’ or the ‘Eggs Benny with spicy Peri Peri and Hollandaise’.
There are also the crowd pleasers such as acai bowls, chai-spiced porridge, and mouth-watering breakfast burgers and buttys. Locals may already know of ‘The Hangover’ burger with beef, bacon, egg, cheese, caramalised onions, Hollandaise and Peri Peri. And there’s a Tradies Takeaway Special too with a bacon and egg roll and coffee for $15.
For lunch, the Garlic Prawn and Pesto Pappardelle offers a flavour-packed journey, the Malay Coconut Chicken Curry with yogurt and coriander is a winter must-try and the charcuterie platter pairs beautifully with their curated wine selection. Not only that, but there’s a complimentary glass of wine offered with lunch throughout June and July!
Elevating the cafe experience further, local art finds a home at The Heights, too. In a move that blends creativity with community, local artists are showcased on the walls, offering the artists the opportunity to exhibit and sell their pieces. Guests are encouraged to explore the space, where colour and creativity meet coffee and conversation.
“Art is very much part of our story,” Adam says. “It brings warmth and personality to our space while giving exposure to talented locals.”
Current resident artist Sonia Stewart, known for her fabulous ‘Covid Divas’ series and already prominent on the walls of many homes across the Beaches, has sold multiple works via The Heights thanks to the visibility this initiative provides.
The café’s philosophy is simple but a recipe to success: strive to be “a cut above” in every way. It shows not only in the food, but in the thoughtful design, community feel, and that rare ability to feel both sophisticated and utterly relaxed.
“We like to think of ourselves as a community hub,” Adam shares. “Our locals are loyal, and we love seeing not just them, but their dogs too—it’s a pet-friendly space, and it shows.”
Whether you’re grabbing a post-hike bite, wanting to discover a new brilliant Beaches’ business or planning a lazy Sunday brunch, there’s a table in the sun or under cover waiting for you at The Heights Cafe.
The Heights Cafe
Address: 31 Dobroyd Rd, Balgowlah Heights
Website: https://www.theheightscafe.au/
Instagram: @theheightscafebalgowlah
