Hervey Bay is a hidden gem. The gateway to the seasonal whale playground and Fraser Island and with stunning beaches to the north and the south, it is a bit of a hidden little paradise, or at least parts of it are.
It's a place we visit frequently, just a few hours north of Brisbane by car and is a quick getaway for a night or a weekend, flying into the Sunshine Coast and hiring a car, or fly direct to Hervey Bay airport. Dan and Steph's is our go to every time for a late breaky or an early lunch - let's just say brunch shall we? Back in 2013 (seems like forever ago) this dynamic couple won My Kitchen Rules and immediately set to building their dream - the cafe, catering and keeping up appearances at festivals and events across Queensland and Australia. They are proudly Hervey Bay and have built a fantastic reputation in the town and more broadly.
There is always something imaginative on the menu and it's why we keep returning. The standard breakfast faves of eggs and thingamys are there, but they are in the minority. Danny's Benny, for example, comes with Dan's handmade Italian sausage, sweet potato croquettes and a corn hollandaise. Or try zucchini fritters with za'atar, beetroot relish, haloumi and poached local eggs. A previous visit included a breakfast gnocchi with mushrooms and bacon, which we were sad to see was no longer on the menu.
While it is serious food, there is also a sense of whimsy and fun. Nobody wants to be too serious at breakfast so dishes like a Reese's pieces hotcakes with hokey pokey ice cream not only play into the whimsy but also satisfy the sweetest of sweet tooths. Breakfast tacos are always a good idea, and these change really regularly, and there is always a special or two to tempt. They have their own brand of sausages you can pick up too, you know, for the bbq later on.
Dan and Steph also get service and this is clearly imbued in their team. On the one occasion they weren't there, the food was just as good and the service hadn't suffered at all. It is on the Esplanade with ocean views out to Fraser Island and if you are lucky, a walk along the beach to burn some calories might yield a visit from some dolphins playing in the shallow waters or some whale action out a little further.
Eat at Dan and Steph's feels like you've had an invitation into their place for a feed and a chat. It should be on everyone's list when in Hervey Bay or heading out to Fraser Island. It really is one of the region's best spots to eat and relax.
Also check out the newest venture The Bear just a few doors down.
Eat at Dan and Steph's is at Shop 1B, 449 The Esplanade Hervey Bay.
Open Weds- Mon 7am - 2pm (closed Tuesday).