Menu of Illi Hill in Marrickville, New South Wales, Australia

Menu Overview

Illi Hill, nestled on Illawarra Road in Marrickville, is a café that masters the art of comfort food with a refined touch. The moment you step in, the rustic, shabby-chic ambiance wraps around you like a familiar blanket, setting the stage for a memorable meal. From the first bite to the last, their menu showcases a thoughtful blend of classic dishes elevated by quality ingredients and nuanced flavors.

The breakfast here runs all day, and it’s clear why. Take the Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon—a balance of silky poached eggs, smoky fish, and perfectly toasted sourdough that melds the familiar with a subtle gourmet edge. Equally compelling are the Buttermilk and Ricotta Hotcakes. Three generous, fluffy hotcakes rest on a bed of vanilla labneh, adorned with half a saffron-poached pear, pistachio, and an orange-saffron glaze. The addition of dark chocolate praline cuts through the sweetness, creating a complex harmony of flavors that lingers pleasantly. It’s a dish that turns breakfast into an art form, and at A$24, it’s worth every cent.

The Green Omelette stands out as a fresh, vibrant option with its garden-fresh herbs and vegetables. For those wanting hearty comfort, the Brisket Hash delivers—a robust, filling dish combining tender beef brisket with smoky, savory notes that feel like a warm embrace on the plate. Meanwhile, the Mushroom Toastie offers an umami-rich experience, perfectly suited for a light yet deeply satisfying snack or meal.

Lunch selections continue the high standards. The Hella Veg Burger is a standout for vegetarians and omnivores alike: bold, flavorful, and crafted with clearly fresh ingredients. The Roasted Chicken Sandwich and The SayCheeseburger both demonstrate a thoughtful balance of textures and flavors, making each bite memorable.

Illi Hill also offers specials like Spaghetti and Meatballs, which echo the café’s homey approach while elevating familiar comfort food dishes with quality and care.

Customer feedback resonates with genuine affection. Michelle Yewdall praises the warm, friendly staff and highlights the Buttermilk and Ricotta Hotcakes as a sublime culinary experience paired with smooth oat cappuccino. Mitch Fa’oa notes the cozy atmosphere and attentive service, while Vanessa Marko’s passionate tribute to the Burnt Basque Cheesecake speaks volumes about the café’s ability to deliver standout desserts—tangy, creamy, and perfectly caramelized with no crust to distract from the pure cheese experience.

This is a café as dog-friendly as it is people-friendly, offering spaces that invite lingering mornings with English breakfast tea or an indulgent brunch. Illi Hill is a local sanctuary where each dish is made with heart, each flavor carefully considered, and every visit feels like coming home to good food and good company.