As the sun rises over the iconic Sydney Harbour, the city's residents are often faced with a common conundrum: where to find a hearty breakfast that won't break the bank? With the cost of living on the rise and the price of dining out soaring, it's a question that's becoming increasingly difficult to answer. But fear not, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, because a savvy food blogger has just let us in on a little secret that's sure to start your day off on the right foot – and with change to spare!


Adrian Widjy, the culinary explorer behind the popular social media page @placesinsydney, has uncovered a gem tucked away in Tempe, in Sydney’s inner west. It's a place where you can indulge in a big breakfast without the hefty price tag – and it's none other than Ikea! Yes, you read that correctly. The Swedish furniture giant, known for its flat-pack solutions and maze-like stores, also serves up a scrumptious breakfast that's as affordable as their BILLY bookcases.



'The standard comes in small at $4, medium at $7.50, and a large at $10,' Widjy shared with his followers, detailing a feast that includes sausages, scrambled eggs, baked beans, tomato, mushroom, hashbrowns, and 'loads of bacon.' For those who like to have a say in their morning meal, there's even the option to build your breakfast with items ranging from a mere 50 cents to just $2.


The revelation has sent social media into a frenzy, with many expressing their surprise and eagerness to try Ikea's budget-friendly breakfast. Comments range from humorous quips like, 'A $10 breakfast followed by a $99 spend at the market hall,' to appreciative nods, 'Sounds like great value for brekkie. You’re usually paying $8 for Vegemite toast.'

Ikea Australia’s country food manager, Tim Prevade, has confirmed the brand's commitment to affordability, stating, 'We know Aussies love our delicious Swedish menu, and we also know that the cost of living is hitting everyone close to home. It’s another reason for our customers to visit and spend time at Ikea with their family, no matter how thin their wallet.'

Prevade proudly claims that Ikea is offering 'Australia’s most affordable hot brekkie plate right now,' with prices starting at $4 for a small breakfast. And for those who are part of the Ikea Family, there's even more good news. The 'Happy Days' special every Friday offers half price on selected lunch or dinner hot meals, available until August 23 at all 10 Ikea stores around the country.


This discovery comes at a time when Australians are reeling from the shock of exorbitant prices for simple pleasures like a small coffee and Vegemite on toast. Stories like that of Nikki Potter, who was charged $13.90 for such a breakfast on Sydney’s northern beaches, highlight the need for more affordable dining options.

The issue of rising food costs is not lost on industry experts either. Richard Forbes, chief executive of Independent Food Distributors Australia, notes that distributors have seen a 30 per cent increase in the cost of food over the last three years. 'We’ve all seen the price of beverages and food rise over the last two or three years. That’s not going to get any better until we start doing something to rein in the costs of business,' he warns.

So, dear readers, next time you're in Sydney and the hunger pangs hit, remember that a satisfying breakfast need not empty your wallet. Head over to Ikea and enjoy a big breakfast that's as kind to your stomach as it is to your purse. And who knows, you might just find the perfect bookshelf to go with your bacon and eggs!


We'd love to hear from you. Have you tried Ikea's breakfast, or do you have another go-to spot for an affordable morning meal? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and let's help each other navigate the ever-changing landscape of dining out on a budget.