Shelly's Semaphore

Kiosk/1 Esplanade, Semaphore South SA 5019, Australia
+61 437 421 607
$$$ Cafe
(172 Reviews)
Price Range $20–40

Situated along the picturesque Semaphore Esplanade in South Australia, Shelly's Semaphore is a delightful cafe that beckons with its vibrant ambiance and delectable offerings. The newly revamped kiosk has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, combining a modern aesthetic with a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely brunch or a quick lunch between beach visits.

Shelly's Semaphore proudly presents an impressive menu that caters to diverse tastes, ideal for families and foodies alike. Start your day early, as breakfast is served from 7 AM until 11:30 AM, with mouthwatering options like the Sourdough Crumpets with Asparagus and Poached Egg, a true standout that has earned rave reviews. Each bite bursts with freshness and flavor, paired perfectly with a refreshing green juice that sings with vitality.

For those with little ones in tow, the cafe offers an engaging Kids Menu featuring treats like the Kids Sourdough Toast and Kids Burger. Parents will appreciate the nearby playground, making it convenient for children to play while adults enjoy a moment of respite with their coffee or explore the wide range of craft cocktails and specialty beers available during lunch hours.

As the day transitions, indulge in flavorful lunch options such as the Beachside Burger—a crafted delight that enchants your taste buds with its savory ingredients, or a satisfying plate of falafels served with crispy chips that promises to transport you to gastronomic heaven. With recommendations pouring in from enthusiastic customers, including praises for gluten-free options and unique drink varieties, it's clear Shelly's Semaphore has tapped into the heart of Semaphore's culinary scene.

But don't just take our word for it! Janet’s Journey notes the cafe's buzzing popularity, claiming it “great for families” due to its kids' menus, while other patrons like Peter Leske delights in the unique drink offerings that accompany the fabulous food. The ambiance is always lively, making Shelly's Semaphore a perfect place to gather with friends or to unwind after a day of exploring the beautiful Semaphore Beach.

With its exceptional value, friendly staff, and a menu that caters to a variety of appetites and preferences, Shelly's Semaphore isn’t merely a place to grab a bite—it’s a delightful experience waiting to be savored. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee while watching the waves or looking for a vibrant spot to meet friends for lunch, this cafe has quickly established itself as a culinary gem in Semaphore.

Visit Shelly's Semaphore at Kiosk/1 Esplanade, Semaphore South SA 5019 or call +61 437 421 607 to learn more or make a reservation.

Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Happy-hour drinks
Happy-hour food
Late-night food
Organic dishes
Prepared foods
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Bar on site
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Openings Hours

Monday

07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Sunday

07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

172 Reviews
Janet’s Journey

30 Sep 2025

Shelly’s; The newly revamped kiosk spot! Loving this new look and now a cafe is great, seems quite a popular spot, it was very busy by lunchtime. The menu has lots to offer for breakfast from 7am to 11:30. Also include a kids & toddler menu which is great, there is a playground nearby. Then lunch menu kicks in with a selection of beer on tap and cocktails. Spiced cauliflower salad + chicken Soy & ginger Barramundi with noodles Salt and Pepper Squid Seashore Shelly spritz Long Island iced coffee Menu has such interesting options on offer for lunch and at reasonable prices too. The staff were friendly and look so slick in their stripe uniforms. Although the service could be improved at peak hour, I was impressed overall. Will definitely be back throughout the summer.

Peter Leske

23 Aug 2025

The algal bloom may not leave soon But here’s another option Sit down at Shelly’s and delight your belly With fabulous food and drink. Great drink variety, alcoholic options with unique cocktails and the regular stuff. Good gluten free and vego options. The “beachside burger” was loaded with flavoursome ingredients and a great GF bun option. My Felafel plate and crispy chips bowl was much enjoyed on a grey Spring afternoon. Staff were great. The place may not look fancy, but the vibe is very relaxing and we can only recommend you drop by. We will check out their coffees next time.

Sandra Macgregor

12 Aug 2025

Shelly's was the spot I chose for a late breakfast. I was very impressed. The new look cafe is fantastic and very popular, it was fairly full. The menu has lots if interesting options at reasonable prices. I chose the sour dough crumpets with asparagus and poached Egg. Yummy! It was one of the best breakfasts I have had. The green juice was also very tasty. I will definitely be back. The staff were friendly and efficient. They also looked great in their uniforms.

Kathleen Mchugh

07 Aug 2025

Nice spot next to gated playground. Good basic breakfast with good variety on the menu. Eggs Benedict was good and is my friends go to everytime she goes. Chilli scramble was good but probably a bit too much crunch element on top which threw out the balance. Was served on house flat bread but I think it would have been better on sourdough toast.

Simon Vickers

23 Jul 2025

Very nicely renovated Great location and the playground is new too. Great for our 3-4yo Would recommend. Only gripe is a large coffee is in my opinion tiny coffee. Very well done. Just too small for $8.60 (with some add ons)

OHANA

22 Jul 2025

They serve my favorite soy milk, Bonsoy, so I ordered a chai latte with it. This is one of the few cafes with a view of Semaphore Beach. I absolutely love this place. There’s a playground nearby, making it fun for kids.

Rhys Moult

15 Jul 2025

Came here for a birthday dinner with a party of five. The online booking was smooth and easy. It was their first official opening night but everything went off without a hitch. Arrived to a friendly welcome from the owner James with a reserved table inside as requested. I dropped off the cake early so we could walk down and enjoy the balmy evening. Service was fast and friendly and the food and drinks were all reasonably priced with mains from around $15 - $28. The food was of a high standard with good sized portions. I joked about not being able to choose a meal and James added a piece of fish as side for a laugh. The cake was served by a singing staff member. All in all a great night with food and drinks bill including cocktalis and wine under $200. Looking forward to coming back for coffees.

Joanne Forlani

25 Jun 2025

The dishes are amazing - I wanted to eat everything at the same time! Beautiful location beachside

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