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Menu Snapshot

Chocolate Tart
Burger and Fries
Lamb Roast
  • Top categories (Kids' Menu / Tuesday / Wednesday / Friday / Saturday)
  • Most orders: $20–40
View Complete Menu

Overview & Highlights

Nestled within the serene surroundings of Narrabeen, The Dugout Cafe at the Gallipoli Building offers more than just a meal—it provides a heartfelt experience steeped in history and community spirit. This charming local cafe serves up comforting, flavorful dishes that echo the warmth and sincerity of its welcoming atmosphere.

Each day at The Dugout Cafe brings a unique culinary delight. On Tuesdays, the “Pizza of the Day” features freshly baked, handcrafted pizzas with vibrant, delicious toppings that satisfy any craving. Fridays beckon with the “Catch of the Day,” presenting fresh, locally sourced seafood that dances on the palate with oceanic freshness and perfectly balanced seasoning. When the weekend rolls around, Saturday’s gourmet pie served with slaw, mushy peas, and gravy offers a nostalgic yet elevated taste of traditional Aussie fare—rich, flaky pastry filled with hearty goodness, complemented by crisp, tangy slaw and comforting mushy peas.

A visit here is layered with more than just food. Diners enjoy breathtaking views of Narrabeen Lakes, the shimmering water acting as a tranquil backdrop to an inviting dining experience. The cafe’s balcony seating invites guests to relax and savor each bite while soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds them. Clean, well-maintained facilities and friendly, engaging staff add to the relaxed, community-focused vibe that permeates the space.

What truly sets The Dugout Cafe apart is its powerful connection to local history and the community. Guests often share stories of visiting the adjacent War Vets and its poignant Afghanistan room, a touching tribute to those who served. This blend of remembrance and everyday joy brings an emotional depth to each visit—the sense that you are part of something meaningful, a living tribute to freedom and camaraderie.

Customer experiences vividly capture the essence of The Dugout. One longtime patron reflects on how visits here are intertwined with visits to the War Vets, bringing history to life for their children in a personal and profound way. Others praise the cafe’s unbeatable value, the tender, juicy steak sandwiches, and the hearty, comforting lunches featuring roast pork and lamb moussaka that leave a lasting impression. Visitors from afar marvel at the friendly atmosphere, the lively banter of the staff, and the idyllic landscape that frames every meal.

Whether you are stopping by for a quick coffee, a family outing, or a leisurely lunch with scenic views, The Dugout Cafe delivers a heartfelt, genuine experience—nourishing both body and spirit. It’s a place where food tastes like home, history is honored, and every visit feels like a comforting embrace.

For a memorable taste of Narrabeen’s local flavor and hospitality, The Dugout Cafe is not just a spot to eat but a destination to connect, reflect, and savor the simple pleasures of great food and great company.

Comforts & Conveniences

Accessibility
  • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
  • Has outdoor seating
  • Offers takeaway
  • Serves dine-in
  • No delivery
Popular for
  • Popular for breakfast
  • Popular for lunch
  • Good for solo dining
  • Good for working on laptop
Payments
  • Accepts credit cards

Where to Visit

Visitor Testimonials (272)

Love the dugout cafe, I go to the war vets quite often. I always stop at the dugout for a feed or a coffee. I’ll take my kids here and walk them around. Show them the Afghanistan room the boys (43) who gave their lives so that my kids can live in freedom, show them more wall where I serve, And the history/museum reality of how lucky they are to be in this country

Great value for money and a place for some food! Very friendly and helpful staff along with plenty of seating! Some great scenery looking at Narrabeen and water features. Clean bathrooms. We sat out on the balcony to have our meal. The steak sandwhich was so tender and the chippies are delicious!

Excellent place to eat, food is great at reasonable prices, staff are super friendly and and have a joke, the views over Narrabeen Lakes, and beyond are spectacular, Highly recommend this establishment, Oh and plenty of parking.

Beautiful place with reasonable price. Had the daily lunch specials last Sunday, Roast Pork and Lamb Mousaka with Passion Fruit Tart and Tiramisu cake. The dessert were super sweet.

From England visiting my brother and his wife who live at the 'war vets'. Superb place not seen in England. Are at the Dugout, very good, and some incredibly friendly people, including everybody in the croquet club! The area is huge and beautifully kept. This is just fabulous place, love it.

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