Island Dreams Cafe is a vibrant family‑run café and restaurant located at 47‑49 Haldon Street in Lakemba, NSW 2195, Australia. Established in 1996, the café has been serving authentic Malay, Cocos (Keeling) Island, and Southeast Asian fusion cuisine for over two decades. Its longstanding presence reflects strong community support and a rich culinary tradition.
The café specialises in authentic Halal Malaysian and Cocos Island‑inspired dishes that showcase bold spice combinations and tropical island flavours. Every meal reflects the owners’ cultural heritage, combining traditional recipes with local Australian ingredients to deliver rich tastes that customers keep returning for.
Island Dreams Cafe’s menu includes a wide range of rice and noodle dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice), mee goreng (fried noodles), laksa (spicy coconut broth noodles), and combination rice plates that bring depth to casual Asian‑fusion dining.
Popular satay packs featuring marinated chicken or lamb skewers served with rice or lontong, cucumber, red onion and homemade peanut sauce are standout favourites. The satays are regularly highlighted as a must‑try item by local patrons and food enthusiasts alike.
The café also offers classic snacks and small bites such as spring rolls, samosas, murtabak (stuffed flatbread), and roti canai with curry, perfect for lunch or casual meals. These dishes cater to both vegetarians and meat lovers, with clear options available for many tastes.
Beyond savoury mains, Island Dreams Cafe serves fresh drinks and sweets, including traditional beverages and homemade desserts that pair well with its rich cuisine. The relaxing café ambiance and friendly staff create a welcoming environment for solo diners, families, and groups alike.
The venue operates daily for dine‑in and takeaway, with bain‑marie buffet‑style dishes available from lunchtime and an a la carte menu served later in the day. The café also caters for events and special occasions, with advance message bookings for group orders and catering.
Located in the culturally diverse heart of Lakemba, Island Dreams Cafe is often described as a community favourite with a casual yet lively atmosphere. Customers appreciate the generous portions, authentic flavours, and the café’s ability to blend island‑style cooking with local dining preferences.
Many visitors highlight that the café’s halal menu and welcoming service make it an excellent spot for lunch, dinner, or a midday bite that feels both comforting and adventurous. Its fusion of Indonesian, Malaysian, and Cocos Island soul food gives it a distinct position among Sydney dining spots.
Overall, Island Dreams Cafe combines traditional island flavours with fusion creativity, offering a memorable eating experience that reflects heritage, community, and authentic taste. Whether you’re craving satay, laksa, nasi lemak, or roti canai, this café is a notable destination for Malaysian and Southeast Asian cuisine in Sydney.
Location: 47 Haldon Street, Lakemba NSW 2195, Australia
Contact: +61 455 578 190 / islanddreams123@hotmail.com
Website: Island Dreams Cafe
Products/Services: Halal Malaysian & Cocos Island fusion cuisine, rice and noodle dishes (nasi goreng, mee goreng, laksa), satay packs, roti canai & snacks, drinks & desserts, dine‑in & takeaway, event catering
