The age-old debate continues — what’s the right price for a big breakfast at a cafe on the weekend? Recently, Sydney-based breakfast aficionado Mark shared his experience of paying $47 for a dish at a cafe. While some people were in disbelief, Mark firmly believes it was worth every penny — and he’d happily do it again.

Mark, who manages the brand Breakfast Shirts and frequently reviews cafes on social media, shared his visit to Pina in Sydney’s Potts Point on Saturday. Known for its exceptional food and long queues, it’s a popular spot.

Once seated, Mr. Breakfast Shirts ordered a steak and egg dish for $32, with a must-have hashbrown, bacon, and avocado, bringing the total to $47.50. He also ordered a congee dish to share with a friend, along with coffees, making the meal cost just over $140.

You can see his experience below.

Commenters expressed their shock over the soaring prices in Sydney.

“$47 is outrageous,” one viewer remarked.

“I’m in Europe now and people warned me about Europe’s costs. It’s half to a third of what you pay in Australia,” another noted.

Okay but that congee is calling to me. (Image: Breakfast Shirts / TikTok)

While some were outraged at the price, others — including Mark — felt it was justified.

“People claim it’s expensive but consider the high rent, rates, insurances, and other costs commercial tenants face. I’d say the profit for the effort is well-deserved,” commented a TikToker.

“People keep paying, so why would they lower the prices?” another viewer asked.

“The team at these venues are amazing hospitality professionals… plus, the food is great. It’s pricey but crafted with love,” another person wrote.

Mark took to TikTok to defend Pina and its pricing.

“My view is, sure, it might be on the higher end for breakfast, but it’s worth it. Cafes delivering good food should price accordingly. There should be a range of how much you can spend on breakfast,” Mr. Breakfast Shirts explained.

“Whenever expensive breakfasts are mentioned, it’s labeled as a ‘rip-off,’ but cafes need to earn too. I don’t understand it.”

Mark noted that the place was bustling before and after his visit — and with good reason.

“It’s because they excel at what they do. Their branding is strong. They’re in a prime location and pay rent for it. Cafes and business owners should be rewarded for their success.

“If you can charge more because you provide something great, and you earn more because of it, more power to you.”

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In a conversation with news.com.au, Pina owner Andrew Hardjasudarma shared Mark’s perspective.

“We assure customers that our quality is unmatched by any other cafe,” he stated, mentioning that the steak and egg dish is so popular it often sells out.

“I understand it’s pricey for some. But I firmly believe that quality speaks for itself.”

So, there it is. Ultimately, it’s about your comfort level with spending on a dining experience during this cost-of-living crisis. Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, let’s not overlook the effort in creating quality food and the importance of supporting our small businesses.