Sydney Coffee Guide: Discover the City's Best Brews
Join in on one of Sydneysiders' favourite pastimes: drinking great coffee
While Melbourne often steals the spotlight as Australia's coffee capital, Sydney's coffee scene is undeniably world-class. Despite not being a coffee-producing nation or having a long history of European coffee houses, Australia has embraced coffee culture wholeheartedly, making it a beloved national pastime.
We owe the introduction of the espresso machine to the Italian and Greek migrants who arrived in Sydney in the 1950s. Australians took this passion and crafted a unique coffee culture that it has since exported around the world. Today, you'll find Australian-owned cafes in cities like London, Tokyo, and New York.
There are so many good options, below are some of my favourite Sydney coffee spots worth seeking out for a coffee lover.
Single O, Surry Hills
One of the original Sydney roastery cafes, the Surry Hills cafe has been around since 2003. Single O beans are sold to some of the best cafes around the city. All their coffee is excellent, but I recommend trying a black coffee made with their signature Reservoir blend, which boasts delightful fruity notes. The food menu is also well above average so stop by for breakfast, brunch or lunch with your coffee.
Located at 60 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills, this cafe has a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed coffee break.
Gumpton by Coffee Alchemy
The Strand Arcade’s Gumpton by Coffee Alchemy coffee shop of the Marrickville based coffee roasters are obsessed with sourcing the best quality beans. Service is swift at this coffee-only spot. Order a piccolo or macchiato, savour it quickly, and then enjoy a leisurely stroll around the beautiful Strand Arcade.
Located at Ground Floor, The Strand Arcade, 412-414 George Street, Sydney, this spot offers a quick caffeine fix in a historic shopping arcade setting.
Artificer, Surry Hills
This coffee-only spot is a haven for serious coffee enthusiasts. The owners' philosophy is to focus on one thing and do it exceptionally well, and they certainly succeed. Artificer is best known for their filter-style coffee.
Located at 547 Bourke Street, Surry Hills, Artificer offers a minimalist setting where the focus is entirely on the coffee.
Campos Coffee, Newtown
A pioneer of Sydney’s coffee scene, Campos Coffee beans are served at cafes throughout the city. The original cafe is located just off King Street in Newtown. There is also a branch on the ground floor of the office tower 1 at Barangaroo. Order a classic flat white; their beans are specifically roasted to complement both black and milk-based coffees perfectly.
Located at 193 Missenden Road, Newtown, this cafe features a vibrant atmosphere just off the bustling King Street.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, Sydney's coffee scene has something to offer every coffee lover. Each of these spots provides a unique experience that highlights the city's rich coffee culture. Happy sipping!