Cafe Hopping in Sydney: A List of the Locals’ Best Kept Cafes

In Australia, you’re often told about Melbourne’s superb coffee. But what many people don’t tell you is this: Sydney’s coffee is just as delicious. Pair that with the area’s beachy vibe and its distinct taste for scrumptious organic treats, and you’re assured of a hearty meal with a scenic view.

Also read: Sydney & Melbourne Cafe Guide: 12 Quaint Places To Visit

Sydney’s coffee shops range from major tourist attractions to small holes-in-the-wall at the side of the road. Even though there are plenty of cafes in the city, the best ones are usually hidden in the nooks of the suburbs, almost as if they were made secret by locals. Here are a few you can check out:

1. The Grounds, Alexandria

A former pie factory nestled in the town of Alexandria, The Grounds has become famous for its vegan-friendly treats and specialty coffee, along with the gardens and pumpkin patches that adorn the brunch place. Have their avocado toast with a cup of flat white for breakfast, or go for the salmon steak if you want something a little heavier.

Address: 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia

2. The Alchemist Espresso, Cammeray

The Alchemist cafe was established by John Menck and Emma Frayar on Carter Street, Cammeray. Locals will often tell you that it was a former bottle shop. Aside from good coffee, The Alchemist specializes in homestyle cuisine, particularly big breakfast meals. Try their stack of bacon and eggs, with a double shot of their famous espresso.

Address: 8 Carter St, Cammeray NSW 2062, Australia

3. Single O, Surry Hills

If I had to choose the best coffee shop I’ve tried in the city, my personal pick would be Single O. I was desperately hiding from the rain the day I found the streetside cafe. The rich aroma of their coffee beans was enough to make me spend another AU$5 on a flat white, which they say is a must-try. Consider yourself lucky if you happen to find not a single person in line for coffee, but I hear this rarely ever happens.

Address: 60-64 Reservoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia

4. Brewtown, Newtown

Home to the Brewnut, a hybrid of cronut and cruffin, and some of the best Mediterranean-inspired dishes in Sydney, Brewtown offers uniquely blended coffee that works with almost anything on their menu. Even when you’re drinking a double-shot espresso that usually leaves a bitter taste, their beans give a little sweet flavour that’s perfect for when you’re enjoying a plate of poached eggs and hummus.

Address: 6-8 O’Connell St, Newtown NSW 2042, Australia

5. Three Blue Ducks, Bronte

Located in far-off Bronte Beach, where residents enjoy a simple avocado toast to go with their double-shot flat white, Three Blue Ducks is the ideal place to have a quiet breakfast while looking out into the ocean. The same calm can be felt even inside the cafe, with its cool blue interiors.

Address: 141-143 Macpherson St, Bronte NSW 2024, Australia

6. Flower Child Cafe, Chatswood

Inspired by the Grounds of Alexandria, Flower Child Cafe combines an outdoorsy feel with quite the modern location: It is found inside the famous shopping mall Westfield Chatswood. The place’s interior design is a nod to the culture of northern beaches where pine trees and rustic accents are plentiful. The menu changes by the season so you can look forward to different organic recipes with every visit.

Address: 1 Anderson St, Chatswood NSW 2067, Australia

7. Nelson Road Tuckshop, Bondi Junction

Another personal favourite that happens to be overlooked is this cafe found between Bronte and Bondi Beach. The sister cafe of Nelson Road Tuckshop, Bellagio’s healthy selection of salads, doughnuts, fresh juices, and coffee make for a fun eating experience. They also accommodate takeaway and catering needs, which is a bonus.

Address: 60 Bronte Rd, Bondi Junction NSW 2022, Australia

8. Bourke Street Bakery, Surry Hills

If you’re looking for the oldest coffee establishment in Sydney, look no further than Bourke Street Bakery. Nestled in the corners of Surry Hills, this small bakeshop has your classic pastry, salad, slider, and pies and sausage roll selections, which are also available for takeaway. And yes, they do have flat whites—everyone lives on these things, in case you haven’t noticed.

Address: 633 Bourke St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia

Also read: Fun Things to Do In & Around Sydney On Your Very First Trip

Although Sydney is known to have one of the best beaches in the world, the beautiful Opera House, and a stunning cityscape, you’ll also discover good food and coffee if you spend enough time in the city. Be guided by this bucket list of cafes in the area, and let us know about your experience every time you tick one off the list!