By Jessica Russo
Sure, Sydney is the birthplace of the flat white, but that's not the only reason it's a coffee capital of the world. Filled with trendy cafes and industrial-chic roasteries, Sydney is a coffee lover's heaven.
Don't miss these must-visit coffee shops - they're the crema the crop!
Mecca
67 King St, Sydney
OR
26 Bourke Rd, Alexandria NSW 2015
Mecca proves to be true to its name, as all real coffee gurus make pilgrimage trips to this Sydney staple. With their slogan being, "We're coffee roasters, brewers, and lovers," the baristas at Mecca work hard to create perfectly poured beverages time after time.
What's better than awesome coffee? Awesome coffee in two locations! Check out the Mecca Cafe & Roastery in Alexandria, or stay inside the city center at Mecca Sydney CBD Cafe.
The Grounds of Alexandria
With lush gardens, resident farm animals, exhibits, and cutely themed decor, this unique cafe offers a latte more than just coffee. Filled with funky, fairy-tale-worthy photo-ops, The Grounds is a roastery, an eatery, and a nature-lover's playground. Jack Hanna, a leading figure from The Grounds' team, explains that they needed a way to make their shop stand out. Because Australian coffee culture is so robust, just having good coffee wouldn't have cut it. "We wanted to provide something else. And that something else was an experience," says Hanna.
7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015
Paramount Coffee Project
80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
At "PCP," you'll find creatives working, locals hangin', and people eating delicious food. With a magazine-worthy industrial-chic atmosphere, Paramount Coffee Project serves up way more than just caffeinated goodness. PCP baristas are educated in roasting styles, brew methods, and international relationships. This local go-to is a feel-good spot all around.
Gumption by Coffee Alchemy
Shop 11, The Strand Arcade, 412-414 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
The renowned Coffee Alchemy recently opened its newest baby bean: Gumption. To have gumption means to be imaginative, take initiative, and be resourceful. The baristas at this local favorite understand coffee and craft it into pure deliciousness! Nestled cozily inside the Victorian Strand Arcade, Gumption is the perfect mid-shop stop.
Skittle Lane
40 King St, Sydney NSW 2000
Despite the name, you won't exactly "taste the rainbow" at this minimalist coffee shop in the heart of Sydney. You will, however, taste the flavors of rich coffee beans, silky lattes, and flaky pastries.
Kingswood Coffee
World Square, Shop 10, Sydney NSW 2000
Shopping the day away at World Square calls for a good cup of coffee. While Kingswood may not be a true coffee "shop" with seating and tables, this coffee counter is a true hidden gem. With amazing pastries and even better coffee, Kingswood alone is worth a trip to World Square.
Single O Café
89 York St, CBD, Sydney NSW 2000
OR
60-64 Reservoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
This local fave prioritizes ethics, quality, and art. Basically, every sip of Single O feels good for the right reasons. At Single O, you can expect to find coffee that will make you mmm and ahhh, as well as cool decor, funky artwork, and an inviting staff that will make you feel like a friend.
Reuben Hills
61 Albion St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
When visiting Reuben Hills, you won't know if you walked into a micro roastery or an art exhibition, because well, it looks like both. Even better than the decor? The foooood. Inspired by South American cuisine, order up some huevos divorciados or green chillaquiles with your smooth, sweet cup of international, ethically sourced coffee.
