Brisbane isn’t just known for its sunny weather and laid-back lifestyle Australia Brisbane —it’s also home to a buzzing coffee culture that rivals any in Australia. Whether you’re a local looking for a new brunch spot or a visitor seeking the perfect flat white, the city is overflowing with café gems waiting to be discovered.
From hip laneway espresso bars to riverside brunch havens, here are 9 top cafes in Australia Brisbane you absolutely need to try now.
1. Coffee Anthology – The Brew Master’s Playground
Located in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, Coffee Anthology is a must for serious coffee lovers. This specialty café focuses on showcasing local Australian roasters and offers a rotating menu of carefully selected single origins.
What makes it special is the meticulous attention to detail—from brew methods to presentation. Whether you enjoy pour-over, AeroPress, or a silky flat white, Coffee Anthology has the perfect cup for you.
Must-Try: Cold brew on tap, almond croissant, and the single-origin espresso flight.
2. Morning After – Where Brunch Dreams Come True
Situated in West End, Morning After has become a cult favourite among Brisbane’s brunch crowd. Its sleek, minimalistic interior design pairs beautifully with a menu that blends comfort and innovation.
This café is all about seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and beautifully plated dishes. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to Instagram before taking your first bite.
Must-Try: Breakfast carbonara, green bowl, and their signature iced matcha latte.
3. Pawpaw Café – Vibrant Vibes and Southeast Asian Fusion
For something colourful and a little bit different, head to Pawpaw Café in Woolloongabba. This café blends the feel of a tropical oasis with a fusion-inspired menu packed with bold flavours.
The café’s lush greenery and eclectic design create a relaxing yet exciting vibe—perfect for a brunch date or catch-up with friends.
Must-Try: Smashed avocado with halloumi, Thai omelette, and the coconut iced coffee.
4. The Single Guys – Suburban Coffee Royalty
Tucked away in Kenmore, The Single Guys is a suburban gem that’s earned a citywide reputation for exceptional coffee. This minimalist café focuses on the quality of the beans and offers consistently excellent brews.
They roast their own beans, so you can expect freshness in every cup. It’s a low-key, high-quality experience without the inner-city crowds.
Must-Try: Espresso of the day, bacon and egg brioche, and a single-origin long black.
5. Felix for Goodness – Laneway Gem in the CBD
If you find yourself exploring Brisbane’s laneways, don’t miss Felix for Goodness—a café that blends sustainability with simple, wholesome food. Located off Burnett Lane, it’s a cozy escape from the city hustle.
The menu focuses on clean, nourishing dishes and excellent coffee. With rustic interiors and relaxed vibes, it’s an ideal stop for breakfast, lunch, or a midday break.
Must-Try: House-made granola, vegan toastie, and oat milk cappuccino.
6. John Mills Himself – Hidden Espresso Bar Heaven
Hidden down a back alley in Brisbane’s CBD, John Mills Himself is a true hidden treasure. Located in a heritage-listed building, this café and espresso bar has an old-world charm that pairs beautifully with modern coffee artistry.
Focused on quality over quantity, they serve a rotation of beans from some of Australia’s best roasters and offer a charming, intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for slowing down.
Must-Try: Batch brew of the day, almond milk latte, and sweet pastries.
7. Blackstar Coffee Roasters – Cold Brew Pioneers
Located in West End, Blackstar Coffee Roasters is best known for pioneering cold brew coffee in Brisbane. This creative café combines great coffee with an urban, relaxed setting and a strong sustainability ethos.
Their original cold brew is still a favourite, and they also offer a range of creative coffee-based beverages that appeal to coffee nerds and casual sippers alike.
Must-Try: Original cold brew, iced latte, and almond orange cake.
8. Nodo – Where Health Meets Doughnuts
Nodo (Latin for “knot”) has redefined the idea of café treats in Brisbane. With locations across the city, this health-conscious café is known for its famous baked, gluten-free doughnuts—but there’s much more to love.
Nodo’s menu features nutritious, colourful meals that are as tasty as they are photogenic. Whether you’re gluten-free or just into wholesome eating, it’s a great option for brunch or takeaway coffee.
Must-Try: Blueberry lemon doughnut, turmeric scrambled eggs, and an oat milk flat white.
9. New Farm Deli & Café – European Charm in Brisbane
If you’re after a touch of Italy in Brisbane, head to New Farm Deli & Café. A true institution, this family-run deli and café has been serving the community for decades.
Here, you can enjoy traditional Italian coffee alongside fresh panini, cannoli, and house-made pasta dishes. The European-style courtyard is perfect for a slow morning filled with people-watching and pastries.
Must-Try: Espresso doppio, ricotta-filled cannoli, and prosciutto & bocconcini panini.
10. Honourable Mentions: More Cafes You’ll Love
Brisbane’s café scene is huge, and while these nine are top-tier, there are countless others worth exploring:
The Smug Fig in East Brisbane
Kiss the Berry for açai bowl lovers
Scout Café in Petrie Terrace
The New Black in Fortitude Valley
Wherever you go in Brisbane, a great coffee isn’t far away.
Conclusion: Sip, Savour, and Explore Brisbane’s Café Culture
From riverside retreats to laneway espresso bars, Australia Brisbane’s top cafés offer more than just great coffee—they deliver full sensory experiences. Whether you’re after a hearty brunch, a cool cold brew, or a peaceful corner to read, this city delivers.
So, grab your keep cup and start exploring Brisbane’s coffee culture, one café at a time. With so much variety and quality, you’re sure to find your own favourites—and maybe even become a regular.
FAQs
1. What is the best area in Brisbane for café hopping?
West End, New Farm, and the CBD are great areas for café hopping, each packed with unique coffee spots within walking distance.
2. Do Brisbane cafés cater to dietary restrictions?
Yes! Most top cafes in Brisbane offer gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options. Many also feature plant-based milks like oat, almond, and soy.
3. Are Brisbane cafés open early?
Most cafes in Brisbane open between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, catering to both early risers and the morning coffee rush.
4. Is it common to work or study from cafés in Brisbane?
Many cafes welcome remote workers and students, especially those with Wi-Fi and power outlets. Just be sure to order something regularly and avoid peak hours.
5. What’s the coffee culture like in Brisbane compared to Melbourne or Sydney?
While Melbourne is often dubbed the coffee capital, Brisbane is quickly catching up with a strong emphasis on specialty coffee, sustainability, and innovative café experiences.
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