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Chloe Cheuk

Kiss the Hippo Coffee - Fitzrovia

A polished but welcoming space near Mortimer Street, Kiss the Hippo takes filter coffee seriously; they even serve a Japanese-style brew that highlights peach, melon, jasmine, and white rose notes. The staff offer knowledgeable recommendations and the bean selection is something to bring home.

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Blank Street Coffee - Camden High Street

Blank Street delivers quick coffee hits with a sunny personality. The iced blueberry matcha latte with oat milk packs a punch; customers appreciate its flavors and quick service. Seating is limited, so it’s mostly takeaway or standing room, but it’s perfect if you’d rather be on the move. The staff are engaging and upbeat, making it a go-to when you’re wandering Camden and need a grab-and-go boost with care.

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Guillam Coffee House – South Kensington

Guillam is a solid favourite among students and locals alike. Their iced Spanish latte is especially good, with a smooth blend and just the right amount of sweetness. The setting is calm and welcoming, making it ideal for laptops and light study. They’ve recently added pistachio cookies, which pair nicely with an espresso.

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nb ROCO

Café Society - South Kensington

Café Society brings a touch of brightness with its terrace seating and sunny mood. The coffee is good, and the menu features homemade cakes and savoury brunch options. Their salmon and avocado sandwich is a particular favourite among students. The staff are warm and helpful, and the space encourages you to stay a while.

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Veneziano Coffee Roasters Surry Hills

Veneziano roasts on site and pours both classic and experimental brews. The polished bench seating under soft lighting is ideal for reading or sketching. Pick up a fresh doughnut or pastry while you linger over a single-origin bean. Staff know their coffee inside out and are happy to chat, but never overstep. It’s one of those rare spaces that feels calm, supportive, and stylish at once.

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Da Bang Coffee

Da Bang feels like a hidden treasure: small, aesthetic, and intimate. You’ll find cozy bench seats and picturesque cups against exposed brick. It’s the kind of place where the owner greets you by name, but lets you open your laptop without a single prompt. The coffee and the pastries are simple but well-made. It’s an easy space to pause, think, and breathe in Surry Hills.

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Pam Clarke

Paddington Grind

Located right on Oxford Street, Paddington Grind is one of those spots that has clearly built a loyal following. The bacon and egg rolls here are a favourite, and they serve them up with consistently smooth coffee and a side of warm hospitality. The space has a wide frontage and ample seating, making it a comfortable spot to catch up with a friend or power through a quiet morning solo.

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A Brewer’s Tale Café

This café roasts its beans on Burton Street, offering a back-to-basics café experience with character. Think strong lattes and brownie sides, with exposed brick interiors perfect for catching up or tapping on a notebook. It’s simple, welcoming, and tells its own story, so the mornings here feel unhurried in the best way.

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Bluebottle Espresso - Manly

Set in a sunny courtyard near the beach, Bluebottle Espresso is the kind of place that feels like summer. Their coffee is reliably good, and the bagels and breakfast rolls are ideal for a quick bite before or after a swim. There’s plenty of outdoor seating under umbrellas, making it a perfect spot to sit back and ease into your day.

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Public Coffee - North Sydney

Public Coffee blends accessible design and strong flavours in the heart of the business district. Its spacious interior with step-free entry welcomes office workers and commuters alike. Stand-outs include their rich flat white with caramel and chocolate notes and a simple yet well-priced pasta dish for when you need something more than just caffeine.

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Kingswood Coffee

A specialty coffee bar in a small hole-in-the-wall space on Mount Street, Kingswood brews strong espresso with beans roasted in-house. It attracts local coffee fans who want quality and consistency without fuss. Friendly baristas are always ready to chat about coffee origins and brewing methods.

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Venn Café - North Sydney

Located on Miller Street, Venn blends a community spirit with varied menu offerings. With comfortable seating and a wide breakfast and lunch menu—including bagels, pancakes, roti, and wraps—it works for coworker catch-ups or solo work sessions. Staff are attentive and efficient, and coffee is reliably good.

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Pilar Rivera

Corduroy Cafe

Tucked into an office block foyer on Foster Street, Corduroy is small and endearing. They serve great espresso, refreshing sandwiches, and homemade sweet and savoury treats in a minimalist yet friendly setting. The urban herb garden out front adds a suburban green touch. Ideal after a workout or morning walk, this communal space is where mates can unwind with caffeine, light bites, and chat.

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Dad and the Frog Cafe

With lush laneway seating and an easy, neighborhood‑vibe feel, Dad and the Frog is a true local hangout. Brunch dishes like chorizo croquettes, kimchi eggs, and halloumi plates are bold and flavourful. The coffee is excellent, and the plant‑filled courtyard brings a calm atmosphere amidst the inner‑city buzz.

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Beantown Cafe Newtown

Just off the main drag, Beantown Café is a local favourite for bagel rolls, taro lattes, bubble tea and strong, smooth iced lattes. It has an amazing atmosphere with easy charm, retro music, and friendly staff that keep it buzzing. A perfect pitstop after thrifting or book hunting, it’s a genuine slice of Newtown life with a satisfying breakfast edge.