As a city known for its politics and monuments, Canberra also has a thriving, yet understated, café culture. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed discovering the best coffee spots around town. For anyone visiting, or even those who live here, Canberra’s cozy, charming cafes provide the perfect escape for a relaxing afternoon. Whether you’re looking to sip a well-crafted espresso or indulge in an afternoon treat, these spots offer both great coffee and a wonderful atmosphere. Let me take you through five of my favorite charming cafes in Canberra, where you can unwind and soak in the city’s laid-back vibe.
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1. The Cupping Room – A Coffee Lover’s Dream
Location:
1/17-21 University Avenue, Canberra City, ACT 2601
Why I Love It:
I first discovered The Cupping Room when a friend recommended it as the best spot in Canberra for a true coffee experience. And I have to say, I was not disappointed. Located just a short walk from the city center, this café is not just a place to grab a coffee, but a coffee lover’s dream. With an open-plan layout, you can see the baristas working their magic, brewing exquisite cups of coffee. They focus on single-origin beans, and the quality of their coffee is always impressive. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned coffee drinker, the staff are more than happy to walk you through their various options, making it a fun and educational experience.
Must-Try Item:
I highly recommend their pour-over coffee. The meticulous brewing process highlights the delicate flavors of the beans, and each cup is a unique experience. If you’re looking for something a bit different, their Matcha Latte is exceptional – it’s light, creamy, and not too sweet, with the perfect balance of matcha flavor.
Price Range:
Coffee here ranges from AUD 4 to AUD 6. The pour-over coffee is a bit pricier, typically between AUD 7 and AUD 10, but it’s absolutely worth the extra cost. If you’re feeling a bit peckish, their pastries are also delicious, with croissants and cakes priced between AUD 5 and AUD 7.
How to Book:
While The Cupping Room doesn’t require reservations for regular visits, I recommend going early, especially on weekends when it can get busy. If you want to make sure you have a table for a group or during peak times, using platforms like TheFork to book ahead is a great idea.
2. Sweet Bones Bakery & Café – Vegan Delights in a Cozy Setting
Location:
2/7 Lonsdale Street, Braddon, ACT 2612
Why I Love It:
Sweet Bones Bakery & Café is a personal favorite of mine, especially for those who are looking for delicious vegan food in a warm, inviting space. This cozy café has a vintage vibe, with a lot of charm and character. As someone who’s not strictly vegan, I was pleasantly surprised by the hearty and flavorful dishes they offer. Sweet Bones isn’t just about coffee – it’s about indulging in wholesome, plant-based food that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Must-Try Item:
The Vegan Sausage Roll is one of their most popular items, and I can see why – it’s savory, comforting, and full of flavor. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the Vegan Brownie is a must-try. Rich, fudgy, and decadent, it’s the perfect afternoon treat to pair with a coffee.
Price Range:
Coffee prices range from AUD 3.5 to AUD 5, and the vegan meals like the sausage roll or a sandwich typically cost between AUD 12 and AUD 15. Their desserts are a little more on the expensive side, with brownies priced around AUD 6 to AUD 7.
How to Book:
Sweet Bones is usually quite busy, especially on weekends, so I recommend making a reservation through TheFork to ensure you get a table. Alternatively, you can also order takeout directly from their website if you prefer to enjoy your meal on the go.
3. Mocan & Green Grout – A Trendy Spot with Great Vibes
Location:
41-43 Sreet, Braddon, ACT 2612
Why I Love It:
Mocan & Green Grout has a special place in my heart. It’s a trendy, hip spot located in the Braddon area, which has a fantastic food scene. The café is known for its creative and innovative dishes, and the laid-back yet chic atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a relaxed afternoon. The modern industrial design, with exposed brick and clean lines, gives it a sophisticated feel. The menu is focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the coffee is always superb.
Must-Try Item:
Their Coffee & Walnut Cake is a must-try, combining the richness of coffee with the crunchiness of walnuts. If you’re there for lunch, their Eggs Benedict is fantastic – creamy hollandaise sauce, perfectly poached eggs, and crispy bacon. It’s a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with a cappuccino or flat white.
Price Range:
Coffee ranges from AUD 3.5 to AUD 5, while their brunch items like Eggs Benedict or the Avocado Toast typically cost around AUD 14-18. Desserts like the cake are priced around AUD 6-7.
How to Book:
Since this café is quite popular, especially on weekends, I recommend making a reservation via OpenTable to avoid waiting. The platform allows you to choose the time slot and easily secure a table.
4. Little Bird Café – Intimate and Inviting
Location:
2/1–3 Lonsdale Street, Braddon, ACT 2612
Why I Love It:
Little Bird Café is one of my go-to spots for a quiet afternoon. It’s small, intimate, and has a welcoming, relaxed vibe that makes it perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The space is light and airy, with plants and cozy seating, which makes it a great spot to relax with a book or chat with friends. The food here is wholesome, and it’s always a pleasure to spend an afternoon in this peaceful setting.
Must-Try Item:
The Cinnamon Scrolls are a personal favorite of mine – they’re sweet, sticky, and perfectly spiced. For lunch, I highly recommend the Roast Pumpkin Salad, which is hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. Pair it with a latte or one of their iced coffee drinks for a perfect afternoon.
Price Range:
Coffee is priced between AUD 3.5 and AUD 4.5, while their main dishes, like the salad or a sandwich, range from AUD 12-18. The cinnamon scrolls are priced at AUD 5, making it an affordable treat.
How to Book:
Little Bird Café doesn’t require reservations unless you’re visiting with a large group. However, it can get busy, especially during weekends, so I recommend arriving early or using TheFork to secure a spot if you’re going at peak times.
5. Lonsdale Street Roasters – For the True Coffee Enthusiast
Location:
3/7 Lonsdale Street, Braddon, ACT 2612
Why I Love It:
Lonsdale Street Roasters is a must-visit for any coffee aficionado. It’s one of the best places in Canberra to enjoy a high-quality cup of coffee, made from beans that are roasted in-house. The minimalist interior design of the café creates an industrial yet comfortable setting, where you can truly focus on the coffee. Whether you’re into espresso, pour-over, or cold brew, Lonsdale Street Roasters delivers exceptional coffee every time.
Must-Try Item:
Their Espresso is top-notch – strong, smooth, and bold. If you’re in the mood for something more refreshing, the Cold Brew Coffee is perfect on a hot day. For something sweet, the Carrot Cake is a local favorite – moist, perfectly spiced, and not overly sweet, making it the perfect complement to your coffee.
Price Range:
Coffee starts at AUD 3.5, and specialty drinks like their cold brew or filtered options range from AUD 5-7. Slices of cake or pastries cost around AUD 5-6 each.
How to Book:
Lonsdale Street Roasters doesn’t require a reservation, but it’s a good idea to arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends. If you have a large group or prefer to skip the wait, you can use OpenTable to book a table.
Best Booking Platforms for Dining and Travel in Australia
To make your trip to Canberra even more seamless, I recommend booking your accommodations, flights, and activities ahead of time. Here are some of the best platforms for securing everything you need:
- TheFork: Ideal for booking restaurant reservations and discovering exclusive offers.
- Booking.com: Great for booking hotels and finding the best accommodation deals in Canberra.
- Expedia: Excellent for bundling flights, hotels, and activities into one package.
- Viator: Perfect for booking tours and local experiences to make your time in Canberra more memorable.
Canberra is a city that blends rich history, nature, and culture, and its café scene is no exception. Each of the five cafés I’ve highlighted offers something unique, whether it’s the excellent coffee, the peaceful ambiance, or the delicious treats. If you’re in Canberra for a day or a week, be sure to visit these charming spots for a perfect afternoon experience.
