Guide to the Best Cafes in Surry Hills

Just a stone’s throw from the CBD, Surry Hills is a dynamic suburb known for its vibrant mix of cafés, eateries, boutique shops and lively pubs. With Central Station on its doorstep and Oxford Street just around the corner, it’s no wonder Surry Hills is considered one of the most accessible and spirited neighbourhoods in Sydney.

A true crossroads of culture, food and lifestyle, Surry Hills has become the epicentre of Sydney’s ever-evolving café scene. From artisan coffee to character-filled brunch spots, it’s the go-to destination for those in search of quality brews, good food and a buzzing social atmosphere.

Coffee in Sydney isn’t taken lightly. It’s a point of pride for locals, with a thriving scene built on passionate roasters, skilled baristas and cafes that go beyond just serving a flat white. At the heart of this movement? Surry Hills.

We spoke to David Kettle – head barista at Tuckerbox in Paddington and a proud local – to get his take on the best coffee spots in the area.

Tucked away near Central Station, Single O has been championing speciality coffee since 2003. With sites across Sydney and even one in Tokyo, this roastery is all about traceable beans and exceptional brews. “They’ve made single origin coffee approachable,” says Kettle. “It’s all about flavour clarity – each region has its own distinct profile. Expect Kenyan beans to bring notes of blackcurrant, while Rwandan coffee leans citrusy and zesty. The lighter roast allows those nuances to shine through.”

Since 2012, Reuben Hills has stood out for its dedication to ethical sourcing and global relationships with coffee farmers. Located on Albion Street, this café roasts on-site and invites coffee lovers in every Saturday for a public cupping session. “They bring back more than just beans from their travels,” Kettle adds. “Their food menu is full of Latin American inspiration – rich with flavours and authenticity.”

A sleek, industrial-chic venue that fills up quickly on weekends, Paramount Coffee Project educates its customers through an ever-rotating showcase of global roasters. With a sister café in Los Angeles, its focus is squarely on diversity and transparency in coffee sourcing. “The brunch menu here is inventive,” Kettle notes. “Pumpkin toast, soft eggs with habanero, and a stellar salmon bibi bowl are just a few standouts. It’s well worth the wait.”

Sample is the definition of a hidden gem. You won’t find avocado toast here – just excellent coffee, served with care. Their ethos centres around sustainability, fairness and community, and their small-scale model allows for attention to detail. “They roast in St Peters and serve in Surry Hills with a no-fuss, high-quality approach,” says Kettle. “It’s intimate and authentic.”

Blending vinyl culture with a strong brunch game, Suzie Q is a laid-back café with a love for music and good food. “The vibe is spot on,” Kettle says. “It’s owned by a DJ who’s deeply involved in Sydney’s music scene.” They serve Reuben Hills coffee and seasonal dishes with cheeky names like ‘stairway to heaven’ and ‘chelsea morning’. There’s even a curated collection of rare vinyl for sale. By evening, it transforms into a cosy wine bar.

A Crown Street favourite, Four Ate Five serves traditional Middle Eastern fare with a brunch twist. “Their blintzes and shakshuka are must-haves,” says Kettle. “There’s a strong Israeli influence that brings a welcome depth of flavour.” The falafel, labneh, and chilli-spiked pipelchuma are a brilliant combo with their house-made bagels. They pour Single O coffee, too – always a win.

Minimalist and methodical, Artificer is run by two coffee experts who’ve made it their mission to serve some of the best coffee in Sydney. They roast in Alexandria and serve from their Bourke Street café. “They don’t do food – the focus is purely on coffee,” says Kettle. “And every cup is exceptional. Bonus: they serve it in handmade ceramics by local potter Emi Tanaka.”

Shift is a fully plant-based café and deli known for its indulgent yet meat-free takes on deli classics. “You’d be surprised how convincing their vegan Reuben is,” Kettle says. “It tastes just like the real thing.” Their vegan bacon and egg rolls sell out early, so don’t dally. With coffee served on your choice of dairy-free milk, it’s a paradise for vegans and the curious alike.

For those who appreciate both aesthetics and expertly brewed coffee, Veneziano ticks all the boxes. Their space is sleek, almost scientific, and their equipment is cutting-edge. “They’re Melbourne-roasted but well-loved in Sydney,” Kettle explains. “It’s a hub for coffee training and a great spot to learn more about the craft. Staff are encouraged to compete in coffee championships, so it’s a space that pushes for excellence.”

Cafes

Single O Paramount Coffee Project Sample Four Ate Five Artificer Coffee Shift Eatery Veneziano Coffee