Must-Try Brews and Best Coffee Shops in Brisbane

Brisbane is indeed a paradise for coffee lovers. Offering a mix of cafes, Brisbane coffee scene is a reflection of the city’s vibrant energy.  The city mostly uses high-quality Arabica beans but you will also find Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica here and there.

In the last several years, cafes in Brisbane have gained global recognition, with a 25% increase in new coffee shops opening to cater to both locals and tourists seeking the best coffee Brisbane has to offer.

Deciding to explore Brisbane’s rich coffee culture, must-try brews and top coffee shops? Book travel options and accommodation through Holidays Center. Your coffee adventure in Brisbane awaits!

Why Brisbane is a Coffee Lover’s Paradise

Italian immigrants introduced espresso to the city in the mid-20th century. Over the course of time, the coffee culture in Brisbane grew, opening doors to specialty coffee in the 1990s. Today, Brisbane is leading the way of artisanal coffee in Australia, with cafes offering everything from espresso and pour-over to nitro cold brews.

Statista’s recent data showed that coffee consumption in Australia has jumped with Australians consuming an average of 3.84kg of coffee per person in 2023. Brisbane, in particular, has a high concentration in specialty coffee shops and with the number of cafes increasing by 40% over the past five years. This proves Brisbane’s ever-growing reputation for high-quality brews and unique cafe experiences.

Top Coffee Shops in Brisbane

1. Coffee Anthology

• Located in the CBD, Coffee Anthology is a top spot for specialty coffee. Offering single-origin beans from well-known Australian roasters like Padre, Proud Mary, and Almanac. Its sleek design makes it a favorite for casual drinkers and coffee lovers. Coffee Anthology is consistently ranked as one of the best cafes in Brisbane, even appearing in Coffee Expert's top cafe list. 

2. Death Before Decaf

• A 24/7 cafe in New Farm, Death Before Decaf was built by Carl & Nicola, a couple with mutual love of coffee, tattoos and heavy music. Death Before Decaf is known for its blend of Arabica and Robusta beans and hard music. 

3. The Single Guys Coffee Co.

• Situated in Kenmore, The Single Guys’ minimalist design, hand-crafted espressos and pour-overs are what sets them apart. This cafe is also known for its community-driven approach, supporting local farmers and sustainability initiatives?.

4. John Mills Himself

• If you are looking for a quiet coffee break, this hidden gem in the CBD offers a cozy and rustic atmosphere. John Mills Himself is known for its use of Liberica beans, which provide a distinctive floral and smoky flavor.

Brisbane had a 20% increase in business post-pandemic. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and reports from CBRE shows that cafes and restaurants experienced a 0.5% growth in sales in early 2024.

Must-Try Brews in Brisbane

Brisbane cafes offer a wide array of espresso-based drinks, with the flat white being a local favorite. For those who enjoy black coffee, a long black made with single-origin beans, such as those from The Single Guys Coffee Co., is an excellent choice.

Creative brews are another highlight of Brisbane's coffee scene. At Coffee Anthology, you can try their pour-over with beans from Proud Mary, or if you're feeling adventurous, head to Death Before Decaf for a robust cold brew. Bunker Coffee is well-known for its seasonal single-origin options, perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of flavor that change with each harvest.

Coffee Events and Festivals in Brisbane

The Brisbane Coffee Festival, a celebration of Brisbane’s coffee culture, features tastings, barista competitions, and workshops. Some cafes also have pop-up coffee tastings events such as Coffee Anthology.

Tips for Coffee Lovers Traveling to Brisbane

If you are traveling to Brisbane looking to experience its coffee culture, April to September is the best time to visit. Most cafes are bike-friendly, offering al fresco seating and easy access to cycling routes.

For a unique experience, consider joining one of the city's coffee tours. Don’t forget to bring your reusable cup, many cafes in Brisbane offer discounts for environmentally conscious customers.

If you are looking for other activities than just simple coffee tours, you may consider barista workshops which Coffee Anthology offers. John Mills Himself also offers coffee cupping sessions while The Single Guys Coffee organizes latte art competitions.

Here’s a quick guide to public transport for Cafe-Hopping:

• Begin your morning at Coffee Anthology, best time is between  7:30 AM to 9:00 AM.
• Then take a short walk to John Mills Himself, best to stay there until 10:30 AM.
• Take Bus 444 and go down at Roma Street Station and enjoy brunch or even stay for lunch at The Single Guys Coffee Co.
• Finally, end your cafe tour at Death Before Decaf by taking Bus 199 for New Farm.

If you like to drive instead of taking public transport, Holidays Center offers the best car rental deals that would definitely suit your needs.

Conclusion

Brisbane’s coffee scene is indeed diverse. From top coffee shops like Coffee Anthology to hidden gems like John Mills Himself and bold cafes such as Death Before Decaf, Brisbane really has a rich cafe culture. Whether you're a local or a tourist, be sure to explore these must-try cafes and brews, the best coffee Brisbane has to offer is just waiting to be discovered.

FAQs

What are the best coffee shops in Brisbane?

Coffee Anthology, Death Before Decaf, The Single Guys Coffee Co., and John Mills Himself are some of the bests to visit.

Where can I find the best artisanal coffee in Brisbane?

The Single Guys Coffee Co., Coffee Anthology, or John Mills Himself offer single-origin beans and meticulously brewed drinks.

What is the most popular coffee brew in Brisbane?

The flat white is a local favorite, but cold brews and long blacks made from single-origin beans are also gaining popularity.

Are there any coffee festivals in Brisbane?

Yes, the Brisbane Coffee Festival is a key event, There are also pop-up tastings and barista competitions hosted by local cafes.