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Discover Sydney's legendary coffee scene! We're diving deep into the city's 'Big Three' – Campos, Gumption, and Single O – for unique brews and vibrant cafe vibes. Find your perfect cup!
Your Ultimate Sydney Coffee Journey
Exploring Sydney's Legendary 'Big Three' Coffee Shops
©Words & Photos by Muuumum
Australia is renowned globally for its incredible coffee culture, so much so that it practically has its own style: Australian coffee. And when you're in Sydney, you simply can't miss out on the city's most iconic brews.
Campos, Gumption, and Single O.
These three legendary coffee shops in Sydney each boast unique flavors and distinct atmospheres, making them absolute must-visits on any Australian adventure! Especially if you consider yourself a true coffee connoisseur.
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As a huge fan of flat whites, I made it my mission to try all three of Sydney's top coffee spots. I'm excited to share my fresh, detailed review with you!
👍Who is this guide for? |
▪ Coffee enthusiasts. |
▪ Lovers of lattes and flat whites. |
▪ Anyone looking for a comprehensive guide to Sydney's top 3 coffee shops. |
Sydney's 'Big Three' Coffee Shops
💡Sydney's Top 3 Coffee Shops at a Glance
| Recommended Menu | Key Feature |
Campos | Flat White Affogato | Sydney's iconic coffee brand |
Gumption | Long Black Flat White | Primarily a takeaway spot |
Single O | Long Black Brunch Menu | Famous brunch cafe |
What makes Sydney's 'Big Three' so special is that each cafe uses its own signature roasted beans, resulting in completely distinct coffee flavors.
Beyond just the taste, the atmosphere at each spot is also unique. Check out the detailed breakdown below to help plan your visit!
Sydney's Big Three: Campos Coffee
The most famous of Sydney's 'Big Three' coffee shops,
Campos Coffee needs no introduction – it's simply legendary.
🕓 Campos Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 7 AM - 4 PM Sat - Sun: 8 AM - 4 PM |
Inside the cafe, you'll find an array of delicious desserts like cookies and cakes, along with various coffee beans and branded merchandise.
Their coffee menu typically features 'black' (espresso-based drinks) and 'white' (milk-based drinks). The most popular choices are the Flat White and Affogato.
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Campos Coffee was the very first coffee I had on my Sydney trip, and it left a powerful impression. The Flat White offered a complex profile – acidic, bitter, yet wonderfully nutty and flavorful.
The Affogato, with its rich coffee poured over sweet vanilla ice cream, was a crowd-pleaser that anyone would adore.
Sydney's Big Three: Gumption by Coffee Alchemy
Located right in the heart of Sydney,
Gumption by Coffee Alchemy offers the easiest access among the 'Big Three' coffee shops.
🕓 Gumption Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM - 4 PM Sat: 10 AM - 4 PM Sun: 11 AM - 3 PM |
Situated on the first floor of The Strand Arcade shopping center in Sydney, Gumption is incredibly popular with local office workers.
While there are a few seats out front, most customers opt for takeout. The cafe itself focuses heavily on coffee and roasted beans as its main offerings.
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I tried their Flat White and an Iced Batch Brew. Both had a noticeable acidity, with the Iced Batch Brew being particularly tart, so it might be a love-it-or-hate-it kind of coffee.
Aside from the acidity, the coffee was quite balanced. If you only have time to try one of Sydney's 'Big Three' and convenience is key, I highly recommend Gumption due to its central location.
Sydney's Big Three: Single O Surry Hills
More than just a coffee shop,
Single O Surry Hills truly shines as a fantastic brunch spot.
🕓 Single O Opening Hours Mon - Thu: 7 AM - 3 PM Sat - Sun: 8 AM - 3 PM Closed on Fridays |
Nestled in Surry Hills, one of Sydney's charming cafe districts, Single O is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious brunch before exploring the area.
They offer a wide variety of brunch items, along with diverse juice and beverage options beyond just coffee, making it a cafe that caters to everyone's tastes.
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I tried their 'Single O Bagel Roll' brunch item, along with a Long Black and a Flat White. The brunch was quite savory and delicious, and the coffee was the most approachable of the three cafes.
It seems they've carefully balanced their coffee flavors to complement their popular brunch menu, making it a great all-rounder.
📍 Campos Coffee
193 Missenden Rd, Newtown NSW 2042 Australia
📍 Gumption by Coffee Alchemy
Shop 11, The Strand Arcade, 412-414 George St, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
📍 Single O Surry Hills
60/64 Reservoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010 Australia
Exploring Sydney's 'Big Three' coffee shops was a fantastic addition to my Australia trip!
While Australian coffee often features a distinct acidity, which can be polarizing, as someone who loves a bright, acidic cup, it was an incredibly delightful journey.
I hope this comprehensive guide helps anyone planning to visit Sydney's top coffee destinations!
🔽More on Campos🔽
🔽More on Gumption🔽
🔽More on Single O🔽
Campos operates from 7 AM to 4 PM on weekdays (Monday to Friday) and from 8 AM to 4 PM on weekends (Saturday and Sunday). Popular menu items include Flat White and Affogato.
Gumption Coffee is located on the first floor of The Strand Arcade shopping center in Sydney. It primarily operates as a takeaway shop, with coffee and beans being its main offerings.
Single O is often described as more of a brunch spot than a typical cafe, offering a variety of brunch menus and juices. It is closed on Fridays.
Both the Flat White and Iced Batch Brew I had at Gumption had a noticeable acidity. The Iced Batch Brew, in particular, had a stronger acidity.
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