After studying abroad in Sydney, Australia in the spring semester, I came back to New York City in search of avocado toast and flat white lattes. The following is a list of my favorite Aussie spots in the city, from chains like Toby’s Estate Coffee, Bluestone Lane Collective to smaller, even cozier venues like Merriweather Coffee + Kitchen. Read on for a taste of Australia!
1. Bluestone Lane Collective
@bluestonelanecoffee
This café is inspired by the city of Melbourne. There are coffee shop locations—with smaller food items and quick bites—and café locations too with brunch and meals. Café locations include the West Village, the Upper East Side, and even Philadelphia. They have a classic chai tea latte, and even creative items such as a beetroot latte.
2. Toby’s Estate Coffee
@christinecyoo
Toby’s Estate Coffee is a “Brooklyn-Based” coffee roasters establishment, but they have locations in various parts of Australia. In New York, they have four locations: the West Village, Brooklyn, Midtown (inside the UrbanSpace Vanderbilt Market), and the Flatiron District. My favorite location is the Flatiron District café because they have a small Strand Bookstore and an in-house florist who makes stunning flower arrangements and cacti creations.
3. Coco & Cru
@cocolovescru
For a healthy spot that is close to campus, try this café. Established in 2016, Coco & Cru is a new, fun take on Australian cafés—they say: made in the USA, with AUS parts. They are located on Broadway, and have a wide array of food options. Try to come at random, non-mealtime hours, because the location is always packed.
4. Two Hands
@azumi029
If you haven’t already been to Two Hands, it is an Aussie café staple! Located in Little Italy, this café is incredibly aesthetically appealing. From the exposed brick walls to the overhead fairy lights, the ambiance is classic and magical. The portions are slightly smaller, but equally delicious, and the most instagrammable dish is the acai bowl.
5. Merriweather Coffee + Kitchen
@merriweathernyc
Inspired by the beachy cafés of Sydney, this Australian Café is relaxed and low-key. You can spot their clever, witty daily signs in the West Village. I was first attracted to this spot because of a sign that said, “Instant Human, Just Add Coffee”. Their avocado toast portions are splendidly large, and the banana tahini toast is out of this world.