The Iglu Guide | Blog
The best cafes in Summer Hill and beyond
Searching for the best coffee in Sydney is something that café connoisseurs take seriously. And thanks to the endless array of excellent venues popping up all over the inner west, you don’t even have to travel far from Iglu Summer Hill to get your caffeine fix.
Whether you’re meeting friends, keen to chill, or need to focus on work, there is an ambience to suit all tastes. Here’s what you need to know.
Heritage Coffee Brewers, Summer Hill
Steeped in history, Heritage Coffee Brewers prides itself on reimagining the past. It has an understated and calming aesthetic that is offset by the vibrancy and flavour of the food. This peaceful environment is the perfect backdrop for a change of work scene – and a great excuse to work your way through the delicious Sippet house specialties. Alternatively, you can simply sit and chill, absorbing the chatter of the locals as you sip on your cold brew.
Envy Deli, Summer Hill
A quiet spot situated on a busy corner, Envy Deli is light and airy with the added gem of a leafy courtyard out back. Popular with families and groups, it’s a great place to lose yourself in the company of others while you sample the delicious treats on offer. Wait until after the morning rush if you need a less distracting environment, or take a friend along and enjoy the buzz.
Plunge No. 46, Summer Hill
Uncluttered and compact, this popular space is the perfect place to park yourself down for a morning’s work or take in a meeting in the back courtyard. The Coffee Alchemy beans and Middle Eastern-inspired menu keeps the regulars coming back for more each time.
Goblin Kitchen and Bar, Summer Hill
Compact and cosy inside, spacious and inviting outside, Goblin Kitchen and Bar cleverly treads the line of both daytime ambience and evening buzz. Combining cool café culture with a hint of fine dining, it cleverly transitions into an evening tapas bar offering a fusion menu of modern Australian, Asian and Mediterranean sharing plates.
The Counter, Petersham
Just a short bus ride away from Summer Hill, The Counter attracts a crowd with specialty coffee, artisan breads and delicious foods on offer every day. Designed around the actual serving counter, the open plan feel contributes to the colourful ambience making it the ideal place to indulge with friends or entertain colleagues.
Excelsior Jones, Ashfield
Light, airy and breezy, this is the ideal venue to clear your thoughts and scribble out your best ideas. Located in residential Ashfield, Excelsior Jones is just a short bus ride away from Summer Hill and has a definite locals vibe. If you’re seeking peace and anonymity while you chow down on delicious fare, this is the destination you seek.
Sideways Deli Café, Dulwich Hill
Take a short walk into Dulwich Hill’s favourite family-run establishment and simply inhale all the freshly baked aromas. Located in a quiet area, this busy café is popular with families and couples alike but will always make the effort to accommodate customers. Head out for weekend brunch with friends or try a quieter late morning weekday slot when the tiny tots have headed home for a midday sleep.
Pig & Pastry, Petersham
Named after a York-based café, this bright and uplifting space is an ideal meeting venue to enjoy with colleagues or friends. Offering home-baked breads alongside hearty lunches, you can even enjoy a glass of wine with your meal. With sweet treats all baked in-house and pub grub overtones to die for, all you need to do is arrive with an appetite in tow.
