Melbourne has long been known as Australia’s coffee capital, but Sydney is enjoying a well-earned moment in the spotlight after a strong showing in a major international ranking. Two cafes in the NSW capital have secured places in The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops, earning global recognition for their brews.

From 15,000 cafes around the world, Only Coffee Project in Crows Nest was ranked fourth, with Chippendale’s Toby’s Estate close behind in fifth place.

Jody Leslie, general manager of Toby’s Estate, said it was an honour to receive the positive ranking.

“We see recognition like this as both an honour and a responsibility,” she said.

“It motivates us to continue innovating, pushing the boundaries and building experiences that move the industry forward.”

The list was created by an international panel of coffee experts and 350,000 votes from the public.

A total of seven Aussie coffee shops made the top 100 ranking, with Beta Coffee in Sydney’s Surry Hills placed 13th on the list, Melbourne’s Proud Mary Coffee at 27th and Brisbane’s Coffee Anthology close behind at 29th.

Back in Sydney, Single O secured 50th spot, while Vacation Coffee in Melbourne’s CBD rounded out the rankings at number 100.

The top 5 coffee shops around the world are:

  1. Onyx Coffee LAB, USA: A specialty roastery in Arkansas recognised for showcasing every stage of its coffee supply chain.
  2. Tim Wendelboe, Norway: A well-known espresso bar with a seasonal menu that changes with coffee harvests and the local climate, attracting both locals and international visitors.
  3. Alquimia Coffee, El Salvador: Offers an immersive coffee experience, combining precision brewing with elements of fine dining and signature drinks.
  4. Only Coffee Project, Crows Nest (Australia): A minimalist espresso bar focused solely on coffee, with a rotating selection of beans from leading global roasters.
  5. Toby’s Estate Coffee Roasters, Australia: Celebrated for its transparent roasting process, giving customers a close-up look at how their coffee is made.

Other locations that made the top 10 list include, Singapore, Austria, Malaysia, Columbia and France.

“We’re incredibly proud to stand alongside such an inspiring group of coffee operators from around the world,” Jody Leslie said.

“Congratulations to all of this year’s recognised cafés. It’s a privilege to be in such great company.”

Images: Instagram