These 7 Australian coffee shops just ranked among the world’s best

Australia has again proven itself as a global coffee powerhouse, with seven coffee shops ranking among the world’s top brews.

Australia’s coffee scene has once again stamped its authority on the global stage, with seven local coffee shops earning spots on the newly released World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops list for 2026.

But while Aussie cafes performed strongly across the board, this year brought a surprising shake-up at the very top – and an unexpected winner from a country not exactly famous for its espresso culture.

A new global number one (and it’s not where you’d expect)

Taking out the top spot this year is Onyx Coffee LAB in Rogers, Arkansas, in the United States – a result that may surprise many Australians (myself included), who often consider the US coffee scene a big step behind.

The specialty roaster has built a cult following globally for its meticulous sourcing, innovative brewing techniques and ultra-modern cafe experience, which judges praised for pushing boundaries in both flavour and presentation.

Still, for Australians accustomed to consistently high-quality coffee at nearly every corner cafe, the idea of a US venue topping the list may raise a few eyebrows.

Australia’s highest-ranked cafe lands in the top four

Only Coffee Project in Crow's Nest, Sydney, Australia — Only Coffee Project is Australia’s best coffee shop for 2026, and the fourth in the world.

The strongest Australian performer this year is Only Coffee Project in Sydney’s Crows Nest, which secured an impressive fourth place worldwide.

Known for its experimental brewing methods and deeply technical approach to coffee, the tiny specialty bar has become something of a pilgrimage site for serious coffee enthusiasts. Its high ranking signals a shift towards ultra-specialty coffee experiences, rather than traditional cafe culture alone.

Just one place behind it is another familiar name.

Toby’s Estate still holds global bragging rights

Toby’s Estate Coffee Roasters in Chippendale, Sydney, Australia — Toby’s Estate Coffee Roasters was the World’s Best Coffee Shop in 2025.

Sydney favourite Toby’s Estate Coffee Roasters , which claimed world number one last year, slipped slightly to fifth place this year – but remains one of the highest-ranked cafes on the planet.

The flagship Chippendale location continues to draw international attention for its immersive “coffee theatre" concept, where visitors can watch beans being roasted and brewed with scientific precision.

Even with the slight drop, its consistent top-five placement reinforces its reputation as a global leader in specialty coffee.

Sydney dominates the rankings

Single O cafe in Surry Hills, Sydney, Australia — Single O ranked 53rd globally.

Sydney emerged as the strongest-performing city overall, with four cafes featured across the list.

Among them is Beta Coffee in Surry Hills, which landed at an impressive 13th place, cementing its status as one of the country’s most respected specialty coffee spots.

Another Surry Hills favourite, Single O , ranked 53rd globally, recognised for its longstanding role in shaping Australia’s modern cafe culture and championing ethical sourcing.

Melbourne and Brisbane also make the cut

Melbourne, often considered Australia’s coffee capital, secured two places on the list.

Proud Mary Coffee ranked 27th worldwide, celebrated for its direct-trade relationships and internationally acclaimed roasting program. Vacation Coffee also just made an appearance at number 100, reflecting the city’s continued depth and diversity in coffee experiences.

Brisbane also appeared on the list, with Coffee Anthology landing 29th globally, praised for its rotating showcase of top Australian roasters and focus on innovation.

From ultra-specialty brew bars to neighbourhood institutions, Australia’s coffee scene remains defined by high standards, skilled baristas and a culture that treats coffee as a serious craft. And while a US venue may have taken the crown this year, Australia’s strong presence across the top 100 shows the nation is still one of the undisputed leaders of global coffee.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .