Coffee Branch

There are few venues whose real and genuine love for coffee permeates their identity as strongly as Coffee Branch. It’s “the little espresso bar that could” and, in many ways, propelled the local scene into its current burgeoning phase.

Opened in 2010 by Josh Baker (co-owner of Larry and Ladd, Clever Little Tailor and Pink Moon Saloon) and now owned by Kostas Trakas of Caffeind Coffee Company, the Leigh Street spot is a modern redressing of the classic espresso bar concept.

Staff members arrange themselves on both sides of the counter to facilitate smooth flow and speedy service, handling the peak periods (of which there are many) with ease.

Uncomplicated and straight-shooting, Coffee Branch has always been upfront about what’s on offer. There’s no slow food, no long lunches and no fancy brewing knick-knacks. Food is mostly geared for takeaway: there’s a bacon waffle-basket with haloumi, brioche bun with all the breakfast trimmings, rudimentary smashed avocado, and granola.