The Cupping Room

One of four cafes in the ACT by award-winning coffee roaster Ona, it’s no surprise that the Cupping Room has a big coffee focus. They didn’t look very far for a name – cupping is the process of testing coffees side-by-side for flavour and quality control, a ritual that staff partake in every week.

Unsurprisingly the drinks menu is extensive, with a focus on bringing you out of the comfort zone of your usual order. There are descriptive flavour profiles and waitstaff who are keen to sit with you to explain how to physically drink the coffee to get the most out of the experience.

Just as much thought has gone into the food. The all-day menu changes regularly, but always pushes the boundaries, with novel flavour combinations such as mushroom, roasted peach and pesto. Familiar breakfast staples are given approachable twists: the egg and bacon roll with gochujang aioli is a particular standout.

It might be square in the business hub of the city, but with shared benches, hanging plants and light-wood panelling, the vibe here feels more like a catch up at a friend’s place.