G’day, coffee lovers!

Located on Australia’s stunning east coast, Wollongong not only has beautiful beaches and laid-back vibes but a thriving coffee culture that rivals other bigger cities. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the Wollongong, finding the perfect cup of coffee doesn’t have to be a mission.

We’ve scoured every corner of Wollongong to bring you the absolute best spots where passionate baristas are brewing liquid gold. From hidden laneway cafés to beachfront spots perfect for a morning surf check, here are 7 places that serve the best coffee in Wollongong.

Best Coffee in Wollongong

1- Lee and Me

Google Rating: 4.5

Located on 87 Crown St, Lee and Me has been a Wollongong staple since 2008. They’ve built their reputation on serving excellent food in a welcoming space right on the main street. The cafe is run by two married couples – Lee and Shay Sullivan alongside Benny and Naomi Hudson – who share a vision of creating a community hub where everyone feels welcome and inspired.

Their egg and bacon roll is a standout, perfectly complemented by their consistently good coffee. The interior and exterior of the cafe are beautifully designed, creating a great atmosphere that keeps customers coming back. It’s also dog-friendly, making it perfect for those morning walks with your four-legged friends.

2- Cafe Hashtag

Google Rating: 4.9

Located at 451 Crown St, Cafe Hashtag is one of Wollongong’s newer specialty coffee and brunch spots. The spacious, clean environment provides a comfortable setting to enjoy fresh, delicious food along with great coffee options.

Their coffee is reliably excellent, but their matcha latte stands out as possibly the best in Wollongong. The matcha has a vibrant green color with a smooth, creamy texture that strikes the perfect balance – neither bitter nor too sweet. All their food and drinks are reasonably priced, making this cafe a great value. Everything comes beautifully presented, adding to the overall experience.

3- Utopia Cafe Bar

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at 27b Stewart St, Utopia Cafe Bar combines great coffee with excellent food in a light, vibrant environment. The friendly staff contribute to the welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.

The chef creates a wonderful variety of dishes on their daily menu, catering to different tastes and preferences. Many customers claim the coffee here is the best in the area. The cafe offers tables of various sizes, making it suitable for both solo visits and group gatherings. Their portions are generous, and they provide alternatives to sourdough bread. Their smoothies are also worth trying alongside their outstanding coffee.

Also Read: Best Coffee Shops in Rockhampton

4- Doya’s Espresso

Google Rating: 4.9

Located at 302 Keira St, Doya’s Espresso is a true hidden treasure in Wollongong’s coffee scene. The moment you walk in, you’ll notice the care put into every detail. Their coffee is rich and perfectly balanced, made with freshly roasted beans from local suppliers. The food here goes beyond typical café fare – each dish shows real creativity and attention to detail.

Breakfast options are both filling and flavorful, with generous portions that satisfy without overwhelming. The baristas take pride in their craft, creating beautiful latte art that’s almost too pretty to drink. If you’re looking for something beyond your standard flat white, their specialty drinks menu offers exciting coffee options worth exploring.

5- Lower East Café

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at 70 Crown St, Lower East Café has been proudly serving Single O coffee for more than 10 years, establishing itself as a Wollongong institution. Their consistency and quality have built a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.

Their flat whites are smooth and rich, perfectly complementing their excellent food menu. The avocado toast is a standout – fresh, flavorful and beautifully presented. The café’s warm atmosphere makes it ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet morning read.

This popularity comes with a price – you might face a wait during peak hours. However, the friendly service and exceptional coffee quality make any short wait worthwhile. Their commitment to quality hasn’t wavered over their decade in business.

6- Lili J

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at 1/156 Corrimal St, Lili J Café offers some of Wollongong’s finest coffee, using premium Reuben Hills beans that deliver a distinctive, memorable flavor profile. The café’s welcoming atmosphere invites you to sit and savor your drink rather than rush.

Service here is notably quick and friendly, with food arriving promptly even during busy periods. Portion sizes are generous – perfect for hungry brunchers looking for substance along with style. The café has become particularly popular with the local cycling community, who often make it their refueling stop after morning rides.

The combination of delicious food, outstanding coffee, and genuinely warm service creates an experience that keeps customers coming back. Their attention to detail shows in everything from their perfectly pulled espresso shots to their thoughtfully prepared meals.

7- The Gong View Cafe

Google Rating: 4.7

Located at Suite 7/88 Keira St, The Gong View Café stands out even in Wollongong’s competitive coffee landscape. Their coffee strikes the perfect balance between bold flavor and smooth finish, making it a standout option for serious coffee lovers.

The food menu deserves special mention – each dish is beautifully prepared with obvious care and creativity. Their carrot and walnut cake paired with a well-crafted latte makes for a perfect afternoon treat. Pricing remains reasonable despite the exceptional quality, offering great value.

Many locals consider this café exceptional even among Wollongong’s many excellent options. The staff create a welcoming atmosphere that complements the outstanding food and drink. Whether you’re stopping for a quick coffee or settling in for a longer meal, The Gong View delivers a memorable café experience.