Brisbane’s Cycling & Coffee Culture

As the Olympic Games 2024 in Paris comes to an end, let’s shine the torch onto the Olympic Games 2032 host city Brisbane. As keen cyclists and coffee lovers Velosure and @pedalbrisbane embarked on a journey fueled by good banter, to-die-for pastries and full-flavoured coffee beans. We explored Brisbane from east to west and north to south with one goal in mind, and that was to compile a comprehensive list of Brisbane’s cycling-friendly cafes. Our “Project” kicked off in Autumn 2024. 

The approach

Just like with any successful research project we wanted to keep things consistent, fair and as closely aligned to the actual “bunchie” experience as possible. This means we included all our stops as parts of our Pedal Brisbane group rides over two months. The stops ranged from end-of-short morning ride visits to mid-long ride stops to try and cover as many cafes as possible. To all the Melbournians, we are happy to challenge you for coffee culture here in Brisbane!

What did I learn

What I knew before setting out is that cycling and coffee are unanimous, but not all cafes and coffee stops will make me come back for more. We all have our regular group rides and our coffee stops will most likely revolve around our regular “loop”. We set out with a plan that was naively aimed at reviewing the cafes and coffee but as part of this journey, I very much realised that there are key ingredients to the perfect coffee stop. 

We have pulled together our list, but as per our post on this topic many riders out there have their own list (I should probably start with the Coffee though) - see the IG post @pedalbrisbane cyclist cafe post. 

1. The Coffee

Whether you prefer full cream, decaf or almond milk we all know what we prefer. Once your group ride has found their preferred blend you can move to the location. I have even heard riders mention that they will sacrifice the most convenient location for their preferred blend.

2. Location

This can be close to your office or home but in most instances near the end of your ride. I have spoken to many Brisbane River Loop rides that stick to their Cafe in the city or on South Bank. Just like the coffee blend, location is a deal maker or breaker.

3. The treats

Ride to eat or eat to ride that is the question. As cyclists, we might not always want to sit down for a 5-course meal but we like options. This includes fresh pastries, healthy options, something for the quick grab-and-go and lastly even options for a full breakfast. I have noted that the snack requirement is very much dependent on whether this is a pre-work stop, Saturday long ride or bike-packing trip as an extreme.

4. Facilities 

Ensuring a secure environment for cyclists, including bike-racking and visible outdoor areas, enhances the café experience. Some cafes go the extra mile by providing tools for minor bike repairs, water refill stations, and shaded areas to keep both riders and their bikes cool.

5. Cafe Hours

If you have ever arrived at a Cafe after a pre-dawn start to find that they are not open yet you will know what I mean. The buzz of the city often means early starts for city-based Cafe but over weekends or in smaller towns I would suggest you make sure that your intended Cafe visit will fall within business hours.

What can Cyclist do

As cyclists, we are quick to compile a list of what we need in a perfect cafe stop. I have however taken some notes during our project that lead to the conclusion that practising good etiquette as a cyclist not only shows respect for the other cafe patrons but also leads to great relationships and sometimes friendships with the Cafe owner and staff.

What did you say - @pedalbrisbane_etiquette
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My list of great etiquette builders is broadly based on a good and simple basis of respect.:

1. Avoid obstructing access: Ensure your bike is parked in a designated area or out of the way to keep pathways clear for other customers.
2. Maintain hygiene: Refrain from placing helmets or gloves on tables to keep dining areas clean. Use bike racks or designated hooks for your gear.
3. Clean up after yourself: Wipe down tables or chairs if they become wet from rain or sweat to maintain a pleasant environment for the next customer.
4. Respect the space: If in a large group, return tables and chairs to their original positions after use to minimise disruption and show respect to the café staff and other patrons.
   
   

Ultimate Local Brisbane Cyclist Cafes(No particular order):
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Exploring Brisbane’s café scene is a delightful experience for any cyclist. Whether you’re in the CBD, South Brisbane, North Brisbane, West Brisbane, or East Brisbane, you’ll find fantastic cafes that cater to cyclists. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best spots.
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@coffeeatthekombi (Southbank)

What we liked

• Conveniently located at the end of Brisbane's most popular city route (river loop).
• An outdoor pop-up shop featuring a charming Kombi van modified into a coffee shop.
• A local favourite due to its prime location at Southbank with views of the Brisbane River and city.
• Perfect spot to enjoy delicious coffee under the sun, especially in winter.

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@woolshed.bne (Teneriffe)

What we liked

• A cyclist’s dream café due to its accessibility and home to Blacksheep apparel.
• Opens at 5:30 AM, ideal for early riders heading north or northeast of Brisbane.
• Convenient stop on the way back to the city with a bike rack at the front.

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@cordeauxsocialclub_ (West End)

What we liked

• Perfect for medium to large groups, offering a spacious outdoor area with a bike rack.
• Located in the West End, it’s the ideal spot after the long descent of Dornoch Terrace on the river loop.
• Serves coffee quickly and efficiently despite the crowd.

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@extraction_artisan_coffee (Slacks Creek)

What we liked

• A must-visit if you’re riding south (seven sisters, Mount Cotton, or Gold Coast loop).
• Located close to IKEA and right in front of the bikeway leading back to the city.
• Offers a fantastic range of beverages and must-try French fries.

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@darvellapatisserie (Bulimba)

What we liked

• A haven for pastry lovers and a great excuse to explore Bulimba as part of your south side of the river riding route.
• Offers amazing views of Brisbane City.
• During the Jacaranda season, enjoy a picturesque road full of blooms.

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@hallowedgrounds (Mt Gravatt)

What we liked

• A local favourite situated close to the Mt. Gravatt climb.
• Located just 2 minutes from the bottom of the climb.
• Perfect spot to refuel after descending, renowned for its excellent coffee.

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@bronnies_speciality_coffee (Mt Mee)

What we liked

• A café with a million-dollar view, located at the top of Mt. Mee, near the lookout.
• Completing the climb is rewarding, and the spectacular view enhances the taste of the coffee.

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@preeces_cafe (Scarborough)

What we liked

• Ideal for cyclists doing northside loops like Scarborough, Glass House Mountains, or Caboolture loop.
• Located conveniently on the way back to the city via the bayside.
• Features a bike rack for added convenience.

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@risebakeryau (Portside)

What we liked

• A go-to place for post-ride coffee after the Airport or Nudgee loops.
• Serves authentic French patisserie with outdoor seating where you can keep an eye on your bike.

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@brookfieldgeneralstore (Brookfield)

What we liked

• A must-stop for cyclists doing the Brookfield route, located at the start and end of the ride.
• Offers flexibility for riders to stop mid-ride or at the end.
• Spacious back area for larger groups.

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@thesingleguys (Kenmore)

What we liked

• A great option for those doing the Gap Creek loop, located in Kenmore.
• Offers both outdoor seating and indoor space for your bike.
• Convenient stop on the way back to the city.

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@thereserveanstead (Anstead)

What we liked

• A favourite for west-side routes like Moggill Ferry loop, Kholo, Mt Crosby, and Pullenvale.
• Located close to the main road, making it an easy stop on the way back to the city.

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@manlyboathouse (Manly)

What we liked

• Known for its accessibility and stunning views of the bayside.
• Open early, making it a popular stop for cyclists doing the south bay loop.
• Famous for its delicious sausage rolls.

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@thelighthousecleveland (Cleveland)

What we liked

• Another great bayside option with plenty of outdoor seating and space for bikes.
• Ideal for refuelling whether you’re riding south or heading back to the city.

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@dramanti_coffee_wynnum (Wynnum)

What we liked

A hidden gem for coffee lovers, perfect for small groups.

While it lacks a large outdoor space, its excellent coffee makes it worth a visit.
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Explore these local gems on your next cycling adventure in Brisbane and enjoy the perfect blend of great coffee, delicious food, and cyclist-friendly amenities!

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