The best cafes with outdoor seating in Sydney in 2026, including al fresco footpaths, garden courtyards, and rooftop terraces across the
Dining Desk is a contributing writer covering eat-drink and public affairs for The Sydney Times.
The Grounds of Alexandria in Alexandria is one of the most famous cafes with outdoor seating in Sydney. The cafe has a large courtyard with shade, a garden, and outdoor seating. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The courtyard is dog-friendly and has water bowls for dogs. The cafe is accessible by train to St Peters station.
Brother Bunny in Newtown is a cafe with outdoor seating on the footpath. The cafe has a small outdoor area with tables and chairs. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The outdoor seating is dog-friendly and has water bowls for dogs. The cafe is accessible by train to Newtown station.
Cafe若不是 in Bondi is a cafe with outdoor seating on the footpath. The cafe has a small outdoor area with tables and chairs. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The outdoor seating has views of Bondi Road. The cafe is accessible by bus from Bondi Junction station.
Sonya's Cafe in Bronte is a cafe with outdoor seating on the footpath. The cafe has a small outdoor area with tables and chairs. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The outdoor seating has views of Bronte Road. The cafe is accessible by bus from Bondi Junction station.
Two Good Co in Surry Hills is a cafe with outdoor seating in a courtyard. The cafe has a small courtyard with tables, chairs, and a garden. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The courtyard is dog-friendly and has water bowls for dogs. The cafe is accessible by train to Central station.
Parmel's in Potts Point is a cafe with a beautiful courtyard with a garden and outdoor seating. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The courtyard has a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The cafe is accessible by bus from Bondi Junction station.
The Tea Cosy in The Rocks is a cafe with a courtyard with outdoor seating. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The courtyard has a historic atmosphere and views of the harbour. The cafe is accessible by train to Circular Quay station.
Grazing in Surry Hills is a cafe with a courtyard with outdoor seating. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The courtyard has a relaxed, informal atmosphere. The cafe is accessible by train to Central station.
Vic's in Paddington is a cafe with a courtyard with outdoor seating. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The courtyard has a garden and a relaxed atmosphere. The cafe is accessible by bus from Bondi Junction station.
The Rook in the CBD is a rooftop cafe with views of the Sydney CBD. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The rooftop has outdoor seating with umbrellas and a bar. The cafe is accessible by train to Town Hall station.
Aloft in the CBD is a rooftop cafe with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The rooftop has outdoor seating with umbrellas and a bar. The cafe is accessible by train to Wynyard station.
The Deck in Circular Quay is a rooftop cafe with views of the Sydney Opera House. The cafe serves coffee, breakfast, and lunch. The rooftop has outdoor seating with umbrellas and a bar. The cafe is accessible by train to Circular Quay station.
Harry's Cafe de Wheels in Woolloomooloo is a famous al fresco cafe with outdoor seating on the footpath. The cafe serves pies, hot dogs, and coffee. The outdoor seating has views of the harbour. The cafe is accessible by bus or ferry.
Pancakes on the Rocks in The Rocks is an al fresco cafe with outdoor seating on the footpath. The cafe serves pancakes, coffee, and breakfast. The outdoor seating has views of the harbour. The cafe is accessible by train to Circular Quay station.
Gelato Messina in various locations is an al fresco cafe with outdoor seating. The cafe serves gelato, coffee, and desserts. The outdoor seating has views of the street. The cafe is accessible by train or bus to most locations.
When you go cafe hopping in Sydney, follow these tips:
Check the weather. Sydney weather can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast before you go and bring a jacket or an umbrella if necessary.
Arrive early. Popular cafes can be busy on weekends and public holidays. Arrive early to avoid waiting for a table.
Bring a reusable cup. Many cafes offer a discount if you bring a reusable cup. The discount is usually 20 to 50 cents.
Be respectful. Be respectful of other patrons and the staff. Keep noise to a minimum and clean up after yourself.
Tip. Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but it is appreciated. A tip of 10 to 15 percent is standard for good service.
More information about cafes in Sydney is available at Broadsheet and Time Out Sydney.
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