☕ The Short Black Coffee Co. – Ipswich’s Coffee Institution
Nestled in the heart of Ipswich’s historic Top of Town along 181 Brisbane Street, the Short Black Coffee Co. is widely recognized by locals as the go-to destination for uncompromising coffee excellence and a uniquely personal café vibe.
Atmosphere & Ambience:
At first sight, you’re drawn into a warm, cozy space filled with character—plush couches, vintage décor, rotating art by local creatives, and quirky trinkets scattered throughout. Please all senses: you hear mellow music, breathe the rich aroma of freshly ground beans, and sense the unpretentious, artistic energy that permeates the café
Coffee & Service:
At the heart of Short Black isn’t just superb coffee—it’s the people behind it. Founder Gareth, known locally as a coffee legend, has cultivated a loyal following who drive from across the region for his signature brews and friendly conversation. Reviewers regularly praise the consistency and quality, calling it “best coffee spot in Ipswich” with “top-notch service” and “great environment”
Menu & Offerings:
Expect a professionally executed espresso lineup: long blacks, flat whites, lattes, oat‑milk options, and specialty variations like dirty chai. While Short Black doesn’t serve much food itself, customers often bring pastries from the renowned “BAKED BY Joseph & Ann” next door—pairing excellent coffee with baking that’s equally adored.
Reputation & Recognition:
Short Black holds a stellar 5.0‑star rating across dozens of reviews, with customers describing it as an institution. Words like “refuel your soul,” and “always the same high standard” consistently appear, underlining its reputation as Ipswich’s coffee anchor.
Hours & Accessibility:
Open early every weekday from 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM, and weekends from 7:00 AM to around 12:30 PM, Short Black caters to early-morning commuters and relaxed brunch crowds alike. It offers takeaway, wheelchair-accessible parking, and friendly service for all.
🌏 Why It Stands Out:
- Unmatched coffee quality: Regulars cite its Long Black as the most consistent and flavorful brew in town
- Local personality: An independently run gem with its own community energy—not corporate chains.
- Café culture with a twist: Art, conversation, and relaxed comfort—no rush vibe.
- True local icon: Frequently crowned by Reddit users and local blogs as Ipswich’s best café
| Feature | Details |
| Location | 181 Brisbane Street, Ipswich CBD |
| Opening Hours | Mon–Fri: 6 AM–3:30 PM; Sat–Sun: 7 AM–12:30 PM |
| Specialties | Long black, flat white, dirty chai, oat‑milk lattes |
| Vibe | Cozy, art-filled, community-oriented |
| Ratings | 5.0 star across 40+ local reviews |
| Why Visit | Best-quality coffee, retro-creative ambience, local personality |
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Start your day the right way with a guided walking tour through the heart of Brisbane’s CBD. As part of our Brisbane morning coffee tours, you’ll discover the best specialty cafes, meet passionate baristas, and learn about the city’s third-wave coffee movement. This tour is perfect for early risers who want to explore the city’s laneways and hidden espresso bars.
- From AUD $120.00
- Duration: 3 hours
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Go behind the scenes of Brisbane’s top artisan roastery with one of our Brisbane coffee roastery tours and learn the secrets of great coffee from crop to cup. This immersive experience is ideal for those who want to take their coffee game to the next level.
- From AUD $120.00
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Experience Original Coffees and More Tours
The online space created for true coffee lovers and friends who share the joy of coffee. Whether it’s the aroma, the flavour, the ritual, or the café catch-ups, there’s something magical about coffee that brings people together. Here, you’ll find tips, stories, tours, reviews, and more—all brewed just for you.
Explore the fascinating world of speciality coffee beans, machines, and accessories that can genuinely elevate your coffee experience! Submerge yourself in the delightful realm of speciality coffee, and make sure to browse our fantastic espresso machines!
