Mecca Coffee’s Darlinghurst flagship is one of Sydney’s best-designed cafes. The espresso machine sits atop a red marble bar quarried from a single block of dolomitic stone from the Pilbara in Western Australia. The earthy material palette of red brick, sandstone and river clay was inspired by the region, home to one of the oldest landscapes and some of the oldest continuous cultures on Earth. It’s all by designer Matt Woods. And recessed into the ceiling is a striking acrylic dome light custom made by Domus Vim that shifts colours throughout service.

It’s a space worthy of Mecca’s status as one of Sydney’s most influential coffee roasters. Try the outstanding blends, producer-series single origins and a spiced cold brew in the diminutive 20-seat space, or spill out onto the pedestrian walkway on Foley Street.

You’ll also find a handful of pastries and coffee beans in various-sized bags to take home.