I can’t remember exactly when it was that I first visited Ampersand Cafe Bookstore in Paddington – though suffice it to say it was an unseasonably cold day in Sydney, and thus the perfect occasion to while away an afternoon between the four walls of a beautiful bookstore, away from the bitter chill of the seasonal sea breeze.

Located in a pretty part of Paddington that boasts stylish boutiques, bakeries and pop-up shops a-plenty, Ampersand Cafe Bookstore is a bookish respite for anyone with a penchant for literature, good coffee or cakes. A three story heritage building, the shop manages retains an antique charm throughout, featuring well-worn vintage armchairs, eye-catching chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling shelves groaning with second-hand books.

The ground floor is home to the bookstore’s cafe, where they serve a wide range of coffees hailing from Colombia. Sumatra, Brazil and `Guatemala – making it a go-to destination for caffeine aficionados in this well-heeled eastern suburb. So too do they offer a tasty array of breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes, alongside a selection of sweet treats, perfect for pairing with a cup of their home made chai tea.

The literary offering is an equally impressive one, with a basement full of non-fiction reads, staircases lined with classic tomes, and a second floor with communal seating nestled around a feature fireplace and stacks of novels to choose from. And when the sun is shining (which it usually is in Sydney), patrons can sit outside under the striped awning next to the book-themed street art that adorns the alley-way walls.

Brilliantly bookish, vibrant and atmospheric, Ampersand Cafe Bookstore is a surefire Sydney gem for anyone with a literary inclination.

About Ampersand Cafe Bookstore

Ampersand Cafe Bookstore is a haven of tranquility, where shoppers can relax in a vibrant atmosphere, read a good book, drink their home-made chai tea or enjoy one of their delicious cupcakes.

Whether it’s an old favourite, something to read to the kids, or a beautiful antiquarian book, there’s something for everyone at Ampersand Cafe Bookstore. Serving everything from Eggs Benedict to their famous Apple & Berry Crumble, served with yoghurt and drizzled with honey and cinnamon, it’s a food lovers’ paradise too.

Useful Information about Ampersand Cafe Bookstore

78 Oxford Street
Paddington
Sydney

Website: https://www.cafebookshop.com.au/

Telephone: 02 9380 6617

Opening times: 7am-5.30pm Monday-Friday, 8am-5.30pm Saturday – Sunday

Image © Ampersand Cafe Bookstore

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