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You’ve already seen just how delicious Australia can be with our pizza-mazing tour of Melbourne. Next up, the fascinating city of Darwin!
You may or may not know that Darwin is our nearest Australian capital city, that it’s just across the Timor Sea, and that it’s home to the world’s largest living reptile, the horror-movie-worthy saltwater crocodile. But one thing you probably don’t know is that Darwin is currently in a coffee renaissance.
A genuinely delicious cuppa (that’s “a cup of coffee” for those who aren’t fluent in Aussie!) is around almost every tree-lined corner and coffee shops are creative community spaces where locals love to meet up and hang out. So come explore the nature-filled city of Darwin and meet wonderful people with a hot cuppa in hand.
Begin at the Darwin Waterfront, the historic city center with a unique mix of tropical and city vibes. Darwin Harbour and the greenery of national parks and coastal reserves surround the downtown area. This makes for a beautiful cityscape, and a population that adores the outdoors and the water.
Walk along the waterfront; take in the views of the harbour and some of Darwin’s most historic monuments, such as the remains of the Palmerston Town Hall, which was destroyed by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Stop for a moment silently reflect at Darwin’s War Memorial, built in remembrance of those who died in WWII, or walk through the lofty Northern Territory Library.
While you’re at the waterfront, be sure to grab a coffee at a hip cafe like The Rabbithole (2/44 The Mall). A great example of Darwin’s café culture, The Rabbithole is friendly and laid back, but very serious about coffee. Latte art is included in your order, after all.
Photo: The Rabbithole / Facebook
Next, wander over to George Brown Botanical Gardens, where you’ll be ensconced by 42 hectares of beautiful Northern Territory greenery. The Gardens have been part of Darwin for 130 years, even surviving attacks during WWII.
One of the best places to experience the park’s flora and fauna is Eva’s Cafe, a quaint little restaurant with an inviting outdoor area. It’s a local favorite for long table Sunday brunches, high tea among the trees, and elegant evening soirees. The cafe boasts fair trade single origin coffee from around the world in both slow pour and espresso-based drinks. Try the Ethiopian blend au lait for an earthy taste and a smooth finish.
Photo: Eva’s Cafe / Facebook
Next up: Parap, an inner Darwin ‘burb, for a stroll and a bite to eat. The Parap Village Markets are the best way to get to know this neighborhood. You’ll experience a true Territory atmosphere. Shop for arts and crafts and browse the city’s yummiest food and drink stalls. The Market is on every Saturday from 8am-2pm, rain or shine.
Time seems to stand still when you’re sipping a cuppa in the fresh, open air of Darwin’s friendly sidewalk cafes. So extend your vacay by popping into Parap’s Laneway Speciality Coffee (4/1 Vickers St) for a flat white (that’s Aussie for espresso with milk – kinda like a latte, but not quite). This cafe opens bright and early daily from 7am–4pm. Don’t leave without trying a “Bronut”, a sugared doughnut filled with ginger curd and topped with fresh blueberries.
Photo: Laneway Specialty Coffee / Facebook
Continue inland on your tour of Darwin to Winnellie Road and see how local Darwinites live. Experience the soul of Australia via the funky, locally owned and run café The Trader (T3/60 Winnellie Rd).
The owners’ passion can be seen in everything from the lovingly poured coffee to the jaw-droppingly decadent homemade desserts. These guys epitomize the laid back Aussie lifestyle with their sense of humor and outdoorsy style. Stop by from 6:30am–3pm on weekdays for bit of down-home hospitality and a rich jolt of espresso. (You’ll need something bitter to balance those tempting Nutella Doughnuts, mate!)
Photo: The Trader Winnellie Road / Facebook
Ready to start exploring Darwin’s stunning scenery and laid-back way of life, one cafe at a time? Wego makes planning and booking your trip so easy. All you have to do is book your flight and find a hotel you love, and you’re off! Enjoy that cuppa!
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