ED Cafe

ED Cafe, inside Edward Street's IBM Building, is purpose-built for lingering. There's a heap of seating options with views all the way down Edward street. Wi-fi and power points make working from the space easy, and the all-day brunch menu is full of what you'd expect from your favourite weekend haunts.

Twin brothers Arron and Troy Van Stryp of The Smug Fig took over the space (previously occupied by Sam's) in late 2017 as part of the IBM building's revamp. Working with a huge floor space, the brothers sketched out some ideas and brought on Urban Design Solutions to change up the fit-out.

Design inspiration was taken from The Smug Fig, which is inside an East Brisbane nursery. Light woods, teal and navy accents and plenty of greenery make the space light and welcoming despite its lobby setting. The sensibility is reflected in the branding, by Deelan Do, and a 13.5-metre wall mural by friend and artist Yannick Blattner, which depicts birds and plants. There's a coffee window facing out onto the street.

Chef Peffin Alano (previously of Samson and Sophie) serves a tight menu: quick sandwiches and treats in the fridge served alongside more sizeable offerings. Standouts include a nourish bowl of quinoa, yellow basmati, pickled veg, avocado, smoked cherry tomatoes, pumpkin, mixed greens and a poached egg; and a chicken burger that comes with camembert, rocket and romesco on organic brioche.

Coffee is from Espresso di Manfredi, and there's kombucha and cold-pressed juices in the fridge.