Only. Buranda

You might already be familiar with Only., the elegant coffee spot on Queen Street that’s become immensely popular with CBD coffee nuts since opening in September 2018. Perhaps it was only a matter of time, then, before co-owners Paul Crossland and Arthur Graczyk looked to expand.

Due to the city store's small size (and hectic time constraints), it's difficult to carry out the more complex, traditional brew methods. At this quieter suburban location in Woolloongabba, the duo have the freedom to spend a bit more time drilling down into speciality coffee options. There's more pour-over and a greater emphasis on showcasing local roasters.

Sydney’s Five Senses is still the house blend, but there's a rotation of guest roasters for black coffee and filter selections. Despite an expanded coffee menu, Crossland and Graczyk have stripped back the food to a simple selection of baked goods from Danny’s Bread.

This location sits beneath the UniLodge building near the Buranda transit centre. It’s much darker than its Scandinavian-style CBD counterpart, but just as simple. Designer Matthew Reynolds from MAJR Designs elected to showcase the industrial elements of the space, leaving the brickwork and piping exposed. The coffee bar – covered in grey tiles – takes up the bulk of the space with stools and a small nook for indoor seating.

Outside is a simple set-up of six tables under an awning for those keen to linger.