Burnside

When Burnside opens at 6.30am at its spot on the corner of Smith and Gertrude Streets, you can catch a pretty amazing sunrise through the east-facing windows that run from floor to ceiling. At that time of day, it helps that Burnside pours a supreme cup of Seven Seeds coffee, too.

It may be small, but it’s no hole in the wall. The shop lends itself to the casual culture of counter coffee. It services the daily foot traffic in need of a quick grab-and-go, or a lunch-break sit in.

There's a simple menu of muesli and pastries (easy to prepare in a tiny kitchen) that are good for takeaway. But there’s also wooden bench seating and low stools and tables (handmade by co-owner Jona Gunn) if you have a bit more time and don’t mind eating a sandwich over your lap.