Ahh, the Hume Highway. Travelling the 880km between Melbourne and Sydney on the inland highway is a summer pilgrimage for many travellers. But even those who enjoy the drive would have to agree that after a while the scenery gets a little bit … well, monotonous. And a bit … well, boring. Trust us, you’re going to need coffee or two (or three). Here are the best places to get that reviving cup of joe along the highway.
The Proprietor, 459 Townsend St, Albury
As you look around at the white-tiled counter, big timber tables, black-and-white flooring and hanging Art Deco lamps in the revamped old butchers’ shop, you might need to remind yourself that this is Albury, not Melbourne – particularly when you realise the beans behind the seriously excellent coffee you’re drinking are from East Brunswick’s own Padre. Try the food, too; the lamb salad is a particular winner.
The Proprieter, Albury
J&B’s Gourmet Cafe, 143 Albury Rd, Holbrook
We know you want to see the famous submarine, but stop at J & B’s Gourmet Cafe first for some classic Australian food with classically good Aussie coffee. The staff here can not only pump out your flat white, but your long black and macchiato, too. And they also make the best beef pies along the Hume Highway.
J&B’s Gourmet Cafe by Tripadvisor John E
The Long Track Pantry, Riverside Dr, Jugiong
Factor in a long lunch at Long Track Pantry in Jugiong – in fact, we’d move in if the owners would let us. Let’s just tick off everything you’ll find at LTP: great coffee, tick; friendly service, yes; delicious food, sorted; take-home gourmet goodies, of course; rustic and welcoming decor, nailed it.
The Long Track Pantry
Barneys of Bookham, 30 Fagan Dr, Bookham
Follow the cars ducking off the highway just before Yass on the way to Sydney; they’ll be heading towards Barney’s at Bookham, a cute little locally owned cafe that has managed to fly under the traffic radar. Well, secret’s out – this cafe will give you the fuel (coffee and burgers) to drive those remaining kilometres.
Barneys by Tripadvisor user AustraliaFamilyMan
The Old Hume Cafe, 78 Yass St, Gunning
The owners of the Old Hume Cafe know that if it’s not broke, don’t fix it … which is why the kitchen sends out delicious home cooking (think burgers, toasties and classic cakes) with old-fashioned friendly service. Oh, and the coffee is great.
Old Hume Cafe
Grit Cafe, 5/1-3 Sowerby St, Goulburn
You’ll feel sheepish if you miss Grit Cafe, situated just off the highway near the Big Merino in Goulburn. The coffee is delicious – definitely a step up from McCafe – and the menu is well-rounded, with sandwiches, soups, muesli, and brekky plates. The cafe itself is cute, with indoor and outdoor seating.
Grit Cafe by Tripadvisor user Twoaussies_13
