The coffee wasn't the best I've had, and to be honest, was far from it! (You have to be cruel to be kind). However, I recollect one of Hemingway's greater passions was for a particular Parisian cafe, who's coffee also kept the crowds away (much to his delight) but fuelled his fabulous imagination, and so I wonder if there isn't something of his spirit at work here.
From my eavesdropped observations, it is very much a 'writer's cafe', so bring along your pad and pen, and /or a good book (or just grab one off the shelf), and you're sure to meet a kindred spirit enjoying themselves within its moody darkness. A Bohemian's hideaway. I’d suggest a nice pot of tea is probably the ticket, as well as being a wonderful excuse to extend your enjoyment of its many charms.
The food is pretty ordinary, but still good, hearty food. It's excellent value, the service is fantastic and its a beautiful dark little cafe with lots of regulars. I recommend you check out the soup of the day.
Great place for breakfast when you have a hangover!! Food is really good and the menu is really diverse. Only thing is it is really dark inside which makes it a bit of a no-no in the middle of summer. Having said that, the books and pictures all around the cafe will keep you entertained at any time of the year!!
At Candys in Manly it is unique. Organic food that is like real food and lots of it compared to other places. I really like the big brekky. Organic coffee is great!