BEST COFFEE: REMY & LEES

The inner city is overflowing with coffee shops, but this one is hotter than the rest. The use of top-quality Little Marionette coffee beans attracts bleary-eyed office workers and locals alike. Pair this with outstanding nosh from Chris’ The Black Star Pastry and you have a Surry Hills institution. Favorites include the delicious lamb shank pie ($7), or if you’re on a health kick, the house Bircher muesli ($6). The offbeat décor and the absence of menus creates a cosy atmosphere. The service here is also personable and efficient, so you don’t have to wait long for a great cappuccino. They’re open for breakfast and lunch Tuesday to Sunday from 7 am till 4pm. And for cycling enthusiasts, yes, the bike in the front window is for sale. (Millcent Caffrey)

547 Bourke Street, Surry Hills. 0404 384 014