Ugees Espresso & One Drop

'Ugees' at West End.

The coffee scene in Brisbane is booming, and definitely gives Melbourne's a run for its money. I've not been disappointed with the cafes and it's been awesome checking them out at various times of the day.

I've been hopping in and out of these 2 coffee bars either before or after lunch, so I didn't notice if they serve food. Cakes and muffins, for sure. Savory filling light lunches, not sure. All I know is, the body's receiving an overdose of caffeine. HOWEVER, I could strangely still conk off soundly by midnight or so and wake up between 6.30 to 7.30 in the mornings.

I don't mind grabbing a takeaway from the superbly consistent and dependable Ugees Espresso (80 Boundary Street, West End, QLD 4101). It's a hole in the wall joint and it's frequented by regulars and curious visitors alike. That unpretentious vibe and a great cup make a lethal combination that makes me return repeatedly.

The beans offered at One Drop is comfortingly single origin. Their baristas have never failed to serve up a good brew. They only open on weekdays to cater mainly to the office crowd, so we've got to make some effort to catch them before closing time. One afternoon, we were running late and decided to take our chances, turning up at 3.45pm. The baristas frowned at us, but nevertheless good-naturedly made us our flat whites. Woot.

'One Drop' at St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley.