Side Story Cafe

313 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville NSW 2204, Australia
+61 401 126 400
$$$ Cafe
(173 Reviews)
Price Range $1–20

Welcome to Side Story Cafe, a hidden gem nestled along the bustling Marrickville Rd in Marrickville, NSW. This cafe isn’t just a spot for coffee; it’s a vibrant community hub that will charm you with its unique ambiance and delightful menu offerings.

As you approach the cafe, you’ll notice its prime location right next to the Marrickville Library, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The outdoor seating area is inviting, outfitted with parasols and effective heaters to keep you cozy, especially during those cooler mornings. Inside, the design is equally appealing, blending architectural charm with a modern sensibility, making it the perfect backdrop for a relaxing dining experience.

Cuisine Type: At Side Story Cafe, the menu features a medley of delicious options catering to both traditional and trendy palates. Must-tries include their famed Persian Ricotta Toast, a dish that has captivated many with its rich flavors and artistic presentation—definitely a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. For something substantial, the Halloumi Roll is a standout, praised for its generous portions and delightful taste. Make sure to also explore their range of tantalizing sandwiches, including the Smashed Avocado and the Rare Roast Beef Sandwich, which have earned rave reviews from patrons.

Dining Atmosphere: As you step inside, the ambiance radiates warmth and friendliness. The staff are known for their efficient service and welcoming nature, often engaging regulars and newcomers alike in charming conversation. Whether you choose to sit outdoors or cozy up inside, you’re met with a delightful atmosphere that encourages leisurely sips of coffee and hearty chats. Fine-tune your morning routine with a hot matcha latte, or indulge in the cafe’s carefully curated food offerings while basking in the alluring scent of freshly brewed coffee that fills the air.

Just listen to what customers are saying: Justine Lau notes the community vibes, mentioning how even on a rainy Monday morning, the small queue speaks volumes about Side Story’s popularity. She enjoyed her morning pick-me-up amidst friendly baristas. Another customer, Dominic Gibson, raved about the superb salmon and the effective gas heaters that allow for year-round comfort while dining. Such warm testimonials reveal the cafe’s reputation—one that balances great food with a welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to a delightful breakfast, catch up with friends, or enjoy a moment of solitude with a good book, Side Story Cafe caters to all. With its unique offerings and the beautiful Marrickville library just steps away, this cafe is more than just a place to eat; it's a local haven to savor life’s simple pleasures. Make it a priority during your next visit to Marrickville—you won’t be disappointed!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

06:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Tuesday

06:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Wednesday

06:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Thursday

06:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Friday

06:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Saturday

06:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Sunday

07:00 AM - 05:00 PM

173 Reviews
Justine Lau

20 Aug 2025

(The café is right outside the library.) Stopped by for a hot matcha latte at wet 7:30am Monday morning. Was able to easily find street parking to go and get my drink. There were already a small queue there. The baristas were friendly and efficient. Seemed like a lot of regular customers. They had mostly outside seating, with parasols and heaters. There were also indoor seating. But not sure if it is only open only during library opening hours. Matcha was nice and hot (which is rare in Sydney). Good matcha taste and good thickness/texture. And sweetness was just right. Everything good but perfect. 8-8.5/10.

edelicious blog

06 Aug 2025

It's one of my go-to cafes in Marrickville. Love the vibe, location, outdoor seating and the friendly staff. Coffee is delicious and so with the food. A must-try is their Persian Ricotta Toast. Marrickville Library is just next door.

Dominic Gibson

02 Aug 2025

Love the Side Story, great coffee, and superb salmon! Outside there are effective gas heaters for the winter cold. I going back on Saturday to eat inside the library which is part of the complex. Great architecture to boot!

G Mac

20 Jul 2025

This cafe is situated inside (and outside) the Marrickville library. The food is great and the coffee good. Meals are large and the fact you can sit indoors reading a library book is clever. No table service but buzzers issued for order collection. The salad is superb. The whole complex is a great example of good design built around the old hospital.

SarzXox

29 Jun 2025

Decided to come to this cafe after visiting an art market nearby and wasn’t disappointed! We ended up getting the Persian Ricotta Toast and a Halloumi Roll (this was amazing & very filling!) The toast was a little difficult to eat but it was still very flavourful! would come back again

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