33 Bultje St
Dubbo Nsw
It’s a long, winding and at times breathtaking road to Dubbo from Sydney. Whether by train or car, the vistas provided by the Blue Mountains stick in the memory long after you’ve left them behind.
For all that, there is a definite need for refreshment and an oasis in which to unwind after 7 hours on the track.
There is a long-standing belief in this industry that the cities are bastions of civilisation, with perfectly extracted espresso and cold drip flowing like water on every street corner. By contrast, the rural towns carry the stigma of being where good beans go to die.
This assessment could not be more out-dated, or misguided.
Press and The Auctioneer stand tall amongst a handful of cafes that would find a welcoming home on any street in Melbourne, with distinctive styles, sensational customer service and exceptional brews. Alister Dyson-Holland, who leads a dedicated team who share his values, has founded both.
Press found its home in the former Land Newspaper office, from which it gained the name.
With stunning Victorian features, glowing natural light throughout and a breezy sheltered garden, there are a host of spots to claim for a spell.
I was treated to a delicious flat white, with a Honduras & Ethiopia blend that seemed to evince the best qualities of both origins. Paired with a delectable slow-roasted pork belly toasted sandwich, I was supremely satisfied.
The Auctioneer recently sprung up just a block away in, you guessed it, an old Auction House. Slick granite, walnut timber and brass décor sets a different tone for this cosier venue, with the focus being heavily on takeaway coffees. Nonetheless the breakfast was standout, toasted banana bread with fresh fruit, a maple drizzle and fresh thickened cream. This came along with a silky piccolo that went down far too easily.
