SB
Sappho Books, Cafe & Bar
A literary haven where books, coffee, and live music converge in a vibrant Glebe courtyard.
4.8
Retail Store
$$
A literary haven where books, coffee, and live music converge in a vibrant Glebe courtyard.
Sappho Books, Cafe & Bar is a beloved Glebe institution offering a unique blend of secondhand books, daytime cafe culture, and evening bar and live music. Spread across three levels, the bookstore features a diverse selection including a dedicated Da Capo music section. The cafe serves quality coffee, breakfast bowls, and share plates in a cozy courtyard and upstairs seating area. By night, it transforms into a lively performance venue with live music Tuesday through Saturday, complete with heating for winter comfort. Home to Charlie the cat, it's a welcoming spot for solo visitors, book lovers, and groups alike.
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Explore our curated selection of new and used books across various genres in a cozy, inviting setting.
Enjoy artisanal coffee, breakfast, and lunch with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in our cafe area.
Sip on fine wines and craft beverages in a relaxed bar atmosphere, perfect for evening gatherings.
Host book readings, author signings, or private events in our versatile space with catering options.
Grab coffee, pastries, or light meals to go for a quick and delicious treat on the move.
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Overall rating
Emilia de Jounge
Bought a book, had one of the bowls, and had a great time sitting and doing work. Great spot to come alone or with someone else. Fantastic atmosphere and vibes. Highly recommend!
Andrew McLean
Great second hand book selection, as well as a great cafe/courtyard. Nice environment to hang out in. And the home of Charlie the cat!
Bent Zent
You would see it at first glance from the outside, but this bookstore is actually a cafe with seating both outside in the courtyard (covered), and also upstairs in the bookstore itself. Great menu, great vibe and great staff. Awesome place for a longer session to sit back and have a drink or bite while enjoying a book.
Keane Wee
This was really a nice little gem that I managed to stop by at, during my time here in Sydney. The vibes of the place were very cozy and welcoming, it was like going through your grandfather’s old book collection. Everything covered in dust but in a good way. I didn’t managed to find anything here but it was still a nice visit. I wish I tried the coffee though.
Gavin Dixon
A Glebe institution! It’s always enjoyable to browse the 3 level bookshop, including a comprehensive Da Capo music section on the upper floor. During the day, the cafe has a lovely vibe away from the busy street (especially on a Saturday morning when Glebe Markets are on). Good coffee (4.5/5 for my double mac). However, it’s at night when the cafe/bar really turns it on as a performance venue, with live music Tuesday-Saturday. We saw the most excellent Blue Tram there recently. Access to the venue is down the alley to the right (between Sappho and Gleebooks). The bar had a good selection of food plates to share (including vegan options; ~ $18/plate) and the $10 house red wine is 7/10. As the space is partly open to the sky, there are a couple of different heating options during winter, including IR heating bars. Recommended on all fronts (bookstore, cafe and bar/venue).
