The Strand Arcade | Black & White Espresso Bar
Nestled in the heart of Sydney's elegant Strand Arcade, where Victorian-era grandeur meets contemporary city life with intricate cast-iron balustrades, mosaic-tiled floors, and a soaring glass roof that floods the space with natural light, Black and White Espresso stands as your quintessential hole-in-the-wall café—a cozy retreat amid the arcade's timeless charm and bustling boutiques.
Just steps from the vibrant Pitt Street Mall and surrounded by the arcade's rich history dating back to 1892 as Sydney's premier shopping haven, our intimate spot offers a welcoming escape for shoppers, locals, and visitors seeking a moment of respite. Dive into our fresh, handcrafted sandwiches like the bold Spicy Reuben with 12-hour smoked brisket; artisanal Brooklyn Boy Bagels topped with everything from smoked salmon to nutty spreads; flaky, irresistible pastries bursting with flavours like almond and custard; and decadent Butter Boy cookies that melt in your mouth—all perfectly complemented by Single O's exceptional coffees, from smooth espresso blends to aromatic single-origins.
Whether you're grabbing a quick caffeine fix between browsing luxury stores or lingering over a pastry while soaking in the arcade's sophisticated ambiance, our friendly team delivers that signature Sydney café warmth with every serve.
location
The Strand Arcade Shop 18 412-414 George Street, Sydney 2000
HOURS
Monday – Friday | 8am – 5pm
Saturday - Sunday | 8am – 5pm
*Please note the menu is subject to change and may not be the exact representation of what is offer at the cafe.
Where to find us?
THE STRAND ARCADE | Black & White Espresso
CHEF’S CHOICE - A MUST TRY ON THE MENU
The Spicy Reuben - LP’s meat 12hr smoked brisket, sauerkraut, pickles, chilli mayo and swiss cheese, served on miche sourdough
Black and White Espresso's Spicy Reuben shines as the ultimate savory standout—a bold, flavor-explosion sandwich that's captured hearts with its masterful blend of textures and tastes. Built on hearty miche sourdough, toasted to crusty perfection for that satisfying crunch, it features LP’s premium 12-hour smoked brisket, tender and richly infused with smoky depth. Layered with tangy sauerkraut for a fermented zing, crisp pickles adding a refreshing snap, creamy Swiss cheese that melts into gooey indulgence, and a kick of chilli mayo for that spicy, creamy heat, this creation elevates the classic Reuben into something irresistibly modern and mouthwatering, perfect for those craving a hearty, unforgettable bite.
Far beyond a standard sandwich, the Spicy Reuben is a culinary adventure in every slice—balancing the slow-smoked richness of the brisket with the sharp acidity of sauerkraut and pickles, all harmonized by the nutty Swiss and fiery chilli mayo on rustic sourdough that holds it all together without overpowering. Whether savored slowly or devoured on the go, it delivers pure satisfaction, making it the go-to pick for anyone seeking an authentic, elevated twist on comfort food done exceptionally well.
The Strand Arcade | AN Exquisite VicTORIAN Location
The Strand Arcade
Delve into the captivating history of The Strand Arcade, Sydney's exquisite Victorian-era shopping haven that first opened its elegant doors on 1 April 1892 as the city's premier retail destination. Designed by English architect John Spencer—who received a standing ovation for his ambitious plans in the mid-1880s—and constructed by Bignell and Clark between 1890 and 1892, it stands as the last and most ornate of five grand covered arcades built in the bustling city centre during a late 19th-century boom from 1881 to 1892. With its intricate cast-iron balustrades, mosaic-tiled floors, and soaring glass roof that bathes the space in natural light - appealing to history enthusiasts, discerning shoppers, and café patrons who value its blend of nostalgia and modern vibrancy.
A Shopping PrECINCT
Right alongside The Strand, the vibrant Pitt Street Mall pulses as Sydney's premier pedestrian shopping precinct, attracting throngs of fashion enthusiasts, bargain hunters, and city dwellers with its lineup of flagship stores, international brands, and lively street performers. As one of Australia's busiest retail strips, it buzzes with energy from morning to evening, offering everything from trendy apparel to tech gadgets—ideal for drawing in our cafe crowd, who can easily pop in for a revitalizing Single O coffee, Brooklyn Boy Bagel, or Butter Boy cookie after navigating the crowds and sales.