SITE PARTNER:  

John Mills Himself Cafe

Brisbane Cbd

Updated: May 16, 2024

John Mills Himself would no doubt have happily patronized the tiny café nestled in the base of the curiously titled heritage listed building that bears his name.

John Mills Himself building facade in Brisbane's CBD

The early 20th century printer and stationer had John Mills Himself carved onto the top of the building - one of the Charlotte St Group of warehouses - after splitting from his business partner and proceeded to rent out its nooks and crannies to a variety of occupants. Today the Charlotte St frontage is home to iconic city bookshop Archives Books while the charming brick walled café, a joint effort between Street Food Australia and Bunker, is accessed via Elizabeth St.

Flat white coffe in cup served by John Mills Himself Cafe Bar

Take the driveway under the ATO building to find this city gem, and pull up a stool at the counter or by the piano for one of the best coffees in the CBD, tea, hot chocolate or cool drink and a delicious friand, pastry, muffin or cookie.

Stools against stripped brick wall inside John Mills Himself Cafe Bar

Good to know – John Mills Himself Café Bar is not just a cool space, but one with high green and ethical cred - everything here is sourced locally or as nearby as possible and no person, animal or tree was harmed in the process.  And in a rare and happy coincidence the building’s current owner is into both heritage building and wildlife protection (she happens to be head of the Koala Foundation whose offices are in the building).

Piano against red brick wall inside John Mills Himself Cafe Bar in Brisbane

More of the best coffee spots in Brisbane CBD HERE

John Mills Himself  Café

Down the Laneway

55 Elizabeth St

Brisbane

Opening Hours

Licensed

Map

55 Elizabeth St Brisbane

Top Things To Do In Brisbane This Week

World Press Photo Exhibition celebrates 70 years of the world’s most important photojournalism
Clancestry returns to QPAC with jam-packed program
The Visitors is part of Clancestry, a celebration of identity and connection.
A musical party celebrating Maurice Ravel's 150th birthday
The annual James Street Food & Wine Trail returns for a fabulous foodie day out
Stage is set for monsters, mayhem & music mash-ups in this world premiere
Wata is part of Clancestry, a celebration of identity and connection.
GreazeFest is back for 3 huge days of music, cars and kulture!
Illume is part of Clancestry, a celebration of identity and connection
EDITOR'S PICK

Brisbane Open House

Take a peek inside some of Brisbane’s most prominent buildings for free when Brisbane Open House returns for a weekend to remember
Brisbane Open House 2025
THIS WEEKEND

Top Things to Do Jul 18-20

From Anywhere Festival, Brisbane Open House, mega careers expo, World Press Photo and Qld's quirkiest winter festival to a new artisan bakery & two new Japanese restaurants
This Weekend Jul 18-20
COMING UP

What's On in August in Brisbane

From a mega food & wine festival, CLANCESTRY, a bacon fest, decadent cabaret and Greazefest, the top things to do around Brisbane in August:
Wjat's on in August
EDITOR'S DINING PICK

Sokyo

Renowned for its traditional Japanese cooking techniques, Sokyo delivers unexpected twists to the dining experience, where ritual meets art
Sokyo
MUST DO FAMILY HOLIDAY

Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Wake up to comfort, style, and a delicious breakfast with BIG4's Bed and Breakfast package! Whether it's a romantic escape, family fun, or a solo recharge, it's the perfect way to unwind
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
La Boite's new high octane comedy
CONTENT RESUMES ON SCROLL
ADVERTISEMENT