There are plenty of places to grab a good coffee across the New England, but according to voters in Best in the New England 2026, only one café gets every part of the experience just right.
Crofters Cottage, overlooking the Australian Standing Stones in Glen Innes, has been crowned the region’s Best Coffee Shop, with customers praising not only its consistently excellent coffee, but also its homemade food, welcoming atmosphere and the passionate team behind the business.
While many cafés earn a reputation for one standout feature, Crofters Cottage received votes for almost everything it offers. Again and again, customers spoke about the quality of the coffee, the friendly service, the homemade treats and the warm welcome waiting behind the counter.
“The coffee is consistently outstanding,” Nada said.
“It’s a wonderful homely place that keeps me coming back.”
Sailom said it was the consistency that made the café stand out.
“They’re the best because every visit is consistently great,” they said.
“The coffee is excellent, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and you can tell they genuinely care about the customer experience.”
That customer-first approach was one of the strongest themes throughout the voting.
Tracey said manager Mel Bush and her staff made everyone feel welcome.
“Mel and her wonderful staff are always friendly,” she said.
“They treat regulars and visitors all the same while serving a great coffee and selection of eats.”
Leonie agreed, describing Crofters Cottage as “the true heart of our local coffee community”.
“From the moment you walk through the door, you are treated like family,” she said.
“It is so much more than just a place to grab a morning caffeine fix.”
Of course, a great coffee shop needs great coffee, and voters had plenty to say about that too.
Rebecca praised the café’s “consistently amazing coffee”, while Kirsty declared it had “the best coffee in the region, hands down”.
Justin said it was “the best coffee in New England”, while Scott praised the café for serving coffee that was “always consistent in both flavour and temperature”.
The food also attracted an enthusiastic following.
Jeanette voted for Crofters Cottage because of its “good old-fashioned home-cooked meals, great coffee and fabulous service”, while Emma singled out Mel’s homemade slices and cookies.
Katie said “nothing beats homemade”, describing the cakes and slices as “to die for”, while Gloria praised the café’s outstanding coffee, bakery selection and delicious meals.
Many voters also highlighted the café’s unique location beside the Australian Standing Stones, saying it offered one of the most relaxing places in the region to enjoy a coffee.
Beth described it as “fabulous food, fabulous staff serving great coffee… all at the iconic Australian Standing Stones”, while Cass said the outdoor seating made it her favourite place for a coffee.
Leisa said Crofters Cottage had become an important part of Glen Innes’ community life, particularly during the Australian Celtic Festival, when the café helps welcome visitors from across the country.
Others praised the range of locally made gifts and artisan products on display, saying the café had become a showcase for local makers as well as a popular meeting place for locals.
Mel Bush from Crafters Cottage thanked everyon who voted for them.
“Thank you so much! We are so proud to have this title,” she said.
” We will continue to give you the best experience possible at our little cottage everyone loves so much! Thank you all so much!”
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