Shopping is hungry work. Spending all day on your feet, trying things on, making tough decisions — it’s little wonder some people consider shopping a sport. Lucky for you, a delicious morsel to refuel with is never far away at the Strand Arcade. There are coffee spots for kicking the day off properly, cafes for the mid-morning pick-me-ups, eateries to replenish your energy come lunchtime, and when you’re ready to call it a day, moody wine bars for a glass of something delicious.

If you’re looking for a place to rest weary feet and grab a bite on your next shopping expedition, we’ve got you covered. Here, we round up the spots to stop at the Strand Arcade to hit the spot, no matter what you’re feeling.

To start the day: Gumption, Ground Level

When a cafe or a restaurant has a niche — maybe it’s seafood, or pasta, or in Gumption’s case, coffee — it’s always reassuring. It’s a sign that they’ve committed themselves to perfecting just one thing, so you can bet it’s going to be pretty good. Gumption have done just that with coffee, sourcing and roasting their own beans and brewing it to perfection at their Strand Arcade outpost. Start the day with a strong and creamy coffee there to hold you in good stead throughout your shopping endeavours.

For a mid-morning treat: Black and White Espresso, Ground Level

If you’ve ever laid eyes on a Butterboy cookie, you’ll know they’re the very definition of indulgent. Thick mounds of buttery cookie dough, studded with chunks of chocolate or nuts

or pockets of caramel. They’re serious business and are perfect for sharing — head to Black and White Espresso with your shopping companion and split one over a cup of coffee.

For a delicious lunch: Romolo Espresso e Cucina, Ground Level

If there’s one thing that can summon a second wind when shopping, it’s a hearty bowl of pasta. For that, leave it with Romolo Espresso e Cucina. Inspired by modern Italian dining culture, Romolo is turning out Australian takes on Italian classics all day long. Their slow-cooked lamb ragu pappadelle is a crowd-pleaser for a reason, but if you’re after something lighter, try one of their salads too.

For a post-shopping trip tipple: Bottega Pendolino at The Restaurant Pendolino, Level 1

The renowned Italian eatery has been in the Strand Arcade for over 16 years, but this year they expanded their offering to include a moody wine bar at the front of the restaurant. Sit and sip on something delicious from Pendolino’s expansive wine menu, and if you’re feeling peckish, order a snack or two from the Stuzzichini, or Italian snack menu.