About Us
- Our Company
Our Story
Located in the heart of Queanbeyan on Crawford Street, Ciao Café & Cakes proudly operates from the historic Wright Building—one of the town’s oldest surviving buildings, dating back to the late 1860s. Originally owned by Mary Ann Wright, wife of Queanbeyan’s first mayor, J.J. Wright, the building has played an important role in the town’s history for more than 150 years.
Over the decades, it has been home to a bookshop, antique store and the much-loved Continental Cakes, renowned for its handcrafted European celebration cakes. Since 2012, Ciao Café & Cakes has continued that tradition, combining artisan cakes, exceptional coffee and fresh café dining in a welcoming space that celebrates both Queanbeyan’s heritage and vibrant community.
In 2022, Ciao Café & Cakes entered a new chapter under the ownership of long-time cake maker and designer Connie, together with her partner Damien, an Australian Army veteran. Building on the café’s rich history, they remain committed to handcrafted quality, exceptional customer service and supporting the local community. Today, Ciao Café & Cakes is one of the Canberra and Queanbeyan region’s leading cake specialists, producing thousands of handcrafted cakes each year while continuing to be a favourite destination for coffee, breakfast, lunch and celebrations of every kind.
More than 150 years after the Wright Building was first established, we’re proud to continue its story—welcoming locals and visitors alike with warm hospitality, exceptional coffee and handcrafted cakes made with passion.