Melbourne, located in Victoria, Australia, offers a plethora of attractions for both tourists and residents. From picturesque beachside esplanades to bustling urban laneways, the city has something for everyone. One of Melbourne’s standout features is its extensive tram and train networks, making it convenient to explore different parts of the city. Additionally, Melbourne is known for its dog-friendly cafes, allowing visitors to enjoy a cup of coffee with their furry friends.
However, what truly sets Melbourne apart is its reputation for exceptional coffee. Whether you’re in need of a quick pick-me-up before heading to a gallery or looking to indulge in a leisurely meal while catching up on the news, Melbourne’s cafes have you covered. To ensure you have the best coffee experience possible, we’ve curated a list of the city’s top cafes. Rest assured that these recommendations come from a local resident who is a passionate coffee enthusiast, so you can trust that your coffee cravings will be satisfied.
Auction Rooms
103-107 Errol St, North Melbourne VIC 3051, Australia
Errol Street, located in the lively neighborhood of North Melbourne, is a bustling and diverse area that can be easily reached by tram. Upon arriving, you’ll quickly understand why this venue is a must-visit. Auction Rooms, situated in a renovated warehouse that previously served as an auction house, offers an unforgettable experience.
At Auction Rooms, you can expect top-notch coffee that is sure to delight. The café prides itself on serving high-quality brews that are expertly crafted by their skilled baristas. But Auction Rooms isn’t just about coffee. They also offer a meticulously curated menu that showcases a variety of delectable dishes. From mouthwatering chorizo scrambled eggs to indulgent black rice pudding and fresh seasonal salads, their menu is bound to satisfy a range of taste preferences.
Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast looking for a perfect cup of joe or a food lover in search of a delicious meal, Auction Rooms is the place to be. Its unique setting and exceptional offerings make it a standout spot in Melbourne’s thriving culinary scene.
Little Rogue
12 Drewery Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Little Rogue, situated in Drewery Lane within Melbourne’s renowned laneways, is a cafe that stands out from the crowd. Drawing inspiration from Japanese and Korean influences, this unique establishment offers a coffee experience that is second to none. At Little Rogue, they take pride in serving small-batch roasted coffee sourced from Shamble Coffee Roasters, ensuring each cup is of the highest quality. In addition to their regular offerings, they also feature special-import blends and single-origin coffees from Manhattan Coffee Roasters, based in the Netherlands.
When you step into Little Rogue, you’ll notice that it deviates from the typical sprawling style of chain coffee shops. Instead, there is a well-curated blend of stools and bar seating, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for solo visits and appeals to coffee enthusiasts who appreciate attention to detail.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat to complement your latte, you’ll be delighted to know that Bakemono Bakers is just a stone’s throw away. With a tempting array of baked goodies on offer, you can select the perfect accompaniment to enjoy alongside your perfectly crafted coffee.
Little Rogue is a destination that caters to the discerning coffee lover. Its prime location in Melbourne’s laneways, combined with its dedication to quality coffee and delightful baked treats, makes it an ideal spot to indulge in a memorable coffee experience.
Red Bean Coffee
121 Plenty Rd, Melbourne VIC 3072, Australia
Red Bean Coffee, located in the northern suburb of Preston, Melbourne, is a cafe that offers a truly unique experience. What sets it apart is its on-site roastery, which adds an extra level of authenticity and freshness to its coffee offerings. The founders and hands-on managers, Lou and Laura, initially started this roastery-cafe hybrid while living in the nearby suburb of Thornbury. Their sole motivation was to share their passion for ethically-sourced and carefully roasted coffee, along with homemade food, with the local community.
At Red Bean Coffee, you’ll find a small and dedicated team who are passionate about what they do. They take great pride in curating a diverse range of coffee options to suit different tastes. Additionally, they offer a variety of coffee accessories for sale, allowing coffee enthusiasts to enhance their brewing experience at home.
Visiting this local favorite is more than just a quick stop. It’s an experience to be savored. Take the time to browse through their range of products, indulge in their carefully crafted coffee, and enjoy some delicious homemade food. Red Bean Coffee provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that encourages you to immerse yourself in the world of coffee. Whether you choose to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon there, you’ll undoubtedly leave feeling uplifted and satisfied.
St Edmonds
154 Greville St, Prahran VIC 3181, Australia
Established in 2011, St Edmonds is a Melbourne cafe that has managed to preserve its vibrant and effortlessly cool atmosphere despite changing ownership over the years. Housed in a graffiti-covered, blocky building that was originally a garage, the cafe exudes an industrial charm with its polished concrete floors and spacious open interior.
When the sun is shining, the courtyard at St Edmonds provides a wonderful spot to enjoy your meal and is also welcoming to our four-legged friends, making it a dog-friendly destination. The menu at St Edmonds changes with the seasons, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients are used. While their offerings may evolve, one thing you shouldn’t miss is their selection of raw and vegan desserts. These delectable treats are a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
St Edmonds offers more than just great food and drinks; it provides an experience. The combination of its unique setting, ever-changing menu, and dedication to delicious treats makes it a go-to spot for those seeking a buzzing and fashionable cafe experience in Melbourne.
South of Johnston
46 Oxford St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia
Nestled in the quiet backstreets of Collingwood, South of Johnston (S.O.J) offers a tranquil escape from the bustling energy of nearby Smith Street. Located in close proximity to residential areas, this modern and spacious cafe blends seamlessly into its surroundings, making it a hidden gem cherished by locals.
While unassuming from the outside, S.O.J’s true charm lies within its walls. The cafe attracts a predominantly local crowd who appreciate its relaxed atmosphere and inviting ambiance. Whether you have a penchant for delectable sweets or a craving for a classic Melbourne dish, S.O.J has something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in a generous serving of blueberry pancakes or opt for the ever-popular crushed avocado on toast, complemented by marinated feta, heirloom tomato salsa, and a sprinkle of dukkah.
When it comes to beverages, S.O.J excels in offering a delightful range of options. For those with a penchant for cold brew, their fantastic rendition is not to be missed. However, traditionalists seeking a more classic coffee experience will appreciate the single-origin filter brew on offer.
S.O.J is a haven for locals and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Collingwood. With its unpretentious charm, mouthwatering dishes, and a selection of exceptional coffee options, it is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant food culture of Melbourne.
Monk Bodhi Dharma
Rear, 202 Carlisle St, Balaclava VIC 3183, Australia
What you’ve described is indeed quintessentially Melbourne—a cafe that’s a hidden gem, known mostly to locals, and offers a unique and cozy experience. While it may be a challenge to find on the first visit, the reward is well worth the effort.
To locate this elusive cafe, you’ll need to seek out the alleyway entrance to the left of the Woolworths supermarket and bravely make your way up. Once you reach your destination, you’ll discover one of Melbourne’s finest and most inviting cafes.
What sets this cafe apart is its all-vegan menu, catering to those with dietary preferences or a love for plant-based cuisine. Indulge in the deliciousness of banana pancakes adorned with dulce de leche ice cream and maple syrup—an absolute treat for the taste buds. Alternatively, the toastie—a pan-fried potato delight with homemade chili mayo, roquette, and pickles—promises to satisfy your savory cravings.
When it comes to coffee, this cafe takes pride in its own roastery, ensuring the beans are of the highest quality. The staff are knowledgeable about the origins and stories behind their coffee offerings, making them a great resource if you’re inclined to delve deeper into your coffee experience.
This Melbourne cafe encapsulates the city’s spirit of culinary exploration and dedication to diverse dietary preferences. From its hidden location to its delicious vegan fare and top-notch coffee, it offers an experience that is uniquely Melbourne and sure to delight both locals and those lucky enough to stumble upon it.
Axil Coffee Roasters
322 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122, Australia
Axil Coffee Roasters is a renowned coffee chain in Melbourne, and their flagship venue located in Hawthorn stands out for its impressive interior aesthetic. The space is light, spacious, and exudes a glamorous Euro-chic vibe, providing a beautiful setting to enjoy your coffee experience.
Open seven days a week (with slightly shorter hours on Sundays), Axil not only serves its own expertly roasted coffee beans but also offers barista training for those interested in refining their coffee-making skills. Additionally, they have a selection of coffee machines and home equipment available for purchase, catering to coffee enthusiasts who want to bring the Axil experience to their own homes.
Visiting Axil is not only about enjoying a cup of coffee; it’s an opportunity to broaden your coffee knowledge. Even if you walk in with no prior understanding of coffee, their knowledgeable staff will guide you through the world of coffee, ensuring that you leave with a newfound appreciation for single-origin beans and the distinct flavor profiles of regions such as Colombia and Panama.
Once you’ve settled in, nourish yourself with their tempting menu options like the baked eggs accompanied by dukkah, spiced pepernata, feta, and grainy toast. As for your coffee choice, you’ll be spoiled for options. Whether you prefer a short macchiato, batch brew, cold drip, or the unique New Orleans Cold Brew with chicory root, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, and milk, you’re sure to find the perfect cup to suit your taste.
Axil Coffee Roasters in Hawthorn delivers an all-encompassing coffee experience. With its refined interior, exceptional coffee offerings, and delectable food menu, it is a destination that promises to leave you impressed and inspired by the artistry of coffee.
Dukes Coffee at Ross House
247 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Dukes Coffee, established in 2013, has made sourcing and roasting organic coffee its primary focus. A decade later, it remains a beloved destination to observe the vibrant energy of Melbourne through its expansive windows. Situated in the bustling Flinders Lane, this cafe attracts an eclectic crowd of local creatives, retail staff, students, and residents, creating a lively atmosphere.
At Dukes Coffee, ethical trading is a priority. They carefully select each lot of coffee, ensuring it comes from individual farms or small cooperatives. The traceability of their coffee goes down to the farm level, reflecting their commitment to transparency and supporting sustainable practices.
While coffee is the star of the show at Dukes, they also offer a small menu to accompany their exceptional brews. Freshly sourced pastries are available for both dine-in and takeout, providing the perfect accompaniment to your coffee experience.
For those who enjoy a strong and intense coffee, the pure black Dukes signature blend is sure to please. However, if you prefer a milky latte or any other coffee variation, the accommodating staff are more than happy to tailor your order to your preferences.
Dukes Coffee is not just a place to grab a cup of coffee; it’s a hub for the community. With its commitment to ethical sourcing, outstanding baristas, and a diverse customer base, it embodies the vibrant and inclusive spirit of Melbourne’s coffee culture.