Ditch the usual venues in exchange for something unforgettable.
In a city where coffee culture is everything, it’s so easy to build a bond with those venues that don’t miss – they’re your local, they stock the “best” oat milk, or they know you by name. We’re not denying how important a cup of coffee can be (it kind of feels like the direction of your day hinges on it).
But when change is as good as a holiday, sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone can open the door to an entirely new experience. Dare we say, a better one?
We’ve put together a list of cafe’s that are offering something a little bit more than just a good cup of coffee. Something a bit special to entice you into venturing away from your regular morning routine. (Don’t worry, they still serve stellar brew).
West Beach Bathers Pavilion
[St Kilda West]
Built over 100 years ago as a one-stop-shop for Melbourne’s bathing population, the West Beach Bathers Pavilion now hosts beach-goers from all over for honest, fresh and tasty food and drinks. Their ethos reflects the landscape with simplicity and comfortability at the forefront. Stick your feet in the sand and enjoy an award winning coffee or stay a while with some classic fish and chippies. [VIEW]
Borsch, Vodka and Tears
[Windsor]
Take a trip to the colourful end of Chapel St and immerse yourself in this Melbourne institution. Borsch, Vodka and Tears takes all of the Polish spirit everyone loves and brings to you a triple threat venue; café, restaurant and bar. Open from 8am til late, you could spend an entire day sampling traditional Eastern European flavours until your hearts content. [VIEW]
Eat Cannoli
[Preston]
Eat Cannoli has quickly become a local staple, offering crispy cannoli shells filled with all your favourite flavours plus some. Certified by Coeliac Australia, they offer more than just their namesake, including a range of savoury foods. Whether you’re looking for on-the-day sweet fix or just wanting some of the famous cannoli shells, Eat Cannoli is one you shouldn’t miss. [VIEW]
Industry Beans
[Fitzroy]
Located on Fitzroy’s iconic Rose St lies the – also iconic – Industry Beans. You’ll quickly feel at home in this lush converted warehouse. You’ll also understand why it’s one of Melbourne’s most popular spots. Treat yourself to any of their creative brunch options or simply come to enjoy a masterfully brewed cup of joe. Whichever path you choose, you’ll leave already planning your next visit.
Now & Not Yet
[Warrandyte]
If you’re after a brekky with a side of good deeds, take the trip out to Warrandyte’s Now & Not Yet Café. It’s proudly a social enterprise that reinvests all of its profits back into community projects spanning an array of causes. The space is open, well-lit and sits on the bustling Yarra St overlooking the tree-lined river. Head there now, not later. [VIEW]
Serotonin Eatery
[Burnley]
Integrating a nourishing eatery, exercise centre and education platform, Serotonin Eatery takes a truly holistic approach to their ethos of seeking optimal health. The venue has been curated to provide a sanctuary that will ease your mood. Say hello to swings, floor-to-ceiling windows and colours that evoke happiness. You’re bound to leave with a smile on your face and a belly full of decadent, nutritious food. [VIEW]
Flovie Florist Cafe
[Carlton]
Located on Calton’s tree-lined Queensberry St lies your next favourite neighbouhood café. Flovie Florist Café offers an Asian-fusion menu, as well as unique floral arrangements. It’s a true one-stop-shop. A blend of the words flower, love and life make up the venues name, and one trip there will explain why. [VIEW]
Rudimentary
[Footscray]
Having made its home in a kitted-out shipping container, Rudimentary is the kind of venue that makes you think ‘this is Melbourne’. Serving first-class ingredients and specialty coffee, you’ll come for the novelty and be blown away by the quality. Rudimentary is a truly unique experience not to be missed. [VIEW]
Undercover Roasters HQ
[Abbotsford]
If you’re a true Melbournian/coffee connoisseur, Undercover Roasters HQ is not one to miss. Serving everything from Chemex to cold drip to your regular espresso, the caffeinated options are endless. If you’re not a coffee drinker, come for the creative breakfasts and copious greenery. It’s a true urban oasis from the hustle and bustle of Victoria Street. Don’t forget to bring your four-legged friend!
Sable
[Thornbury]
Sable is the new kid on the block, but they’ve been making big waves. Serving up an exclusively plant-based menu, you’ll find all your classic favourites – eggs, smashed avo and their staple, the loaded bagels. Swing by in the evening for a mouth-watering Italian inspired menu. Paired with local Proud Mary coffee or a classic cocktail and you’ve got all the makings for a truly memorable meal. [VIEW]
Not inspired yet?
