Melbourne’s love affair with coffee can be traced back to the 1950s when post-war Italian migrants brought espresso machines to the city. These machines revolutionised the way Australians consumed coffee, moving away from instant brews and towards authentic espresso. Italian cafes quickly became social hubs, introducing Melburnians to cappuccinos, macchiatos, and lattes.
The 1990s saw the emergence of specialty coffee as roasters and cafes began focusing on high-quality beans and artisanal brewing methods. Melbourne also became a pioneer in the "third wave coffee" movement, championing the bean-to-cup journey and ethical sourcing practices. Today, the city is considered a global coffee capital, where every corner cafe competes to offer a better cup than the last.
What makes Melbourne coffee so good?
Melbourne coffee is defined by its relentless pursuit of quality. From single-origin beans to expertly crafted espresso shots, every detail is meticulously refined. Local roasters prioritise ethically sourced beans, ensuring both sustainability and exceptional flavour.
Baristas in Melbourne are true artisans, often trained to world-class standards. Their passion is evident in the silky latte art, precise pour-over techniques, and perfectly balanced espresso shots. Melbourne’s cafes also embrace the third wave coffee movement, which emphasises transparency, sustainability, and celebrating the bean's origin and flavour profile.
Types of coffee Melbourne loves
Why not order like a local and try a "magic" (a double ristretto with steamed milk) or a "piccolo latte" (a short latte with a more robust flavour). Here are some other popular orders you'll hear in Melbourne.
Flat White
A Melbourne icon, the flat white features velvety microfoam blended seamlessly with espresso. It’s richer than a latte but smoother than a cappuccino, making it a must-try for visitors.
Long Black
The Australian take on an Americano, the long black is made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water. It’s a favourite for those who appreciate bold, rich coffee without milk.
Single-Origin Pour-Overs
Melbourne's coffee culture caters to purists with pour-over options. These brews highlight the unique characteristics of beans from specific regions, offering nuanced and complex flavour profiles.
Best neighbourhoods for coffee
Melbourne is world-renowned for its thriving coffee culture, and each neighbourhood has its own unique spots to grab an exceptional cup.
Fitzroy and Collingwood
These vibrant neighbourhoods are home to hipster cafes, innovative brews, and a creative energy that matches their artistic vibe. Expect cafes like Industry Beans and Proud Mary.
South Melbourne
The heart of Melbourne’s coffee scene, South Melbourne boasts iconic spots like St. ALi, blending world-class coffee with a buzzing atmosphere.
Carlton
Famous for its Italian heritage, Carlton is where espresso culture first took root in Melbourne. Market Lane has a location in this neighbourhood among a dozen other great options.
Melbourne CBD
The city centre is packed with top-tier cafes like Patricia Coffee Brewers and Dukes. Perfect for those wanting convenient access to Melbourne’s best coffee.
16 Best Coffee Shops in Melbourne
Here’s a curated list of the city’s best coffee shops, highlighting their location and vibe.
1. Patricia Coffee Brewers
Location: 493-495 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Since 2012, Patricia Coffee Brewers has been a standout in Melbourne’s CBD. This minimalist cafe is all about quality, with a focus on serving exceptional coffee in a compact, standing-room-only space.
2. ONA Coffee
Location: 22 Ovens St, Brunswick VIC 3056
ONA Coffee made its Melbourne debut with a flagship café in Brunswick. Renowned for its champion baristas and innovative coffee blends, ONA delivers a sensory experience that appeals to both casual drinkers and aficionados. Their focus on quality and sustainability is evident in every cup, from espresso to their famous “reserve” coffee options.
3. Pellegrini’s
Location: 66 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
An iconic institution since 1954, Pellegrini’s in Melbourne’s CBD is famous for its retro Italian decor and nostalgic atmosphere.
4. Market Lane Coffee
Location: 83-85 Victoria St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Launched in 2009, Market Lane has become synonymous with quality in Melbourne’s CBD, and operates multiple locations across Melbourne. Known for its clean, uncluttered aesthetic, the cafe reflects its dedication to sourcing premium beans.
5. St. ALi Coffee Roasters
Location: 12-18 Yarra Pl, South Melbourne VIC 3205
St. ALi is a pioneer of Melbourne’s specialty coffee scene since 2005. Housed in a trendy industrial warehouse, it offers a lively and buzzing atmosphere in the heart of South Melbourne.
6. Burnside
Location: 87 Little Malop St, Geelong VIC 3220
Burnside is a hidden gem located in Geelong, known for its minimalist decor and warm, inviting vibe. The cafe focuses on small-batch coffee roasting and quality brews.
7. Campos Coffee
Location: 572 Chapel St, South Yarra VIC 3141, Australia
Originally established in Sydney in 2002, Campos expanded to Melbourne and quickly became a staple for its signature blends.
8. Industry Beans Cafe
Location: 70-76 Westgarth St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Launched in 2010 by two brothers, Industry Beans in Fitzroy combines innovative brewing techniques with sleek, modern design. Industry Beans operates multiple locations across Melbourne.
9. Red Door Corner Store
Location: 70 Mitchell St, Northcote VIC 3070
Opened in 2009 in a converted milk bar, this Northcote cafe offers vintage-inspired decor and a homely vibe. This is a go-to spot for locals who love its laid-back atmosphere.
10. Dukes Coffee Roasters
Location: 247 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Founded in 2008, Dukes has become a beacon for ethically sourced beans and expertly crafted coffee in Melbourne’s CBD.
11. Manchester Press
Location: 8 Rankins Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Nestled in a laneway in Melbourne’s CBD, Manchester Press has been serving creative bagels and excellent coffee since 2011.
12. Vacation Coffee
Location: 1 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Located on the edge of Melbourne’s CBD, Vacation Coffee opened in 2016 and offers a bright, pastel-toned space. Its fresh and contemporary design creates a relaxed atmosphere.
13. Traveller Coffee
Location: 2 Crossley St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Opened in 2013 by the Seven Seeds team, Traveller Coffee is located in Melbourne’s theatre district. Its compact, stylish space exudes a sophisticated yet understated vibe.
14. Axil Coffee Roasters
Location: 322 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122
Founded in 2011, Axil is a local favourite in Hawthorn (and other locations) for its commitment to sustainable coffee practices.
15. Bench Coffee Co.
Location: 321 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Established in 2016, Bench Coffee is a minimalist haven in Melbourne’s CBD, offering precision-brewed espresso and filter coffee.
16. Proud Mary
Location: 172 Oxford St, Collingwood VIC 3066
Founded in 2009, Proud Mary is a pioneer in Melbourne’s specialty coffee scene. Known for its warm hospitality and dedication to sourcing high-quality beans, this Collingwood favourite offers an exceptional coffee experience.
