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Her Cafe
Her Cafe is a warm little spot known for its homemade cakes, fresh pastries, and consistently good coffee. The vibe here leans cozy and cheerful, making it a reliable pick for a quiet solo stop or a quick break before a stroll through Carlton Gardens. Locals pop in for their chai lattes and light meals, but it’s the gentle service and sweet, homey atmosphere that make this place linger in your memory.
Good Measure
Right on lively Lygon Street, Good Measure brings a cool, laid-back edge to the neighbourhood’s café scene. It’s the kind of spot that feels both relaxed and sharp, with smooth coffee, a playlist that leans more indie than mainstream, and a menu full of unexpected treats like matcha cheesecake and ramen eggs.
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Cafe Tre Sette
Cafe Tre Sette on Bouverie Street is a quiet achiever. This family-run spot delivers hearty sandwiches, strong coffee, and a sense of community that’s easy to appreciate. The vibe is casual but thoughtful, making it a solid choice whether you're meeting someone for a chat or settling in with your laptop.
Seven Seeds Coffee Roasters
A staple for Melbourne coffee lovers, Seven Seeds has been setting the bar high since 2007. Housed in a converted warehouse on Berkeley Street, it’s got just the right amount of industrial charm without feeling cold. Their coffee is roasted in-house, and you’ll often see regulars coming in for their morning brew or to stock up on beans.
Soul Soul Cafe
Soul Soul Cafe feels like a little escape tucked into Victoria Street. The menu is colourful and playful—think charcoal buns, chili scrambled eggs, and crispy chicken waffles—while the mood is always upbeat. Their bottomless brunch is a draw for groups, but even solo, you’ll feel welcomed by the friendly staff and thoughtful service.
Coffee On Drummond
This family-run gem brings a dose of warmth to Drummond Street. It’s nothing fancy, but that’s exactly the appeal—fresh croissants, breakfast buns, matcha lattes, and simple, satisfying service. Whether you’re taking a quick break, working through your morning routine, or grabbing a bite before the day starts, Coffee on Drummond does it all with a quiet, steady hand.
Rathdowne & Reeves Cafe
Set under leafy trees on Rathdowne Street, this is one of those cafés that feels like it’s been there forever in the best way. The staff know their regulars by name, and the portions are generous without being over the top. The menu is solid, and the atmosphere lends itself to slow mornings or casual catchups.
Mid Square Coffee
Mid Square is a compact café with big charm. Sitting on Pelham Street, it’s close to everything but just far enough away from the bustle to offer a bit of breathing space. The hojicha and almond croissants are local favourites, and their chicken sandwich gets regular mentions too. The interiors are neat and modern, with just enough seating for those looking to stay a while.
Market Lane Coffee - Carlton
Market Lane’s Carlton outpost offers a reliably polished coffee experience, just as you’d expect from one of Melbourne’s best-loved roasters. Their lattes, especially with oat milk, hit the mark every time, and while seating can be limited, the vibe is always pleasant. It’s the kind of place where everything is intentional, from the carefully sourced beans to the simple but sharp interior.
Warung Coffee
Warung Coffee feels like that spot you stumble upon and end up visiting again and again. Tucked along Chapel Street, it has a cozy vibe with friendly faces behind the counter and a small menu that punches well above its weight. The pulled beef rendang sandwich is a standout. Pair it with a smooth coconut latte and you’re set.
Coffee Geek Brewers
Coffee Geek Brewers is one of those rare places that hits all the right notes. The interiors are sleek, and the baristas know their stuff. Whether you're after a quick espresso or want to linger with a long black and banana bread, there’s a quiet comfort to this space. The locals come for the consistency, and the staff’s genuine charm doesn’t hurt either. Great for a solo coffee break or casual meet-up.
Minnow Cafe
Minnow feels like a splash of calm in South Yarra. Their menu leans playful, with lattes in sea salt, rose, or hazelnut-coconut taking the spotlight. It’s a compact space, but warm and full of character. The hand-drawn menu and friendly service make it feel more like someone’s charming kitchen than a commercial café.
Meet Forest
If you’re into matcha, Meet Forest is a must. This little Japanese-inspired café serves all the green tea things, and they do them well. The vibe is gentle, almost meditative, and yes, there’s often a cute poodle around. Sweet, quiet, and full of charm, it’s perfect for a solo break with something warm in hand and a sugary bite.
Pound Cafe
Pound is a longtime Chapel Street staple, now refreshed under new ownership. It still feels familiar with exposed brick, deep green tiles, and locals reading the paper, but the food feels more thoughtful. Scrambled eggs with goat cheese are a standout. It’s a reliable spot for unpretentious brunch, with solid coffee and a relaxed atmosphere.
Leaf Lane Cafe
Hidden just off the main drag, Leaf Lane feels like a local secret. The service is easy-going and familiar, the coffee is great, and the food feels just right for a sunny courtyard brunch. If you're looking for something slow and friendly, this is it. Great for weekday quiet or a chill weekend morning with a book.
Clement Coffee
Tucked inside South Melbourne Market, Clement is a small café with a big reputation. Their flat whites are rich and smooth, with creamy milk and fine microfoam that make each sip feel just right. The baristas put real care into every cup. It’s the kind of spot where you stop for a quick market coffee and end up staying for the smell of freshly baked pastries.
Head In The Cloud Coffee
Just off Chapel Street, this welcoming café focuses on single-origin beans and carefully roasted blends. Their signature flat white is smooth with warm aromatics and a velvety mouthfeel. The barista team brings both energy and expertise, making every visit feel special, even on an ordinary weekday. It's a spot that lives up to its name: the coffee will genuinely lift your mood.
Calēre Coffee
This small Japanese-inspired café in Collingwood combines aesthetic calm with serious coffee chops. Their flat white comes under a perfectly balanced crema and microfoam layer, thanks to carefully sourced beans. Fans come back for its soft, subtly sweet bean-forward flavors and minimal interior.
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BENCH COFFEE CO. Lt Collins
Tucked into a lane off Little Collins Street, Bench nails the flat white with a Bauhaus-inspired feel. It's thoughtfully designed, with a custom espresso machine and clean interiors. The coffee hits that perfect sweet espresso tone without overpowering the palate. The place looks sharp, but it’s the warm, knowledgeable staff and sharp roast that will have you returning.
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MAKER Lt Bourke
Maker is a treasure for anyone who likes to watch the espresso magic happening live. Flat whites here are immaculate with rich, velvety steamed milk and a refined crema. Sit at the bar and soak it in while the baristas work their craft. It's approachable but refined, suited for anyone who appreciates detail in both taste and presentation.
Small Batch Roasting Co.
Hidden in a laneway, Small Batch offers flat whites that are fundamentally honest and reliably good. Their pastries and apple pie get mentioned for a reason—the coffee complements them perfectly with bright notes and a smooth finish. Outdoor seating fries up a sweet laneway scene. It’s indulgent yet not over the top, a crisp but comforting coffee vibe.
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All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription
All Rights Reserved © Per Diem Subscription