Melbourne is a city that takes its coffee seriously. From the bustling laneways of the CBD to the hip suburbs of Fitzroy and Carlton, you’ll find countless cafés serving up some of the best specialty brews in the world. As a coffee lover, I knew I had to explore Melbourne’s coffee scene and discover what makes it so special. After hopping from café to café, I found three incredible spots that every coffee enthusiast needs to visit.
1. Market Lane Coffee – The Gold Standard for Specialty Brews
My first stop was Market Lane Coffee, a name that kept popping up in every conversation about Melbourne’s best coffee. As soon as I walked in, I was struck by the minimalist yet inviting interior. The aroma of freshly ground beans filled the air, and I knew I was in for something special.
Market Lane focuses on single-origin coffee, and their dedication to quality is evident in every cup. I ordered a pour-over Ethiopian blend, and it was one of the smoothest, most flavorful coffees I’ve ever had. The delicate floral notes and bright citrusy finish made each sip a delight. Unlike many cafés that rush orders, Market Lane encourages you to slow down and savor the experience.
They also have an impressive selection of beans for home brewing, so I couldn’t resist picking up a bag of their Colombian roast to take home. If you’re looking for a café that treats coffee as an art form, Market Lane is the place to be.
📍 Location: 8 Collins Street, Melbourne
2. Patricia Coffee Brewers – Hidden Gem in the CBD
Tucked away in a quiet laneway, Patricia Coffee Brewers is easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. But once you step inside, you’ll understand why it’s one of Melbourne’s most beloved coffee spots. There are no seats here—just a standing-room-only setup where locals grab their coffee and chat with the friendly baristas.
I ordered their flat white, and it was pure perfection. The coffee was rich, velvety, and perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of milk to let the espresso shine. Their house blend had subtle chocolate and caramel notes, making each sip smooth and satisfying.
What I loved most about Patricia was the atmosphere. Despite being small, it had an energy that made me want to linger, chatting with the baristas about different brewing methods and flavor profiles. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first visit.
📍 Location: 493-495 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne
3. Aunty Peg’s – The Ultimate Coffee Experience
For those who want to go beyond just drinking coffee and truly immerse themselves in the craft, Aunty Peg’s is a must-visit. Run by the famous Proud Mary Coffee Roasters, this place is part café, part coffee education hub. They don’t serve milk or sugar here—just pure, unadulterated black coffee in all its glory.
I decided to try their tasting flight, which included three different single-origin coffees brewed using various methods. It was an eye-opening experience, showing me how different processing techniques and roasting styles impact flavor. The baristas were incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain each coffee’s unique characteristics.
Aunty Peg’s is not just a café—it’s an experience. If you’re serious about coffee, this place will deepen your appreciation for the craft and introduce you to flavors you never knew existed.
📍 Location: 200 Wellington Street, Collingwood