Melbourne’s CBD is a bustling hub of culture, commerce, and cuisine, renowned for its exceptional coffee and vibrant cafe scene. As the city continues to grow and evolve, so does its array of trendy and unique cafes. Whether you’re a local looking to explore new spots or a visitor eager to experience Melbourne’s renowned coffee culture, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best new cafes in Melbourne’s CBD.
Manchester Press
8 Rankins Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tucked away in a laneway, Manchester Press is a hidden gem known for its laid-back vibe and artisanal coffee. The cafe occupies a converted warehouse space, featuring high ceilings, rustic decor, and eclectic artwork. Their coffee is sourced from local roasters, and the baristas are skilled in crafting perfect brews. Manchester Press is also famous for its bagels, offering a range of sweet and savoury options that pair perfectly with their coffee.
Hardware Société
10 Katherine Place, Melbourne VIC 3000
An extension of the beloved Hardware Société in Hardware Street, this new location brings the same French-inspired charm and culinary excellence to the west end of the CBD. The bright, airy space is adorned with floral arrangements and chic decor, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a blend of classic French dishes and modern Australian cuisine, with highlights like their decadent baked eggs and gourmet pastries. The coffee, sourced from premium beans, is expertly brewed to complement the exquisite dishes.
Patricia Coffee Brewers
493-495 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Despite its unassuming facade, Patricia Coffee Brewers has quickly become a favourite among Melbourne’s coffee aficionados. The minimalist space, standing-room-only concept, and focus on quality over quantity make it a unique spot. Patricia sources its beans from top local roasters and offers a concise menu of espresso-based drinks and pour-overs. Their dedication to excellence ensures that every cup of coffee is a masterpiece. Don’t forget to try their freshly baked pastries, which are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Higher Ground
650 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Housed in a stunning heritage-listed building, Higher Ground offers a cafe experience like no other. The grand, multi-level space features lush greenery, industrial-chic decor, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the area with natural light. The menu is a fusion of modern Australian and international flavours, with dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Their specialty coffee, sourced from local roasters, is brewed to perfection, making Higher Ground a must-visit for both its ambiance and culinary delights.
The League of Honest Coffee
8 Exploration Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
A part of the Proud Mary Coffee family, The League of Honest Coffee lives up to its name by delivering exceptional brews with integrity. The sleek, contemporary space is designed for coffee enthusiasts, with a focus on quality and sustainability. The cafe offers a rotating selection of single-origin coffees, meticulously brewed to highlight their unique flavours. In addition to their coffee, The League of Honest Coffee serves a variety of delicious breakfast and lunch options, making it a great spot for a leisurely meal or a quick coffee break.
Rustica Sourdough
35 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Known for its artisanal bread and pastries, Rustica Sourdough’s new CBD location brings their bakery delights to the heart of Melbourne. The bright, welcoming space features an open kitchen where you can watch the skilled bakers at work. The menu offers a range of fresh, house-made pastries, bread, and cakes, as well as hearty breakfast and lunch options. Their coffee, sourced from local roasters, is expertly brewed and pairs perfectly with their baked goods. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick pastry or a leisurely brunch, Rustica Sourdough is sure to impress.
Aunty Peg’s
200 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
While technically just outside the CBD in Collingwood, Aunty Peg’s is worth the short trip for coffee lovers. Operated by Proud Mary Coffee, this cafe and roastery offers a unique, immersive coffee experience. The industrial-chic space features an open roastery, cupping room, and coffee bar, allowing visitors to see and learn about the coffee-making process. Aunty Peg’s offers a range of single-origin coffees, expertly brewed by knowledgeable baristas. The cafe also serves a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a great spot for a coffee break or a casual meeting.
Industry Beans
345 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Industry Beans’ new CBD location brings their innovative approach to coffee and food to the heart of Melbourne. The sleek, modern space features an open bar and kitchen, allowing visitors to see the meticulous preparation of their food and coffee. Industry Beans offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, including their signature cold brew and pour-over options. The menu features a variety of creative dishes, from avocado toast with a twist to unique, seasonal salads. Their commitment to quality and innovation makes Industry Beans a standout in Melbourne’s cafe scene.
Mörk Chocolate Brew House
150 Errol Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
For those with a sweet tooth, Mörk Chocolate Brew House offers a delightful escape. Located just outside the CBD in North Melbourne, this specialty cafe is dedicated to all things chocolate. The cozy, minimalist space is perfect for enjoying their range of chocolate drinks, from classic hot chocolates to more adventurous concoctions like the Campfire Chocolate, complete with smoked marshmallow. Mörk also offers a selection of pastries and light bites, all crafted to complement their chocolate offerings. It’s a must-visit for chocolate lovers and anyone looking for a cozy, indulgent treat.
Small Batch Roasting Co.
3/1-3 Rankins Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Small Batch Roasting Co. is a hidden gem in Melbourne’s CBD, offering a unique coffee experience in a cozy, intimate setting. The cafe is known for its exceptional coffee, sourced from sustainable farms and roasted in-house. The minimalist decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot to unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee. Small Batch’s menu features a range of espresso-based drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews, all brewed to perfection. Pair your coffee with one of their freshly baked pastries or light bites for a satisfying treat.
The Kettle Black
50 Albert Road, South Melbourne VIC 3205
While technically located in South Melbourne, The Kettle Black is just a short tram ride from the CBD and well worth the visit. Housed in a stunning Victorian terrace, this cafe offers a blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication. The menu features a range of innovative dishes, from ricotta hotcakes to lobster rolls, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The coffee, sourced from specialty roasters, is expertly brewed to complement the exquisite food. With its beautiful setting and delicious offerings, The Kettle Black is a must-visit for any cafe enthusiast.
Brother Baba Budan
359 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
A beloved institution in Melbourne’s coffee scene, Brother Baba Budan has recently undergone a refresh, making it one of the best new spots in the CBD. The cozy, eclectic space features hanging chairs and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee. Brother Baba Budan offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, including their signature espresso and pour-over options. The cafe also serves a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a great spot for a quick coffee break or a leisurely chat with friends.
Axil Coffee Roasters
322 Burwood Road, Hawthorn VIC 3122
While their flagship store is located in Hawthorn, Axil Coffee Roasters’ new CBD location brings their exceptional coffee to the heart of Melbourne. The sleek, modern space features an open bar and plenty of seating, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. Axil Coffee Roasters offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, from classic espresso to innovative cold brews. The menu also features a variety of delicious breakfast and lunch options, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With their commitment to quality and sustainability, Axil Coffee Roasters is a standout in Melbourne’s cafe scene.
Market Lane Coffee
109-111 Therry Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Market Lane Coffee is a staple in Melbourne’s coffee scene, known for its dedication to quality and sustainability. Their new CBD location brings the same exceptional coffee and minimalist aesthetic to the heart of the city. The cafe offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, including espresso, pour-over, and cold brew options, all made with beans sourced from ethical farms. The menu also features a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a great spot for a quick coffee break or a leisurely chat. Market Lane Coffee’s commitment to quality and sustainability makes it a must-visit for any coffee enthusiast.
Manchester Press
8 Rankins Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tucked away in a laneway, Manchester Press is a hidden gem known for its laid-back vibe and artisanal coffee. The cafe occupies a converted warehouse space, featuring high ceilings, rustic decor, and eclectic artwork. Their coffee is sourced from local roasters, and the baristas are skilled in crafting perfect brews. Manchester Press is also famous for its bagels, offering a range of sweet and savoury options that pair perfectly with their coffee.
Hardware Société
10 Katherine Place, Melbourne VIC 3000
An extension of the beloved Hardware Société in Hardware Street, this new location brings the same French-inspired charm and culinary excellence to the west end of the CBD. The bright, airy space is adorned with floral arrangements and chic decor, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a blend of classic French dishes and modern Australian cuisine, with highlights like their decadent baked eggs and gourmet pastries. The coffee, sourced from premium beans, is expertly brewed to complement the exquisite dishes.
Patricia Coffee Brewers
493-495 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Despite its unassuming facade, Patricia Coffee Brewers has quickly become a favourite among Melbourne’s coffee aficionados. The minimalist space, standing-room-only concept, and focus on quality over quantity make it a unique spot. Patricia sources its beans from top local roasters and offers a concise menu of espresso-based drinks and pour-overs. Their dedication to excellence ensures that every cup of coffee is a masterpiece. Don’t forget to try their freshly baked pastries, which are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Higher Ground
650 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Housed in a stunning heritage-listed building, Higher Ground offers a cafe experience like no other. The grand, multi-level space features lush greenery, industrial-chic decor, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the area with natural light. The menu is a fusion of modern Australian and international flavours, with dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Their specialty coffee, sourced from local roasters, is brewed to perfection, making Higher Ground a must-visit for both its ambiance and culinary delights.
The League of Honest Coffee
8 Exploration Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
A part of the Proud Mary Coffee family, The League of Honest Coffee lives up to its name by delivering exceptional brews with integrity. The sleek, contemporary space is designed for coffee enthusiasts, with a focus on quality and sustainability. The cafe offers a rotating selection of single-origin coffees, meticulously brewed to highlight their unique flavours. In addition to their coffee, The League of Honest Coffee serves a variety of delicious breakfast and lunch options, making it a great spot for a leisurely meal or a quick coffee break.
Rustica Sourdough
35 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Known for its artisanal bread and pastries, Rustica Sourdough’s new CBD location brings their bakery delights to the heart of Melbourne. The bright, welcoming space features an open kitchen where you can watch the skilled bakers at work. The menu offers a range of fresh, house-made pastries, bread, and cakes, as well as hearty breakfast and lunch options. Their coffee, sourced from local roasters, is expertly brewed and pairs perfectly with their baked goods. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick pastry or a leisurely brunch, Rustica Sourdough is sure to impress.
Aunty Peg’s
200 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
While technically just outside the CBD in Collingwood, Aunty Peg’s is worth the short trip for coffee lovers. Operated by Proud Mary Coffee, this cafe and roastery offers a unique, immersive coffee experience. The industrial-chic space features an open roastery, cupping room, and coffee bar, allowing visitors to see and learn about the coffee-making process. Aunty Peg’s offers a range of single-origin coffees, expertly brewed by knowledgeable baristas. The cafe also serves a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a great spot for a coffee break or a casual meeting.
Industry Beans
345 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Industry Beans’ new CBD location brings their innovative approach to coffee and food to the heart of Melbourne. The sleek, modern space features an open bar and kitchen, allowing visitors to see the meticulous preparation of their food and coffee. Industry Beans offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, including their signature cold brew and pour-over options. The menu features a variety of creative dishes, from avocado toast with a twist to unique, seasonal salads. Their commitment to quality and innovation makes Industry Beans a standout in Melbourne’s cafe scene.
Mörk Chocolate Brew House
150 Errol Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
For those with a sweet tooth, Mörk Chocolate Brew House offers a delightful escape. Located just outside the CBD in North Melbourne, this specialty cafe is dedicated to all things chocolate. The cozy, minimalist space is perfect for enjoying their range of chocolate drinks, from classic hot chocolates to more adventurous concoctions like the Campfire Chocolate, complete with smoked marshmallow. Mörk also offers a selection of pastries and light bites, all crafted to complement their chocolate offerings. It’s a must-visit for chocolate lovers and anyone looking for a cozy, indulgent treat.
Small Batch Roasting Co.
3/1-3 Rankins Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Small Batch Roasting Co. is a hidden gem in Melbourne’s CBD, offering a unique coffee experience in a cozy, intimate setting. The cafe is known for its exceptional coffee, sourced from sustainable farms and roasted in-house. The minimalist decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot to unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee. Small Batch’s menu features a range of espresso-based drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews, all brewed to perfection. Pair your coffee with one of their freshly baked pastries or light bites for a satisfying treat.
The Kettle Black
50 Albert Road, South Melbourne VIC 3205
While technically located in South Melbourne, The Kettle Black is just a short tram ride from the CBD and well worth the visit. Housed in a stunning Victorian terrace, this cafe offers a blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication. The menu features a range of innovative dishes, from ricotta hotcakes to lobster rolls, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The coffee, sourced from specialty roasters, is expertly brewed to complement the exquisite food. With its beautiful setting and delicious offerings, The Kettle Black is a must-visit for any cafe enthusiast.
Brother Baba Budan
359 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
A beloved institution in Melbourne’s coffee scene, Brother Baba Budan has recently undergone a refresh, making it one of the best new spots in the CBD. The cozy, eclectic space features hanging chairs and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee. Brother Baba Budan offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, including their signature espresso and pour-over options. The cafe also serves a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a great spot for a quick coffee break or a leisurely chat with friends.
Axil Coffee Roasters
322 Burwood Road, Hawthorn VIC 3122
While their flagship store is located in Hawthorn, Axil Coffee Roasters’ new CBD location brings their exceptional coffee to the heart of Melbourne. The sleek, modern space features an open bar and plenty of seating, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. Axil Coffee Roasters offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, from classic espresso to innovative cold brews. The menu also features a variety of delicious breakfast and lunch options, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With their commitment to quality and sustainability, Axil Coffee Roasters is a standout in Melbourne’s cafe scene.
Market Lane Coffee
109-111 Therry Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Market Lane Coffee is a staple in Melbourne’s coffee scene, known for its dedication to quality and sustainability. Their new CBD location brings the same exceptional coffee and minimalist aesthetic to the heart of the city. The cafe offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, including espresso, pour-over, and cold brew options, all made with beans sourced from ethical farms. The menu also features a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a great spot for a quick coffee break or a leisurely chat. Market Lane Coffee’s commitment to quality and sustainability makes it a must-visit for any coffee enthusiast.
