Coffee lovers’ guide to the best cafés in Melbourne

Melbourne is famous for its vibrant coffee culture, and for good reason. The city is packed with top-notch cafés serving up some of the best brews in the world, from smooth flat whites to bold espressos.

In this guide, Pure Coffee Vibes will take you through the best cafés in Melbourne for 2025, each offering something unique—from world-class coffee to stunning interiors and delicious brunch menus.

1. Proud Mary – Collingwood

Address: 172 Oxford St, Collingwood VIC 3066

Ranked among the best coffee shops in the world, Proud Mary is a must-visit for serious coffee drinkers. Known for its direct-trade coffee beans and expert baristas, this café serves everything from smooth filter coffee to rich espresso blends.

What to Try: The batch brew

2. St. ALi – South Melbourne

Address: 18 Yarra Pl, South Melbourne VIC 3205

St. ALi is one of Melbourne’s most iconic coffee spots. With a strong focus on sustainably sourced coffee and in-house roasting, this café offers a buzzing atmosphere that attracts both coffee aficionados and brunch lovers.

Read a review of St. ALi’s here on Tofu V Travels.

What to Try: Their signature espresso blend, the “Sweet Maria”

3. Industry Beans – Fitzroy

Address: 70-76 Westgarth St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

Set in a modern warehouse space, Industry Beans blends innovation with top-tier coffee. They offer a variety of unique brewing methods, including cold drip and pour-over, making it a great spot for those who appreciate specialty coffee.

What to Try: The Fitzroy Iced coffee—a delicious mix of cold brew, coffee-soaked tapioca pearls, and house-made almond milk.

4. Patricia Coffee Brewers – CBD

Address: 493-495 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

A hidden gem in the heart of the city, Patricia Coffee Brewers is standing-room only, but don’t let that stop you. This small café focuses solely on delivering high-quality espresso and filter coffee, making it a favorite among city workers and coffee purists.

What to Try: A simple yet perfect long black or flat white.

5. Brother Baba Budan – CBD

Address: 359 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Part of the Seven Seeds Coffee Roasters family, Brother Baba Budan is a quirky, cozy café known for its ceiling covered in hanging chairs and excellent espresso.

What to Try: A classic cappuccino or single-origin espresso.

6. Dukes Coffee Roasters – CBD

Address: 247 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

Dukes Coffee Roasters is serious about sustainability. They source and roast their beans with an emphasis on ethical practices while still delivering some of the best coffee in Melbourne.

What to Try: A house-blend latte paired with one of their fresh pastries.

7. Axil Coffee Roasters – Multiple Locations

Address: 322 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122 (Flagship)

With several locations around Melbourne, Axil Coffee Roasters is known for their consistent, high-quality coffee and friendly service. The flagship café in Hawthorn is a great place to enjoy a relaxed brunch with an excellent brew.

What to Try: A piccolo latte and their famous fried chicken waffles.

8. Aunty Peg’s – Collingwood

Address: 200 Wellington St, Collingwood VIC 3066

Aunty Peg’s, operated by Proud Mary Coffee, is more than just a café—it’s an experience. There’s no milk or sugar here—just pure, unadulterated coffee brewed to perfection. Perfect for coffee geeks who love trying new single-origin varieties.

What to Try: A black filter coffee or a tasting flight to sample multiple brews.

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