What do you do when in Melbourne? You cafe-hop, stuff yourself silly with all-day brunch food, and drink as many cups of coffee as you can!

The Aussie city is a paradise for cafe lovers, and it is an addiction to cafe-hop because there will always be more good coffee for you to drink, and many more types of food for you to stuff your face in. The standards are set really high – food, drinks, decor, ambience etc. Just when you thought you might have found the best cafe, think again – is it really?

Because we promise you, you need not settle for anything less than best. Melbourne will not disappoint you with their cafe scene, and while we are still fascinated by the sheer number of options, here are our picks for the best cafes in Melbourne.

From isolated beaches, snowy mountains to stunning wineries, we have created a guide to 10 Best Road Trip Destinations from Melbourne that you will regret not visiting.

ADDICT FOOD AND COFFEE

This minimalistic space in Fitzroy is one that is both photogenic and cosy. It has a menu of all-day breakfast items, and healthy grubs for clean eating – which is precisely what we love about Addict Food And Coffee. Try the chia puddings while you are at it!

The coffee here is serious business too. There is Axil Coffee Roasters blends for the milkier coffees, and roasts from Sir Charles for the black coffee lovers. Filter coffee options are available too.

240 Johnston St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia
Tel: +61 3 9415 6420
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Johnston Street – Stop 19

AUCTION ROOMS

Auction Rooms is a beautiful and spacious cafe in North Melbourne with ample of light streaming in from the large transparent glass panels. All-day breakfast is served from 7.30am and the dishes are not your ordinary Eggs Benedict and Pancakes.

Standouts include Brûlée French Toast (A$16) with crispy pancetta, the signature Pressed Pork Shoulder (A$18) with slow poached egg and bone marrow and the popular Breakfast Board of Grilled Chorizo with croquette, soft boiled egg served with iced coffee.

103-107 Errol St, North Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9326 7749
Mon to Fri: 7am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 7.30am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Errol St/Queensberry St

BREAKFAST THIEVES

Breakfast Thieves is a beautiful spacious café that serves premium coffee (A$3.50) and splendid food. The large communal tables are great for group outings, where you and your mates can share a couple of mains. With an emphasis on fresh local goodness, all the beans used at Breakfast Thieves are hand roasted and 100% ethical.

The social blend won a silver medal at the Golden Bean awards in Espresso Category. Special weekender menu includes Ms. Omega (A$15.50); a citrus-cured ocean trout on fragrant sourdough and oozing poached eggs drenched in traditional hollandaise sauce.

Shop 1, 420 Gore St, Fitzroy
Tel: + 61 3 9416 4884
Tue to Sun: 7.30am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Keele St

BROTHER BABA BUDAN

Hipster coffee shops are aplenty in Melbourne and Brother Baba Budan is one of them. Sitting along Little Bourke Street, it is the go-to coffee outlet when you need a quick caffeine fix. We love its creative decor and how everyone from different walks of life gathers at this small space for a lovely brew.

359 Little Bourke St
Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9606 0449
Mon to Sat: 7am – 5pm
Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Londsdale St/Elizabeth St

CRABAPPLE KITCHEN

Crabapple Kitchen serves hearty breakfast items throughout the day and its menu is largely influenced by the Mediterranean. Visitors can expect an ever-changing seasonal menu that reflects the culinary team’s comprehensive travels.

Freshness and quality are guaranteed at all costs and even those with the most discerning taste buds will be satisfied with Crabapple Kitchen’s decadent dishes. Order the exotic Brazilian-inspired Shrimp and Coconut Curry (A$19) served with fried rice, mango salad and cheese bread, or dig into other exciting mains.

Do not miss out on their signature bestselling Crab Apple Sliders (A$8 for one, A$15 for two)! The palm-size baby brioche milk buns are stuffed with spanner crab, breakfast radish, Kewpie mayonnaise and mustard cress. Absolutely divine!

659 Glenferrie Road
Hawthorn VIC 3122,
Tel: +61 3 9078 5492
Daily: 7am – 5pm
Nearest Train Station: Glenferrie

CHEZ DRÉ + BIBELOT

Tucked away in a laneway near South Melbourne Market, Chez Dré has made a name for itself by dishing out French-inspired sweet and savoury all-day breakfast. It has recently split the cafe and patisserie into two separate brands.

Housed in a warehouse, Chez Dré is serving a French-inspired breakfast and lunch menu using the best local produce, while Bibelot – a new venture next door – is a patisserie, gelateria, espresso bar, chocolate shop, and high tea salon. Have breakfast at Chez Dré and head next door to Bibelot for desserts and coffee.

285-287 Coventry St, South Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9690 2688
Daily: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Nearest Tram Station: York St/Clarendon St

CUMULUS INC.

Cummulus Inc. is a sexy name. And so is the restaurant. It may not be a cafe per se, but we have included it in this guide to Melbourne’s best cafe simply because Cummulus Inc. is one of those places that is always packed – no matter what time you go. Their menu differs from breakfast to lunch to dinner, with the latter being the most extensive and expensive.

While the food is considered honest and nothing too whacky, Cumulus Inc has earned its popularity from the good vibes of its outlet – with a choice of bar seats and personal tables, it makes a good place to gather and for a comfort meal.

45 Flinders Ln, Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9650 1445
Mon to Fri: 7am – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 11pm
Nearest Tram Station: Exhibition St/Flinders St

DARLING CAFE

South Yarra is one area in Melbourne that we love for its quietness, and Darling Cafe is where we would retreat to for the best acai bowl. You would have seen the colourful bowl on your social media feeds before, and the beautiful rainbow is really Darling Cafe’s signature Organic Acai Bowl (A$16.50).

What’s interesting about Darling Cafe’s menu is the section named ‘The Wok’ – of Asian staples and favourites, dishes to look out for include Nasi Goreng (A$20) and Peking Duck with Jasmine Rice (A$19.50).

2 Darling St
South Yarra VIC 3141, Australia
Tel: +61 3 9820 9222
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Train Station: South Yarra

DEAD MAN ESPRESSO 

If you are heading to South Melbourne Market, another cafe that you should check out is Dead Man Espresso. Located on a quiet corner of Market Street, Dead Man Espresso is the perfect spot for a great cup of coffee – a special Dead Man Espresso blend specially made for them by Seven Seeds – along with a simple breakfast.

The breakfast options include Slow Cooked Pork Belly Bun (A$18), Deadman Chicken Burger (A$16.50), and Toast with Vegemite (A$8.50).

35 Market St, South Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9696 3912
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: York St/Clarendon St

DE CLIEU

De Clieu was named after a French commissioned officer, the first person to introduce coffee to the French colonies in South America in the 1720s. Needless to say, coffee is serious business like how it is in most Melbourne cafés.

Six Degrees Architect had made it possible for guests to perch themselves on windowsills and Seven Seeds ensured the consistency of great coffee. With an effortlessly impressive menu, there is no reason why this hipster haunt should be left out from our guide to Melbourne’s best cafes.

1/187 Gertrude Street
Fitzroy VIC 3065
Tel: +61 3 9416 4661
Mon to Sat: 7am – 5pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Napier St/Gertrude St

DUKES COFFEE ROASTERS AT ROSS HOUSE

Located a stone’s throw away from Flinders Street Station, Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is the go-to place for a comforting cuppa.

The specialty coffee shop is decked out in recycled timber and we love the overall inviting ambience! An assortment of coffee-making equipment is up for grabs too and we reckon it is a paradise for all passionate baristas to congregate.

247 Flinders Lane
Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: +61 3 9417 5578
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4.30pm
Sat: 9am – 5pm
Sun: Closed
Nearest Train Station: Flinders Street

GRUB FOOD VAN

People sick of cutting-edge cities’ lifestyles would find Grub Food Van’s peculiar nonchalance for the outside world extremely heartwarming.

Located in Melbourne’s bohemian district, Fitzroy, Grub Food Van has made a name for itself with its quirky design and interiors. Artisan breads and boutique beers are accompanied by the creepy exhibition of bodiless dolls around the glass house. One must not miss out on this eclectically bizarre experience.

If alfresco dining is what you fancy, watch in awe as food is served through a retro 1965 airstream van. Pastries start from A$5.50 and beers start from A$6.

87-89 Moor Street
Fitzroy VIC 3065
Tel: +61 3 9419 8991
Mon: Closed
Tue to Sat: 8am – 9pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Bell Street

HASH SPECIALTY COFFEE & ROASTERS

Hash Specialty Coffee & Roasters has made quite a name for itself on Instagram with its signature Hot Chocolate (A$6). 85% Mork Chocolate is served in a lab-style beaker and complemented with a ceramic cup stuffed with cotton candy. Pour the hot beverage over the fairy floss and you are all good to go!

113 Hardware St
Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: +61 3 8529 0284
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Melbourne Central Station – Stop 5

HIGHER GROUND MELBOURNE

Higher Ground – located just across Southern Cross train station in the city – is a cafe concept situated within a heritage-listed former power station and characterised by exposed brick walls and high ceilings.

The establishment’s old-world charm is neatly counterbalanced by potted greenery and minimalistic decors.

650 Little Bourke Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: +61 3 8899 6219
Mon to Wed: 7am – 4pm
Thu and Fri: 7am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Sat: 8am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Train Station: Southern Cross

INDUSTRY BEANS

The coffee snob in you will be immensely satisfied after a trip to Industry Beans. The folks running this reputable business know what they are doing and from aeropresses to the good old flat whites, they have got everything covered.

Complete your experience with their gourmet brunch items, namely Coffee Rubbed Wagyu Burger (A$23) and Kale Kimchi Bowl (A$22).

3/62 Rose St
Fitzroy VIC 3065
Tel: +61 3 9417 1034
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Leicester Street – Stop 17

KRIMPER CAFE

Krimper Cafe was once a furniture factory and a gallery, but today this spacious warehouse is a café well loved by locals in the know. Named after a famous designer in the 1950s, this rustic looking cafeteria is tucked away from the main streets, in one of Melbourne’s oldest alleyways. Its secluded location makes it hard to believe that it is actually right smacked in the city centre; a 5-minute walk from Melbourne Central to be exact.

Start your day with the Krimpers Benedict, a classic dish with a Krimper twist; pulled smoked ham hock and poached eggs with fresh basil pesto, leafy greens and rich hollandaise sauce.

20 Guildford Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: +61 3 9043 8844
Mon to Thu: 7am – 5pm
Fri: 7am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Elizabeth St/La Trobe St

MANCHESTER PRESS

Famed for its coffee and bagels, Manchester Press is tucked away in Rankins Lane, just slightly off Little Bourke Street. It is inconspicuous, the kind of place that you will walk past without noticing it. But once you turn in to the narrow alley, you will be surprised by the sheer size of the cafe.

The menu is small and concise; divided into four sections – breakfast, open bagels, closed bagels and salads. Yea, bagels everything. Just about right! There are options such as The MP Club Sandwich Bagel (A$14.50), Texas BBQ Pulled Pork Bagel (A$15.50), and Toasted Mixed Berry Bagel (A$14), but our favourite is the Grilled Spanish Chorizo Bagel (A$14) with spinach, sliced tomato, tomato relish and cheese.

8 Rankins Lane, Melbourne
Rel: +61 3 9600 4054
Mon to Fri: 7am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Bourke St/Elizabeth St

MARKET LANE COFFEE

A small space with nothing but brew, Market Lane Coffee sits across Queen Victoria Market. Serious coffee drinkers come here for simple reasons – fragrant, acidic coffee. What baffles us is the lack of latte art, but if you can look past that, you’d know that Market Lane Coffee is one of those coffee places that you just can’t miss when you are in the Australian city.

Queen Victoria Market Food Court
109/111 Therry St, Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9804 7434
Mon to Thu: 7am – 3pm
Fri & Sat: 7am – 4pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Queen Victoria Market/Peel St

MART 130 CAFE

Mart 130 Café is a refurbished stationmaster building and is located directly beside an operating tram stop in Middle Park. The concept is indeed one-of-a-kind.

Mart 130 Café’s interesting location makes the dining experience a truly unforgettable one – especially when it is located right outside a functioning tram stop. The only tram stop going through the café is tram number 96 and visitors can easily board the tram from Bourke Street Mall (the direction that is headed towards St Kilda Beach).

107A Canterbury Road
Middle Park VIC 3206
Tel: +61 3 9690 8831
Daily: 7.30am – 3pm
Nearest Tram Station: Middle Park

OPERATOR25

A little quirky, a little funky. That is what you’d get from Operator25. As with their menu. The options looked really foreign, and they do not come cheap. The matcha hotcakes was pretty “acquired” and we didn’t quite fancy the taste. The pan-seared scallops with pumpkin puree and lentils was pretty decent though, rest that the portion was tiny.

We might have ordered the wrong items, because Operator25 is a fairly hyped about place. Perhaps, you would have better luck than we did?

25 Wills St, Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9670 3278
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Queen St/La Trobe St

PEPPER CAFE

Pepper Café is an unpretentious rustic-looking neighbourhood café in the quiet residential area of New Market. We have dined this quaint spot countless of times; we love how affordably priced and delicious everything is at Pepper Café.

Diners can enjoy scrumptious all-day breakfast items such as the classic Eggs Benedict (A$14.50) or the piping hot Tunisian Shakshuka (AU$15.50). Coffees in Melbourne are generally good and Pepper Café’s caffeinated beverages are no exception (small – A$3.30, large – A$4).

44 Pin Oak Crescent
Flemington VIC 3031
Tel: +61 3 9372 2726
Mon to Wed: 7am – 4am
Thu and Fri: 7am – 10pm
Sat: 8am – 10pm
Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Train Station: Newmarket

PILLAR OF SALT

One cafe to visit when in Richmond is Pillar of Salt. Brick walls and neon signs dominate the outlook of this space, and there is an outdoor sitting area too.

On its menu, interesting finds include Red Chilli Scrambled Eggs (A$18), Smashed Avocado with Saffron & Lime (A$17.50) which we thoroughly enjoyed, and Nordic Breakfast Board (A$18.50).

541 Church St
Richmond VIC 3121, Australia
Tel: +61 3 9421 1550
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Balmain Street – Stop 54

PROUD MARY

A pioneer of third-wave cafes in Melbourne, Proud Mary is an ideal spot for stopping for a quick cup of coffee, or hanging out with a group of friends for a meal. Some of the highlights include Ricotta Hotcake (A$16), Pea & Feta Fritter (A$18.50), and the outstanding Pork Belly Sandwich (A$16)

From all day breakfast, to hearty lunches, homemade cakes, fresh juices and kick ass coffee, there is surely something for everyone at Proud Mary.

172 Oxford Street
Collingwood
Tel: +61 03 9417 5930
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Hodgson St/Smith St

REX TREMENADE

For selfish reasons, we actually hate to share this hidden gem with you. But hole-in-the-wall cafe Rex Tremenade is honestly one of our favourite coffee shops in Melbourne. The venue is tiny and the concept is simple; the owners roast the coffee beans themselves and after having countless cups, we can vouch for their excellent consistency.

Open only till 3.30pm on weekdays and closed during the weekends, Rex Tremendae is a localized café that is worth waking up early for!

555 Flinders Ln
Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: +61 401 837 674
Mon to Fri: 7am – 3.30pm
Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Nearest Tram Station: Melbourne Aquarium – Stop 2

RUDIMENTARY

Neighbourhood cafe Rudimentary offers an unique dining experience unlike any other. The premises feature sleek shipping containers – characterised by shades of black and brown – surrounded by brick tiles and Astro Turf. These containers are mobile; Rudimentary can pack up and relocate any time.

The menu is affordable, simple and healthy. Gluten-free options are available too upon request.

16/20 Leeds St
Footscray VIC 3011
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 3.30pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 3.30pm
Tel: +61 497 058 173
Nearest Tram Station: Nicholson Street – Stop 62

SENSORY LAB

Sitting within David Jones is Sensory Lab, somewhere we’d like to think of a “place of interest” for coffee lovers. The owner also runs St ALi, and by that, you’d know that Sensory Lab is serious about their third-wave coffee. Primarily an outlet for coffee lovers to learn more about the brews, Sensory Lab allows customers to better understand the brewing methods as well as a series of sensory tests with tasting notes.

Want to heighten your exposure on the finer points of coffee tasting? You’d fit right into Sensory Lab.

297 Little Collins St
Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9645 0065
Mon to Wed: 7am – 6pm
Thu & Fri: 7am – 9pm
Sat: 8am – 7pm
Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Tram Station: Bourke St/Elizabeth St

SEVEN SEEDS SPECIALITY COFFEE 

Seven Seeds Speciality Coffee has firmly established itself as one of the most famous coffee shops in Melbourne, From Pour Over (A$6), to Flat White (A$4), Piccolo (A$4), and Cold Brew (A$4), the passionate baristas at Seven Seeds Speciality Coffee will prepare each cup of coffee with equal care. Non-coffee drinkers can get a selection of tea (A$4) from Storm In A Teacup.

Whether you want Homemade Waffles with Blood Plum Jam (A$15), Eggs Benedict on English Muffins with Corned Beef (A$16), Jamaican Style Jerk Chicken (A$17.50), or Double Wagyu Patty Burger (A$18), the crew will happily oblige.

106-114 Berkeley St
Carlton
Tel: +61 3 9347 8664
Mon to Sat: 7am – 5pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Queensberry St/Swanston St

SIR CHARLES

Sir Charles is undisputedly one of the best cafes in Melbourne. The huge space is modern and minimalistic with touches of white and plants hanging around sporadically. A roastery sits within the compound too, and you bet these guys are true coffee connoisseurs.

On its menu, the Eton Mess Waffles (A$17) is what everyone goes for. Essentially Belgian waffle topped with colourful meringue kisses, marshmallow, jelly tip ice cream and fresh berries, this is one stunning dish to love. And we have to say the Special K (A$18) – corn fritters with poached eggs, kale, avocado and tahiti yogurt – is one of the best we’ve tried.

121 Johnston St
Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia
Tel: +61 3 9415 7077
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Johnston St / Brunswick St

SMALL VICTORIES

One of our favourite breakfast places is Small Victories, though they have menus for lunch as well. This is such a popular spot in North Carlton, and it is perpetually packed in the mornings. You will learn why after you’ve sipped their aromatic coffee. They are smooth with a nutty aftertaste.

On the menu, breakfast is a lot about eggs. Poached Eggs on Toast variations are aplenty, and you can add on sides such as our favourite avocado with miso and sesame dressing.

617 Rathdowne St
North Carlton VIC 3054, Australia
Tel: +61 3 9347 4064
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat: 8am – 5pm
Sun: 9am – 5pm

ST ALI COFFEE ROASTERS

Bustling and full of chatter, St ALi Coffee Roasters – one of the pioneers of specialty coffee in Melbourne – is housed in what used to be a warehouse near to South Melbourne Market, and the space is ever lively with club tracks and funky baristas.

The menu has both breakfast and brunch choices, and we went for The Daddy (A$17.50) and Up Seven Creek Without A Paddle (A$24). Damn, the latter was a mouthful. But it is really an awesome open-faced steak sandwich with smoked onion, garlic mayo, baby beet and gruyère. The beef used is a Seven Creek marble score 9 Wagyu beef, and it is done medium well with a hint of char. Needless to say, this had our hearts and we polished them all within minutes.

12-18 Yarra Place, South Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9686 2990
Daily: 7am – 6pm
Nearest Tram Station: York St/Clarendon St

SOUTH OF JOHNSTON

South of Johnston aka SoJo was previously an old factory that was resurrected to life after undergoing the wonders of owner Stuart McKenzie and Carver Design. The transformation is almost magical and dog-friendly SoJo is now a frequent haunt amongst Fitzroy residents for both dine-in and takeout coffees. P.s. Coffee is excellent!

The warehouse-style café serves reasonably priced all-day breakfast and lunch items that would give you the bang for your buck. If you experienced some sort of Déjà vu whilst dining at SoJo, know that it is only because Stuart was once the owner of famous MART 130.

We highly recommend Zucchini and Corn Fritters (A$18.90) served with homemade kassoundi, guacamole, sour cream, poached eggs and either smoked salmon or grilled bacon. This all-day breakfast item is unsurprisingly one of their bestsellers.

46 Oxford Street
Collingwood VIC 3066
Tel: +61 3 9417 2741
Daily: 7.30am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Peel Street/Smith Street

THE FARM CAFE

The Farm Café is relatively inaccessible due to the lack of nearby train and tram stations, hence driving there and parking at the nearby public car park would be ideal.

As its name suggests, The Farm Café is literally located within a farm’s vicinity. While admission to The Farm Café is completely free of charge, entrance fees (A$5 per child, A$10 per adult and A$20 per family) will be collected to access the farm, where you can get up close and personal with domestic farm animals.

Everything served at The Farm Café is superbly fresh and those with dietary restrictions will be pleased with their gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. We love their fluffy scones served with jam and cream – one of the best we had!

18 St Heliers Street
Abbotsford VIC 3067
Tel: +61 3 9415 6581
Daily: 9am – 4pm
Nearest Train Station: Victoria Park

THE KETTLE BLACK 

Quite possibly the hottest – and most crowded – cafe in Melbourne right now, The Kettle Black has garnered an insane following. It is practically impossible to get a table on weekends. Get there early, or be prepared to wait in line.

Highlights include Benedict Style Eggs with Braised Pork Shoulder (A$17), Tataki Ocean Trout with Raw Kale Salad (A$20), Cape Grim Beef on Bun (A$23), and Burrata with Raw Heirloom Tomatoes (A$17).

50 Albert Rd, South Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9088 0721
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Domain Interchange/St Kilda Rd

THE GRAIN STORE

Nestled within the west of Melbourne CBD – just a short walk from Southern Cross Station – The Grain Store is a cosy cafe that serves well-executed simple food using locally grown and harvested fruit and vegetables.

On the breakfast menu, you can find wholesome options such as Polenta Corn Fritter with Avocado and Smashed Greens (A$15); Passionfruit, Buckwheat & Ricotta Pancakes (A$18); and Elderflower Watermelon & Summer Fruit (A$13). There is also an assortment of freshly baked goods and sandwiches on display every day.

517 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9972 6993
Mon & Tue: 7am – 4pm
Wed to Fri: 7am – 4pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Sat: 8am – 4pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Melbourne Aquarium/ Flinders Street

THE HARDWARE SOCIÉTÉ

So prior to coming here, we heard so much about The Hardware Société. It is one of the most popular cafes here in Melbourne, and the daily queue says it all. It was breakfast for us one breezy morning, and we were so spoilt for choice with its relatively large menu.

But don’t get too distracted, because these folks are known for their Baked Eggs (A$18) and yes, they are irresistible. The Picnic Board (A$20) really satisfied too; think a sumptuous serving of confit drumstick, cured meats, free range eggs and pickles

And of course, do not leave without a cappuccino.

120 Hardware Street, Melbourne
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 3pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 2pm
Nearest Tram Station: Queen St/La Trobe St

THE LEAGUE OF HONEST COFFEE 

Like what its name suggests, The League Of Honest Coffee is in a league of its own when it comes to serving good and honest coffee skilfully prepared by earnest baristas. From the Slayer, you can get the usual Espresso (A$3.50), Piccolo (A$3.50), Flat White (A$4) and Magic (A$4). From the brew bar, you have Clover (AUD$5), Chemex (AUD$6), and Cold Drip (AUD$6).

The food menu is pretty limited – with some Toasties (range from A$4 to A$8), Salads (A$9) and Baguettes (A$7) to choose from – so come here for a cuppa over hearty conversations.

8 Exploration Ln, Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9654 0169
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4.30pm
Sat: 8.30am – 3pm
Nearest Tram Station: Exhibition St/La Trobe St

THE WOOD FROG BAKERY

The Wood Frog Bakery might be an unassuming St Kilda café, but boy, they are famous for their baked loaves. From healthy honey oat, 23-hour aged baguette to pumpkin sourdough, the seemingly endless variety of bread is truly impressive.

Customers from all walks of life make up the steady stream of customers and they are all queuing up patiently to get their hands on artisanal goodness. We know selection is tough, but if you have only space for one item then it has to be their freshly baked Almond Croissant (A$5) – it was love at first bite for us.

108 Barkly Street
St Kilda VIC 3182
Tel: +61 3 9077 5440
Daily: 7am – 5pm
Nearest Tram Station: Inkerman St/St Kilda Road

THREE BAGS FULL

Farther down from Little Saigon in Richmond, Three Bags Full is a quaint 150-seater cafe that we love. Split into different sections, each with its own vibe, Three Bags Full is like a neighbourhood joint for the residents to grab a hearty breakfast and some coffee.

The food menu consists of mainly sandwiches and salads. A 200g Wagyu Cheese Burger (A$19) with cheddar cheese, tomato relish and roasted wedges is always a fine way to start your day. For something lighter, go for the Zucchini and Ricotta Fritters (A$18).

The crowd here is less rowdy – mostly families, and pets are allowed as long as you sit outdoors. Yea, the outdoor seats on the walkway. We enjoyed our Chai Latte along with the cool morning breeze while looking out to the line of trees and big blue Aussie skies. Such is life.

Nicholson Street & Mollison Street
Abbotsford
Tel: +61 3 9421 2732
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Lennox St

TOP PADDOCK

Top Paddock is yet another successful venture of Melbourne food maestro Nathan Toleman and his talented A-team. Every dish here is not only executed with masterly finesse but also presented in the most aesthetically pleasing manner. Their bestseller Blueberry & Ricotta hotcakes (A$19.50) – served with berries, organic maple, seeds and double cream is a must try.

658 Church St
Richmond VIC 3121
Tel: +61 3 9429 4332
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Alexandra Av/Church St

TWO BIRDS ONE STONE

Located just next to Adriano Zumbo in South Yarra, Two Birds One Stone was previously ran by the guys behind Kettle Black and Top Paddock, but it has since changed hands and has a new owner now. The current menu is still very much similar to Kettle Black’s, though.

The cafe serves a selection of breakfast and lunch dishes all day. Specials include Oven Baked Queensland Spanner Crab Omelette (A$19.50), Oven Baked Beans with Dukkah Spicwed Labna and Charred Toast (AUD$16.50), and Black Angus Steak Sandwich (A$19.50).

12 Claremont St
South Yarra
Tel: +61 3 9827 1228
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: South Yarra Station

WORKSHOP BROTHERS

Spacious and minimalistic, Workshop Brothers is an inviting specialty coffee café that can be identified from across the road with its catchy green façade. The space is designed by award-wining designer Hana Hakim and is the go-to place for a quick perk-me-up amongst nearby working executives.

190 Queen Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Tel: +61 3 9078 6533
Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Nearest Tram Station: Queen Street – Stop 4

For more recommendations, read our food & travel guides to Melbourne on the best places to see, eat and play.

You know that feeling of stepping in to a patisserie that is laced with sweet scents and the aroma of fresh bakes, and how your heart would skip a beat when you set your eyes on the wondrous display of cakes and patisseries?

We understand, because we are lucky enough to have experienced that excitement many times. Everywhere we go, we keep our eyes peeled for patisseries, and boy, the world really spoils us silly.

This list should be never-ending, and we are on a never-ending quest of sussing out the bests patisseries, but first, let us share 25 Amazing Patisseries Around The World. Among them, what you must not miss out on are the quintessential ones in Paris and Japan that set our hearts aflutter every single time.

#1 ADRIANO ZUMBO / SYDNEY

One of the most well-known pastry chefs in Australia, Adriano Zumbo started his first patisserie in Balmain in 2007, and today he runs six patisseries in Sydney and Melbourne. Zumbo offers a range of cakes, pastries and macaons in the wackiest flavours that you could ever imagine.

Crazy flavours he’s got there for his Zumbarons, and our favourites include Salted Butter Popcorn and Kaffir Lime & Mandarin.

296 Darling Street
Balmain, Sydney
Tel: +61 2 9810 7318
Daily: 8am – 6pm

#2 ANGELITA PATISSERIE / BALI

Bali’s very own Ladurée/Angelina, Angelita Patisserie is every bit Parisian, in the softest pastel hues and candy-coloured chinaware. A stunning display of in-house bakes and sweet creations, Angelita is an elegant tea salon-cum-patisserie that serves French sweets.

Think eclairs in assorted flavours like oreo and passionfruit, chocolate tarts and raspberry mousse cakes. Fine and exquisite, everything here is so reasonably priced between RP30,000 to RP50,000.

Angelita Patisserie is also listed in our guide to Bali’s 18 best cafes.
Jalan Raya Kerobokan no. 10A
Banjar Taman, Kerobokan, Kuta, Bali
Tel: +62 361 7473138
Area: Seminyak

#3 ANGELINA TEA SALON / PARIS

When in the City of Love, sip luxe hot chocolate at Angelina. This place is an institution, and it is almost synonymous with Paris. Long queues are formed outside almost every outlet on a daily basis, and it is your best retreat in winter. And why Angelina? Because apart from hot chocolate, they bake incredible Mont Blanc too.

226 rue de Rivoli, Paris
Mon to Thu: 7.30am – 7pm
Fri: 7.30am – 7pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 7.30pm

#4 ANTOINETTE PATISSERIE / SINGAPORE

Undoubtedly one of the prettiest tea salons in Singapore, Antoinette is a perennial favourite for elegant French pastries and sweets. Nothing quite like your usual cakes and tarts, Antoinette promises nothing but surprises.

Antoinette Patisserie is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s 58 must-try desserts.

333A Orchard Road
#02-33/34, Mandarin Gallery
Tel: +65 6836 9527
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#5 BOURKE STREET BAKERY / SYDNEY

It is a neighbourhood joint where locals meet their friends for coffee; or drop by to grab some pastries for breakfast next day. The bakery serves simple, honest and delicious baked goods like strawberry & vanilla brulee tart (A$5), lemon curd tart (A$4.50), raspberry & chocolate mousse tart (A$4.80) and carrot cake (A$4.50).

633 Bourke Street
Surry Hills, Sydney NSW 2010
Tel: (02) 9699 1011

#6 C’EST LA B / HONG KONG

Housed in HarbourCity – the ultimate shopping mall in Hong Kong – C’est La B is a chi-chi dessert spot that is well-loved by both locals and tourists. Dim lights set against a monochrome interior, the patisserie is that of a mysterious yet alluring one. The cakes are fascinating, no less.

G111, G/F, Harbour City
17 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: +852 3102 2838
Daily: 9am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tsim Sha Tsim

#7 CHEZ DRÉ / MELBOURNE

Just a stone’s throw from South Melbourne Market, Chez Dré is one of the best patisseries in Melbourne. The Lemon Hazelnut Tart was mind-blowingly good. Who would have thought that lemon and hazelnut would go so well together? Equally pleasing was the black forest cake. It was almost too pretty to be eaten.

285-287 Coventry Street, South Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9690 2688
Daily: 7.30am – 4.30pm
Nearest Tram Station: Dorcas Street/Clarendon Street

#8 DEUX AMIS PATISSERIE / SEOUL

Seated along the streets of Garosu-gil, Deux Amis Patisserie is a terrific patisserie that serves gorgeous cakes and tarts in an array of flavours and colours. It is a must-go for desserts when you are in Seoul. Try their Strawberry Tiramisu Tart and Caramel Cake.

535-9 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu
Tel: +82 2 3443 0030
Nearest Station: Sinsa Station

#9 DOMINIQUE ANSEL BAKERY / NEW YORK CITY

You know cronuts, but do you know its origins? Created by Dominique Ansel, with its flagship store at Soho @ New York City, Dominique Ansel Bakery is surely one place to check out for its famed creations.

189 Spring Street, New York
Tel: 212 219 2773
Mon to Sat: 8am – 7pm
Sun: 9am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Spring Street

#10 HENRI CHARPENTER / TOKYO

Well-loved by the world, Henri Charpenter makes exceptional desserts and pastries that are awards-worthy. Its flagship outlet at Tokyo is a classy setting of a tea salon. Fans of lemon desserts have to try Henri Charpentier’s Tarte Au Citron; it is the best we’ve had.

Bring back a piece of Henri Charpenter in the form of takeaway snacks (¥683 or S$9) such as madeleines, financiers and biscuits – they all come in very pretty boxes. They definitely make great gifts for friends and colleagues.

2-8-20 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Tel: 03 3562 2721
Station: Ginza-Itchome (metro exit 9), Ginza (metro exit A13)

#11 HUMMINGBIRD BAKERY / LONDON

Do yourself a favour and pick up a cupcake from Hummingbird Bakery when at London. They make the world’s best red velvet cupcake, and few things in life are as satisfying as sinking your teeth into the moist and crumble red cupcake. Not a fan of red velvet cupcakes? No worries. There are many more flavours and the selection is enough to drive you crazy.

155a Wardour Street, Soho Square, London W1F 8WG
Tel: +44 20 7851 1795
Mon to Sat: 9.30pm – 8pm
Sun: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Tottenham Court Road

#12 LA BELLE MIETTE / MELBOURNE

A cute little French patisserie that specialises in macarons, La Belle Miette – which broadly translates to “beautiful small thing” – has one of the best, if not the best, macarons in Melbourne. Flavours include Lavender, Violette & Blueberry, Raspberry, Cherry Blossom & Sake, as well as our favourite Scones with Honey & Jam.

La Belle Miette also carries a range of tea from Mariage Frères to go along with the macarons. There are currently four outlets in Melbourne.

30 Hardware Lane, Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 9024 4528
Mon to Fri: 10am – 6.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Bourke Street/Elizabeth Street

#13 L’ETO CAFFE / LONDON

And then, there is L’eto that sits on the same street as Hummingbird Bakery. They have an insane display of daily fresh bakes, and it is almost frustrating to pick just one. Every item baked and assembled with love, and you can almost smell the pastry chefs’ passion in every piece.

155 Wardour Street, London W1F 8WG
Tel: +44 20 7494 4991
Mon to Tue: 8am – 9pm
Wed to Sat: 8am – 11pm
Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Tottenham Court Road

#14 LA DOUCEUR PATISSERIE / TAIPEI

With more than a dozen desserts (NT$160-170) – such as Mont Blanc, Matcha Cake, Cherry Mousse, 72% Dark Chocolate Tart – available on the menu, La Douceur will satisfy every sweet tooth. They also have, hands down, one of the best macarons in Taipei. Choose from flavours like strawberry, passionfruit, caramel mandarin, lavender and caramel.

La Douceur Patisserie is listed in our guide to Taipei’s best desserts.

No. 223 Jinhua Street
Tel: 02 3322 2833

#15 LADURÉE PATISSERIE / PARIS

Of pretty pastels and the world’s most gorgeous macarons, Ladurée is the first pit-stop on our list whenever we find ourselves in the City of Love. This heaven of pastel colours is laced with romantic scents of Parisian sweets, and every time we step in to the desserts boutique, we fall in love all over again.

And the wondrous display of intricate French bakes and macarons never fail to make us go weak in the knees. You are only letting yourself down if you give Ladurée a miss.

21 Rue Bonaparte, Paris
Tel: +33 1 44 07 64 87
Mon to Fri: 8.30am – 7.30pm
Sat: 8.30am – 8.30pm
Sun: 10am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Rue du Bac

#16 LET THEM EAT CAKE / BANGKOK

Bangkok is known for many things, but nobody associates it with good French desserts and pastries. That was what we thought too, until we went to Let Them Eat Cake. Their display of exquisite creations will have you feeling like you are transported to Paris. Look out for their Thai-inspired flavours, else their classic chocolate series are fantastic all the same.

4th floor, Siam Center
989 Rama I Road
Tel: +66 2 658 1603
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

#17 MAGNOLIA BAKERY / NEW YORK CITY

Founded in 1996, Magnolia Bakery is an institution in New York City that is well-loved for its cupcakes. Featured on shows like Sex and the City, and The Devil Wears Prada, Magnolia Bakery is recognised as one of the patisseries that started the cupcake trend in the Big Apple.

401 Bleecker Street and W. 11th Street
Tel: +1 212 462 2572
Mon to Thu: 9am – 11.30pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 12.30am
Sun: 9am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: 14 St

#18 MAISON BERTAUX / LONDON

Maison Bertaux, one of the oldest patisseries in London, is our go-to place for an quiet afternoon tea. They offer many beautiful cakes and pastries, but our favourite is their almond croissant.

28 Greek Street, London, Greater London W1D 5DQ
Tel: +44 20 7437 6007
Mon to Sat: 8.30am – 11pm
Sun: 9.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Leicester Square

#19 PASSION 5 / SEOUL

If you ask us to recommend just one place in Seoul, it will be Passion 5. They have five different categories of dining all under one roof – gelato corner, bakery take-out station, patisserie and café, chocolatier and a full-fledged restaurant. Trust us, you will be tempted to order all the cakes from the patisserie.

Passion 5 is also listed as one of our 10 favourite cafes in Seoul.

272, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Tel: +82 2 2071 9507
Nearest Station: Hangangjin

#20 PIERRE HERMÉ / PARIS

The maestro of desserts, the quintessential Parisian patisserie; Pierre Hermé is our utmost favourite. Every single item fascinates and makes us squeal with excitement like kids. Famed for his macarons with unusual flavours, Pierre Hermé is known as the “Picasso of Pastry”. His chocolates are to die for, too. Don’t forget to try Ispahan, the most iconic pastry.

18 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, Paris
Tel: +33 1 43 54 47 77
Nearest Station: Hotel de Ville

#21 PRIMROSE BAKERY / LONDON

It is impossible not to like Primrose Bakery. This cute little bakery serves one of the best cupcakes in London. And beyond cupcakes, Primrose Bakery also has an array of layer cakes, loaves and sliced cakes. Primrose Bakery also has a second branch in Covent Garden, but we very much preferred the peace and tranquility of Primrose Hill.

69 Gloucester Ave, London NW1 8LD
Tel: +44 20 7483 4222
Mon to Sat: 8.30am – 6pm
Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Camden Town/Chalk Farm

#22 SADAHARU AOKI / TOKYO

Nobody should leave Tokyo without visiting Sadaharu Aoki. This famous Japanese-trained pastry chef made his name in Paris by creating French desserts with Japanese flavours.

Aoki makes exquisite macarons with Japanese flavours like sesame, matcha, yuzu and genmaicha. And their eclairs… what’s a better word than ‘divine’? We dare claim that Sadaharu Aoki has the best eclairs in the world.

Tokyo Midtown B1F
9-7-4 Akasaka Minato-ku Tokyo
Station: Roppongi

#23 SIMPLYLIFE / HONG KONG

Simplylife is our favourite patisserie in Hong Kong. With a bakery that produces an amazing range of bread, pastries and cakes, everything is of premium quality, and no additives are added. We fell in love with it, more than what we thought we would. The space is one that have you slow down, relax and breathe in the simple pleasures of life. simplylife, indeed.

Shop 30, L2, Festival Walk
80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Tel: +852 2777 5168
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Kowloon Tong

#24 VIRON / TOKYO

If you are in the Shibuya area, make Boulangerie Patisserie Viron your pit stop. They have really impressive desserts. On the ground floor, the boulangerie sells bread and pastries. You can also choose to dine in the brasserie on the second floor.

33-8 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03 5458 1770
Station: Shibuya

#25 ZENIQUE / TAIPEI

Zenique is a teahouse and patisserie which serves pretty awesome French desserts (NT$160-180/slice) like Kyoto Matcha, Rose Versailles and Tarte Aux Fraises with tea-infused flavours. They also have nine different macarons (NT$60). We fell head over heels in love with their rose macarons.

Zenique is listed in our guide to Taipei’s best desserts.

No 8 Lane 4 Yong Kang Street
Tel: 02 2395 1558
Sun to Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10.30pm