Calling all fans of Australian coffee and cafe scene! Singapore’s first Melbourne café street pop-up will be happening from 18 to 22 May 2017.

Fans of Melbourne’s cafe culture will be familiar with popular cafes such as Market Lane, St. ALi & Industry Beans. The good news? These three top cafes from Melbourne will be bringing their coffee to this street pop-up at Millenia Walk.

Sitting across Queen Victoria Market, Market Lane Coffee is a place where serious coffee drinkers come here for simple reasons—fragrant, acidic coffee. Definitely one of the best coffee spots in Melbourne.

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.

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

With free cappuccinos and espressos served from 11am – 5pm daily from 18 to 22 May 2017 at the Melbourne Café Street Pop-up, visitors are encouraged to walk around the cafes to discover their unique stories and coffee, and choose their favourite to grab a free cuppa as a morning wake-me-up or afternoon pick-me-up.

We don’t know about you, but we are so excited to know that these three famous Melbourne cafes will be in Singapore. If you have been to Melbourne before, we bet you are just as thrilled as us to hear about the news. If you have never been to the city, this is your best chance to sample a taste of Melbourne without flying down-under.

The Melbourne café street project in Singapore is a collaboration between Italian coffee machine brand De’Longhi, specialty coffee beans e-tailer Cafebond.com and Australian-based Harvey Norman Millenia Walk Flagship Superstore.

Singapore’s First Melbourne Café Street Pop-Up
Millenia Walk Atrium
9 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039596
Nearest Station: Promenade

For more recommendations, read our guide on 42 Best Cafes in Melbourne.

After a two-year long renovation, Higher Ground Melbourne alas opened its doors to the public on 04 July 2016. The venue—located just across Southern Cross train station in the city—is housed within a heritage-listed 19th-century former power station and characterised by exposed brick walls, high ceilings of at least three storeys and beautiful arched windows.

Higher Ground Melbourne’s old-world charm is juxtaposed with lounge-style nooks, split-level mezzanines, potted greenery and minimalistic decors. The new dining establishment is brought to you by the same team behind Top Paddock and Kettle Black; and a formidable line-up of chefs with reputations of pushing boundaries helm this gorgeous space.

Higher Ground is the hottest brunch spot in Melbourne RN.

The comprehensive menu at Higher Ground Melbourne showcases an array of delectable brunch and dinner items. These innovative delicacies are not your typical cafe nosh. Think Spicy Cauliflower Scrambled Eggs (A$19.50) served with homemade flat bread and Wagyu Short Rib Roll (A$19) complemented with chilli, daikon, sesame and crisp vegetables.

Should these alternative classic interpretations not suit your fancy, you can always choose to stick to familiar crowd pleasers such as Ricotta Hotcakes (A$21). These incredibly light and fluffy pancakes are garnished with edible flowers, seasonal fruits and drenched in luscious maple syrup. Do note that the portion is massive – hence you might actually want to share.

Coffee is serious business here and you can expect to sip the same caffeinated beverages as you would from its sister restaurants, Top Paddock and The Kettle Black. This is because Higher Ground Melbourne uses the same beans from the group’s own coffee roastery, Square One.

Higher Ground Melbourne’s impressive interiors is already a major draw itself. But its immediate success also lies in its several other key factors, namely its unique never-seen-before gourmet inventions that taste as good as they look, artisanal premium coffees that already have a legion of fans and friendly hospitable staff who are passionate in what they do.

Melbourne food maestro Nathan Toleman and his talented A-team have indeed taken brunch in Melbourne to a whole new level of higher grounds with Higher Ground.

Higher Ground Melbourne
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

For more recommendations, read our guide on 26 cafes in Melbourne’s suburbs that are worth travelling for out of the city centre.

Ask any Australian which is the best café in Melbourne and most of them will direct you to Proud Mary.

The Collingwood café has achieved a lot over the past seven years; it was ranked as Melbourne’s Best Café in 2012 by The Age Good Food Guide and most recently, it was ranked as Australia’s second best cafe by review site Beanhunter.

Proud Mary is more than just a coffee shop. The household name has evolved tremendously and today, it is also a coffee educator, a coffee retailer and a coffee roaster. Founder Nolan Hirte makes it a point to visit the coffee producers annually to maintain a sustainable working relationship.

Proud Mary is packed daily as eager patrons flock to the backstreets of Collingwood to get their brunch and caffeine fix. The queue is notorious and if you cannot wait, do call to make a reservation. However, do note that bookings are accepted only on weekdays.

Start your day with a Flat White (A$3.80) or a Nitrogen Infused Cold Brew (A$6). The beans used to prepare your coffee are on a rotational basis—simply refer to the current coffee showcase menu to understand where your coffee comes from.

The speciality coffee café also takes its food very seriously. Ingredients are primarily local and vegan options are available. Treat yourselves to Pork On Ya Fork (A$21.50) or Butterscotch Hotcakes (A$18.50).

Should you be interested to learn the ropes from Proud Mary’s baristas, you could register your interest for coffee classes too. Courses range from a two-hour An Introduction To Grading Green Bean Coffee class to a two-day Barista Boot Camp.

Proud Mary
172 Oxford St
Collingwood VIC 3066
Tel: +61 3 9417 5930
Mon to Fri: 7am – 4pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Tram Station: Hodgson St/Smith St

The world’s most liveable city is also home to Australia’s best cafes and coffee shops. While Melbourne’s city centre is already home to a sheer number of cafes and coffee shops, the inner suburbs such as South Melbourne and Fitzroy have a lot waiting to be discovered.

From Seven Seeds Specialty Coffee to South of Johnston, here is an alternative guide to our 25 Favourite Cafes in Melbourne’s Suburbs.

A whole new world awaits when you are ready to venture out of the CBD grid system. Please share with us your favourite cafe haunts too!

ADDICT FOOD & 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 are 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

Located in North Melbourne, the beautiful Auction Rooms is a popular brunch spot serving all-day breakfast from 7am onwards. Coffee beans are supplied by Small Batch Roasting Company, which is also owned by the same owner who owns Auction Room.

We particularly enjoyed their bestseller Brûlée French Toast (A$16) served with passionfruit labné, poached mandarin, macadamia crumble and white chocolate ganache. Those who prefer something savoury can consider ordering their signature Pressed Pork Shoulder (A$18) served with white bean puree, morcilla, pickled carrots and sweet potato.

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

Who would have thought that a seemingly simple focus on fresh local goodness could be the recipe for a cafe’s success? A meal at Breakfast Thieves is easily one of Melbourne’s best and residents of Fitzroy could vouch for that.

The scrumptious menu offers gluten-free and vegetarian options, think gluten-free Spicy Baked Eggs (A$19), vegetarian Spanish Croquettes (A$19) and whatnot. Aussie flat whites (A$4) are lovingly prepared with Haymaker’s Blend from Rumble Coffee Roasters.

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

CRABAPPLE KITCHEN

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

Do not miss out on their signature Crab Apple Sliders (A$8 for one, A$15 for two)! The palm-size baby brioche milk buns are stuffed with breakfast radish, Kewpie mayonnaise, mustard cress and delicious spanner crab. 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 an alleyway near South Melbourne Market, Chez Dré has made quite a name for itself with its delectable variety of French-inspired sweet and savoury all-day breakfast items. It has recently split the warehouse cafe and adjoining patisserie, Bibelot, into two separate brands.

Bibelot has evolved into a multifunction venue where it is essentially a chocolate shop, espresso bar, gelateria, high tea salon and patisserie. We recommend visitors to have breakfast at Chez Dre before heading next door to Bibelot for coffee and desserts.

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

DEAD MAN ESPRESSO

Using only the best blends from Market Lane, Sensory Labs and St Ali etc, coffee snobs can be rest assured that their cuppa will be nothing but heavenly.

Their seasonal menu features a delightful selection of gluten-free and vegan options. Our favourite dishes include the Deadman Chicken Burger (A$18.50), which contains buttermilk fried chicken with homemade pickles, vegemite mayonnaise and coleslaw.

Oh and no worries, you certainly won’t find any dead man at Dead Man Espresso.

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

GRUB FOOD VAN

People sick of cutting-edge cities’ lifestyles would find Grub Food Van’s peculiar nonchalance for the outside world extremely heartwarming. Think food served through a retro 1965 airstream van and bizarre exhibition of bodiless dolls.

Grub Food Van is after all located in Melbourne’s bohemian district and we dare say that its interiors and decors truly reflect its eclectic neighbourhood. Food and beverages are relatively affordable, where 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

INDUSTRY BEANS

Coffee connoisseurs must pay speciality coffee shop Industry Beans a special visit. From single-origin espressos to cold brews, you can indulge in a delightful mix of caffeinated beverages.

Complement your drinks with their hearty selection of brunch items such as Coconut Crusted Brioche (A$20) and Cured Salmon (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

KITTY BURNS

Located just along the Yarra riverside walk, Kitty Burn’s ambience is impossibly relaxed and it is one of the most Instagrammed cafes in Melbourne in recent times.

Greenery, geometry and minimalism are the cafe interiors’ key characteristics; it was the gorgeous design that lured us in. Think pastel hues and high ceilings – how do you resist a place like that?

24 Acacia Place
Abbotsford VIC 3067
Tel: (03) 9427 0164
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Tram: River Bvd/Victoria St

MART130 CAFE

On closer look, one would notice that Mart 130 Café is actually named after the word ‘tram’ – except that it is spelt backwards. Indeed, Mart 130 Café is housed within a refurbished stationmaster building and located directly beside an operating tram stop in Middle Park.

The brilliant concept is one-of-a-kind and provides diners with a memorable experience. 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

OSCAR COOPER

Located just a stone’s throw away from Prahran train station, pooch-friendly Oscar Cooper is the go-to place for Melbourne’ best jaffles. But we say, go for the entire dining experience.

Nocturnal creatures rejoice! Oscar Cooper serves awesome breakfast items till 3.30pm, which means you can savour their Breakfast Burrito (A$16) and vegan Twice-Cooked French Toast (A$17) even when its way past brekkie.

The fine cafe prepares superb coffees with Small Batch’s high-quality beans and if you would like an extra kick, try their Espresso Martini (A$10).

160 Greville Street
Prahran VIC 3181
Tel: +61 3 9529 5670
Mon to Sat: 7am – 5pm
Sun: 8am – 5pm
Nearest Train Station: Prahran

PEPPER CAFE

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

While Pepper Cafe remains relatively unknown amongst many, the neighbourhood establishment has actually been serving the locals for over a decade. All-day breakfast items are the popular ones here.

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

PROUD MARY

Proud Mary has every right to be proud of what they have achieved. They are the rightful owners of the world’s one and only six group Synesso espresso machine and has been unanimously hailed as Melbourne’s Best Café by reputable press and foodies from all over the world.

From all-day breakfast, artisanal cakes to award-winning coffee, there is surely something for everyone at Proud Mary. However, do expect the café to be packed even on a weekday as crowds flock there to get their caffeine and brunch fix.

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

RUDIMENTARY

Neighbourhood cafe Rudimentary offers a 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 anytime.

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

SEVEN SEEDS SPECIALTY COFFEE

Seven Seeds Speciality Coffee has firmly established itself as one of the most respectable cafes in Melbourne. Discerning diners visit the industrial-chic cafe for two reasons: Premium coffees and exceptional brunch.

Coffee is serious business here. The passionate folks at Seven Seeds roast their own coffee daily, serve them freshly right at the cafe and also export their flavourful blends to other Melburnian cafes.

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

St Ali Coffee Roasters’ Head Barista Matt Perger was ranked first in the 2014 World Coffee & Good Spirits Championship. That fact alone has attracted countless of press visits and coffee snobs who want to sample one of the world’s best coffees.

And we dare say that St Ali Coffee Roasters has indeed lived up to its hype!

Coffee aside, the bustling cafe does an equally fantastic job in the kitchen too. This is surely one of the best cafes in Melbourne!

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 a renovation made possible by 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.

We highly recommend the Zucchini and Corn Fritters (A$18.90) that is served with homemade kassoundi, guacamole, sour cream, poached eggs and either smoked salmon or grilled bacon

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

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

Everything served at The Farm Café is amazingly fresh and those with dietary restrictions will be pleased with the menu’s gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Their fluffy scones served with jam and cream were one of the best we ever 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, The Kettle Black has garnered an insane following. Get there early, or be prepared to wait in the perpetual long line.

Assuming you managed to secure a seat, we suggest you fill your tummies up with either the Benedict Style Eggs with Braised Pork Shoulder (A$17) or Tataki Ocean Trout with Raw Kale Salad (A$20).

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 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 the 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

Opened daily, Three Bags Full is a 130-seater cafe that has won the hearts of its nearby residents and even those that live far out. Word of the family-friendly cafe’s hearty brunch food got out almost immediately since it first opened and the rest is history.

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 a great choice to kickstart your day. For something lighter, go for the Zucchini and Ricotta Fritters (A$18).

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 CAFE

Brought to you by the same people behind The Kettle Black, Top Paddock is the cafe to be at and to be seen. The A-Team is now roasting their own green coffees (A$4 each) via Square One Coffee Roasters and serving the finest teas from Larsen & Thompson.

Every dish is not only executed with masterly finesse but also presented in the most aesthetically pleasing manner. Order their free range pork belly (A$19.50) with poached eggs and torn-fried bread or the Blueberry & Ricotta hotcakes (A$19.50) with berries, organic maple, seeds and double cream.

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

The 80-seater South Yarra cafe Two Birds One Stone is a lovely pit stop before you proceed with your retail therapy marathon at the nearby Chapel Street.

The cafe serves an impressive selection of breakfast and lunch dishes throughout the day. Highlights include Oven Baked Queensland Spanner Crab Omelette (A$19.50) and Black Angus Steak Sandwich (A$19.50). For something lighter, get the nourishing House Made Bircher (A$12.50) with apple, coconut crunch and dried cranberries.

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

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves travelling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all-time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Kitty Burns only opened its doors in Melbourne two months ago, but has already won a strong following in such a short span with its beautiful space and mouthwatering food.

Greenery, geometry and minimalism are the cafe interiors’ key characteristics; it was the gorgeous design that lured us in. Think pastel hues and high ceilings – how do you resist a place like that?

Fortunately, Kitty Burns is way more than just a pretty face. The comprehensive menu boasts a great selection of all-day gourmet brunch items created with masterly finesse and Victoria’s freshest produce. Unsurprisingly, the new cafe in Abbotsford is packed with customers on a daily basis – even on weekdays.

Located just along the Yarra riverside walk, Kitty Burn’s ambience is impossibly relaxed and ideal for a leisure stroll after a scrumptious meal.

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The pooch-friendly cafe sees many adorable pups lingering around with their owners at the alfresco area – so don’t hesitate to bring your dog(s) along while grabbing a divine cuppa prepared with roasted beans from AllPress Espresso.

The Torched Kingfish (A$22.50) – served alongside Japanese rice, a perfectly wobbly 63/63 egg, edamame beans, kimchi mayonnaise, leek ash sea succulents and roast sesame dressing – was totally refreshing and satisfying. In fact, we would highly recommend first-timers to order this nourishing and stunning Japanese-inspired gluten-free and dairy-free fusion main.

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The KB Burger (A$21) is a delightful and a gluten-free option that is available upon request. A shaved free-range pork belly is sandwiched between two fluffy brioche buns, with the tasty meat cut topped with green mango and papaya slaw, kimchi mayonnaise and homemade pickles.

Thumbs up to Kitty Burns for the clever use of Asian ingredients! This is one new cafe in Melbourne that is totally worth the drive out!

Kitty Burns
24 Acacia Place
Abbotsford VIC 3067
Tel: (03) 9427 0164
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Tram: River Bvd/Victoria St

Read: 30 Cafes in Melbourne You Must Visit.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Ranked as the world’s most livable city for the past three consecutive years, Melbourne is indeed the place to be and be seen. Passionate buskers are a common sight along the main streets and taking a stroll had never been better. Known as the capital of arts, Melbourne truly live up to its name with an exciting line up of events every month. we have highlighted 5 must-see festivals in Melbourne.

1. White Night

From 7am to 7pm on 22 February 2014, Melbourne’s famous landmarks and popular laneways would be transformed into a whimsical playground. The nocturnal creatures are in for a treat as the city is offering a huge array of events, ranging from captivating art installations to indie film screenings. Last year’s White Night was a roaring success where over 300,000 enthusiasts participated from dusk to dawn. The entire list of activities is available on its official site and planning your big night ahead is recommended.

2. Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival

From 17 to 14 March, Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival would be held at the Central Pier of Docklands and Hollywood celebrity Eva Longoria would be gracing its front row seats. Budding fashionistas soon have a chance to watch Australia’s top designers showcase their work on the runways, attend beauty workshops and/or attend seminars related to the fashion industry. Tickets to this dazzling event can be purchased online.

3. Melbourne International Coffee Expo

This one is for the caffeine addicts. During mid May, thousands of hopeful baristas will battle it out in the following nerve-wrecking competitions – World Latte Art Championship, World Cup Tasters Championship and World Coffee in Good Spirit Championship.

Australia has the best coffee, hands down, but brace yourself, as there are over 150 exhibitors to visit! The coffee expo is open for traders on 15 & 16 May, and to the public on 17 & 18 May 2014.

4. The Royal Melbourne Show

For 12 days straight, the Melbourne Showground (from 20 September to 1 October 2014) is revamped into a wonderland to host the amazing Royal Melbourne Show. The Show is jam packed with an extensive range of activities such as wine tasting, carnival rides, award-winning food and animal shows.

Watch in amazement as cows, dogs, horses, goats and sheep compete for the Blue Ribbon. The animal nursery also allows visitors to interact freely with the lambs. Entry tickets start from AUD $17.

5. Melbourne Cup Day

Melbourne Cup Day (4 November 2014) is a horse racing event so large-scale that it is declared a public holiday in the state of Victoria. Melbournians love to celebrate and it is no surprise that the fashion and food communities are largely involved in this special occasion. Millinery is almost mandatory for the ladies and fine food is widely available at the racecourses. Have a go at horse betting and who knows, it might be your lucky day!

About the writer
Hui Jun Ng was previously a marketing executive and freelance photographer in the food industry. Her work has been published on Epicure, Lifestyle Asia and Meld Magazine etc. She is currently on a break and traveling around the world. Follow her travel adventures on Instagram or The Keepers Map where she shares useful curated travel itineraries.

Words and photographs by Hui Jun Ng

Living in Melbourne city has been an exciting gastronomical experience for me. Being surrounded by endless food and beverages on a daily basis has prompted me to come up with a list of 5 special foodie experiences that are reasonably priced.

Forget about walking along the main roads, it’s time to venture further, turn into laneways and walk up/down dark stairways. These precious gems that I am about to talk about (an open concept roof top bar, a tram stop café, an Italian restaurant managed by a mischievous boss, a floating bar and an underground Japanese restaurant) are located in the city vicinity but often in unnoticeable places. There’s so much Melbourne can offer!

Join me in an adventure in Melbourne!

Roof Top Bar

During summer, this open concept bar is converted to a roof top cinema. Located on the seventh level, this bar boasts a spectacular view of Melbourne city. This place is the perfect place to hang out after dinner since it only closes at 1am. However, take note that there is usually a crowd so finding a spot or getting a drink might require a little struggle.

7/252 Swanston Street
Melbourne Victoria 3000
Tel: (03) 9654 5394
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 1.00am

Mart 130

Take tram number 96 down towards St Kildas and you will be warmly welcomed by the sweet looking café, MART 130, located at the tram stop itself. This cosy little café serves an array of delectable modern Australian café food. Their signature dish, the renowned corn fritters is a hit with customers (AUD $17.90), served with grilled bacon, tomato relish, sour cream & corianders.

The next hot item on the menu would be their deliciously fluffy stack of pancakes served with blueberries and raspberries. I have tried several other items and they too were amazingly yummy! Most of their items are served in generous amounts so you will definitely be satisfied. MART 130 only accepts cash and closes as early as 4pm.

107 Canterbury Road Middle Park
Melbourne, VIC 3206
Tel: (03) 9690 8831

Mercandte Woodfired Pizzeria

Lygon Street, otherwise known as little Italy, boasts a long list of Italian restaurants and Mercandte Woodfired Pizzeria is one of them. Mercandate Woodfired Pizzeria is not for the faint-hearted as pranks are often played on customers. Depending on your luck, you could have a clown creeping up to you or fake spider flying onto your face. All these free entertainments often occur out of the blue, leaving you slightly taken aback but nevertheless amused. Life is too short to be too serious!

Food is affordable – an entrée portion of pasta is priced at only AUD$14.90 and a main portion of pasta is at AUD$16.90. You can choose your pasta from a wide selection: spaghetti, fettucine, penne, gnocchi, pappardelle, fusilli, tortellini etc. The signature dish here is the Chocolate Pizza; rolled up pizza pieces of nutella, decorated with sliced strawberries, dash of cocoa and slabs of cream. Coined as ‘The Best in Australia’ on its signboard followed by something along those lines ‘according to my kids’. The owner of this store definitely has a wicked sense of humour.

123 Lygon St
Carlton, VIC 3053
Tel: (03) 9347 6974

Izakaya Den

Tucked away in the basements of Melbourne city is Izakaya Den, a charmingly modern restaurant-cum-bar that everyone one should visit. Izakaya Den only serves set lunches in the day so it is recommended that you visit them at night where the ala carte menus are available.

The place is usually packed so do be mentally prepared to wait up till 30 minutes before getting a seat. But trust me, most dishes are so awesome that it is worth the wait! Must-orders include deliciously seared Tuna Tataki with Garlic Soy and Wasabi Cream & fresh Marinated Scallops paired with Fish Roe and Egg Plant Sauce.

It is no wonder that Izakaya Den was awarded ‘The Best New Restaurant’ in The Age’s Good Food Guide in 2011.

114 Russell Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9654 2977

Ponyfish Island Bar

A million dollars view of both the Melbourne CBD and the South Yarra river accompanied by cheap light eats and tasty alcoholic drinks (AUD $20 for a jug) where customers are allowed to drink, eat, smoke and listen to good music. What more can you ask for? Walk through a stairwell from the Yarra Pedestrian Footbridge and you will arrive at this cool floating bar surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Ponyfish Island is suited for everyone – the early birds and the night owls. For breakfast, order the waffles topped with maple syrup and walnuts. For dinner, order quesadilla and some beer. You cannot go wrong with this place.

Yarra Pedestrian Bridge
Melbourne, VIC 3006
Mon to Sun 08:00 am – 1:00 am
Tel: (03) 2650 1857

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng was previously a marketing executive and freelance photographer in the food industry. Her work has been published on Epicure, Lifestyle Asia and Meld Magazine etc. She is currently on a break and traveling around the world. Follow her travel adventures on Instagram or The Keepers Map where she shares useful curated travel itineraries.

If you did not know, Melbourne is known as the coffee central of the world. I verified this fact personally during a trip to the coffee heaven this winter. I admit, I am a coffee lover and yes, if you are one too, you have to go on a café spree when you visit this city.

So come on, follow me on my café-hopping journey. Here are 5 cafes in Melbourne that you should totally drop by.

Cafe, coffee, conversation, book, brunch…

Market Lane Coffee

I guess the world works in the most magical ways. As usual, it was morning and I was craving for my daily dose of caffeine. To my surprise, we chanced upon Market Lane Coffee on the way out of Queen Victoria Market! I was so delighted and yes, I got myself a cup of hot latte. It has a hint of bitterness to it, which is a perfect way to enjoy a cup of coffee. The coffee here got to be one of the best in Melbourne. I was not surprise when I realised that it is the winner for Best Coffee on CHEAP Eats 2012.

Victoria Market 109-111 Therry Street
Melbourne 3000
Tel: (03) 9804 7434

Brother Baba Budan

This one is fun. It is a busy tiny little coffee house along Little Bourke Street. I reckon this would be my favourite coffee place in Melbourne. Stepping inside, I was excited to see that there were loads of wooden chairs hanging down from the ceiling.

Of course the highlight here is the coffee. Ordered my café latte, took a sip and oh my, I’m at peace. The foam was so smooth and silky. You can just taste the sweetness of the coffee beans without sugar. Another fun fact for you, Brother Baba Budan also carries coffee beans from Seven Seeds, which is another pretty popular café in Melbourne.

359 Little Bourke Street
Melbourne 3000
Tel: (03) 9606 0449

Manchester Press

For all you latte art lovers out there, this one is for you. Manchester Press is located in a small lane just round the corner of Brother Baba Budan. They have excellent bagels, such as, smoked salmon with cream cheese on a freshly toasted bagel.

They are also known for their coffee, which brings a little surprise too. Its latte art is one that you will be looking forward to. If you are wondering what kind of latte art, think explicit!

8 Rankins Lane, Melbourne
Tel: (03) 9600 4054

The Workshop Bar

If you have visited Melbourne, actually in fact any part of Australia, you will realise that most cafes and shops would be closed by 5pm. The Workshop Bar, on the other hand, operates into the wee hours. Do drop by this café bar if you want some good coffee after the usual hours. Get absorbed into the graffiti and paintings hanging around the café. Allow yourself to relax and enjoy the cup of freshly brewed fragrant coffee in a hidden artsy spot found right in the middle of the bustling city.

Level 1, 413 Elizabeth Street
Melbourne 3000
Tel: (03) 9326 4365

The Commercial Bakery

What is your favourite meal to have coffee with? Brunch for me! The Commercial Bakery is the perfect spot for a great cup of coffee accompanied by really amazing brunch food (when I said amazing, you are really in for a treat!).

When we walked in on a Wednesday morning, the place was pretty much filled up with people and the scent of fresh coffee. The café latte was so smooth with a bitter-sweet touch. It gave me this warm fuzzy feeling as I drank it. Apart from coffee, I was so impressed by how amazing the food was. The eggs Benedict was perfect (yes, I know perfect is a strong word, but really it’s the best I ever had), the hollandaise sauce was so tasty and covered the perfectly poached egg which sat nicely on buns that were crispy on the outside but really moist and soft on the inside.

Can you imagine where I am coming from now?! I hope you do. This is the place to be for a great cup of coffee and amazing brunch food.

Gills Alley 360 Little Collins Street
Melbourne
Tel: (03) 8631 5900

About the writer:
Just like that foodie friend of yours, Natalie is one who hunts down all the yummy food places and will want to order every single dish on the menu! Especially if it comes to dessert! With a strong passion for food and writing, she started a little writing space on Tumblr and her journey begins. You can read about Natalie’s adventures in Sydney here.