Overview
In Melbourne, cafés are more than a morning pit stop—they’re a lifestyle. Australian Traveller’s 2025 feature, Our Guide to 38 of the Best Cafes in Melbourne, dives deep into the city’s world-renowned coffee culture, spotlighting the venues that deliver more than just a good brew.
This extensive guide features a mix of cult favourites and local secrets scattered across Melbourne’s inner suburbs and beyond. Whether it’s a perfectly poured piccolo in a minimalist hideaway, a long black enjoyed under leafy courtyard vines, or a next-level brunch with house-fermented hot sauce, these cafés all have one thing in common: quality with character.
Australian Traveller highlights venues where the baristas are artists, the beans are ethically sourced, and the menus celebrate local produce with creativity and flair. It’s a collection that captures Melbourne’s café diversity—covering everything from third-wave coffee havens and Scandi-chic brunch spots to heritage-listed gems and bustling community hubs.
Each café has been chosen for more than just its coffee—expect inviting spaces, warm service, and thoughtful details that make you want to linger. Whether you're a tourist sipping your way through the CBD or a local looking to mix up your morning routine, this list offers something new to discover at every turn.
You’ll also find vegan-friendly menus, gluten-free goodies, and plenty of spots where great coffee meets great conversation. It’s Melbourne’s café scene, brewed to perfection.
For coffee lovers, brunch enthusiasts, and design-minded diners alike, Australian Traveller’s 2025 café guide is a must-read map to Melbourne’s best bean-fuelled destinations.
Last update August 2025
