The 10 Best Cafes In South Melbourne Australia

There is no doubt that Melbournians love their coffee. The city offers one of the most flourishing coffee cultures, so coffee aficionados are spoilt for choice. Only a stone-throw away from the city, you will find the vibrant suburb of South Melbourne. The main attraction, undoubtedly, is the South Melbourne market, but if you stick around long enough, you will discover countless amazing cafés. Here is our guide to the best.

Brazil Coffee And Supply

Coffee Shop, Coffee, Australian

Brazil Coffee and Supply can easily be missed en route to the South Melbourne market due to its small signage, but its consistently great cappuccinos and friendly head barista are definitely worth the stopover. The café is small yet hosts a contemporary and thoughtful coffee-themed décor. Offering amazing blends and spot-on temperature, this little gem deserves more credit.

Stokers Fine Pancakes

They say it’s what’s on the inside that counts, and that is definitely the case when it comes to this little gem. Stokers may not look like much on the outside, but step into this little café and you will fall in love with its charming vibe and cozy fireplace. Each cup of coffee is thoughtfully extracted and beautifully executed. The Industry Beans used in their house blend deliver a naturally sweet espresso that can be enjoyed by itself or in combination with their mouthwatering pancakes. Giddiup | Courtesy of Herta Nune

Giddiup

Using Single Origin beans from Sydney, Giddiup definitely delivers a great latte. The strength is superb, and the milk is steamed to perfection, offering just the right layer of microfoam. The space is petit, but the large windows and contemporary design offer a bright and inviting space. In addition to great coffee, this little café offers a hearty big breakfast and delicious array of sandwiches prepared with fresh local ingredients. Magic | Courtesy of Herta Nune

Magic

Cafe, Coffee, Australian, Vegetarian

Magic’s location is a bit isolated yet definitely worth the trip. The space is small, funky and inviting, with artwork displayed across the high ceiling walls. The latte is smooth and packed with flavor. If your cravings extend beyond coffee, grab one of their delicious donuts that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Meeting Hub Cafe

Cafe, Coffee, Australian

The Meeting Hub Cafe is yet another lovely little café, complete with a charming and inviting French provincial décor, that can be easily missed amongst the continuous shops lined up on Clarendon Street. Using Axil coffee roaster beans, the extraction for the macchiato is spot-on, packed with flavor and just the right amount of foamed milk.

N. Lee Bakery Cafe

Bakery, Cafe, Coffee, Asian

It’s no secret that the Vietnamese like their coffee strong. With this tradition in mind, N. Lee Bakery Cafe delivers a rich cappuccino that packs a punch. Nothing like a caffeine kick to keep you going when your morning stamina is slowly but surely fading. If you’re craving a little more than just coffee, grab one of their delicious bahn mi.

Cafe Zappa

Cafe, Coffee, Tea , Australian

Just off Clarendon Street, one can find Cafe Zappa, a quirky little café that takes you back in time, offering a cool homey vibe and a great cup of coffee. The extractions are up to par, the service friendly, and if you’re feeling a little hungry, there is plenty of delicious food.

Padre Coffee

Cafe, Market, Coffee, Australian

Padre Coffee is situated in the midst of all the South Melbourne market action. Delivering good strength smooth lattes, the skilled baristas not only make consistently good coffee but also some amazing latte art.

St Ali Coffee Roasters

Cafe, Australian

What seems to have previously been a garage has been transformed into St Ali, a trendy hidden hotspot of South Melbourne. The espresso is beautifully extracted and naturally sweet. This is the place for a brunch outing with its great ambiance and equally delicious food.

Chez Dré Patisserie Boulangerie

Patisserie, Coffee, French, Australian

Chez Dréis a chic French-inspired café offering a delicious array of sweets and equally great coffee. The coffee is smooth and naturally sweet, but if you’re sweet tooth is still craving something more, you can’t go wrong with the artfully crafted desserts.

About the author

Herta Nune

Originally from Boston, USA, Herta Nune is spending the next year exploring Australia with her partner Mark van Seventer, with whom she also co-writes their blog www.markmyjourney.com detailing their never-ending wanderlust.