Local Guide to the Best Coffee in Melbourne Central
Coffee. It’s way more than just a caffeine kick in Melbourne, it’s an experience. Freshly brewed coffee is a bit of a ritual here and that ritual can be completed with some of the best coffee Melbourne Central has to offer.
There are a few options to be found in this very convenient location when searching for the perfect cup. This local guide will help you navigate the maze of cafés and hidden coffee gems in the heart of the city so you can begin the delicious search of finding your favourite.
The Best Coffee Spots in Melbourne Central
Little Sparrow
Little Sparrow is a boutique café with award-winning specialty coffee. Pair a cup with their Black Magic Vegan Chocolate Cake, and every day becomes a win. Little Sparrow sources their coffee beans from high-altitude spots around the world and are very passionate about making sure every cup blows your mind.
LLittle Sparrow can actually be found dotted around Melbourne, and all of their roasters are trained to ensure every award-winning blend and single-origin coffee handed over is perfection.
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Address: Level 1/211 La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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Hours: 8 am - 7 pm every day
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Website: littlesparrow.com
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Distance from Novotel: 6-minute walk
Axil Coffee Roasters
Axil Coffee Roasters is THE spot for the best Fair Trade coffee Melbourne Central can offer. Their high-quality, ethically sourced beans and world-class baristas have brought multiple barista championship titles to the business. We’re talking about top honours at the 2022, 2023, and 2024 World Barista Championships, to name a few.
The Direct Trade coffee beans at Axil come from long-term relationships with growers, all of which are paid more than the fair trade price. If you want to feel good about where your money is going while also trying some of the best coffee in Victoria, this is the spot.
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Address: GD089/360 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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Hours: 7 am - 4 pm (8 am on weekends)
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Website: axilcoffee.com.au
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Distance from Novotel: 4-minute walk
Soul Origin
Soul Origin takes their coffee seriously by using ST ALi beans, a favourite among Melbourne coffee lovers. Their robust house blend is reliable, with a full-bodied flavour that hits the spot whether you’re after a quick caffeine fix or a more leisurely sip. They also keep things fresh by featuring new blends every month. So, if you’re adventurous and love trying out different beans, you can ask the barista what’s new. Plus, if you find a blend you can’t get enough of, you can even take it home with you via a bag to go.
Soul Origin also has fresh, healthy food options with ingredients from local Aussie farmers. It’s a nice touch that keeps their menu fresh and seasonal and also supports local communities.
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Address: Melbourne Central Food Court
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Hours: 6 am - 7 pm (8 pm on Thursday/Friday), 9 am-5 pm on weekends
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Website: soulorigin.com.au
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Distance from Novotel: 5-minute walk
Late Night Coffee Shops Melbourne CBD
Cathedral Coffee
If you hate sleep and need some late-night coffee, Melbourne CBD options don't get much better than Cathedral Coffee, which is open until 11pm most nights. Tucked away in Cathedral Arcade, this teeny spot transforms from your standard daytime coffee nook into a welcoming late-night café.
This place might be small, but it’s full of personality. They serve Ethiopian single-origin or their Acevedo espresso roast, and their daily-baked goods like canelés, lemon curd pastries, and flaky chocolate buns pair perfectly with your cup. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot, however, so put your night vision goggles on.
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Address: 37 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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Hours: 7:30 am - 11 pm Wed-sat, 7:30 am - 3:30 pm Mon & Tues, Closed Sunday
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Distance from Novotel: 15-minute walk
Tips For Your Coffee Adventure
When you are looking for coffee, Melbourne Central has more to explore than we could possibly fit in one article, but here are some tips to help with your bean-loving adventure:
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Experiment with different brews as Melbourne Central is home to a variety of cafés that offer unique blends and brewing methods, from pour-overs to cold brews and everything in between - step out of your comfort zone to discover a new favourite.
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When in doubt, ask the barista; the coffee experts behind the counter often know the ins and outs of the menu and can guide you towards a brew that suits your taste
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No coffee adventure is complete without a little something on the side. Many coffee spots in Melbourne Central offer a tempting selection of pastries that perfectly complement your brew.
Stay near Melbourne CBD
Want to wake up and experience these delicious coffee options in the heart of Melbourne? Novotel and Ibis Melbourne Central offer this with a touch of luxury for good measure.
Both hotels offer all the amenities you need, including a modern gym and two fully equipped conference rooms for business travellers. The on-site Pretty Boy Bar & Restaurant features a diverse menu that will entice you to return for dinner after a satisfying lunch. Conveniently located just steps from Melbourne Central Station and everything the Melbourne CBD has to offer, staying at Novotel or Ibis provides an ideal base for work, leisure, and, of course, great coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best coffee drink in Melbourne?
You’d be hard-pressed to find a bad coffee in Melbourne. Coffee is basically a religion here, and as a result, the bar is set very high. While it is somewhat subjective, you won’t have to search far for the perfect cup.
How many coffee shops are there in Melbourne CBD?
There are more than 2000 cafes in Melbourne, with new ones popping up all the time. Plenty to explore for a coffee aficionado!
What time of day are coffee shops busiest?
The breakfast and lunch rushes are particularly busy for Melbourne coffee shops as people are fuelling up to get through the day! Avoid these times if you aren’t prepared to wait for your next sip.