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cafes in Melbourne Central

The Best Cafes in Melbourne Central

As you probably know, Melbourne Central is one of the finest destinations for a spot of shopping in the CBD. What you may not know, however, is how good the cafes in Melbourne Central are!

 

They offer a spot to take a break, get something delicious into your tummy and even spend some time catching up with loved ones. We've picked some of our favourites so you know where to head the next time you are having a big day of retail therapy.

Best Cafes in or near Melbourne Central

Melbourne life IS cafe life. As a result, we have cafes all over the place. Here are the best picks in or near Melbourne Central to help with your day planning:

Gatcha Cafe

 

If you’re strolling through Melbourne Central and have a hankering for something sweet with a side of fun, Gacha Cafe should be your first stop. This place is a little slice of Japan right in the heart of Melbourne. 

 

Gacha Cafe is famous for its Japanese-inspired gelato and matcha drinks. One of their must-try items is the Gacha Mochi Monaka, a delightful concoction that perfectly blends creamy gelato with the chewy goodness of mochi. And if you’re feeling adventurous, give their Warabi Mochi Ice Cream a go. It’s a flavour experience that dances between matcha's earthy notes and premium ice cream's silky texture.

 

Right next to the cafe, you’ll find the Gacha Gacha wall, an oversized toy vending machine that’s basically a playground for adults. This 24-hour capsule toy machine is a nod to Japanese pop culture, offering collectible toys that make for quirky souvenirs or a fun treat for yourself. 

  • Address: Lower ground, Shop 14/300 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000 

  • Website: gachagacha.com.au/

  • Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 4-minute walk

Little Sparrow

Little Sparrow is a boutique cafe all about the finer things, from their expertly roasted coffee to their indulgent pastries, all served up in a chic, inviting atmosphere.

 

Let’s start with the coffee because Little Sparrow has gone the extra mile to source its green beans from some of the most diverse altitudes and locations around the globe. This careful selection process ensures that every cup is a blend of rich, complex flavours that will satisfy coffee aficionados of all shapes and sizes. 

But what’s coffee without a sweet treat? Little Sparrow has a tempting array of freshly baked goods. Their petite cakes are the star of the show—individually crafted and baked exclusively for the cafe; these little delights are the perfect accompaniment to your coffee. Delivered fresh daily, you’ll find an ever-changing selection, along with a variety of breakfast and lunch options, all made using locally sourced produce.

  • Address: Shop 2 - 041, Level 2, 287, Melbourne Emporium, Lonsdale St,  Melbourne 3000 

  • Website: littlesparrow.com/ 

  • Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 5-minute walk

Asian Beer Cafe

Ok, we're having a bit of a laugh with this one because whilst "cafe" is in the name, this is a full-on pub. But, sometimes that is the kind of shopping break you need, so let's continue! The Asian Beer Cafe is a cafe experience with a twist, where tradition meets contemporary flair.

The decor at Asian Beer Cafe is a seamless blend of authenticity and modern design that brings furniture and interior pieces steeped in history, crafted from 70-year-old recycled materials, including ironwood salvaged from an old cargo ship that was once sunk by pirates near the Indonesian coast. This worn Asian style gives the space a unique charm, where every corner tells a story, and the details are all about respect for tradition.

 

The menu is all about traditional East Asian flavours, prepared with the freshest ingredients and given a contemporary twist. And let’s not forget their selection of Asian beers - the bar stretches a whopping 20 meters! That's enough drink varieties to keep everyone happy.

  • Address: 211 La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000 

  • Website: asianbeercafe.com.au/ 

  • Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 6-minute walk

Best Breakfast in Melbourne Central

 

Starting your day right is easy when you pop into Axil Coffee Roasters in Melbourne Central. They have breakfast down to an art form. With multiple awards under their belt, including the 2022 World Barista Championship and back-to-back Australian Barista Champion titles in 2023 and 2024, Axil's baristas are at the top of their game. Their coffee is made using ethically sourced beans that Axil goes above and beyond to procure. 

Their menu is packed with options that’ll make your morning feel special. We're talking rocky road waffles, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and topped with all the gooey, chocolatey goodness you could dream of. For something savoury, their solid sangas and crispy pastries are the go. Pair your coffee with a classic almond croissant, a light and fluffy scone, or something more substantial like their signature brunch plates. There’s something on the menu to please everyone.

  • Address: GD089/360 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000

  • Website: axilcoffee.com.au/ 

  • Distance from Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central: 4-minute walk

Stay At Melbourne Central

 

So we've covered the deliciousness and Melbourne Central, and it's already a well-known shopping destination, but did you know you could stay there? Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central is the perfect CBD accommodation option just 0.2 km from Melbourne Central Station - you'll have the city at your fingertips. 

 

Centre your stay around Melbourne Central Shopping Centre to perfectly soak in the action, while enjoying the complete comfort of Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central’s famous services.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will cafes open in Melbourne?

Most Melbourne cafes like to get an early start with opening times of 6 or 7 am! Each spot is different, but most will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Where to book group accommodation in Melbourne?

 

Novotel & Ibis Melbourne Central is the perfect spot for group accommodation booking of eight people or more. You and your party will be centrally located in Melbourne CBD, right by the Melbourne Central shopping precinct.

Where to have high tea in Melbourne?

 

Melbourne is a city that knows how to do high tea right, with venues offering everything from traditional experiences to creative twists on this classic indulgence. You can step back in time at the historic Tea Rooms 1892, where you can enjoy smoked salmon pinwheels and quiches in the iconic Block Arcade, or go for a more contemporary vibe at the stylish Pullman Melbourne on the Park with its native Australian botanicals.