Never has the expression 'food for thought' been so apt. This library in the central city's Flinders Quarter marries good coffee with good books, situated right next to the entrance of the recently-opened City Library. Students from the above adult education college are often seen grouped around its long central tables, continuing their class in more stimulating surroundings. The decor is an intriguing suggestion of the old, crossed with the gloss of the new: curved dark wood next to steel and modern lighting. As it's just around the corner from busy Flinders Street Station, this cafe attracts more than a student crowd, with commuters and city residents also dropping by for its strong coffee and vibrant atmosphere.

I have to disagree with everyone here. I was told that this cafe is one of the best coffee places in Melbourne. When i was served a latte there, i was very disappointed to find the quality of the coffee is below mediocre. The foam on my latte was floating due to very bad milk (perhaps it is not fresh and sitting too long in the jug so the froth has separated). Temperature was far too high. My friend's soy latte was not great either. It was very rough froth due to overheated steaming process.

Brilliant atmosphere and coffee. John always makes you feel welcome.

This quaint little wine bar has positioned itself nicely in the big end of town, with smart service, and sensational coffee. My cafe latte was served on the warmer side of hot just how I like it and was smooth and creamy, featuring a toasted almond aroma on a silky-smooth palate. Serving the usual array of soups and salads, with better-than-average bruschetta, this is just the place for a quick bite or a lingering liquid lunch. Communal tables and mood lighting, combined with comfy chairs and formidable reading material, create a relaxing vibe suitable to barrister and bohemian both.

I used to have coffee at Degraves but this place is consistently better

The most beautiful cafe in the city with a great variety of patrons. Coffee is consistently both sour and bitter and truly disappointing. Such a shame! Food good and reasonably priced.

Fantastic coffee food and wine. Atmospheric cafe where one can relax. Best communal coffee spot in Melbourne.

Great coffee, and excellent atmosphere. A must go for any dedicated coffee drinker.

Coffee here is some of the best in Melbourne... front palate shows beautiful chocolate and nut characters whilst the back palate displays great acidity & a slight bitterness that you come to expect from fantastic coffee! Some of the better cheap eats in Melbourne... $11-13 for a gorgeous main meals. Can you get this anywhere else in Melbourne? Definitely worth a visit for any coffee lover & cafe lover. Joanna