This iconic cafe, which helped to put premium boutique batch roasted coffee on the map in Melbourne, might have changed hands recently but the message is still the same: uncompromising coffee from passionate industry professionals. So what's all the fuss about? All we can tell you is that if you've tried the coffee already, you'll know what we're talking about, and if you haven't then you need to do so. The cafe itself is located in an old warehouse complex, in a decidedly obscure location, positioned as it is down an otherwise nondescript laneway. With a industrial/rustic atmosphere, it also has an interesting use of moulded timber which helps to break up the space into hidden nooks, which seem to appeal to both 'personalities' and bohemians alike. And the food is good too with executive-chef-at-large, Ben Dickson, putting his usual modern European spin on things. My excellent poached eggs is the perfect accompaniment for the first of four coffees which I have on this particular visit. When the coffee is this good why wouldn't you have more than one? A steady stream of traffic comes and goes in the time that I am there and the centrally located communal table provides an excellent view of the baritisi at work and play, and is just the spot to watch world go by. A sense of playful high theatre exists here, as the characters that come and go seem larger than life and are definitely part of the attraction. August '08 [PS]

Well extracted, full bodied coffee with great friendly service and passion for service

Very consistent, i've had excellent shots by several of their baristi, best in Melbourne by far. Food is also well made, french toast is a favourite but i'd love a few more brekky options.

Without a doubt, the very best coffee bar-none in Melbourne. I have travelled to the best cafe's in the listing here, and found none to be as consistently good as this. Most likely the finest coffee in the southern hemisphere, all beans roasted onsite.