Drinking the best coffee Melbourne has to offer is more than just a necessary morning routine – it's an art. An art that has evolved to become one of man's most beloved rituals. The best coffee shops in Melbourne are renowned for producing some of the best coffee in the world.

This title cements their pursuit of the highest quality beans, their constant research and learning of the best methods and practices and their commitment to serving the most nuanced and aromatic coffee available. These Melbourne coffee shops will satisfy the palate of even the most snobbish coffee drinkers.

Specialty coffee refers to the whole coffee process from growing to roasting and extracting, from farmer to mug.

These Melbourne coffee shops take their coffee seriously and ensure that every stage of the process involves the utmost precision and care.

Just be aware: once you taste the smooth, intoxicating single-origin coffees of the best coffee shops in Melbourne, you'll never go back.

1. Atomica Coffee

As the first cafe in Melbourne to roast its coffee in house, you won't question that Atomica Coffee produces the best coffee in Melbourne. They provide boutique coffee roasting and wholesaling to sate the most refined coffee palettes – and noses. They take no shortcuts on quality and always put the product first. The coffee roasters pay tribute to the past while always staying on top of new processes of extraction that are coming through. Their secret is individually roasting, which helps bring out the flavour of each bean.

Address: 14/167 Beavers Rd, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia

Phone: +61 3 9486 3008

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm

2. Industry Beans

Inspired by the movement known as the Third Wave of coffee roasters, Melbournians Steve and Trevor Simmons in 2010 set up a tiny garage and began roasting. Industry Beans has now established itself as one of the most internationally renowned Melbourne coffee shops. This Fitzroy warehouse is a famous coffee roastery, cafe and brew bar that delivers top-quality seasonal coffee from key growing regions in Central America, Africa and Asia.

Address: 3/62 Rose Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065

Phone:+61 3 9417 1034

Hours: Weekdays 7 am-4 pm, Weekends 8 am-4 pm

3. Undercover Roasters HQ

Founded in 2011, Undercover Roasters has a passion for coffee, and it speaks in every single cup. Based in Melbourne and Bendigo, this specialty coffee shop sources only the freshest green beans from all over the world, emphasising coffee that is ethically grown, hand-picked, and carefully processed.

With master roasters working world-class equipment to develop delicious taste profiles that showcase the beauty of each origin, you'll never look at coffee the same way again. In October 2020, the brand opened the doors to a flagship HQ in Abbotsford. The menu is creative and served alongside the finest of coffees with specialty beans from all across the globe.

4. Market Lane Coffee

Market Lane Coffee hunts for the most distinctive and memorable coffee beans worldwide and roasts them carefully in small batches at their Prahran Market roastery. They only serve coffee that is in season and love to share the story behind each cup. Imagine that delectable cup of coffee you had at the boutique market stall and could never remember the name of – except Market Lane brews in five of the best coffee shops in Melbourne, making it easily accessible and exciting.

Address: Shop 13 Prahran Market, 163 Commercial Road, South Yarra VIC 3141

Phone: +61 3 9804 7434

Hours: Mon & Wed 7am-4pm, Tue & Thu-Sat 7am-5pm, Sun 8am-5pm

5. Patricia

The humble beginnings of Patricia from lawyer's office to shiny coffee bar back in 2012 show that at this Melbourne coffee shop, the beans speak for themselves. Many a coffee blogger has stopped at this now beloved joint to rave about its smooth caffeinated beverages. The quaint space has the character of a European cafe with the contemporary feel (and delicious coffee) of the modern Melbourne specialty coffee scene.

Address: Cnr Little Bourke Street & Little William Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Phone: +61 3 9642 2237

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-4pm

6. St Ali

While some people may consider the best coffee shops in Melbourne to be pretentious, St Ali believes themselves to be simply curious. Frontman Salvatore Malatesta says yes to things no one would have thought possible. In 2005 St Ali broke through the wall of specialty coffee in Melbourne and brought it to the masses. They are the original innovators, finding the rare finds and being led by the pursuit of the perfect product and process rather than by fads or trends.

Address: 12-18 Yarra Place, South Melbourne VIC 3205

Phone: +61 3 9686 2990

Hours: Mon-Sun 7 am-6 pm

7. Proud Mary

Whether you visit for the fortnightly subscription, a one-off bag of delicious beans from El Salvador or just an exquisite cup of coffee from their in-house roasted blends, Proud Mary will provide you with the best coffee in Melbourne. They pride (that special Mary pride) themselves on delivering the good things in life. All-day breakfast, hearty lunches, fresh juices and homemade cakes are just a few of the things that complement their unparalleled coffee.

Address: 172 Oxford Street, Collingwood VIC 3066

Phone: +61 3 9417 5930

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm

8. Monk Bodhi Dharma

Going to a boutique micro-roastery is like travelling to Italy to get the most authentic Italian cuisine – just without the flight and rich, authentic coffee. Monk Bodhi Dharma is one of the best coffee shops in Melbourne as they roast all their coffee in house and source seasonal and mostly single estate coffee through direct trade. Buy their seasonal coffee from the counter, or let them burn it to perfection with your favourite brewing method.

Address: Rear 202 Carlisle Street, Balaclava VIC 3183

Phone: +61 3 9534 7250

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat-Sun 8am-5pm

9. Aunty Pegs

Another Proud Coffee institution, Aunty Peg’s, serves some of the best coffee on the planet, let alone the best coffee in Melbourne. Aunty Pegs aims to be a welcoming, inclusive space where a one-on-one barista brews your favourite coffee. Their door is always open, their oven always on, and their roasters exuding intoxicating coffee aromas.

Address: 200 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066

Phone: +61 3 9417 1333

Hours: Mon-Sun 9 am-5 pm

10. Axil

Axil promises a sustainably produced product that results in quality coffee in your cup. Their coffee is picked, roasted and served by hand to be enjoyed by you, mug in hand. Their baristas are constantly striving to learn more about the best coffee methods and products from around the globe, meaning you know Axil is one of the best coffee shops in Melbourne and beyond.

Address: 322 Burwood Road, Hawthorn VIC 3122

Phone: +61 3 9819 0091

Hours: Mon-Sun 7 am-4 pm

11. Omar and the Marvellous Coffee Bird

The traditional myth of the discoverer of the brew, Omar, inspires the founders of one of the top Melbourne coffee shops, Omar and the Marvellous Coffee Bird. Outcast and on the cusp of death, Omar received a bean-laden branch from a bird, and upon boiling the beans and drinking, the result was revitalised.

Coffee is now the second most traded commodity globally, inspiring drinkers and brewers around the world, none more so than founding owners Dean Atkins and Andy Gelman.

They believe there should never be compromised on the quality, and if it's not the best it can be, they won't serve it. They want to get people excited about coffee and the many nuanced flavours that different beans and roasts elucidate.

Address: 124 Gardenvale Road, Gardenvale VIC 3185

Phone: +61 3 9596 4186

Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-4pm, Sat-Sun 7am-4pm

12. The Premises

If you want a cafe that understands the froth difference between a cappuccino and a flat white, with staff that don’t scoff when you ask for your favourite South American blend, look no further than The Premises.  They've got the most delicious meals made with fresh, seasonal produce (the slow-roasted pulled pork with homemade chutney is a must), have friendly staff and of course, some of the best coffee in Melbourne.

Coffee industry veterans Alex Anderson and Kate Holloway use high-quality beans from Seven Seeds and, together with their team of baristas, create a homey cafe that is discerning with the top-notch coffee and food they serve, but not the customers they welcome. The premises might make the best specialty coffee Melbourne has to offer.

Address: 202 Bellair Street, Kensington VIC 3031

Phone: +61 3 9376 7565

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am-3pm

13. Dukes Coffee Roasters

Using the world’s most innovative and methodic roasting practices isn’t just what Dukes Coffee Roasters claim; it's what they do. They have the best selection of seasonal specialty coffee Melbourne has to offer. Their flagship store, Dukes at Ross House, has been bringing Melbournians in the CBD their favourite coffees since 2013.

Their coffees are ethically traded and sourced from individual farms or small cooperatives across Central and South America, Africa, and Asia.

They then roast fresh daily in Melbourne, producing the country's most intricate and delicate coffee flavours. 

Address: 247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000

Phone: +61 3 9417 5578

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-4:30pm, Sat 9am-5pm

12 Best Courses for Mini Golf in Melbourne

Melbourne is known for many things, from its famous restaurants to incredible art galleries. But one thing that many people don't know is that Melbourne is home to some of the best Mini Golf courses. If you're looking to sharpen your skills or have some fun, we've found the best putt Melbourne has to offer.

1. Holey Moley Golf Club

Located near the heart of Melbourne's CBD, the Holey Moley Golf Club is known for housing some of the craziest indoor mini-golf Melbourne has to offer. The club has 27 holes themed around pop culture references, from The Simpson to the Nine Iron Throne itself, each spot more fantastic than the last. With food, drinks, cocktails and even tunes on offer at The Caddyshack, what's not to love? Holey Moley Melbourne is open to all ages, so grab a mate get swinging.

Address: 590 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Phone: (03) 7003 9201

Hours: Mon-Thurs: 4pm-11pm, Fri: 4pm-12am, Sat: 12pm-12am, Sun: 12pm-11pm

2. Yarra Bend Adventure Mini Golf

Located just 4km away from Melbourne's CBD, the Yarra Bend adventure mini golf is one to try. It is offering 36 Holes across two courses, the West Course and the East Course. Both with outstanding views set amongst beautiful parklands and the Yarra River.

The course offers ample on-site parking, tasty treats and refreshments, and all-ability access (including wheelchair access and toilets). There is also a fully decked area with seating, which overlooks the two mini-golf courses. It's open to all ages, so why not give it a go.

Address: Yarra Bend Rd, Fairfield VIC 3078

Phone: (03) 9481 3729

Hours: Mon-Sun: 7am-9pm

3. GlowGolf

GlowGolf is Australia's first and original 18 hole glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course. You are offering 18, allowing you to put your way through some of Australia's iconic attractions. Such as the Great Barrier Reef, The Outback and even the good old Kingswood Ute.

GlowGolf Not only lets you play a great game of miniature Golf but also offers you the chance to drink at possibly Australia's if not the world's smallest bar. "Le Bar European" gives you a choice of European Beer or a variety of wines. Mini Golf like this has never been available here in Australia, so why not give it a go. We know you'll love it.

Address: Shop 35 Star Cres, Docklands VIC 3008

Phone: (03) 9642 5442

Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-7pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-7pm

4. Dingley Village Adventure Golf

Only a 44 min drive from Melbourne's CBD. The Dingley Village Adventure Golf offers two unique 18-hole mini-golf courses.

The first being The Chasm, an indoor multi-level building that features a water wheel. The other course being The Creek, an outdoor adventure that is designed around a lake. The classes are uniquely designed with cool hole designs and different settings to challenge mini golfers of all abilities, young and old.

Address: 1A Centre Dandenong Rd, Dingley Village VIC 3172

Phone: (03) 9551 5163

Hours:  Mon-Sun 7am-5:30pm, Fri-Sat 7:30am-9pm

5. Bellarine Adventure Golf Course

Just an hour and a half drive from Melbourne, the Bellarine Adventure Golf takes mini Golf to another level. With 36 ingeniously crafted holes with Multi-level greens, set amongst beautiful gardens complete with creeks and waterfalls. There are two 18 hole courses to choose from, including the Mill, which offers a great fun course with fun obstacles. The other is the Mountain course which provides a bit more of a challenge. But that's not all. Bellarine Adventure Golf also has a café offering locally roasted coffee from Geelong's own Capra Coffee, along with a small selection of food to enjoy.

Address: 1532/1540 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington VIC 3221

Phone: (03) 5250 3777

Hours: Thurs-Sun: 10 am – 5 pm

6. Heathmont Golf Park

Just a 30-minute drive from the city, the Heathmont golf park is one to check out. The 18 holes Mini Golf course is set outdoors surrounded by natural bushland and by the Bungalook Creek, amongst native plants and trees.

The putting surface is carpet on which various obstacles are located to add to the challenge.

7. Sunshine Golf Club

Just half an hour from the city, Sunshine Golf Club is one of Victoria's most famous golf clubs.

The club has everything a golfer could think of. The club's 18 holes outdoor mini-golf course has three tee positions available. Easy, intermediate, and complex, you are bound to have fun no matter your age or skill. So why not give it a swing.

Address: 475 Mt Derrimut Rd, Derrimut VIC 3030

Phone: (03) 8737 9011

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat-Sun 6am-6:30pm

8.  Maroondah Golf Park

Just a 40-minute drive from the city, the Maroondah Golf Park has entertainment and challenges for all skill levels and ages. Maroondah Golf Park offers two 18 hole courses, the lodge and the lake, filled with extensive landscaping and building-level changes to provide exciting golf play.

The Lodge Course offers 18  holes to swing your way through various level changes creating lots of challenges. The Lake course also offers 18 holes that you can put your way through winding paths, over creeks, through water wheels, down tunnels and around ball spirals.

Address: 363 Maroondah Hwy, Chirnside Park VIC 3116

Phone: (03) 9727 3082

Hours: Mon-Sun 9 am-9 pm

9. Latrobe Golf Park

The Latrobe Golf Park is close to Melbourne's city centre, offering two fun-filled mini-golf courses, the lake and the dessert. Scale the giant boulders and steep slopes of the Desert Course, or test yourself as you Navigate through running water and enormous logs on the Lake Course. Latrobe Golf Park mini-golf has something for everyone.  We know you'll love it, so why not give it a go.

Address: 906 Plenty Rd, Bundoora VIC 3083

Phone: (03) 9470 4481

Hours: Sun-Wed: 9am-9pm, Thurs-Sat: 9am-10pm

10. Sidetracked Entertainment Centre

Located near the heart of Melbourne's CBD, the Sidetracked Entertainment Centre is home to A unique and challenging 18 hole putt-putt mini-golf course. The course features themed holes including Merlins Chamber, The Wishing Well and Excalibur's Sword, filled with exciting effects and deceptive optical illusions. You'll be amazed at how much fun you'll have.

Address: 370 Huntingdale Rd, Oakleigh South VIC 3167

Phone: (03) 9562 7607

Hours: Mon: 10:3am-5:30pm, Wed-Thurs: 10:30am-5:30pm, Fri:10:30am-9pm, Sat-Sun: 10:30am-5:30pm

11. Wetlands Mini Golf ‘n’ Games

Wetlands Mini Golf 'n' Games is located near the city of Melbourne. With two 18-hole mini-golf courses that are both challenging and fun for any skill level. With both an outdoor and undercover approach filled with native plants and a lagoon. So you're able to have a swing in any weather. Coffee and food are also available at the cafe overlooking the course.

Address: 703 Wellington Rd, Wheelers Hill VIC 3150

Phone: (03) 9795 3111

Hours: Wed-Mon: 10am-5pm

12. Sandy Mini Golf

Sandy Mini Golf is just half an hour from the city. With an 18 holes mini golf course, each with three different skill levels to choose from. No matter the skill level, there's fun for everyone. Food and drink are also available at the Sandy Mini Golf Café. So why not give it a swing.

Address: 18/20 Wangara Rd, Sandringham VIC 3191

Phone: (03) 9585 7152

Hours: Mon-Sun: 10am-5pm

5 Best Places to Go Horse Riding in Melbourne

With the weather getting nicer, there's never been a better time to get outdoors, escape the city, and explore the breathtaking views of the Victorian countryside. With an extensive list of local stables offering various riding schools and trekking experiences, horse riding in Melbourne has become a popular pastime for both intrepid adults and adventurous kids.

Whichever location you choose, horse riding in this region is guaranteed to be a memorable and scenic adventure. Trek across the golden sands of the Mornington Peninsula or ride alongside wildlife in the national parks and native woodlands. Some stables offer longer treks with overnight stays and, you can even go on excursions to many of our established local breweries and wineries!

With many new and heritage venues so close to the city, Melbourne horse riding offers a perfect day trip escape or even a long weekend.

So saddle up, and let’s explore the best places to go horse riding in Melbourne.

1. Watson’s Mountain, High Country

For over 37 years, Watson’s Mountain Country Trail Rides has been taking visitors to explore the magnificent picturesque land of the High Country on horseback. This historic area is awash with beautiful lakes and rivers and surrounded by incredible mountains. As you journey along the tracks and trails, there will be no shortage of photo opportunities.

Watson's Trail Rides offer various packages to suit all riders, from 1-3 hour short rides or 5 to 7-day wilderness tours, including overnight stays, under the stars, in swags or private tents. The more extended terms are complete with hearty cooked breakfasts, and riders can relax at night huddled around a campfire cooking dinner from local produce. For fishing fans, you can opt for an overnight trek, including an afternoon of fly fishing in some local secret spots and a stay in an old private miners cottage. Rides run throughout all seasons, seven days a week. So make sure you dress for the weather!

2. Hepburn Shire

Just over an hour from Melbourne, Hepburn Shire is probably best known for its mineral springs, indulgence, and relaxation. It has even been heralded as the 'Spa Capital of Australia'. But it is lesser-known that Hepburn Shire is also home to a host of exciting outdoor activities such as hiking and horse riding.

Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides has the ideal rides for those who enjoy some good pub grub or a cheeky tipple. Trek through a fantastic bush trail to the historic Swiss Mountain Hotel for lunch or trot across to Captain's Creek Organic Winery for a relaxing drink amongst the grapevines. With its picturesque rolling hills as a backdrop, guests can enjoy an expedition on horseback along the winding country roads or pick up a canter on the trails through Wombat state forest.

Address: 60 Telegraph Road, Newlyn North, VIC 3364

Phone: +61 (04) 0805 9125

Email: kieran@hepburnlagoonrides.com.au

3. Gunnamatta Trail Rides, Mornington Peninsula

Some of the most popular destinations in Melbourne are the stunning beaches and varied coastal bushland of the Mornington Peninsula. Gunnamatta Trail Rides offers various horseback excursions across the golden dunes and along the shoreline, providing spectacular bay views.

Experience the extraordinary feeling of riding across the sand, looking out over the vast ocean, and feeling the wind in your hair. Gunnamatta Stables offer various rides suitable for memorable family days out or taking your partner on an enchanting romantic date. (Many have proposed to their loved ones whilst overlooking the sunset on their private twilight rides!) Gunnamatta also partners with a variety of local businesses to offer packages and mini-breaks to suit every taste. From wineries and breweries to the Peninsula Hot Springs… Gunamatta has a package for everyone, making this one of the best places to go horse riding in Melbourne.

Address: Cnr Truemans Rd & Sandy Rd, Fingal, VIC 3939

Phone: +61 (03) 5988 6755

Email: info@gunnamatta.com.au

4. Woodlands Trail Riding, Greenvale

Situated only 30 minutes from Melbourne's CBD, Woodlands Trail Riding in Greenvale is the perfect destination for an authentic horse riding experience. Ride through the sweeping pastures of Woodlands Historic Park amongst kangaroos, birds, and other indigenous wildlife for the ultimate Australian trail riding experience. You will trek across the varied landscape and native woodland of the national park to a viewpoint where you can take in the breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.

Kids are exceptionally well looked after here, too, as Woodlands Trail Riding offers Pony rides for youngsters (2-9 years) and some of the most in-depth horse riding lessons Melbourne has to offer. Kids will enjoy the thrill and adventure of learning to ride so close to nature at one of Victoria's most renowned national parks.

Address: Woodlands Historical Park, Somerton Road (Park Access Road) Melbourne, Greenvale, VIC 3059

Phone: 1300 966 352

Email: bookings@woodlandstrailriding.com.au

5. Chum Creek Horse Riding, Yarra Valley

Experience the magic of the Yarra Valley on horseback, overlooking the cascading mountains and taking in the picturesque landscapes of this beautiful region. With some of the best trail guides in the biz, Chum Creek is the place to be for both novice and experienced riders. With bush trails right on their doorstep, you can be at one with nature and experience the delights of the surrounding Australian bushland within minutes of leaving the yard.

For those wanting more time away from the big city, or a tranquil romantic getaway, Chum Creek Horse Riding also offers private accommodation in the form of cosy private huts. With scenic views overlooking the paddocks, you can sit back and breathe in the fresh mountain air while watching the horses, wild deer, and kangaroos from the comfort of your little sanctuary. With big impressive fireplaces, wooden decks, and even a loft hut with a majestic Japanese bathtub with a panoramic view, these huts are in high demand and perfect for a trip all year round!

Address: 221 Heath Road, Chum Creek VIC 3777

Phone: +61 (04) 0732 6276

Email: clancy@chumcreek.net.au