working and studying cafes in melbourne

The Best Cafes for Working and Studying in Melbourne

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    The city of Melbourne is a bustling metropolis that has a wide variety of cafés to select from. Cafes provide the ideal environment for professionals and students to get a cup of coffee, a cup of tea, or some food while working on tasks or studying. If you are searching for a place to work or study in Melbourne this year, we have produced a list of five of our favourite cafés in the city, and we think you should check out at least one of them!

    Because the test season is looming for many people (it always feels like it's threatening, even though it's months away), there are moments when you simply want to get out of the home and go study somewhere else, like a café. You are able to take over the world as long as you have access to Wi-Fi, a darn nice cup of coffee, and perhaps one or two snacks. This is not a kind of brunch-fueled procrastination. And zero risk of napping. Now go and crush that homework; it won't smash itself.

    Some coffee shops provide free Wi-Fi, outlets, and comfy seats; in addition, many of them provide student discounts. If you're searching for a location with a fantastic vibe that's both peaceful and studious while still being well-lit, here are some of our favourites Melbourne cafés for working and studying.

    The cultural centre is also home to a sizable number of independent contractors and business owners. Because Melbourne is also the coffee capital of Australia, there are a lot of cafés in the city that are designed for those who wish to work and study away from their homes.

    Naughty Boy Café

    naughty boy cafe ask melbourne

    Get your freak shake on at Naughty Boy and see how well it works with your studies. Relax on one of their cushy chairs and go to work on whatever interests you. The place becomes hectic in the afternoon, but it's ideal for getting things done in the late morning.

    Known for its crazy shakes and free Wi-Fi, Naughty Boy Cafe can be found on Lygon Street, just on the border between Carlton North and Princes Hill (free Wi-Fi). Naughty Boy Cafe offers more than just sugary freakshakes; they also have Allpress coffee, smoothies, and a full menu available all day long. Who wants a pulled lamb grain salad or a chicken bao sandwich with a knish topping?

    WIFI: Yes 

    Poolhouse Coffee

    pool house cafe ask melbourne

    Poolhouse is another CBD gem that has gained notoriety among RMIT students and faculty because of its proximity to a major campus structure. Located behind the CBD Poolhouse (thus the name), these cafes will make you wish you were plunging into a pool of Coffee (yes, please) (yes, please). On Thursdays, they provide Doughboy Donuts in addition to the healthy salads, rice paper rolls, and other options they offer every day. Better yet? WIFI is available all day and is free of charge.

    WIFI: Yes 

    Sun Moth

    sun moth

    Sun Moth, tucked away on Niagra Lane, is a favourite among students, faculty, and staff at RMIT's City Campus. This cafe has everything you need to get some work done, from hot chai and a fantastic cappuccino to a varied Asian fusion menu (with amazing nutritious meals) to the 'Coffee to bar' mentality (meaning you may start with your Coffee in the AM and move onto the rosé come 4 pm). However, you should know that it may get rather loud during busy times.

    WIFI: Yes 

    Union Street Brewers

    union street brewers

    Union Street Brewers, or as many locals refer to it, "that café near Jewell Station," is an institution. The chai lattes are the best we've had (and we've tasted a lot of chai lattes), and the breakfast menu changes frequently. Also, students get a 10% discount with valid ID. Students of the RMIT Fashion Program, this is a convenient location for you. Complete the picture with access to fast WiFi at no extra cost and a gorgeous courtyard.

    WIFI: Yes 

    Mr Tulk

    mr tulk ask melbourne

    Since it is so close to the State Library, Mr. Tulk is a student favourite. Relax with a cup of coffee and a light snack while using the library's free Wi-Fi. The café, named for the library's first librarian (how lovely! ), is surrounded by shelves upon shelves of books, elevating the atmosphere to one of serious study.

    For as long as anybody can remember, Mr. Tulk has been universally adored by his students. Despite its central location within the historic State Library of Victoria on Swanston Street, the atmosphere is quiet and conducive to study. But here's the greatest part: You may connect to the library's free Wi-Fi network at the adjoining café.

    WIFI: Yes 

    Serotonin

    serotonin ask melbourne

    A plant-based nutritious café, set in a spacious area with hanging swings and neon signage, provides a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of daily life at this haven. Indulge in a deliciously sinful peanut butter acai bowl as you rethink those boring theories, or pack a picnic and eat it at the park across the street. The happiest place in Melbourne also hosts complimentary workouts, which are followed by post-workout chats and a hearty breakfast.

    WIFI: Yes 

    Everyday Coffee Carlton

    everyday coffee

    By its mere name, Everyday Coffee conveys its reliability. With four locations all across Melbourne and free Wi-Fi, every day is a solid contender in the coffee industry. Everyday places may be found in Northcote, Collingwood, the Central Business District, and Carlton. The Carlton location, which is also a bookstore, is an ideal place to get things done because you'll be well-caffeinated and motivated to get your job done. Welcoming setting with large communal tables and abundant sunlight (when present).

    WIFI: Yes 

    Guild Cafe

    guild coffee

    Do not be put off by the State Library's impressive but cold exterior; the Guild Cafe, in particular, is filled with warmth, comfort, and chances for creative work. A new café, accessible through a door that had been locked for 15 years, has opened in the library as a result of the extensive renovations that took place in the neighbourhood the previous year. Big windows let in plenty of daylight, and long communal tables are perfect for working remotely with a large group of people who are all seated at their own computers. In addition, the Guild staff is well-versed in all things caffeine-related, and for just $10, you can buy an all-day filter coffee ticket and have it refilled as much as you like (or hot tip: try the almond milk).

    WIFI: Yes 

    Two Birds One Stone – South Yarra

    two birds one stone ask melbourne

    To some, Two Birds One Stone is among the best cafés in all of South Yarra. The friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere draw in locals, students, independent workers, and employees alike.

    WIFI: Yes

    Manchester Press – CBD

    manchester press

    The laneways of Melbourne are full of hidden treasures and unexpected discoveries for those who know where to seek. There is no better example of this than The Manchester Press. One of the best cafés in Melbourne's CBD, it stands out for its speciality bagels, sleek interior design, and welcoming atmosphere. On weekdays, the afternoon is the best time to visit this site if you want to avoid the large crowds that arrive in the morning and around lunchtime.

    WIFI: Yes

    Faraday's Cage – Fitzroy

    faraday's cage

    Faraday's Cage, a café and artisan bakery hidden in the backstreets of Fitzroy, is a hidden gem. Located in a convenient location, this cafe serves up some of Melbourne's best hotcakes and pastries in addition to outstanding coffee. Plus, there's free Wi-Fi, so you can study in the courtyard while sipping coffee. Don't leave without picking up a delicious flaky croissant first!

    WIFI:  YES

    Project 281 Café – Brunswick

    project 281 cafe

    Project 281, a popular café, occupies a repurposed warehouse with a lot of outside space and a lot of plants. The house-roasted coffee is excellent, and the Japanese and Korean influences on the brunch menu make for a tasty meal. The café is usually rather crowded on the weekends, but if you go there early you can get a table up on the mezzanine and still have a good time without having to squeeze through the crowds on the lower floor.

    WIFI: Yes

    St ALi – South Melbourne

    st ali christmas lunch idea melbourne

    Located in the backstreets of South Melbourne, ST. Ali is widely regarded as a forerunner of Melbourne's coffee culture. Many locals still rank it as one of the best cafes in Melbourne to have a beverage. ST. ALi is well-known for its creative coffee and its inventive, delicious brunch offerings. South Melbourne Market, a popular tourist destination, is also easily accessible on foot, so you may spend some time there before heading back to ST. ALi for the day.

    WIFI: Yes

    Little Tommy Tucker – Bentleigh

    little tommy tucker cafe ask mellbourne

    Located in the heart of Bentleigh on the ever-bustling Centre Road, Little Tommy Tucker has been voted the best local brunch spot in Melbourne, Stonnington, Caulfield, and Port Phillip. Only two minutes on foot separate you from Bentleigh Station, making this café one of the most handy in the neighbourhood. On Sundays, bring your work to the market close to the train station while you're here.

    WIFI: Yes

    Urban Projuice 

    urban projuice ask melbourne

    She won't mind that you're going out of the house as long as you bring your homework and eat healthily at this adorable little café. They have a wide variety of tasty smoothies and specialised hot beverages, but fresh ingredients, healthy cuisine, and eco-friendly items are what really set Urban Projuice apart. Order the make-your-own spring rolls and enjoy them on the second-floor balcony. Vegetables prepared just for this dish are tucked inside hot Asian pancakes and topped with peanut sauce.

    WIFI: Yes

    Au79

    cafe au79 ask melbourne

    Would you enjoy classes in a huge warehouse adorned with colourful flowers and verdant plants? Do you agree that eating carbs makes everything better? We do, so grab your highlighters and head to the trendy neighbourhood of Abbotsford, where Au79 is preparing prawn linguine and ricotta gnocchi.

    WIFI: Yes

    Pillar Of Salt

    pillar of salt ask melbourne

    This Church Street coffeehouse has been a neighbourhood staple for years, and if you need to get some work done while you're there, head to the covered patio out back. Don't go too far from the tried-and-true recipes you know people here prefer to eat; for example, you can bet they want scrambled eggs with a wide variety of toppings.

    WIFI: Yes

    Moby

    moby cafe ask melbourne

    Located in Armadale's verdant community lies the bar Moby. There's a rooftop there, far above the hustle and bustle of High St., perfect for making up homework or watching lectures you missed. Go there early in the morning for coffee, or stay all day and have a chicken katsu burger and hand-cut fries with aioli.

    WIFI: Yes

    Fourth Chapter

    fourth chapter cafe ask melbourne

    It's no surprise that you can get smashed avocado at Prahran's Fourth Chapter, another one of those fashionable adorable cafés serving golden lattes, acai bowls, and smashed avocado. You can get some work done on that essay you've been putting off thanks to the abundance of natural light and outdoor tables that are just the correct size for two people and a laptop.

    WIFI: Yes

    Auction Rooms

    auction room coffee shop

    The St. Ali family, of which North Melbourne's Auction Rooms is a part, pioneered Melbourne's speciality coffee industry. They serve St. Ali coffee all day long, and their all-day menu features breakfast items inspired by Asian, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Auction Rooms is also well-known for its industrial design, which features a concrete floor and brick walls with weathered surfaces. We have plenty of seats, electrical outlets, and Wi-Fi for both workers and students to utilise.

    WIFI: Yes

    A Minor Place

    a minor place cafe ask melbourne

    A Minor Place is a popular meeting spot for locals and students in the Brunswick region due to its convenient location and wide availability of power outlets and wireless internet. This isn't the only draw to the newly remodelled home, though. At A Minor Place, you may have breakfast any time of day with options including bagels, bubble & squeak, and a Brazilian breakfast. Come on in, grab a seat at one of the communal tables, fire up your laptop, and let the soothing jazz and indie playlist fuel your imagination.

    WIFI: Yes

    The Queensberry Pour House

    the queensberry pour house ask melbourne

    In case you were wondering, The Queensberry Pour House is styled after a classic American diner, so you can enjoy free coffee refills whenever you wish. The cafe's handwritten menu, which includes such treats as coffee-soaked pie and an American-style meatball sandwich, is sure to put you at ease and make you feel right at home. Vegan snacks, sandwiches, and other baked items like cakes and pastries are always on hand in the pantry.

    WIFI: Yes

    Penny Farthing Espresso

    penny farthing espresso cafe ask melbourne

    According to TimeOut, Penny Farthing Espresso is a favourite among freelancers because to its two power outlets on communal tables, free Wi-Fi, and eclectic clientele of creative types. Coffee beans for Penny Farthing Espresso come from the well-known Northcote roastery Industry Beans. Penny Farthing Espresso serves a variety of delectable dishes, including sweet potato rosti, a halloumi burger, kasundi, bacon, and fennel baked eggs.

    WIFI: Yes

    Stovetop

    stovestop melbourne

    Another great choice is Stovetop, which can be located in Carlton not far from the Melbourne University main campus. There's plenty of comfortable sitting in this modern space with white walls and light wood accents, but the free Wi-Fi is what really matters here. The unique cocktails at Cooktop, a cafe that serves alcoholic beverages, are all given names that refer to different cooktop elements. New Zealand king fish, chocolate and espresso waffles, and a kimchi pancake are just a few of the many delicious options on the enormous menu.

    WIFI: Yes

    Conclusion

    Cafés provide the ideal environment for professionals and students to work and study. Some cafes provide free Wi-Fi, outlets, and comfy seats; in addition, many of them provide student discounts. Naughty Boy Cafe is known for its freak shakes and smoothies, and is located on Lygon Street. Poolhouse, Sun Moth and Mr Tulk are all popular among students at RMIT's City Campus. Relax with a cup of coffee and a light snack while using the library's free Wi-Fi.

    The chai lattes at Union Street Brewers are the best we've had. Everyday Coffee has four locations across Melbourne and free Wi-Fi. The Guild Cafe, in particular, is filled with warmth and comfort. For just $10, you can buy an all-day filter coffee ticket and have it refilled as much as you like. The Manchester Press is one of the best cafés in Melbourne's CBD. St ALi is regarded as the forerunner of Melbourne's coffee culture.

    Little Tommy Tucker has been voted the best local brunch spot in Melbourne, and is within walking distance from Bentleigh Station. The St. Ali family pioneered Melbourne's speciality coffee industry. Au79 serves prawn linguine and ricotta gnocchi, and Pillar Of Salt serves breakfast dishes inspired by Middle Eastern cuisines. A Minor Place is a popular meeting spot for locals and students in the Brunswick region. The Queensberry Pour House is styled after a classic American diner, so you can enjoy free coffee refills whenever you wish. Penny Farthing Espresso serves a variety of delectable dishes, including sweet potato rosti and halloumi burger.

    Content Summary

    • The city of Melbourne is a bustling metropolis that has a wide variety of cafés to select from.
    • Cafes provide the ideal environment for professionals and students to get a cup of coffee, a cup of tea, or some food while working on tasks or studying.
    • If you are searching for a place to work or study in Melbourne this year, we have produced a list of five of our favourite cafés in the city, and we think you should check out at least one of them!Because the test season is looming for many people (it always feels like it's threatening, even though it's months away), there are moments when you simply want to get out of the home and go study somewhere else, like a café.
    • You are able to take over the world as long as you have access to Wi-Fi, a darn nice cup of coffee, and perhaps one or two snacks.
    • Some coffee shops provide free Wi-Fi, outlets, and comfy seats; in addition, many of them provide student discounts.
    • If you're searching for a location with a fantastic vibe that's both peaceful and studious while still being well-lit, here are some of our favourites Melbourne cafés for working and studying.
    • Because Melbourne is also the coffee capital of Australia, there are a lot of cafés in the city that are designed for those who wish to work and study away from their homes.
    • Naughty Boy CaféGet your freak shake on at Naughty Boy and see how well it works with your studies.
    • Known for its crazy shakes and free Wi-Fi, Naughty Boy Cafe can be found on Lygon Street, just on the border between Carlton North and Princes Hill (free Wi-Fi).
    • Naughty Boy Cafe offers more than just sugary freakshakes; they also have Allpress coffee, smoothies, and a full menu available all day long.
    • Poolhouse is another CBD gem that has gained notoriety among RMIT students and faculty because of its proximity to a major campus structure.
    • Located behind the CBD Poolhouse (thus the name), these cafes will make you wish you were plunging into a pool of Coffee (yes, please) (yes, please).
    • WIFI is available all day and is free of charge.
    • WIFI: Yes Sun MothSun Moth, tucked away on Niagra Lane, is a favourite among students, faculty, and staff at RMIT's City Campus.
    • WIFI: Yes Union Street BrewersUnion Street Brewers, or as many locals refer to it, "that café near Jewell Station," is an institution.
    • Students of the RMIT Fashion Program, this is a convenient location for you.
    • WIFI: Yes Mr TulkSince it is so close to the State Library, Mr. Tulk is a student favourite.
    • Relax with a cup of coffee and a light snack while using the library's free Wi-Fi.
    • The café, named for the library's first librarian (how lovely!),
    • For as long as anybody can remember, Mr. Tulk has been universally adored by his students.
    • A plant-based nutritious café, set in a spacious area with hanging swings and neon signage, provides a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of daily life at this haven.
    • The happiest place in Melbourne also hosts complimentary workouts, which are followed by post-workout chats and a hearty breakfast.
    • WIFI: Yes Everyday Coffee CarltonBy its mere name, Everyday Coffee conveys its reliability.
    • With four locations all across Melbourne and free Wi-Fi, every day is a solid contender in the coffee industry.
    • Everyday places may be found in Northcote, Collingwood, the Central Business District, and Carlton.
    • The Carlton location, which is also a bookstore, is an ideal place to get things done because you'll be well-caffeinated and motivated to get your job done.
    • A new café, accessible through a door that had been locked for 15 years, has opened in the library as a result of the extensive renovations that took place in the neighbourhood the previous year.
    • In addition, the Guild staff is well-versed in all things caffeine-related, and for just $10, you can buy an all-day filter coffee ticket and have it refilled as much as you like (or hot tip: try the almond milk).WIFI: Yes Two Birds One Stone – South YarraTo some, Two Birds One Stone is among the best cafés in all of South Yarra.
    • The friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere draw in locals, students, independent workers, and employees alike.
    • The laneways of Melbourne are full of hidden treasures and unexpected discoveries for those who know where to seek.
    • One of the best cafés in Melbourne's CBD, it stands out for its speciality bagels, sleek interior design, and welcoming atmosphere.
    • WIFI: YesFaraday's Cage – FitzroyFaraday's Cage, a café and artisan bakery hidden in the backstreets of Fitzroy, is a hidden gem.
    • WIFI: YesSt ALi – South MelbourneLocated in the backstreets of South Melbourne, ST.
    • Ali is widely regarded as a forerunner of Melbourne's coffee culture.
    • Many locals still rank it as one of the best cafes in Melbourne to have a beverage.
    • ALi is well-known for its creative coffee and its inventive, delicious brunch offerings.
    • ALi for the day.
    • WIFI: YesLittle Tommy Tucker – BentleighLocated in the heart of Bentleigh on the ever-bustling Centre Road, Little Tommy Tucker has been voted the best local brunch spot in Melbourne, Stonnington, Caulfield, and Port Phillip.
    • She won't mind that you're going out of the house as long as you bring your homework and eat healthily at this adorable little café.
    • They have a wide variety of tasty smoothies and specialised hot beverages, but fresh ingredients, healthy cuisine, and eco-friendly items are what really set Urban Projuice apart.
    • Order the make-your-own spring rolls and enjoy them on the second-floor balcony.
    • We do, so grab your highlighters and head to the trendy neighbourhood of Abbotsford, where Au79 is preparing prawn linguine and ricotta gnocchi.
    • WIFI: YesPillar Of SaltThis Church Street coffeehouse has been a neighbourhood staple for years, and if you need to get some work done while you're there, head to the covered patio out back.
    • WIFI: YesMobyLocated in Armadale's verdant community lies the bar Moby.
    • There's a rooftop there, far above the hustle and bustle of High St., perfect for making up homework or watching lectures you missed.
    • Go there early in the morning for coffee, or stay all day and have a chicken katsu burger and hand-cut fries with aioli.
    • WIFI: YesFourth ChapterIt's no surprise that you can get smashed avocado at Prahran's Fourth Chapter, another one of those fashionable adorable cafés serving golden lattes, acai bowls, and smashed avocado.
    • You can get some work done on that essay you've been putting off thanks to the abundance of natural light and outdoor tables that are just the correct size for two people and a laptop.
    • WIFI: YesAuction RoomsThe St. Ali family, of which North Melbourne's Auction Rooms is a part, pioneered Melbourne's speciality coffee industry.
    • A Minor Place is a popular meeting spot for locals and students in the Brunswick region due to its convenient location and wide availability of power outlets and wireless internet.
    • At A Minor Place, you may have breakfast any time of day with options including bagels, bubble & squeak, and a Brazilian breakfast.
    • WIFI: YesThe Queensberry Pour HouseIn case you were wondering, The Queensberry Pour House is styled after a classic American diner, so you can enjoy free coffee refills whenever you wish.
    • WIFI: YesPenny Farthing EspressoAccording to TimeOut, Penny Farthing Espresso is a favourite among freelancers because to its two power outlets on communal tables, free Wi-Fi, and eclectic clientele of creative types.
    • Coffee beans for Penny Farthing Espresso come from the well-known Northcote roastery Industry Beans.
    • Penny Farthing Espresso serves a variety of delectable dishes, including sweet potato rosti, a halloumi burger, kasundi, bacon, and fennel baked eggs.
    • WIFI: YesStovetopAnother great choice is Stovetop, which can be located in Carlton not far from the Melbourne University main campus.
    • The unique cocktails at Cooktop, a cafe that serves alcoholic beverages, are all given names that refer to different cooktop elements.

    FAQs About Cafe For Working And Studying in Melbourne

    Besides the obvious proximity to a caffeine source, have you ever wondered why you study better in coffee shops? Research shows that coffee shop ambiance increases creativity, alertness, and ability to learn. So grab the comfiest couch and let the magic of the cafe help you ace your exams.
     
    While most scientists, professionals, and students tend to agree that coffee shop studying is indeed more productive and effective than at-home studying, it's not for everyone and it shouldn't be an everyday occurrence. Part of the reason studying at a coffee shop works so well is that it is a novelty.
     
    If your preferred shop starts filling up with too many people as the day goes on, take that as your cue to leave and free up the space for new customers to enjoy. Arguably, the maximum amount of time you should be occupying a coffee shop, even if you're following all of the above rules, is four hours.

    Lucky for us Melbourne is one of the world's foremost destinations for coffee—producing global barista champions, award-winning roasts, and paving the way for how coffee is brewed and poured world over.

    The Australian coffee comes in smaller sizes, higher prices, and is much stronger than American coffee. While Americans love the sugary extravagant coffee beverages such as Frappés or Macchiatos, Aussies keep it simple and prefer coffees such as long black or flat white.

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