Best Cafés in Essendon

56 restaurants available nearby

1. Old Man Drew

4.6

Exceptional(233)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Ascot Vale

Booked 33 times today

At Old Man Drew in the quaint Ascot Vale neighborhood, the Afternoon Tea experience is nothing short of enchanting. Known for its meticulous presentation and exceptional service, the restaurant offers an atmosphere that complements its sumptuous selection of teas and delectable treats. Patrons often rave about the "beautiful and numerous rooms and lovely garden," which create a perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon. The high tea is particularly popular among locals, with one reviewer sharing, "High tea was beautiful. Food was very yummy. Setting was amazing and staff great." This praise underscores Old Man Drew's commitment to providing a memorable and authentic Afternoon Tea experience that delights all senses. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or seeking a serene escape, Old Man Drew promises an afternoon well spent.

A photo of Feekah Moonee Ponds restaurant

2. Feekah Moonee Ponds

4.7

Exceptional(88)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Moonee Ponds

Booked 6 times today

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3. Humble Rays

4.7

Exceptional(44)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Carlton

Booked 9 times today

Nestled in the bustling heart of Melbourne, Humble Rays shines as a beacon of Asian culinary excellence. This gem in Carlton delights with its Asian-inspired brunch that perfectly balances the traditional flavors of spice, sweetness, sourness, and saltiness, ensuring every dish is a vibrant feast for the senses. Visitors rave about the signature Crab Meat Scramble, with one diner exclaiming it "HUMBLED ME for real" due to its exquisite blend of chilli oil and buttery croissant. Awarded as one of Melbourne's Top 20 Brunch Cafes by The Age Good Food Guide in 2017 and recognized as the Most Popular Cafe by Zomato in 2018, Humble Rays not only promises but delivers an exceptional dining experience that captures the essence of Asian cuisine with a modern twist.

A photo of The Fitz Cafe & Harmony Rooftop restaurant

4. The Fitz Cafe & Harmony Rooftop

4.1

Excellent(16)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Fitzroy

Booked 1 time today

The Fitz Cafe & Harmony Rooftop, nestled in the vibrant heart of Fitzroy, Melbourne, is a quintessential cafe that offers an unparalleled coffee experience. Celebrated as one of Melbourne's longest-standing cafes, The Fitz is dedicated to delivering not only a "delicious food and coffee" experience but also impeccable service, as highlighted by a patron who exclaimed, "Great location, service & coffee." Whether you're indulging in a leisurely brunch or savoring their expertly crafted cafe cuisine, The Fitz promises a lively atmosphere with "amazing service and tasty food." Known for its "best chai" and superb happy hour, this cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic and high-quality cafe fare in Melbourne.

A photo of Code Black Coffee - Brunswick restaurant

5. Code Black Coffee - Brunswick

4.5

Awesome(2)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Brunswick

Booked 4 times today

Our flagship store, roasting HQ and training facility. This is the heart of it all.Not only is this our Brunswick mecca for coffee roasting, we serve up brunch 7 days a week. Our full service cafe offers all things coffee related, from coffee beans for home to pour overs, single origins, cold brew, and takeaways. Our outdoor tables are partially shaded; however, we cannot guarantee full protection from the weather. As our indoor space is limited, it is unlikely that we will be able to move you so please dress appropriately for Melbourne weather! We will do our absolute best to accomodate your preferences. We are open 363 days (closed Good Friday & Christmas Day). Please be advised that we do not take same day bookings.Kitchen hours : 7.00am-3.00pm weekdays / 7.00am-4.00pm weekendsFor any bookings over 10 people, please get in contact with us via phone 03 9381 2330 or email brunswick@codeblackcoffee.com.au

6. carli.melbourne

4.4

Awesome(19)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Carlton

Booked 1 time today

Nestled just off Elgin Street in Carlton, carli.melbourne shines as a beacon of superb café culture. Praised as Carlton's "greatest hidden gem," this café offers an exceptional coffee experience that locals insist is "to die for." The atmosphere is described as both "light and airy" and "fun," making it a prime spot for breakfast, brunch, or a midday treat. Patrons rave about the "amazing coffee" and the friendly, professional service that makes every visit memorable. A standout review notes, "after trying almost all the coffee shops in Carlton, I can say that Carli is by far the best." Whether it's the praised hangover burger or the highly recommended Harissa Scramble, carli.melbourne is a must-visit for any café lover seeking quality and authenticity in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

A photo of Code Black Coffee - North Melbourne restaurant

7. Code Black Coffee - North Melbourne

4.4

Awesome(4)

Price: Moderate

• Café • North Melbourne

Booked 1 time today

At Code Black Coffee in North Melbourne, enthusiasts of genuine café culture are treated to an experience that transcends the ordinary. Renowned for its exceptional coffee, this spot has garnered glowing reviews such as "The best coffee I've ever had" and "Delicious coffee and the harissa scrambled eggs - amazing!!" The industrial chic ambiance, a nod to its history as a mechanics warehouse, complements the meticulously crafted espresso and batch brews, making it a destination for both locals and visitors. With its spacious venue and friendly staff, Code Black Coffee stands out as a beacon of café excellence in the heart of Melbourne. Whether it's the vibrant atmosphere or the delicious brunch menu, this café promises an unforgettable experience with every visit.

8. Operator San

5.0

Exceptional(1)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Melbourne CBD

Operator San in Melbourne CBD offers a delightful twist on traditional Japanese cuisine, blending it seamlessly with Melbourne's iconic brunch culture. Located near the bustling Queen Victoria Market, this restaurant is a gem for those seeking an innovative Japanese dining experience. Diners rave about the "crazy good" food, from the matcha cruffin to the yakitori in flatbreads, highlighting the restaurant's ability to infuse creativity into every dish. The matcha latte, described as the "best in Melbourne," and the meticulously cooked mushroom tamagoyaki are frequently mentioned highlights. Operator San's inviting ambiance, coupled with its "super friendly" staff, makes it a must-visit for anyone craving a unique and authentic Japanese meal in the heart of Melbourne.

A photo of Roasting Warehouse Airport West restaurant

9. Roasting Warehouse Airport West

4.5

Awesome(14)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Tullamarine

Booked 3 times today

Located in the bustling industrial sector of Tullamarine, Airport West, Roasting Warehouse Airport West stands out not just for its vibrant café culture but for its exceptional coffee experience. This café, a favorite among locals, operates as both a café and a dedicated roastery, allowing patrons to witness the coffee roasting process firsthand through a stylish glass partition. Customers rave about the freshly roasted beans that "you know you are getting some good coffee here." The Mont Blanc coffee, with its "fresh citrusy notes and creamy zesty topping," is frequently highlighted as a must-try. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or looking for a hearty meal, Roasting Warehouse Airport West delivers with both its high-quality brews and its delicious, generously portioned dishes. As one reviewer puts it, this place is definitely "a must visit" for anyone in the area.

10. Bar libretto

4.8

Exceptional(16)

Price: Moderate

• Café • Ascot Vale

Booked 4 times today

Bar Libretto in Ascot Vale offers an enchanting wine bar experience that's a cut above the rest. Nestled in the heart of this bustling neighborhood, it boasts a wine list that is as "impressive" as it is diverse, featuring "exceptional vintages from around the world alongside local Australian gems." Patrons rave about the "great selection of wine by the glass," a rare find that sets Bar Libretto apart from many others. Coupled with its "casually refined, seasonally inspired" dining and a charming courtyard setting, this spot is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in high-quality wines and bistro-style dishes that sing with flavor. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual drinker, Bar Libretto offers a warm, "welcoming atmosphere" that makes every visit memorable.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
Kathleen
Melbourne •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
It was a dreary morning so we sat inside but I realized we could have eaten outside as it was undercover. The eggs and ham Benedict was generous in size and very tasty. Coffee great as well. I bought a big muffin on the way out. Look forward to going back
More info
Old Man DrewPrice: Moderate• Café• Ascot Vale
•
4.6
A
Adam
Melbourne •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 16, 2024
Great food, friendly and professional staff, great fun!
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The Fitz Cafe & Harmony RooftopPrice: Moderate• Café• Fitzroy
•
4.1
D
Diva
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined on Sep 28, 2024
The food is great. Service is excellent. We did not have to wait long to be seated though we had made a booking and arrived an hour earlier. Will be coming back here more often
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Humble RaysPrice: Moderate• Café• Carlton
•
4.7
J
Judy
Melbourne •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Aug 16, 2024
Great food & coffee, cool ambience, and easy parking at Barkley Square is a great plus.
More info
Code Black Coffee - BrunswickPrice: Moderate• Café• Brunswick
•
4.5
RJ
ReemaJ
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined on Jan 2, 2022
Very presentable food. Staff was very nice and soft spoken. Full of energy too. Coffees and Cocktails are a must try.
More info
Feekah Moonee PondsPrice: Moderate• Café• Moonee Ponds
•
4.7

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Best Cafés in Essendon

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56 restaurants available nearby

1. Old Man Drew

2. Feekah Moonee Ponds

3. Humble Rays

4. The Fitz Cafe & Harmony Rooftop

5. Code Black Coffee - Brunswick

6. carli.melbourne

7. Code Black Coffee - North Melbourne

8. Operator San

9. Roasting Warehouse Airport West

10. Bar libretto

See what locals rave about

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