Market Lane Coffee

Anyone who takes it upon themselves to 'make coffee for the city that loves to drink it' is setting themselves up for a challenge. But it's come as a walk in the park for Market Lane Coffee, who have established an enviable presence in Melbourne and, with it, have reeducated the public about what an excellent cup of coffee truly looks like.

Since 2009, the self-professed bad multi-taskers behind the helm of this specialty coffee roastery have spread themselves across the city with an arsenal based on creating an obscenely good product. Originating out of a humble lane at Prahran Market — the roastery's flagship store — this dynasty now includes northside outposts at Therry Lane in the CBD, Faraday Street, Carlton and a brand new addition to the Dairy Produce Hall at Queen Victoria Market.

The Market Lane philosophy is all about high quality coffee. Simple as that. Careful roasting, attentive brewing and having the right tools at hand shine brightly, with the roastery only serving seasonal blends. It shows — find yourself with a cup and, before you realise you're doing it, you'll be contemplating the origins in hand. Free public cuppings are held every Friday and Saturday from 10am-11am at the Prahran Market store.

Such emphasis on coffee means that you'll find only basic food accompaniments upon visiting, but with serious coffee accoutrements littering each location, your attention will be taken to starting your own little brewing station at home. Best of all, knowledgeable, passionate staff make for an approachable discovery, whether you're an expert or a beginner. Our hot tip: visit the Faraday Street outpost and grab yourself a loaf of bread and cheeky pastry from Baker D. Chirico, right next door, while you're at it.

Right down to the minimal, sleek fitouts by Hearth Studio, this experience is seamless. Whether you're a purist or a no frills drinker, Market Lane's philosophy is likely to excite, or perhaps even alienate. Whatever your opinion though, these guys make no apologies: it's all about the coffee.

Market Lane also have outposts at the Queen Vic Market, Shop 73-76, Dairy Produce Hall, Melbourne, at 109-111 Therry Street, Melbourne and 176 Faraday Street, Carlton.