Proud Mary

Overview

Say what you want about Melbourne's hyped-up cafe culture, but some things just work. And sometimes they work really well — at least, that's the case of Proud Mary in Collingwood. Even though it opened way, way back in 2009, Proud Mary still continually has to manage customer lines out the front — even on weekdays.

Since then, many cafes have opened (and closed), but this Collingwood fixture still stands tall and proud. Perhaps it's the coffee it roasts, which comes from all around the world, or maybe it's the solid cafe menu. Most likely, it's the stellar combination of the two. You don't become a Melbourne institution for nothing.

From the Proud Mary menu, look for classic dishes such as free-range eggs on sourdough cooked your way or Proud's porridge with early grey creme and blackberries. More adventurous options include ricotta hotcakes with peached rhubarb, yoghurt, pistachio, and cardamom crumble; a cauliflower and burghul salad with buckwheat, feta, pomegranate and blackened onion; or a meatball sub with sugo and herbed garlic butter.

There's a rotating selection of sandwiches and pastries, too, making sure there's something for everyone stopping by Proud Mary's.

Appears in:
Where to Find the Best Coffee in Melbourne