Las Chicas

203 Carlisle St
Balaclava VIC 3182

Well as you all know there’s so much going on down here, so many cool cafes, so much awesome choice; lets duck into here for a quick bite and a sample of the Devil’s Cup from, ‘the chicks.’
This place has quite a reputation in coffee circles, and with so many quality cafés all around, it better live up to my expectations, espresso nirvana was all around.
Modern and hip, this well fitted out and extremely popular café was a definite favorite of the locals, a younger crowd, busy eating, drinking, chitting, chatting, just chilling out with ‘the chicks’
Cool!
Even I almost felt cool just being there, and that’s a big ask….
My espresso arrived, a bit pale, a bit thin, a bit disappointing. The flavors were there, just, the mouthfeel was weak, the taste a bit flat and rancid…
Never mind, I’ve had worse, the slight over extraction, judging by the shot, was to blame, obviously as it morphed the otherwise dense and viscous nectar into a watery mess.
My chaser arrived it hopefully would make up for the entrée and it was a relief to see the café latte was well textured, the milk beautiful and smooth, like silk, the temperature perfect, the interaction of espresso and milk perfect, with the balance of flavors quite smooth and balanced.
An excellent café latte, well served and presented by friendly, courteous and busy staff.
Overall a respectable experience, although I would recommend greater care, especially when serving the nectar of the Gods in its pure and unadulterated form, to desecrate such a beverage is almost unpardonable, but in this case, I’ll make an exception, given the quality of the café latte.
One Bean and a promise I’ll be back, to make sure that the quest for espresso nirvana continues with these chicks..and with that you qualify to join the ever growing ranks of the coffee-elite @:
http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….The CaFFiend!!!

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Di Bella

Victorian Barista and Latte Art Champioships! 2009

WOW! What a GREAT day:

Spent down at the DOCKLANDS @ the Victorian Barista and Latte Art Champioships for 2009.

Here I am hard at work, drinking coffee, what else ?!?!? ;o)

With THE BOYZ!! (from left to right)

My main man Inni from AASCA (head judge), me The CaFFiend, Bruno Maiolo from C4 Coffee and Lance Brown from NATIONAL FOODS, the event's major sponsor!

Good job guys, AWESOME WORK and a BIG thank you to David Makin for inviting me down, a great day for all and for coffee in general.

2009 Victorian Barista Campionships RESULTS:

First Place Jesse Hyde

Second Place Zoe Delany

Third Place Nolan Hirte

2009 Victorian Latte Art Championships RESULTS:

First Place Erin Sampson

Second Place David Seng

Third Place Kirby Berlin

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL, who not only got a place but who competed, in my eyes you are ALL champions, WELL DONE!!!!

The big winner though is the MElbourne Coffee scene and the general public , because we all know life is too short to drink bad coffee!!!

Tune in to the Devil's Cup on 94.1 3WBC on the 22/11 @ 11am for the next instalment with world exclusive interviews of both Jesse and Erin, the days BIG winners!!

ONLY ON THE DEVIL's CUP!!!

And for all the best cafes that Melbourne has to offer check out:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Lawson Grove Shop

1 Lawson Grove
South Yarra VIC 3141

Well, the journey continues and it was because of this place that I was nearly late for my radio show this morning, but damn! Their coffee was sooooo good, I lost track of time.
Nestled and hidden away in a back street of South Yarra just off Caroline St, this humble and unassuming café cum local store was such a well kept secret it took the ex-pat Eric out in Washington DC, doing all the reviews for us, to send through the recommendation, and boy was it a doozy!
Homely and friendly a real ‘local’ feel, with lots of communal tables and seating space if you don’t mind sharing this joint is quite well known for it’s exquisite menu and delightful home-cooked meals, but it was the coffee that drew the CaFFiend’s attention.
I ordered an espresso a bit concerned when the barista looked only a few years older than my eldest daughter, but I thought of the old saying, do not judge a book by it’s cover and began the tasting with an open mind and a salivating mouth.
There was a distinct chocolate on the nose which prepared me for what was about to pass through my lips. A dense crema separated to reveal a thick and rich nectar that covered my tongue perfectly with a powerful start a complex middle and an exciting finish, ‘God-shot’ I thought!
Should I stay or should I go? I had to be at the studio in Box Hill 1o minutes ago for the first installment of 'The Devil's Cup', but the coffee was just so good, God what to do?
Oh to hell with it, I ordered a café latte and began to stress that I’d be late.
It arrived perfectly textured and heated, smooth as silk, the milk adequately intermingling with the espresso shot, which snuck through revealing the tell tale umber edgings of perfection.
Down it went, too fast, now I was in a hurry, didn’t even get time to enjoy this one, what’s a boy to do, it’s a dirty job but somebody’s gotta do it.......
Now I was really late but as you all know I made it on time in the end, and managed to squeeze in another review of one of Melbourne’s stellar performers, LGS, who with the THREE beans that the Caffiend awards, definitely qualify as a Melbourne Coffee Review HOTSHOT, and for all the rest check out:


http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/



Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….



[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: GRAVITY





p.s. Its open 7 days!!!! WOW!!!!

Great Space Cafe

Shop 21 Collins Place
45 Collins Street
Melbourne CBD VIC 3000

What a day, busy busy busy, I was really looking forward to an afternoon caffeine hit to get me through the day, through the week.
In a strolled to the foyer of Collins Place and immediately opposite I spied this schmick looking place, so I headed straight for it, what’s a guy to do.
This place was really busy and had a lot of vibe, I was praying to the Gods that it could deliver on its claim of “GREAT” as I was a mess, really in need of a caffeine hit!
I ordered an espresso and began to feel the dark cloud circling above, out it came closer to 50mls rather than 30, almost to the lip of the demitasse cup…..NO!!!!!!!! I cried in desperation, NOT TODAY!!!!!!!
I was so disappointed but began to drink it anyway, what a mess, burnt, overextracted, lipid and lacking any semblance to the nectar of the God’s that a true shot of the Devil’s Cup is!!
Was I game to sample a café latte, Oh to hell with it, why not, it couldn’t get any worse I thought to myself, or could it… Well it did, a big meringue top with no texture, no mouthfeel, no hope.
Damn I was looking for inspiration for the up and coming Devil’s Cup radio show in the form of some more HOTSHOT cafes around town, but all I got instead was a desecration of the nectar of the Gods, a blasphemy against all things coffee.
Sorry no beans anywhere to be found and nothing at all too great about this space, but for all the best that THE CAFFIEND has found in his journeys, check it out @:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Griffiths

Home Barista Institute

229 Victoria St
West Melbourne VIC 3003

Well here I was outside the iconic Melbourne Coffee Landmark, HBI!
The home of Ricky and Rita, who are the ultimate in Coffee connoisseurs.
This dynamic duo not only operate this respected and busy café, they advise, consult, train and teach one and all on all things coffee, from the budding home-barista to the inexperienced café hopeful, looking for both education and inspiration.
They hold classes, sell equipment, serve the locals lunch and above all prepare a devilishly delectable drop!!
One of Melbourne’s finest to be exact!
I ordered an espresso to begin the festivities and was treated to sensory bliss, my palate awash with a delicate fruity beverage that was both dense with hints of nuttiness and a citrusy finish.
This was followed by a café latte that was expertly prepared at perfect temperature and combination of espresso and milk.
The barista’s here are well trained and taught to not merely make coffee, but to create a masterpiece, each and every time.
A very pleasurable afternoon, an excellent recommendation to all of you, with 2 beans for the team at HBI and a welcome addition to our exclusive HOTSHOT listing.
For all the best that THE CAFFIEND has found in his quest for the ultimate DEVIL’s CUP, check it out @:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Melba

Coffee HIT

G217 Westfield Shopping Centre
Doncaster Road
Doncaster VIC 3108

The gauntlet was thrown down, could it be possible to find some beans in a shopping centre? Were these giant temples of consumerism and greed capable of housing a true devotee of the Devil’s Cup? Was there any hope?

OH YEAH!!!! BIG TIME!!!

On with the GPS again this time to Doncaster, hope it’s a good one, what a hike!!!
As I stroll around this impressive shopping centre I quickly locate my target.
Easily recognizable by the glass encased red-roaster, what a feature for a food court café to have, an instant hit!
“An espresso please,” I ask the young lady behind the machine, quite expectantly, as this place comes really highly recommended and boy oh boy were they right.
Out comes a Devil’s Cup that would make Lucifer himself blush, dense crema, fruity aroma, the nose was preparing the palate for an orgy!
WOW! What a drop, amazing, so much body and mouthfeel, perfect right through the palate, a real sensory HIT! (pun intended)
With the caffeine pumping through my veins I don’t hesitate to order the chaser, my café latte to relax the nerves.
Delicately adorned with a perfect Rosetta this flawlessly textured beverage makes me kick back, smile, enjoy and forget the days woes! It is truly heavenly! ANGELIC!!!
Benji, dude: if you’re ever out that way, go down and see Zoe @ COFFEE HIT for your caffeine HIT, she will HIT you for 6: GUARANTEED!

2 beans here and a BIG HIT!! THANK YOU to Zoe and the team @ Coffee HIT for a shopping centre experience that was totally pleasurable even if it meant driving half way around town!!!
For all the best that THE CAFFIEND has found in his quest for espresso nirvana, check it out @:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Coffee HIT

Turtle Cafe

34 Glenhuntly Rd

(on the corner of Ormond and Glenhuntly Rds)Elwood VIC 3184

The search goes on….on and on….and let’s hope that the old adage holds true especially in this case, that slow and steady wins the race.
We all know the fable of the hare and the turtle and so it was with trepidation and hope that I entered this iconic café, a landmark of sorts in sunny Elwood.
Idyllic scenery, excellent locale, delicious menu, and hopefully a Devil’s Cup fit for the Gods!
A friendly and homely café which seemed really popular and busy in amongst so much competition, gee I though they must be doing something right, I hope it’s the coffee!!!!
I ordered an espresso asking for it to be extracted really short..The waitress brings it over to my table with a glass of water, which I reckon is a must at all good cafes these days, and I am instantly transfixed by the dense and thick golden crema as well as the wafting aromas that ready the palate for what is to come.
A complex yet subtle interplay of flavours with a clean finish, plenty of middle and an intense start, quite an amazing feeling, almost memorable…
I sit, read, enjoy; happy to be alive and then try again, a café latte this time, and even though it is mid afternoon it is still acceptable here in Melbourne to order this beverage, were we in Milan or Rome it would be utter blasphemy!
Nevertheless it is a tad too hot, a tad to fluffy a tad taddish, whatever that means!
The milk certainly overpowered the coffee and left me craving another espresso, which promptly arrived to compensate for the lackluster performance of the café latte, which even though was not to my liking was still alot better than most places around town.
ONE Strong bean here and truly slow and steady had won the race, the Turtle was both consistent as well as meticulous in their homage to the Devil’s Cup, well done; you now qualify as one of Melbourne’s elite, a true HOTSHOT café.

For all the best that THE CAFFIEND has found in his journeys, check it out @:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Genovese

Piccolo Espresso

149 High St
Prahran VIC 3181

Piccolo conjures to me images of small and cute, so as I walked into this trendy café just off Chapel St, I already had preconceptions, they were quickly dispelled.
This one was a recommendation from one of our FANS on FACEBOOK, so I was quick to head out, as I got a stack of emails following up the initial post telling me to go down and give it a go…so here I was.
The place was quite small and cozy, the furniture tatty and rustic, the DJ station spinning the vinyl, WHAT THE?!?! I looked again and right next to the coffee machine was the source of the cool music coming out of the place; vynil records, BRILLIANT!
I thought I’d be clever and order a piccolo espresso, the barista nodded comfortably, I felt reassured.
I took a seat and out came my ristretto, the play of colors and inflection of the crema was mesmerizing, I was in a trance….
Supreme is always top notch and this place did not let me down, the subtle nuances of flavours and the complex mouthfeel were idyllic, pure bliss, and what a finish, a complete journey!
I was quick to follow it up with a piccolo latte as that seemed to be the theme of the day and boy did this guy know how to pull a shot, as I watched him extract another 30ml nectar of the Gods, which he skillfully combined with perfectly heated and textured milk.
In one word: EXQUISITE!!!
Thank you team caffeine you have made this journey more and more exciting with every recommendation, keep ‘em coming!!!!
Truly there is nothing small about this place, well maybe only the name, another 2 BIG beans here from the CAFFIEND and another qualifier to join the coveted Melbourne Coffee Review HOTSHOT listing:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on……. The CAFFIEND!

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Supreme

Pagoda

135 Victoria Avenue
Albert Park VIC 3206



Well you know what, this place should’ve been reviewed a long time ago, it' my local hang out, my local caffeine stop.
You see as ridiculous as this may sound I don’t own a coffee machine, why, you may ask? Well one they’re really high maintenance to keep clean properly, two, the beans always go stale and three why sit at home drinking coffee when there are so many beautiful places to go out there and discover and support.
Well this place is my place! Ambience, Cool, Trendy and LOCATION.
Bayside in chic Albert Park, it is a café cum restaurant with a delicious menu, reasonably priced and above all excellent coffee.
Did I mention SYNESSO? I’m sure I did! That magic word again that sends my taste buds into an expectant frenzy….
As always my ristretto is perfect; smooth, with a dense crema, fruity hints with a strong citrus finish, chased with a café latte it is quite the experience.
My wife and I regularly enjoy this homage to Beelzebub’s Chalice, a perfectly prepared Devil’s Cup which leaves you craving for more. It is so good it must be a sin!
The team at PAGODA really pay careful attention to their customers and provide excellent service across the board at a very reasonable price. Combine that with incredible coffee and you have the perfect combination to qualify as a Melbourne Coffee Review HOTSHOT Café; I’m sure you’d all agree!!!!
2 huge beans and a big THANK YOU! To my local caffeine stop. Because of you I can get through an otherwise caffeine free weekend and continue the pilgrimage to find the perfect espresso around town.

For all the best that THE CAFFIEND has found in his journeys, check it out @:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: 5ive Senses

Xocolatl @ Queen VIC Market

115-121 Victoria Street
Melbourne VIC 3000

All I wanted was something sweet, I wasn’t even really looking for a coffee, when I strolled past this incredible looking place, Xocolatl, WHAT THE!?!?!
How do you pronounce that?? What does it mean??? Do they sell coffee??
I know, I know, I said I wasn’t looking for a coffee, but come on, give me a break it’s Friday arvo…..well do they I thought as I looked around.
Asking for my customary espresso at this time of the day I was politely told that they offered a single origin tasting plate……..WOW!
Now I was hooked, YES PLEASE! I’ll have 5! Oops did I say that aloud?!?!?!
Well sir, its an Ethiopian Sidamo and it comes with two chocolates to compliment and contrast flavours as well as tasting notes, OH MY GOD!!!
Make it 10!!!!!
I was so excited, that I phoned a friend who worked nearby to come and try, a guinea pig of sorts, GOD! In all my travels, never something this exciting, this innovative, a single origin tasting plate! DOUBLE WOW!
As I eyed off my espresso I could not help to notice the wafting aromas on the nose. The shot was great with a dense crema, adequate mouthfeel and combined with the Valrohna Madagascar was amazing! The acidic notes of the chocolate enhanced the hints of praline in this delicate and smooth espresso. In contrast the cherry and pistachio praline really seemed to bring out the flavours of the espresso shot adding to this back palate finish….I did not dare order a café latte as my mouth was in afterglow at the moment…
My mate James arrived and I quickly ordered another round, without even asking him, now he’s more of your latte kinda guy, but let me tell you a picture is worth a thousand words and his face lit up as the flavours, both complex and sublime began to do their thing on his palate….
“Oh my god bro,” he said,”that was incredible…is this what you do all day, while I’m bloody stuck in an office?” he smiled, as we ordered one more round….too much is never enough!!!
Seriously though team caffeine, do yourselves a favour and go check this place out! There’s two more which I will head out and review soon in Kew and Canterbury, but for now I have found the Kings of Coffee at the Queen Vic Market.
2 BIG beans and an X-rating for this Xtraordinary, Xciting, Xquisite chocolate shop.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: and for all the best that THE CAFFIEND has found in his journeys, check it out @:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Jaspers

Pancake Parlour

Chadstone Shopping Centre
Dandenong Rd
Chadstone VIC 3148

Well team Caffeine, here’s one that was totally unexpected, right out of nowhere!!!
I swear it was the kids, it wasn’t me, but how can you say no to those puppy dog eyes…so in we strolled!
I’m sure you’ve all bean to one of these LOVELY establishments somewhere to partake of their PANCAKE inspired delights!
LOVELY!
If you say so….
Anyway, I ordered and received my café latte as did my wife.
I wasn’t brave enough to try an espresso, all I could hear was the pig-squeal of the steam wand buried deep within the milk jug, I don’t even know why I do this to myself….but I needed a shot of caffeine so bad, anything, something, bring it on!!!!!
Well, do you all remember my one-sipper reviews from a while back?
Well, relative to this one, they would be getting bean ratings!
LOVELY….NOT!!!!
Burnt coffee, burnt milk, burnt bridges, sorry but I know that Beraldo does a better coffee than that, I’ve had it around town.
Honestly my wife, who is VERY forgiving with coffee and cafes, could not even finish it, as hard as she tried to be polite, I could not even begin it, I could barely look at it!
Anyway enough is snough, the pancakes were grouse, the kids ice-cream was brilliant as were their milkshakes, but the coffee; welcome to the one-sip club!!!
Maybe next time I should head straight to an MCR HOTSHOT café for my caffeine shot:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Beraldo

Vege2go

452 Lygon Street
Brunswick East VIC 3057

Back out to East Brunswick guys, on my way through to a recommendation in Fitzroy, thought I’d stop in at an old fav for a sample of God’s nectar, when I spotted this place.
Bright, fresh and clean; a real uplifting and happy place, which really raised my spirits as I entered.
Maybe it was the whole vegetarian vibe, the whole meat free thing going on, you know, no killing or dead meat anywhere…
What an interesting concept, VEGITALIAN, a real twist on traditional Italian food, modestly priced, perfectly presented, deliciously delectable.
I ordered my customary espresso, not expecting too much as the place didn’t really seem coffee-centric. Boy was I wrong!! Never judge a book by its cover.
Not only was it dense and viscous, the golden crema aromatic, with hints of chocolate on the nose, the body and mouthfeel were brilliant, front to back palate was a journey, hints of citrus and a little earthy, quite enigmatic…
What is this Javagold, a newcomer? Fairtrade/Organic, I was impressed so I ordered a café latte to see what happened once milk was added to the equation. I was quite expectant now!
The barista was obviously well schooled and proceeded to heat and texture, perfectly presenting a delicate symphony of espresso and warmed milk, silky smooth and deliciously decadent, the interaction of textures and flavors perfect, no bitterness just a smooth and full bodied beverage that warmed the cockles of my heart. Pure bliss!
I was intrigued, JAVAGOLD….what was all that about? Anyone out there heard of these guys or even tried it elsewhere?
Wishing to remain anonymous I thanked them and carried on my merry way, a real pick me up to keep me going on this caffeine fueled journey!
The Caffiend was impressed and awards 2 BEANS to the team @ Vege2go who are truly doing everything right and really are welcome to join the exclusive BEST of the BEST at Melbourne Coffee Review's HOTSHOTS:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Food for life, Coffee to die for!! Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: JAVAGOLD

Octane Espresso

5 McKillop Street
Melbourne CBD VIC 3000


After my last three attempts at Espresso satisfaction, I was really looking out for something amazing today, something intense, something totally ‘high-octane’ to kickstart the week; please gimme satisfaction!!!
As I walked past and then back into the Haunted bookshop down McKillop St, I spied, OCTANE Espresso, how promising I thought, first things first though, it was time to have a bit of a browse around the land of the occult.
Flicking through the occult literature, all I could think of was the impending espresso, sure to be much more of a spiritual experience than anything I could possibly find here, but an interesting stop on my pilgrimage anyway.
Stepping down into the Octane lounge, I was greeted by a warm and friendly barista, who was quick to make me feel welcome in amongst the regulars and the sea of faces.
“Take a seat, I’ll bring your ristretto right over,” and instantly it arrived in a warmed, thick rimmed and hand-made demitasse cup, absolutely incredible!
A thick, rich crema concealed the restricted shot of pure nectar, a true homage to the God of the underworld, much more deep and dark than anything that a mere bookshop could invoke.
I quickly went back for another drink from the Devil’s Cup; a double shot café latte please!
Perfectly textured milk, combined with 30mls of delightfully devilish espresso to produce the ultimate homage to a power that has fuelled the world since time began.
3 BIG beans and a HIGH-OCTANE rush here, team caffeine. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! For all the best that THE CAFFIEND has found in his journeys, check it out @:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: AMANTI/OCTANE Blend

p.s. Check out the old school turntable in the corner behind my coffee in the photo, really cool guys! Really Cool!!!!! KUDOS!!!!

Rive Gauche Café

Shop G27, Southgate Wharf
Southbank VIC 3006

Saturday morning, a beautiful Melbourne day, out for a stroll and some breakfast with my beautiful wife and kids, down on a whim and prayer to Southgate.

Let’s see if we can start the weekend, better than the way the week ended.
Confidently I entered the food court, as this one was a recommendation, trying to spot this temple of caffeine holiness.
Man was I pumped, I was almost aching for an espresso, I could feel it in my bones, I had butterflies in my stomach I was so excited, like a high school kid on his first date……
I spied the coffee palace, interesting I thought and nonchalantly strolled over looking for signs of reverence.
NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not again, not twice in two days, this was shaping up to be a hat-trick guys of no beans!
Proudly waving the CoffeX flag I wondered if this was the place I was meant to try out, sadly it was!
I sulked for a bit, until my wife slapped me and reminded me the kids were hungry.
I ordered a ristretto, to kick start the day and got about 50mls of dishwater, THANKS!
I didn’t bother to try another, so I tucked into my magnificent muffin and grabbed a vitamin water, God, life is hard!!!

As I spied my wife's cafe latte I was almost in tears not only at her expression trying to drink it, but by the look of the milk, all air and bubbles, no umber edging, no texture, no taste, NO HOPE!
Oh well I thought things can only get better, that’s a hat-trick of no-beaners guys, I really need to find the nearest MCR HOTSHOT café:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: CoffeX

Barista 101

100 Flinders Lane

Melbourne CBD VIC 3000

Still stuck in the CBD, God life is hard, so many cafes to explore, so little time, out to Southgate next, I promise to check out Brett Cummins recommendations, really excited and looking forward to it, but now to the matter at hand, Barista 101!

This one looked promising, BIG crowds, elegant décor, plenty of busy and friendly staff, people lining up for the coffee.I took a seat waiting for someone to come take my order, sadly nothing so I quickly realized I needed to get up and go order at the counter, so I did!

What THE?!?!?! I thought as I scoured the place for a sign of coffee brand. No sugar sticks, wind breaks or anything obvious, then I saw it, discretely tucked away: “simply better coffee.”

Then the anxiety began, CoffeX huh, with such big queues, in amongst so much competition, maybe they roast a special blend, maybe it was different here, maybe pigs might fly.

As soon as the waitress set down my espresso it was all over, here comes the pain, I thought, another desecration and blasphemy

.Barely a one sipper guys, with my client’s café latte not any better, burnt milk, burnt coffee, burnt bridges.

The flocking masses still confused me, but I guess they came for the lovely food and exquisite surroundings rather than the coffee, or was it a case of mass confusion, who knows????

Sorry guys no beans here again, that’s two in a row!!!!

Now life is getting difficult, I think it’s time for Barista 101 to go back and do Coffee preparation 101, and high time I should go and grab a coffee at one of MCR’s HOTSHOT cafes:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: CoffeX

Espresso Bar @ The Melbourne Marriott Hotel

Corner Exhibition Street & Lonsdale Street

Melbourne CBD VIC 3000

Well team caffeine it was bound to happen, it was inevitable……after so much joy, so much pleasure, there was bound to be pain, there was bound to be disappointment, there was The Espresso Bar.
What a great and simple name, so promising, so inviting; I was instantly drawn to partake in another offering of the Devil’s Cup, and boy was I pumped, even their San Marino did not faze me, I was like a cat in heat.
Puzzled at the barista’s response to my request for an espresso, I tried to work out how to explain to her that it only came in one size, there was no need to ask me if I wanted a small, medium or large….I was worried, sweating bullets infact!
I emphasized the shortness of the extraction as I walked to my seat, hoping, praying, waiting…
Out it came, their offering to a weary pilgrim, in the trademark, D’Oro ‘egg-cup’ almost to the rim, SHOCK, HORROR, SCANDAL, NIXON!!!!!!!!
NO! NO! NO! I cried as I lamented the lost opportunity for satisfaction, for my afternoon HIT!
A watery, over-extracted mess, no crema to speak of, burnt, acrid and bitter, what a shame, and to think that with a bottle of EVIAN I was left with very little change out of a $10 note……well at last there was a free biscuit with it to console me.
Sorry guys no beans here, maybe someone else has bean(pun intended) and can comment, maybe I caught them on a bad day, maybe a café called Espresso Bar should know that you cannot serve an espresso in small, medium or large, maybe I should go and grab a coffee at one of MCR’s HOTSHOT cafes:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Piazza D’Oro

CAFENATICS 1

387 Flinders Lane
Melbourne CBD VIC 3000

Well by now you all know that I am Melbourne’s very own CAFFIEND, always out and about, hunting that elusive caffeine hit, the ultimate God Shot; and in the words of the Stones, “ I can’t get no, satisfaction!”
Well I can and I have, many times, but it was just such a cool quote I wanted to throw it in there anyway.
Well today the caffiend bumped heads with another Melbourne icon, the CAFENATIC!
Heard of him? NO? Well he is a curious species, one of a kind; truly I have met no one else like him throughout my pilgrimage on this caffeine fuelled journey, luckily I was granted the honor of meeting Joseph Haddad, the barista’s barista today.
CAFENATIC: A curious play on words, conjuring images of coffee, caffeine, addicts, fanatics and frantic: HEY! THAT SOUNDS LIKE ME!!!!
As I entered this modest and unassuming café I was greeted by a buzzing and enthusiastic crowd, happy smiling faces, pleasant staff, a delicious array of food and above all a shiny white La Marzocca that just meant that I was in for a great afternoon, or so I hoped!!!
Mark the young maestro on the machine extracted me a ristretto that almost made me shed tears of joy, what a crema, what an aroma, what a drop…he effortlessly followed this up with a café latte that apart from being an aesthetic joy with it’s perfectly poured rosetta was both perfect on the palate and on the nose, turning milk into silk he managed to blend 30mls of espresso perfectly to create a harmony that satisfied the caffiend completely!
Its official I’m a convert, a born again CAFENATIC!!!

Yes team caffeine it was that good, and the best part is there’s three more of them around the CBD I will get to try, CAN’T WAIT!!
Hey it’s a tuff job, but somebody’s gotta do it!!!

3 BIG beans to the CAFENATICS, MCRs NEWEST ‘HOTSHOT’ café!! Welcome to the team …..

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Veneziano

Nashi

(St. Kilda Rd Towers)
1 Queens Rd
Melbourne VIC 3004

Man I was soooo hungry as I entered this promising food court, I was almost delirious, stop it I thought to myself you don’t need food, remember the old saying: “man does not live on bread alone” it is coffee you need you fool, YES! Another coffee!
Eureka!!
Looking around, this quaint little sandwich bar caught my eye, grabbed my attention, NASHI, what a curious name, Genovese, what a glorious possibility!
I ordered an espresso and was impressed with the meticulous care of the barista, poetry in motion, the extraction was perfect the crema rich and dense the flavors spectacular, they covered my palate adequately with a strong finish.
By now the mere thought of food was a distant memory, all I could think of was the chaser; “double shot latte, please” I drooled, and could instantly tell by the sweet sounds of the steam wand immersed in the milk that I was in for more of the same……and living up to my expectation I was not disappointed, the 3 T’s were spot on: Texture. Temperature, Taste:

TER-bloody-RIFIC!!

2 BEANS ALL THE WAY, NASHI is not just one of Melbourne’s best sandwich bars with really fresh food and a healthy breakfast and lunch alternative, but Goddammit they make a ripper coffee too!!!!

A 2 bean MCR ‘HOTSHOT’ café!! Welcome to the team …..

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Genovese

p.s. Cool photo huh?!?!? I did have a delicious lunch there after all ;o)

STASSI café

350 Queens St
MELBOURNE CBD VIC 3000

TGIF! TGIF Guys, what a week….Glad we’re at the tail end now, almost done, really feel like a break, time to stop and smell the coffee…
Funnily enough, as I strolled by this place at the top end of Queen St (right near the Vic Market), I wondered what this name could mean, why STASSI? What a peculiar name for a café, I thought! Then it hit me….it was Greek for ‘the stop’, as in, ‘the place to stop off for a coffee and a chat.’
Brilliant! How lateral, a bit left of centre, right out of the BOX! Truly my CUP OF tea, oops
As I entered I was greeted by a sea of happy faces, buzzing with energy, courteous and obliging.
The whole place oozed cool, and was obviously the regular jaunt of many local workers and the savvy passer-by, craving their caffeine fix, the habitual coffee hit!
They were clearly just as serious about their coffee as about their food, judging by their exquisite menu, modest prices and the prominence of the shiny red La Mazzorca, ready to extract another 30mls of the nectar of the Gods.
I ordered a ristretto, confident that the charming barista would be able to accommodate, and he did not disappoint, the perfect ‘restricted’ espresso wafted its caramel aromas as the waiter presented it to me, sending my sensory organs into a frenzy of expectation.
He followed it up with a café latte that was not only perfectly textured and prepared to the perfect temperature but was also aesthetically incredible! The fern adorning the top was eye candy for this weary pilgrim!!!
I was not disappointed, in fact was pleasantly impressed; and judging by the flocking crowds of local caffeine connoisseurs, this was definitely the place ‘to stop’ for a quality daily dose of the Devil’s Cup.

2 BIG BEANS here and a HOTSHOT invitation to my fellow caffiends out @ Melbourne’s only dedicated COFFEE STOP, STASSI Cafe, you are now qualified, if you wish to accept the honor of being recognized as an MCR “HOTSHOT” café.

Check it out:

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Veneziano

The Brunswick East Project

438 Lygon Street
Brunswick East VIC 3057

God! What a day…..truly diabolical, nothing a drink from the Devil’s Cup wouldn’t fix, I hoped!!
This recommendation better be worth it as I was driving all the way out to Brunswick on a whim and a prayer, well not really, on a tip from one of our loyal and highly-caffeinated team of cafenatics…
What is this enigma all about? What is this PADRE coffee, this Brunswick East Project I keep hearing about? What The hell, I NEED A COFFEE, this better be good!!!
Upon entering all I could see was SYNESSO, all I could think was Espresso, I was salivating like Pavlov’s dog at the sound of a bell…HIT ME James!!!!
Boy did he HIT me! In the words of BATMAN, "KAPOW! BAM! BIFF!!" KNOCKOUT..I was down for the count team caffeine, throw in the towel......
What a God-shot, pure bliss, the day began to look up already….without revealing my glee or identity, of course as this would compromise the review, I asked for a piccolo café latte….
The milk became silk, the water turned to wine, well dense crema covering 20mls of pure nectar, what a miracle worker , what a coffee, what a fool I have been for taking so long to get out there.
Guys, seriously, this place is AMAZING, roasting their own PADRE blend in-store they cup every Saturday morning @ 10, beginning this week, they train, they teach, they talk, they rokk!!! HARD CORE COFFEE! Just the way I like it, make no mistake this is a MUST, go down and say G’day to James and Marinus, don’t forget to tell them the CAFFIEND sent you!!!!

Looking back the day NOW seems ok, it wasn’t that bad after all, thanks PADREs ;o)

A HUGE 3 BEANS here and a HOTSHOT invitation to my PADRES out @ Brunswick East Project, you are now qualified, if you wish to accept the honor of being recognized as an MCR “HOTSHOT” café.

Check it out:
http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: PADRE

Combi Coffee

84 Ormond Rd
Elwood VIC 3184

This little Espresso Bar nestled in leafy Elwood, is a bit of a spin off from the legendary Combi Van Mobile Coffee, serving the same AMAZING coffee that has made the Van legendary at all reputable events around the state and very often interstate.
Their specialty roasted beans are air dried in the Yarra Valley, the proud owner Anthony was quick to inform me, and let me tell you they will tantalize and delight even the most discerning palate, as the complexity and sublimeness of this Espresso will rock your world!!!
Plenty of mouthfeel, back palate and an intense finish compliment the extraordinary nose at play here.
My wife ordered a double shot café latte, who in fact is now quite the coffee connoisseur herself, after accompanying me to so many amazing cafes, and we were both impressed by just how well textured and velvety the milk was, perfect temperature too, and by the obvious ease at which the shot of espresso cut through the milk, quite effortlessly.
Combi Coffee, is all about coffee and quality, he even uses bottled filtered water both in the van and in store to ensure consistency and quality, now that’s passion!

THANK YOU, Anthony! Another 2 bean HOTSHOT Cafe, you epitomize coffee-power and Espresso love, PEACE TO YOU bro…..…..Welcome to the team!!!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED guys, a real experience, especially the van, go down and say G’day, and tell them the CAFFIEND sent you!!

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: COMBI Coffee

Blush Foodroom

43 Epsom Road

Kensington VIC 3031

Driving past many times on the way home from the city I have always said to myself I need to make a night to drop by Blush for a coffee. On the night when I called in for a fresh espresso, I couldn’t help but notice as I took a seat how much the warm ambience surrounded me, and of how the dark coloured walls and tables of the venue could make it such a pleasurable experience. When my coffee was served, the sweet aroma and rich crema had made its presence known. After taking the first sip I was slightly disappointed as it wasn’t as full bodied as I had expected, nevertheless, a pleasant aftertaste lingered on the palate. One of the main features of this converted Victorian style dwelling is that it is opened until 11pm every night of the week; a unique specialty rarely found in such an area that makes you feel quite at home. With an open fire and candlelit tables this place is somewhere to relax and unwind in a quiet part of Melbourne close to town.

Another 'TEAM CAFFEINE' guest review, this time from Bec, job well done and welcome aboard.

Hope you all enjoy, till next time Keep on Caffeining on….. "The CAFFIEND!"

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Grinders

IL Cubico

271 Flinders Lane
Melbourne VIC 3000
The Cube, how interesting….you should ALL know me well enough by now to know that I really like to think outside the cube, so instantly this place drew my attention, nestled away in amongst so many cafes and coffee houses.
That whole block is absolutely jam packed!!! Some good, some bad, some just plain ugly… let’s go in and have a look!
Instantly I was pleased to see the Tonino Lamborghini CAFFE sign adorning the back wall, so I breathed a sigh of relief, these guys must know their coffee, I thought, I hoped…..
Big and spacious, especially compared to the rest of the cube-sized cafes around this part of town, the warm and friendly staff were eager to please, quickly taking my order and bringing out a ristretto that was nice and short, with a dense, aromatic and viscous crema concealing a restricted extraction that was fit for Lucifer himself, wickedly brilliant!
Just to confirm my original assessment and satiate my caffeine addiction I ordered a double shot flat white and was pleased when it arrived with the dense umber edgings of the espresso cutting through the velvety and smooth milk, like a hot knife through butter. Rich, chocolaty and smooth, with a sublime mouth feel, both satisfying yet somehow morish, God, do I go back for another?????

Well do I, punk???

Two beans here, excellence of execution and another fine example of why Italians do it better…..espresso that is ;o)

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….The Caffiend!

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Tonino Lamborghini

Liar Liar

90 Kinkora Rd
Hawthorn VIC 3122

Have I been lied to? Many times, no doubt, but when it comes to this place, I think not, let’s see…...

"No one can understand the truth until he drinks of coffee's frothy goodness." Sheik Abd-al-Kadir

And the goodness is truly on display here.

Walking in, I sense that good things are about to happen.There are three single origins listed and five single origin clovers. Asia? Africa? South America? Spare yourself the coin and travel with your taste buds.
Keeping things simple, I opt for my standard double shot cafe latte. It comes out perfect; the temperature, the texture, the taste. Things are looking up and I decide to go back for more.
Let's get insane! 'Double Ristretto, please'. The shot is pulled and, recognising me as someone who takes an interest in coffee, the barista offers a single origin for me...'Ethiopian Harare' he says, personally delivering it to my table. Before I even pick it up, the nose hits me. The dense and thick, golden crema is wafting aromas at me and I'm practically in sensory overload. Taking a sip, the flavours live up to the nose. There isn't really a back palate or a front palate, just a wall of flavour. BAMM!!
The mouth feel is rich and velvety. Simply brilliant!When somewhere is this good, it isn't hard to go back for more. Whilst I am more of an espresso man, I wanted to 'do the clover thing', so I popped back in and tried a couple. First up is a Sumatran. It is a little watery and the flavours thin, just what I feared most, but still interesting.
Delicate nose, grassy on the back palate.
I decide to try again. Balinese this time and it is a different world. The mouth feel is good, it isn't as dense as an espresso but I still get that lovely feeling of 'weight'.
Hell yeah! If you are going clovering, give this one a try. All in all an incredible experience a notable 3 bean café!!
With his first guest review please Welcome: Cameron McKenzie to the team, a real coffeeholic if I’ve ever met one: this guy is insane!!
Till next time, keep on caffeining on……. The Caffiend!

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: 5 SENSES

Primary Cafe

404 Royal Parade
Parkville VIC 3052

As I entered this newly opened and well fitted out café, the expectation was high, given the heavy reputation that this place had amongst coffee geeks, like me.
The décor was modern and ambient, the atmosphere, warm and friendly, the staff happy and obliging.
A delicious menu, reasonably priced and variant enough to satisfy the most demanding appetite.
But hey, I was here for the coffee….as I had heard sooooo much about this place.
I ordered a ristretto and was presented with 15mls of pure bliss….long on the palate, fruity and complex such an intense experience with a BIG finish, INCREDIBLE.
I followed it up with a double shot café latte, which was presented with a double Rosetta to not only enhance the overall effect and complement the sensory experience, but to also showcase the skill and expertise of Erin, the barista/owner of this amazing café.
Incredibly after at least a dozen coffees this day, this one still managed to impress and satiate my intense yearning for caffeine nirvana.
THANK YOU!

Truly a 3 beaner, once again, you turned the day around after so much mediocrity and blandness it is always exciting to sample the Devil’s Cup as it should be prepared, a true maestro…..
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED team caffeine, go down and say G’day, they will blow your mind!!!

A 3 bean MCR ‘HOTSHOT’ café!! Welcome to the team …..

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: VENEZIANO

The GROOVE Train

332 Clarendon St
South Melbourne VIC 3205

All aboard, the GROOVE train is now departing; get ready for great food, reasonable prices awesome service and above all coffee that will blow your mind.
This funky and vibrant café/restaurant nestled snuggly in the Clarendon St shopping strip is big on making you feel welcome as well as making your visit memorable and special each and every time.
They offer a broad and diverse menu to cater for the most discerning palate, but it was their specific attention to the meal’s chaser, the coffee that drew my attention.
Normally restaurants, in general seem to lose their focus when it comes to coffee, even the best, the most expensive may overlook this final detail, but not this place, my espresso came out with a dense crema which revealed a complex and fruity nectar that lingered on the palate and complemented my meal perfectly.
My wife’s café latte was perfectly textured, perfect temperature, complete excellence of execution…..
This express ride on the GROOVE train to epicurean nirvana was complete, the barista had adequately and professionally complemented an exquisite meal with a perfectly divine offering of the devil’s Cup at the sacrificial alter.

RESPECT!!!

Another 2 bean MCR ‘HOTSHOT’ café!! Welcome to the family …..

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

In the words of 80’s pop icons, DEEE LITE: “GROOVE is in the heart,” pop in and say G’day and you’ll see why……

Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]


Coffee: Veneziano

The Avenue Foodstore

69 Victoria Ave

Albert Park VIC 3206

In the immortal words of David Lee Roth, “Hot Shoes, burnin’ down to the Avenue…” seems to aptly apply to this place judging by the flocking crowds and hungry masses….
Saturday morning was absolutely insane, a veritable flock of famished devotees both inside and out, enjoying sumptuous looking fare and hopefully a caffeine fuelled beginning to their day that would be both satisfying and memorable.
Bayside in trendy Albert Park, this seemed like THE place to be and to be seen, so the caffiend was instantly attracted, and spying the Dimattina logo, I thought that this could be a BEANER, a BIG hope!
It was the nonchalant attitude of the on-duty barista that got me worried, really concerned….
My friend I yelled inside, the bean, it’s all about the bean…isn’t it??
Obviously not……
Although the menu was exquisite as well as reasonably priced, including their signature focaccias, the coffee was another matter, TOTALLY…..
I’ll keep it brief, I’ll keep it simple, I’ll keep it real…….
I was very disappointed, to say the least, especially given that I walked in expecting soooo much, over extracted, burnt, lipid and rancid were all descriptors that came to mind, although I have never before found them relevant to the Dimattina brand, nevertheless, they seem to be pulling in the crowds, they are licensed as well as extremely friendly and happy, but as far as coffee goes, well let’s just say that you may be better off looking at other beverage options.
Sorry guys, NO BEANS HERE, but a fine feed, great atmosphere and excellent time had by all….the Caffiend’ s search for satisfaction continues….
‘Till next time keep on caffeining on…..

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

p.s. Sorry about the photo here guys, forgot to take one when it was busy so went back later, just as it was about to close ;o)


Coffee: Dimattina

Sweet Agora

Shop 33 South Melbourne Market
Coventry St
South Melbourne VIC 3205

AGORA for all those in the know means marketplace in ancient Greek, and this place is truly a sweet spot amongst so much blandness and mediocrity within South Melbourne Market.
You can’t miss it, it’s the one with the huge crowds, bright RED ROSSO Cups and the two plasma screens keeping the caffeine thirsty masses entertained while they watch the maestros in action extracting and pouring.
With two cameras set up the discerning clients can watch every move of the talented baristas, both extracting the espresso as well as pouring the perfectly textured and velvety smooth milk.
I ordered a ristretto and was pleasantly surprised that they offered a single origin option, so rare these days, so I tried the Mexican on offer and was instantly enthralled by the tobaccoy and complex flavors on my palate, wow! What a start, middle and finish, insane!!!
I quickly had a piccolo café latte as a chaser as I sat and chatted with Leon, the owner and true caffiend…Guys this dude really knows and loves his coffee, a real gem and a great little find in down town south Melbourne.

2 BIG beans here.

Stop in and say G’day, try a single origin; he switches them around weekly and knows all about them. A real MCR ‘HOTSHOT’ café!!

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

Truly a unique and long overdue concept; great atmosphere, great food and cakes and above all AMAZING coffee, this place is SWEET, DUDE!
Till next time, keep on caffeining on…….

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: ROSSO

Melbourne Coffee Review TOP 5

Hey Caffiends,

In case you didn't know yet, how could you not, EVERYONE is talking about it, Melbourne Coffee Review has selected it's TOP 5 cafes in The Age's Melbourne Magazine (25/9/08)

They are:

1. First Pour

2. 7 Grams

3. St ALI/ Brother Baba Budan

4. ATOMICA

5. Espresso Elements

The response has been HUGE!!! Thanks to all of you for giving us the strength to continue on the caffiene fuelled journey in search of the ultimate Godshot; because life is too short to have BAD coffee.

Sorry to all the rest, there are just sooo many that are sooo amazing, where do I begin.... at the beginning I suppose.

You can find all of Melbourne's BEST listed as HOTSHOT cafes, being developed right now, as we speak, keep an eye out for all of our favorite cafes, they are all HOTSHOTS doing incredible things with the humble coffee bean.

http://hotshots.melbournecoffeereview.com/

The Caffiend!

Espresso Mobile

(A café on wheels)
Email: portmelbourne@cafemobile.com.au
Mobile: 0438578008
Ok Team caffeine, here’s one just a little bit left of centre….right out of the box!!
Mobile Coffee Van’s, a new and emerging trend, love them or hate them, they are slowly becoming more and more popular, and I think I’ve found one that seems to be doing things quite well.
Richard Archer runs the Port/South Melbourne end of the business and drives around alerting fellow caffiends by tooting his air horns, like the old Dukes of Hazard charger…
Rocking up unannounced I ordered a ristretto. Hoping he knew what that was, he did! Hoping he would extract it nice and short, I was not disappointed, it was rich and caramelly, a dense crema which revealed a complex and sweet nectar.
I had a piccolo café latte as a chaser and that too was lovely, although the milk was a tad overheated, but hey, this guy works out of the back of a van, let’s give him a break….
He brings QUALITY coffee to your office or workplace and tries his best to present you with a perfect coffee each and every time, no matter the circumstances.
Well done Espresso Mobile for staying true to the bean and presenting a quality product where there is so much room for mediocrity and compromise, a solid ONE BEAN and an invite to join the ever growing HOTSHOT ranks as the FIRST mobile espresso café….Keep on caffeining on.


[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]


Coffee: Own Blend

Guava Bean

Shop 18r
FreshWater Place
Southbank VIC 3006

Well firstly let me say, it was not a bum steer by one of MCR’s caffiends who told me about this place, and I thank them, whoever it may have bean!
The Caffiend was both surprised and PLEASED!
Guys, you have to go check this place out, just behind Southbank, you cant miss it, it has a bright lime-green La Mazzorca out front for the whole world to see, it’s amazing!!!
So who knows what a guava bean is?
Anyone, Anyone……
To me it means the perfect amalgam of angelically fresh and healthy juice and the devilishly delicious nectar of the underworld. The ying and the yang of beverages, so to speak…. I could be wrong, maybe it’s not all about depth and meaning, anyway this place was all about coffee, serious coffee too guys!
The boys mean business and it shows with every carefully prepared oblation of the Devil’s Cup.
My espresso was covered in a dense crema concealing a citrusy and complex drop that had both depth and plenty of dimension, while my flat white was smooth and velvety, perfect temperature with Veneziano’s finest adequately cutting its way through the milk.
Truly superb, another stand out café amongst so much mediocrity.
Go down and say G’day, well and truly on their way to being recognized as one of Melbourne’s best on MCR’s invitation only HOTSHOT café listings.
Two beans here and true royalty when it comes to Melbourne’s Café scene…
Until next time, keep on caffeining on!

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Veneziano

Dream Cakes Café

33 Chester Street
Oakleigh VIC 3166

Sweet DREAMS are made of this!
Baklava, Kourambiedes, Spanakopita and Galaktomboureko!
What the hell am I talking about? Well pop into Dream cakes in Oakleigh and find out. It is possibly the finest example of Greek and European sweets and savories in the southern hemisphere, REALLY!
Spacious, well fitted out, bright and friendly it is the ideal breakfast spot for the entire family, even the extended family, an afternoon business meeting or an early evening coffee and cake.
They have it all here, a broad and diverse menu, friendly service, modestly priced, and coffee, lots of coffee.
They do it all, traditional Italian espresso with all the derivatives, Greek/Turkish coffee, Frappe and Fredo to name the most popular, but of course it’s a must to try a frappe at any Greek zaharoplasteio (cake shop)
Although my espresso was adequate, with a dense crema, aromatic and mildly acidic, not requiring any sugar to compliment or camouflage any imperfections, I thought I’d better play it safe with my frappe, as this was instant coffee, so I ordered it medium(metrio) with milk, and was informed that this is the standard method of preparation.
I’m sorry I know, instant coffee, what a sin, but since it is the Greek national drink and I was in a Greek cake shop, I thought I’d better do as the Romans do, or rather the Greeks do…….
It was interesting………………………
If you’ve never had one, Dream cakes is a fine example of where to experience an authentic one, if you’re a regular drinker then good luck to you, it certainly wasn’t for me, but was an interesting experience nonetheless.
Well worth my drive out into the burbs again….
A solid one bean for the coffee and overall café experience.
Just a word of advice, make sure you try a Spanakopita, the best I’ve had anywhere ;)
Who are you to disagree??

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: Grinders (Giancarlo)

Crimson Tide Cafe, 14 Bay Rd Sandringham VIC

Is a lazy Sunday, and I spent most of the day marking assignments and reviewing documents for my consulting business, so when my wife suggested we go and look at cubby houses for the kids I jumped at the chance. After dragging my daughter from cubby heaven kicking and screaming we thought it was a good opportunity to grab a coffee and some baby chinos for the kids. We found ourselves right near the water at Crimson Tide cafe. This is a very inviting and family friendly place run by a couple of gals who quickly convinced me that they were there for the love. The kids jumped into the toy bucket and we kicked back as the coffee machine fired up, well for me anyway as Mrs did the hot choc thing. I am delighted to announce a damn fine Long Macc. It was delivered post haste and I enjoyed a smooth creamy beverage, at a good temp. It was easy drinking as we engaged in idle chatter on the whys and where for's of living on the Greek islands. Well done ladies, welcome to the club. 1 solid bean.

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

The BoyZ from BraZil

OK Team caffeine, I've taken up the challenge and gone back to the now (in)famous BRAZIL in South Melbourne, here's the direct link to the previous post for those of you that missed it:

http://www.melbournecoffeereview.com/2008/07/brazil-lifestyle-coffee.html

WOW!

What a difference a few weeks and a new barista can make.

George the Greek Adonis behind the machine informed me that he runs the show now, as the previous barista is long gone (oops!! maybe I shouldn't have been so harsh on him...).

He extracted me an awesome ristretto, delicate and complex of single origin Columbian, which I followed by a smooth and velvetty cafe latte that was well textured and perfect temperature!

God! I'm glad I went back and took the advice and death threats of our loyal readers, a HOTSHOT, for sure!

2 beans here, BIG GEORGE and an apology to those who I offended by my initial review.

In fact I wasn't wrong, at the time it was spot on, but go check it out now, 4-5 single origins on offer daily, lovely cakes and snacks as well as all the coffee accessories that will make any caffeine addict salivate uncontrollably.

Like me.......

Thanks for the heads up caf-fiends and keep on caffiening on.......

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by joining our Home Barista Hotshot Club]

Coffee: BRAZIL

Debarge Caffe

282 Stephensons Road
Mt Waverley VIC 3149

WHAT THE?!?!?!?
Sing along everybody:
To the beat of the rhythm of the night, dance until the morning light; remember that one?

Sadly I do, even though I have been trying to repress such hideous tunes of the 80’s with many years of punishing Heavy Metal and Hard Rock!
Debarge that Motown tragedy along with Lionel Ritchie, Who’s the Boss, Growing Pains and Milli Vanilli, remember?!?!?!?!
Yeah, I bet you do!!!!
Why would you name a café after THAT?????
God I need a coffee, as I continued my quest way out in the burbs, and as soon as I heard the name DEBARGE all I could think of was this song, so I hummed it all the way there, stupidly!!!
Mt. Waverley part 2, on my caffeine fuelled trip was interesting to say the least.
I normally focus on the coffee and nothing much else but the coffee, but this place was amazing. Not only was it a café, and a fine one at that, but it was also a hairdressers.
A cut and a Cappuccino, a shampoo and a short black, a….ok I’m sure you get the picture….sorry! Just had to do that, was so excited about it all the way home!
;o)
Inconspicuously in this suburban shopping strip this café façade opens up to a pretty cool and well respected hairdressers and judging by the clientele, a busy one at that.
I ordered my espresso, not expecting too much, as I assumed the focus would be on cutting rather than extracting, but I was pleasantly surprised. Even though it was a tad over-extracted for me, it still settled my frenzied cravings and subdued the beast within for a couple more hours, until the next hit.
Kudos Guys!

A one beaner for sure, and Welcome to HOTSHOTS, I salute you for not only doing justice to the devil’s cup but for tempting me to cut my hair, well almost….maybe I’ll just try combing it first and we’ll worry about cutting another time……..keep on caffeining on guys!!!!!!

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Coffee: Crivelli

SPHERE Café

1 Barlyn Rd
Mount Waverley VIC 3149

God! I hate driving……really I do! So when I got the call to do this one, I waited and waited, procrastinated, its toooooo far, then I thought that that’s not right, a blasphemy!
The search for the ultimate hit must go on, the search goes on……. wherever it may take me, to the ends of the world if necessary, well at least to Mt Waverley this time, close enough.
;)
The Sphere, is quite imposing, spacious, well appointed, plenty of parking, clean and friendly! Great!
Plenty of tables inside and out, a delicious menu, well priced, compared to the CBD prices I’m used too; what about the coffee I hear you all yell!!!
CoffeX! One word says it all!
Clearly a disappointment and even though I haven’t had a CoffeX coffee for a long time, the minute I put it to my lips, nay, the minute its ashy and burnt aromas wafted into my nostrils, it was like a Vietnam flashback, harsh, bitter, over-roasted, pungent and acrid!
My daughter’s Babyccino though was incredible, as was our meal.
Kudos for that guys!
Sorry though, no beans at the Sphere, but delicious food, excellent and friendly service as well as a nice drive after all.

BREAKING NEWS: Here I go again on my own….another call out to the burbs, look out for part 2 of this post, another potential HOTSHOT in Mt Waverley, what’s going on guys?!?!?!? It’s all so exciting!!!!!!!

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Coffee: CoffeX

Bistro Guillaume

Crown Entertainment Complex
8 Whiteman St
SouthBank VIC 3006

Here’s one to throw the cat amongst the pigeons, fellow caffiends.
WOW! Did I feel out of place here, but I decided it was high time for some fine dining so I took my beautiful wife out to dinner to the much acclaimed and renowned Bistro Guillaume.
The Melbourne spin-off of the iconic Guillaume at Bennelong up at the Sydney Opera House, this eatery was quite impressive. The menu elegant, the clientele, including Derryn Hinch with his partner at the next table, distinguished, the decor stunning, the meal exquisite.
I’m no Matt Preston, but by golly by jingo, it was a meal fir for a king, faultless, apart from maybe the price tag, but nevertheless, no one dragged me there kicking and screaming, my taste buds were in a state of blissful ecstasy that was beyond compare, my palate awash with flavors and combinations of ingredients that were quite foreign and mysterious…..
A must for all to try, even just once, but hang on, what about the coffee?!?!?!?!
Upon learning that this fine dining establishment chose to serve such a generic and ‘safe’ brand of coffee to finish off such an excellent and exciting meal, I was devastated to say the least.
I ordered a ristretto anyway, against my better judgment, and without giving too much away, let’s just say it wasn’t charged and the ‘barista’ received a quick lesson in extraction from the caffiend, to my wife’s protests……
Never mind! An awesome experience overall, pity about the weak finish, no beans here, but plenty of fond and special memories of an evening well spent and a meal thoroughly enjoyed….

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Coffee: Vittoria

MCR ON FACEBOOK

Hey caffiends, just a heads up....Melbourne Coffee Review has an awesome presence on FACEBOOK, check it out and join the group.....

http://www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=21716810641

Heaps of coffee, fun, coffee, competitions, coffee, opinions and oh yeah, did I mention, COFFEE?!

Go and try out all the cafes I recommend, and tell them Steve sent you, they love it!!!

Keep it up guys, life is too short to drink bad coffee , lets let the World know where the HOTSHOT cafes are, thanks to the Melbourne Coffee Review

Truffles Chocolaterie

376 Bridge Rd
Richmond VIC 3121
As everyone knows, a truffle is both valuable and highly sought after, and this is an exact description of this delightful place of delicious delicacies in downtown Richmond.
Dark wood, bare brick walls, rustic charm and timeless beauty.
This little gem is both easy to find as well as quickly becoming quite iconic in inner metro Melbourne.
Chocolate: YES!
Coffee: Oh YES!!
More Chocolate: YES PLEASE, one is never enough
And of course another coffee: Then the afterglow.........
Thanks Marc, this is what the rest should aspire to, you know who you are, all you bland and generic chains and franchises, stop blushing.
Truffles is the benchmark!
Truffles is all about chocolate and coffee, just look at the meticulous detail and presentation in my pic, Kudos guys, AMAZING job!!

I believe it was some of Veneziano’s finest, Estate infact, although it may have been Bella, as my short ristretto was both complex and quite sublime, the inflection hypnotising and mesmerising......a nectar fit for the God’s........of the underworld!
A memorable stop on this caffeine fuelled journey; a strong recommendation, an experience to rival your fondest and dearest memories, a strong 2 beans for an exceptional coffee, and an overall existential experience.
I thank Marc, and especially the MCR fans for this recommendation and strongly urge you all pay Truffles of Richmond, another MCR HOTSHOT Café, a visit next opportunity.

Check them out online at:

http://www.trufflesmelbourne.com.au/

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Coffee: Veneziano

Atomica Coffee

268 Brunswick Street
Fitzroy VIC 3065

Here we are again fellow caffeine junkies, another café to report on to make you salivate and hopefully inspire you to head down and check it out for yourselves.
This time the caf-fiend heads out to Fitzroy, Brunswick St Infact; the cool end of Melbourne.
Out on a whim and a prayer, well actually a recommendation from one of our fans on FACEBOOK.
Check out our group and join if you haven’t already.
“Welcome,” grins Tolly, the warm and friendly owner/master roaster who is the energetic and passionate brains behind the caffeine colossus that is ATOMICA.
This place is legendary within coffee circles, amongst those in the know and Tolly, the humble and unassuming mastermind of this radioactive retro roaster knows exactly what it takes to prepare a beverage worthy and true to the long heritage of specialty and artisan coffee houses that he represents.
Atomica is a fine example of a great place to enjoy a great coffee anytime and every time. Faultless preparation, professional service, dedicated staff and above all quality product.
There are no shortcuts here.
They roast in-house, at the back of the café in-fact, and as the roaster is encased in a glass room the customers can watch the whole process, while they tuck into any one of the many fine dishes on offer and enjoy a sample of some of Melbourne’s best coffee.
I did! And it blew my mind, I can still savor the lingering and complex flavors of Tolly’s espresso send my palate into a frenzy, I can understand why he calls it ATOMICA, it was absolutely ATOMIC.
Powerful, intense, totally annihilating anything else in it’s way.
YES! It was THAT good! Go and see for yourself……
The pilgrimage of the caf-fiend continues, the quest continues to partake in the perfect Devil’s Cup.
A three bean MCR HOTSHOT café, thanks for the heads up team and keep on caffeining on!!

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Coffee: ATOMICA

Caf-feine BAR

597 Whitehorse Rd
Surrey Hills VIC 3127
Sat Nav: CHECK
Jerry Can w/spare fuel: CHECK
Snow Tires ;) CHECK
Out into the ‘burbs again, continuing my caffeine fuelled journey for the ultimate devil’s cup.
Surrey Hills, where’s that, how do you even spell it?!?!?
GOT IT!!!!
This quaint little café in a small shopping precinct was quite the standout amongst a bland and otherwise mundane looking street, quite well presented infact.
Big gold sign with CAFFEINE boldly displayed, it was an epiphany of sorts, almost a revelation of the divine to a travel weary pilgrim.
YES PLEASE!!!! The way I'm going, it will be intravenously soon!!!
The family operated cafe, with it's busy and hospitable staff were quick to take my order and bring out my very short espresso, as I wasn’t too sure they would know what a ristretto was; in fact they did, I shouldn’t be so quick to judge.
A tad over extracted, a hint of tobacco, a subtle undertone of turpeny, and that was only my daughter’s babyccino…..my espresso was fine!
A nice dense crema, a full flavor on the palate with hints of chocolate and even a sublime berry like infusion.
The Bean Alliance have done it again, Well Done, a great roast, well prepared and presented by the team @ Caf-feine.
Overall, a nice spacious café, with an exquisite little courtyard, well priced and extremely clean.
A one bean HOTSHOT cafe once again, it was well worth the $1.50 per liter for over-priced petrol, and heartwarming to see my daughter review her very first babyccino, infact the Melbourne Babyccino Review was born!

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Coffee: bean ground & drunk (the bean alliance)

7 Grams

505 Church St
Richmond VIC 3121

Ok…here we go…whoever emails me, calls me or sms’ me with what 7 grams means, and why you would want to name your café, 7 grams, gets a free bag of coffee, our own exclusive signature blend designed by C4 Coffee….how good is that????
steve.agi@melbournecoffeereview.com 0432 210 963
Welcome to the world of Con, Peter and Jim, the latest stop on this caffeine fuelled journey of mine to keep you up to date with all that’s great in this fair city of ours.
For all of you who don’t know, 7 grams is the home to the current World Latte art Champion, Con, and a big congratulations to him!
This place is vibrant, friendly and passionate about everything they do, both coffee and food!
It is extremely popular as is evidenced by the flocking masses.
My perfectly extracted espresso was both short and sweet, just the way I like it, while my latte was not only perfectly presented with faultless etchings of silky smooth milk amongst the umber tones of espresso, but it was also perfect to drink out the front on this beautiful sunny winter afternoon.
This my fellow caffeine junkies is a MUST, a caffeine Mecca in downtown Melbourne, a true coffee connoisseurs destination, where coffee is king and the customer is treated like royalty by professional and friendly staff.
A stand-out café that truly epitomizes what HOTSHOTS is all about, a three beaner without a doubt and a future benchmark for all to live up to.

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Coffee: Veneziano/ Own Blend

Cafe 3FOUR2

342 Flinders St
Melbourne VIC 3000
Bright Lights! BIG City!

This little café, cum Internet Mecca, is snuggly nestled down the Elizabeth end of Flinders St, and boasts free WI-Fi, free internet access to paying customers, exceptional and sumptuous fare, all modestly priced, as well as possibly the cheapest coffee in all the CBD.
Serhan, the young man full of energy and enthusiasm has a huge FACEBOOK presence and treats all of his customers like friends and family.
It was quite the experience.
I felt right at home as he brought out my espresso, to the delight of my salivating palate.
The extraction was nice and short and it seemed to adequately satisfy my yearning need for a caffeine hit.
I nestled into my couch to do some work, feeling totally comfortable to spend a couple of hours there, it really was a delightful place. The food was brilliant, I had a home made chicken pie and the coffee, satisfactory.
Look out for his insane HAPPY HOUR specials where he sells coffee for $1.50, WOW! From memory it was on Thursday mornings between 7.30 and 8.30.
A strong one bean, and a warm welcome to the MCR family.

You definitely are an MCR HOTSHOT!!!

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Coffee: LAVAZZA

BRAZIL (lifestyle coffee)

111 Cecil St
South Melbourne VIC 3205

In the immortal words of Terry Gilliam, “Brazil: Is only a state of mind”
God I wished that was true as soon as I put the damned devil’s cup to my lips.

No! I lie, as soon as I saw the barista begin to make my brew, I regretted entering the place, but how could I resist , with the bait, a beautiful roaster right there in the window.

This funky little new cafe, just opened near the South Melbourne Market promised so much, looked so interesting, so inviting.
With the expectant fresh and specialty roasted coffee, I entered and was bewildered to watch the barista/owner prepare and extract my coffee.
The liquid pouring from the portafilter looked sickly and watery and did not let me down as by now I was expecting a total disaster.
Damn! Welcome to the one-sip club.
A total desecration a complete mess. I ordered a café latte for my companion, which came out way too hot, watery and lipid, big bubbled froth on top and no color, just a dull milky brown.
Needless to say, I’ve had better instant coffees back in the 80’s.
So sorry but this is anything but Brazilian lifestyle coffee, in the words of Metallica, “my lifestyle determines my deathstyle” and by the God of the bean these guys had savaged and slaughtered the delicate and sublime nectar of the Gods!

Sorry guys no beans here, just another one-sipper!

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Coffee: In house roast(BRAZIL)

KENT ST

201 Smith St
Fitzroy VIC 3065
BOOM SHANKA!
“Tim’s Mum’s SOUP”, what the hell, I thought?!?!
Gotta try this one, as I strolled down the funky end of Smith St.
As I entered, all I could think of was olde English row home, students, hippies, punks, you get the picture.
Very 80’s, very relaxed, very cool!
My order of a ristretto was no problem for the cool barista, respect!
Out it came, promptly, along with a latte for my bro, which looked incredible, dense, with well textured milk, subtlety etched with umber tones of the rising 30mls of espresso.
Jaspers do an amazing roast, flat out, and it was quite clear that the union between bean, man and machine was working well here, they worked in harmonious unison to prepare and serve the devils cup as it should be, aromatic, acidic, intense and viscous, a journey in the words of St. Bruno of C4 fame!
Then it happened! I went to the little boy’s room, way upstairs and on the wall….on the wall….well a picture tells a thousand words!
A quote from the iconic 80’s show, “the Young Ones”
And my favorite quote ever, care of Neil!
Thank you Tim, thank you Tim’s mum for a delicious bowl of Soup, thank you Kent St for being another hotshot coffee spot in Melbourne!
2 beans!
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Coffee: Jaspers

SHUGA café bar lounge

Shop 502 Mill Park plaza
520 Plenty Road
MILL PARK VIC 3082
A spoonful of SHUGA helps the medicine go down!
Originally when I heard of this place I figured it was in Middle Park and I thought gee that’s ok, not too far, but Mill Park, Oh my God!!
Let’s hope it was gonna be worth the drive, with petrol at $1.70.
On with the GPS again to make this long and arduous trek out to Mill Park.
Visually quite impressive, big, clean and well appointed. Family friendly, extensive menu, and reasonably priced. The staff were courteous and attentive, service was paramount.
I ordered my espresso, after my delicious meal, and was quite expectant as nothing really completes a meal for me like a well extracted and delicately prepared nectar of the Gods.
It arrived promptly, thank the Gods of the underworld, as I was starting to get all fidgety and anxious……I wonder, do you think I might be addicted to caffeine???
;)
Anyway, the wafting aroma permeated my nostrils, preparing my taste buds for the coming pleasure. They were in an absolute frenzy and were well pleased, the interaction of flavours was complex yet delicate, a subtle coating of the tongue, the dense caramelly crema was both sweet and rich, concealing 30mls of intense, syrupy and fruity bliss.
A fine after dinner aperitif, preparing the palate to enjoy the broad and deliciously exciting cakes and desserts on the menu.
One can never have too much of a good thing, and this is definitely the case when it comes to this little gem, to the locals congratulations, to those looking for somewhere new to try give this place a go, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
A solid one bean and well worth the trek for the overall dining experience as well as a damn good coffee, ok where to next…….
p.s. Just a side note, they sell an amazing chocolate, ARTISTA, WOW!!!! The kids absolutely loved it, apparently it’s authentic Italian artisan chocolate, even though I’m not a huge hot choc fan, this stuff was really good! REALLY!
Check it out: http://www.artistachocolate.com/

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Coffee: DUCALE

Kerferd Rd DELI

381 Montague St
Albert Park VIC 3206

Gentlemen START YOUR ENGINES!!!
Albert Park, bayside, GRAND PRIX, sun, beach, coffee, Lamborghini…Goddammit! Life is GOOD!
A stone’s throw from the legendary F1 GrandPrix track, this homely, neighborhood café, cum secondhand bookshop is quite unique as well as legendary amongst the local folk.
Boasting their master barista, ISSY from the city of KAFFA in Ethiopia, the home of qahwa, the birthplace of the devil’s cup!
He is in fact a walking long Machiatto, you can’t miss him, pop in and say g’day, he’s always up for a chat about his favorite activity, coffee…..he really is passionate about his country’s biggest export.
This is my second bayside Lamborghini experience, and I think that I can safely say, I’m a fan.
My espresso came out in an elegantly branded cup, well presented, well extracted, well received.
It was quite delicate, with a lovely floral aroma, quite complex and sublime, the acidity just enough to tantalize my taste buds.
The whole place is friendly, warm and well presented, not too pricey although the menu is up there with the best that inner-bayside has to offer
It is the place to be seen, to do some site-seeing and to see what all the fuss about this new player in the Australian coffee Market, Tonino Lamborghini, is all about.
A solid one bean, a memorable experience……I’ll definitely be stopping in again, next lap around Albert Park.


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Coffee: Tonino Lamborghini

Brother Baba Budan. 359 Little Bourke.

For those of you who love St Ali, you're going to love this place. I don't know what the arrangement is, but here is cozy little place rocks. I have been a few times now, not really believing what I was seeing.... awesome quality long Macchiatto and some of the smoothest lattes in the city of Melbourne. Visit this place. The service is full on professional (don't be intimidated, they know what they are doing). Smokers down the back and the main papers are there for review. certainly a great pre work drop in if you are near by. Three beans easy!

AUCTION ROOMS

103-107 Errol Street
North Melbourne VIC 3051

One latte, one latte, one latte, do I hear two, will you give me two shortblacks with that latte?
What about a cappuccino and a latte, come on ladies and gentlemen, don’t let this one slip through your fingers….it’s the one that caffeine fuelled dreams are made of…..
Going, going, going……
GONE!
I bet this place has seen a fair bit of that, a fair share of its own action over the years.
Full of character and huge open spaces, this former auction room, cum café in fashionable Errol St, is quite the local landmark.
Tall ceilings, huge open spaces, warm and friendly service, family friendly as well as perfect for that business meeting or an afternoon chinwag.
The centerpiece being the amazing roaster right there in the middle of the café where Andrew delivers his own specialty roast, both unique as well as exceptional.
As I took a seat @ the bar the barista proceeded to delicately extract 30mls of pure nectar to present me with my espresso, which was a sensory delight, unadulterated bliss.
No milk necessary here to camouflage imperfections, it was perfect!
After cleansing the palate with some complimentary water, I proceeded to sample a well presented and quite attractive looking double-shot flat white.
The milk was both well textured and velvety smooth, as well as perfect temperature, obviously quite the maestro at espresso preparation and presentation.
Overall a memorable experience and a definite 2 strong beans.
Make sure if you’re out that way to stop in and sample some of their devilishly good nectar, and if you’re not in the area, make your way down, places like this are truly worth the drive.
Well done!

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Coffee: Own Blend ( In house roasting)

Merino Club CAFE

131 Chapel Street
Windsor VIC 3181

Well some of you may say I’m a sucker for punishment, but after my initial contact with RUBIA @ Chappelli’s a few weeks ago, I thought I’d give these new kids on the block, the benefit of the doubt and give them another go.
This time at the trendy Merino club down at the Windsor end of Chapel St.
Boy was I glad I did!
Not only was the place an aesthetic gem, with funky décor, an eclectic menu, exquisite furniture and a young and vibrant crew on hand and ready to serve, but it seemed that they were a bit more into the whole coffee thing, even bringing me a complimentary glass of water as soon as I sat down.
Now that’s attention to detail, and some good old fashioned service.
Damn! They even knew what a ristretto was. KUDOS!!!
It was actually well presented, short, dark and syrupy. Just the way it should be.
The aroma was intense, the flavor complex, the experience sublime
I followed it up, just to make sure with a long machiato, and boy was it good. I really enjoyed it and savored the entire experience, the floral aroma, the sweet, piquant waltz it danced on my tantalized taste buds.
BRAVO! Gotta give you guys a bean, maybe even two and welcome you to the ranks of the Melbourne Coffee Review.
Isn’t it amazing just what a difference there can be between cafes using the same coffee!

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Coffee: RUBIA

Embassy @ 97

97 Fitzroy Street
ST KILDA VIC 3182

Well….this one was a recommendation from J/B, and thank you!
And I do mean THANK YOU! A really big one.
Yes I popped out there, but I actually ordered an espresso first, God I hate the term ‘short-black’, instead of the recommended flat white.
Admittedly, it is hard to find fault with a shot of espresso. If it is precisely extracted, it is pure bliss. This one did not disappoint, it arrived with a glossy crema, notes of butter and caramel, and an elegant balance of acidity and sweetness.
Complex, sublime, pure sensory bliss.
I thought I’d try the recommended flat white as a chaser, and was quite glad I did, when I was presented with a well textured, creamy and artfully etched beverage, which interacted brilliantly with the espresso's crema to create a fusion of umber tones and the pure white, velvety smooth and glossy milk.
The caffeine hit was smooth, clean and bright, the mouthfeel delicate and silky, the overall experience incredible, totally satisfying and well rounded.
A solid one bean and a great place to meet inside or in their courtyard for a business meeting or a quick bite with the family.
P.S. Make sure you try the fresh muffins, they ROCK!

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Coffee: Espresso Syndicate

Espresso Elements - 305 Hampton Street, Hampton VIC.

(probably best read as Bogart in Casablanca) Melbourne winter 2008 is shaping up to be a cold one. Like Bogart in Casablanca I walked into this place on a very grey and cold day. I said nothing, hell what is there to say? I need a hot cuppa joe and fast! The fog was lifting from the morning but not for me. Not yet at least. This week had been a busy one, and I was not feeling that adventurous regarding testing new places, but after my standard haunt was close in Church street Brighton, I was now entering in the what I hoped was, the new coffee gem for Bayside.

The pretty gal behind the counter offered a smile and a greeting. I guessed the same one offered to everyone else that came in. I ordered my long macchiato, and I sat against the window and waited patiently.

It arrived,.. well hell, this was a coffee. Firstly let me say that few have the courage to try latte art on a LM but they did and they succeeded. First the nose. It was a strong aroma while not being overpowering. Then the first sip. Temperature perfect and a smooth crema that was perfect in every way. This has to be a discovery. Right on the train line and easy access to both business folk and mums with kids.

Three beans and if I could give more I would.






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Caffe' Corso

Crown Entertainment Complex
Level 1, West End 8 Whiteman St
Southbank, VIC 3006
I’m gonna try something new, something totally unheard of, I might even get my ass kicked for this, but I must be true, I must keep it real.
So here goes…..
Instead of a one, two or three bean rating, recently the places I’ve been to have been so under-par that I’ve decided to introduce a rating system from the other end of the spectrum, a one sip, two sip or three sip.
What does all this gibberish mean, you’re probably asking yourself?
Well I’ve been to a few places recently that have really failed to do justice to the devil’s cup, that have really let me down.
So welcome to my first one sip review, which means that the coffee was so bad, that I could only have one sip.
Sorry! But I was actually so excited to sample this new trendy café at Crown that I was quite geared up and expectant, energized!
Sadly, I was disappointed, yet again, but so badly this time that I decided that coffee this bad deserved to be rated, just as coffee really good was, and so the 1,2,3 sips was born!
Seriously though, my latte was lipid and lifeless, burnt and tobaccoy, probably the worst I’ve had in a very long time, nevertheless I made the most of it though and grabbed a delicious chocolate Milkshake and a slice of tiramisu (can’t get enough coffee) and enjoyed the ambience, the impeccable service and exquisite menu of this great looking and well located new addition to the Crown café scene.
Coffee: CoffeX

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Chappelli's Cafe

571 Chapel St
South Yarra VIC 3141
Hands up who used to go to Chaser’s in the 70’s and 80’s, come on, you know you did!
And it wasn’t the perfect end to that perfect disco bunny night without a walk down Chapel St, to Spaghetti Graffiti. Open all hours and welcoming to night clubbers, texta in hand ready to leave that coy comment while enjoying a traditional bowl of pasta.
Well, long gone are those days…this place has now re-invented itself as a flash café/restaurant open 24/7, to once again cater to the clubbers of the area, and kudos to them!
Boasting a great corner spot, well furnished and open spaces, modern and funky, the menu and ambience is great for whatever your reason to visit.
I was there for a business meeting, but a family would fit in just as well.
I ordered a long Machiatto, rather than the customary espresso as I wasn’t too sure of the brand of coffee as I’d never seen or had it anywhere before.
Sadly I was quite disappointed. Not only did it smell burnt and rancid, but it tasted turpeny, almost quite ashy.
As my client began to sip his latte I could not help to notice the grimace as the milk touched his lips, the face never lies.
He confirmed my suspicions, too hot, too bitter, too bad!
Sadly no beans guys, not sure if it was the bean, the roast, the barista or the machine, but somewhere along the line the nectar of the God’s has been corrupted, a sacrilege, a blasphemy, the unpardonable sin!

Coffee: Rubia

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The Continental Deli

51 Station St
Sandringham VIC 3191



Thought I’d take advantage of the beautiful weather this afternoon and took the family for a drive bayside, down to Sandringham. Sun, sand and coffee, what could be better on a 19o autumn day in Melbourne?
Like a veritable oasis in a desert, there it was, directly across the train station, The Continental Deli, with its eye catching and distinctive Tonino Lamborghini paraphernalia adorning the sidewalk of this suburban shopping strip.
What? Where? When? How???
How did this slip through the radar? A Lamborghini café in Melbourne and I didn’t know? IMPOSSIBLE! I was flabbergasted, luckily Barbara the owner informed me it was the flagship store and had only been there for a couple of days…PHEW!!!! I could breathe again….
The kids loved the place, it was well lit and spacious catering for all tastes and needs both trendy and a cool place to meet as well as family orientated and kiddy friendly.
The menu inviting, diverse and well priced.
The coffee was well presented in distinctive and stylish Lamborghini crockery which aesthetically complemented the amazing taste and aroma of my ristretto. Sweet, aromatic and a dense caramel flavor, it was idyllic to sip as I watched the mad world rushing about to and fro, coming and going.
Gentlemen, start your engines! Lamborghini Caffe is in town, to stay, I hope! A strong two beaner.

Coffee: Tonino Lamborghini

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C4 Coffee

2a Bond Street
Mordialloc 3195
A4 amazing!
B4 Beautiful!
C4 Coffee!
D4 Delightful!.....I’m sure you get the picture.
What a discovery! I love nothing better than driving around looking for cafes and drinking coffees, because you come across places like this.
Bruno out at C4 is a one man show. He runs the specialty roasting business and out of the same warehouse sells his coffee, discretely and confidently.
I recommend this place to everyone, both to buy beans as well as to have an amazing cup of coffee.
It’s not really a café, as such, more of a warehouse, but he does have an espresso machine, which if you ask nicely he’ll let you use and make your own, if you dare.
As well as a bar where you can sit and sip the devil’s cup as it was meant to be drunk, in true Italian Espresso Bar style.
The coffee presented is second to none, and believe me, I’ve had my fair share of coffees around Melbourne and what Bruno is doing out there is absolutely amazing, quite innovative and groundbreaking.
In fact by his own admission he’s breaking all the rules and turning convention on its head, and it shows, it comes across in every sip, every delicious mouthful of the coffee he prepares and serves, while he tells you another story about his coffee roasting techniques and just what is wrong with the coffee being served to the masses around Melbourne.
“Remember if coffee isn't a memorable experience, it's not worth the journey.”
And you know what, he’s right!
C4 Coffee is what all coffee should be, it is E4 Excellent
He’s there 5 days a week from 8ish until 2, any other time by appointment, closed on weekends.
3 Beans without a doubt!


Coffee: Own Blend C4

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Numero UNO

UN Caffe Bar

368 Little Collins St

Melbourne CBD 3000

This hip and trendy little gem was quite the discovery as I was aimlessly meandering through the streets of Melbourne in search of a caffeine hit! So many cafes, so little quality!
It must have been the bright red that got me, STOP!
I have always been a sucker for a latte in red.
The menu was funky and fresh, the staff hip and friendly, the coffee was illy.
To me those four little words say so much; the final word in coffee!
The single blend, quality guaranteed, famous, recognizable and consistent right around the globe.
Un Caffe is a franchise with two in the CBD and a few in Adelaide, heavily illy branded and recognizable by its distinctive red décor.
George, the owner and barista presented my espresso in a warm demitasse cup, and as I peered inside the luminous reflective glow was reminiscent of Ayers Rock at dusk, quite the sight.
The complex flavors blended perfectly on the palate, as it circled my mouth for hours, truly illy has proved once again that it is Numero UNO, and judging by the flocking crowds who seemed to be enjoying Un Caffé’s coffee and sumptuous fare from its exquisite menu, I think this is one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets.
If you’re in the area make sure you stop in, a solid ONE bean, Keep it up!

Coffee: illy

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RESET Cafe

541 St. Kilda Road
MELBOURNE VIC 3000

Seek and you shall find!
Words to live by, especially when it comes to that elusive quality caffeine hit!
I did and this little gem was actually at the base of the ‘SEEK’ building on StKilda Rd, just down from the old Chevron complex for all those disco bunnies, remnatns of the eighties.
This place just seemed inviting as I strolled past, the décor was funky, it was tidy and very clean, it just oozed cool.
The owner, Jim, greeted me with a friendly and warm smile obviously happy to see another new face, anxiously awaiting satisfaction.
The menu was pleasant and well priced, especially considering the location, but it was all about the coffee, as it should be, the rest was just scenery, lovely to admire but of no real consequence.
My espresso came out in a warmed demitasse glass, its delicate caramel crema, dense and aromatic, wafting a floral scent with hints of woodiness sending my palate into an expectant frenzy.
The flavours and taste did not disappoint.
I felt almost as invigorated as the first time I snuck into the chevron , under aged!
Jimmy then followed it up with a perfectly poured café latte, a delicate blend of velvety textured milk, infused with umber tones of a dense, perfectly extracted espresso, which effortlessly cut through to produce the desired Rosetta of the master barista.
Well done, its gotta be a two beaner, maybe even two and a half, the only thing missing being so close to the Chevron was some Boom Boom and You spin me round!

Coffee: Coffico

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First Pour

First Pour
26 Bond Street
Abbotsford VIC 3067

Well let me just say, it was both an honor and an absolute pleasure to trek down to Abbotsford, and meet the great David Makin.
As a confirmed caffeine addict and café junky it was quite exciting.
First Pour is home to probably some of the best Baristas this country has to offer, with not only David, but also Luca and David Seng doing their thing behind the amazing Yellow La Marzocca.
How can I dare to review their coffee?
What adjectives can one use to describe such an experience?
Another latte, why not, the last 3 were great, bring it on, Davo!!!
No seriously guys, if you haven’t make sure you do! If you have, I’m sure you’ll agree!!
I spent most of the day with David learning about what it takes to be the best, and at Makin’ espresso which operates out of the Veneziano warehouse; David does his best to teach us poor humans the fine art of being a true Barista, a maestro!
Without doubt a three beaner and a MUST for all seriously looking for that amazing Coffee experience!

Maybe we should introduce "the Golden Bean award"...??

NEWS FLASH! David Makin and Erin Sampson of former Coffee HQ fame, have JUST opened a brand New café called: PRIMARY @ 399 Royal Pde, PARKVILLE: Can’t wait to head out there for that review!!

Coffee: Veneziano.

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Switch Board Cafe - Mechantile Building Foyer, off Collins Street.

Occasionally I discover a real gem, and this is certainly one of them. Switchboard café goes where no one would have thought a café was possible, which tells me these guys are using their bean. These innovative entrepreneurs have wedged themselves a café in what was probably a store room and a shop window. Effectively a nook. I love it. This place has class and the guys are passionate about delivering you your custom made brew for the morning. The end product was as expected delivered in a unique old style orange glass, and the long macchiato was as smooth as silk. No bitterness and I could have sat on it for hours. Good work guys, welcome to the three bean club.






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St ALI Roasters

12-18 Yarra Place
South Melbourne VIC 3205


Bow down and worship, the GOD OF THE Bean is alive and well in South Melbourne.
You haven’t had a coffee, until you’ve had one at St. ALI’s.
Must be a 4 beaner, an existential experience, truly, these guys do everything right! RESPECT!

Coffee: St ALI Roasters

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Pellegrini's, Bourke Street, Melbourne

Pellegrini's is a Melbourne institution, and quite possibly not the first time MCR has paid its respects to this establishment that has been in successful operation in the CBD for decades.

The cafe has been photographed and featured in dozens of reviews and articles, most memorably when Christy Turlington was pictured here as part of an advertising campaign for The Age. Apparently Russell Crowe has also paid the cafe a visit.

They use a special Vittoria blend which provides a strong flavour, and serve customers in true Italian style - either seated at a stool or standing at the bar. It was a hot summer day when I visited recently and an iced watermelon crush was also available - lovely.

I had a chat with the owner, Paul, who started Pellegrini's over 40 years ago after moving to Australia from southern Italy. Pretty impressive. Everything here is home made, from the cakes on display to the pasta that is served to you at the bar.

Pellegrini's is a very special place for the city, not just for the great coffee but because it represents part of our heritage. I feel like I'm stepping back into a past life of Melbourne here, and I love it.

[Support MCR and delight your taste buds by having our special roasted blend delivered to your door! Become Part of the MCR Family]

Kruzin Kafe - 628 Glennhuntly Rd, Glennhuntly.

My wife jumped in her car and found the battery dead Tuesday morning thanks to yours truly. She was running against the clock so it was either I run her down to Caufield station or lose my car for the day. After I dropped her off, I weaved my way through Caufield heading to the office, when I noticed that I had about 45 mins to kill. Ahh.. time for a random review.. I love these.. and after cruising up Glennhuntly road, I stumbled on 'Kruzin Kafe'. It had a bit of a funky feel so I gave it a crack. I pictured many a meet happening in there,.. the coffee equipment beamed in readiness, and aside for the ho hum attitude of the gal behind the counter.. it was a promising scenario. Finally my Macchiato arrived. Aside from a slight bitterness, the temp was fine but it had that muddy result where the milk drops straight through the coffee way too fast. It was a coffee, it was ok, and maybe with some work it might see a bean... I'll try again.

FIGJAM cafe

FIGJAM café
128 Koornang Road
Carnegie VIC 3163

Out to the burbs, following the lead of our fearless MCR leader, I clicked on the Sat Nav and made my way out to Carnegie, where apparently the coffee is pretty good. (See comments of my “Guinness Book of Records Post.” On MCR)
A fashionable and stylish little café, was nestled away within a busy shopping strip, which was murder trying to find parking, nevertheless we persisted and were greeted by friendly and warm owners, Sam and Helen.
Who really did go out of their way to make sure all their customers were being attended too.
The menu was decent, with the trademark homemade figjam available in a variety of dishes, and worth a try too, for it was absolutely delicious, as was the coffee, apparently.
My espresso came out perfect, well extracted, not too long, a dense nutmeg crema with aroma permeating the air and wafting into my expectant nostrils.
The flavours rich and complex, a sublime experience. To re-enforce the recommendation I asked the talented barista to make me a double shot latte, out of his amazing looking La Mazzorca espresso machine, and once again he was firing with all cylinders with a perfect temperature, well textured, velvety experience that was quite Orgasmic…coincidently that was also the AMANTI blend that they were using!!!
Excellent recommendation!! Thank You, worth the trip, and apart from the amazing coffee, which by the way you were right, AMANTI is quite AWESOME, they do a killer fresh juice, try the apple with a dash of ginger, it is to die for!!!
Has got to be a 3 beaner guys, sex was never as orgasmic as this!!

Coffee: AMANTI

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Crooners Cafe' Bar Lounge

Crooners café bar lounge
43-49 Lygon Street
Brunswick VIC 3056

Memories are made of this…was buzzing in my head as I pulled up to this hip and trendy café at the top end of Lygon St.
I was highly expectant, and quite excited, as I love Deano, Frankie and Sammy, and with a name like Crooners it better be all that I had envisioned.
The décor was funky and modern; the inside spacious and bright, while the standard shots of The King and the Rat pack adorned the brightly colored walls.
Very ambient and cheerful.
Licensed as it is a lounge/bar at night, there was a wide range of drinks available, even the newly imported ARTISTA chocolate.
Look out for this one it is REALLY good, worth enquiring about!
http://www.artistachocolate.com/
The menu looked enticing and jam-packed with goodies, standard café fare.
I ordered my ristretto, which was bought out by a morose waiter who looked like he really didn’t want to be there, as he tried to sms on his mobile while serving me.
It was way too long, no crema, no aroma, no taste, no hope.
I left it!
I let them know, and they replaced it with a double-shot flat white, which I hoped would redeem them, sadly it didn’t.
It tasted weak and watery, the milk lacked texture and mouthfeel, and toooooo HOT!!!
OUCH!!! My tongue is still burning.
Anyway my kids and wife played it smart and each ordered an ICED ARTISTA chocolate…Oh what a goose I am!!!!
They were great, I hoped the kids would leave there’s as they usually do, sadly they didn’t!
Anyway maybe I just caught them on a bad day!!
Sorry no beans, and no fond memories here!!

Coffee: Classico Caffe CIRCI

Wicked Cafe, 7/270 Ferntree Gully Rd, Glen Waverly.

Had a coffee in the burbs yesterday. Was meeting with Franchsie Alliance. They used to be in Moorabbin where the coffee was bad. Now they have moved to Glen Waverly. I zoomed out there with part of my car falling off (any one know an Audi spare parts place?) and was delighted to see a little place called Wicked Café. I was sceptical, as these business parks don’t generally have a great reputation. It’s like shooting fish in a barrel for them and in most cases don’t really care about quality. Now I guess people, even in remote locations, can grind their own so these places better pick up their game.

Anyway, I digress. After checking out the digs, we sauntered down to the said wicked place and I enjoyed my Long Macchiato. It was ok, the service was professional, prompt, and efficient. No mucking around. The coffee type was Del Zotti (again the Italians), and the coffee itself was plaitable. The day was great,clear blue skys, so sitting outside was perfect. One bean, welcome boys!!

[I'll be reviewing these guys again soon, as we may be deducting a bean. P. Christo]

Q11

Q11
303 Coventry Street
South Melbourne VIC 3205

What does this enigma mean? Q11, even the owner seemed puzzled!
Beatnik, Rastafarian, poetic, were all adjectives that popped into my mind as I entered this throwback café, nestled in a bustling cafe strip across form South Melbourne Market.
I half expected to find Cat Stevens or Leonard Cohen hanging out there, or at least a guy with a bongo-drum in a corner somewhere….
The menu exemplary, the fit out tardy, the space…. well lets just say you’d have trouble squeezing in a pram, or even swinging a cat, but cozy and welcoming nonetheless.
The barista was obviously experienced as my espresso came out in a warm Genovese signed cup, thickly coated in an umber crema, aromatic and full bodied, while my customary double shot flat white was presented with a delicate tulip etched with finely textured milk amongst exquisite tones of espresso, delicately designed by a maestro.
An aesthetic delight, all the more tempting!
The sweet aroma of my espresso was complemented by a thick, syrup like texture, which did not disappoint. Robust and rich it left its delicate flavors lingering on my tongue long after the last morsel of my delicious and substantial meal was devoured.
The delicate velvety mouth feel of my flat white left it’s delicious textured aftertaste coating the back of my tongue for most of the day.
Highly recommended, even grab a take-away if the place is full, BEWARE though if busy you may need to wait a while for a meal, coffee service is immediate though.
Deserves a bean, without a doubt!

Coffee: Genovese

The VELVET BAR

The Velvet BAR

331 Bay St
PORT MELBOURNE 3207

Another ALL DAY Breakfast joint…. excuse me but how could you not get excited after sleeping in until 10 then off to brekky with my beautiful wife and 2 kids at 11.30.
Corner place, nice and spacious, hip, trendy and near the beach!
Perfect for a beautiful, sunny, summers Saturday in Melbourne.
The menu was delightful, reasonably priced, wide-ranging and decent serves too boot!
Lucky coz I was STARVING!!
To kick things off I ordered my customary espresso, which I was hoping would live up to the namesake of the place and be velvety and smooth, starting off a busy day with a bang
The golden crema concealed the aromatic oils of a complex nectar precisely fusing the caramel sweet taste with a distinct citrus fragrant aroma.
Sharp, yet sublime and sweet, it left an aftertaste that did not disappoint.
A moving experience!
With my tongue adequately coated now, I was ready to order my breakfast and my customary chaser, the favorite, double shot flat white.
I hoped this would not disappoint, but how could it; I was on such a high now that the day had begun so well.
And true to form it did not fail, the barista was firing, the perfect combination of nature, man and machine had created an orgasmic gastronomical masterpiece that was both aesthetically pleasing with its deep umber edging as well as perfect to the palate.
It may however have been a tad over-extracted as there were faint hints of an ashy, burnt aroma, but nothing that the perfect temperature and texture of the milk could not camouflage.
Two thumbs up and a definite two beaner: See you real soon.

COFFEE: Dimattina

Little Athens, Oakleigh again.

Here is another crack at a vid review. Apologies, its rough!

Antica Gelateria Del Corso, 161 Collins St.

Expectant, to say the least!
Impressed, Yes!
Satisfied, well almost!
What a glorious café, truly well designed and beautiful, a real showpiece of Melbourne’s café scene.
Three levels of glorious Italian architecture and Ice-cream heaven, I believe it actually won an interior design/architecture award a couple of years back.
Literally the name means, “Old Ice-cream shop in the main street”, and it did not disappoint, the kids loved it!
Who wouldn’t?
The food and cakes were decadently traditional Italian, to die for, and being owned by Nestle, you could be sure nothing was done half-assed…. apart from the coffee.
The pungent aromas of my espresso, seemed to betray the sulphuric odor of the underworld, where the dark overlord of ‘the bean’ resides.
I was hoping for a beautiful thick, sweet and rich crema’ instead it was too long, too mellow, too NQR!
A burnt and bitter aftertaste lingered and so I ordered the chaser to try to salvage the child-like glee that this Willy Wonkian paradise of the Ice-cream world had sparked inside.
It was the usual double-shot flat white which was not only watery and lacking in body and mouth-feel, in fact it seemed to vanish and dissipate as soon as it touched my eagerly awaiting taste buds.
I sensed their disappointment. Devastation!
The whole coffee experience lacked any passion and enthusiasm to match the expectation of such a glorious looking café, maybe it was just a bad day?!?!
No beans here, sorry, but definitely worth a visit for the aesthetic experience, the delicious food and of course, the main attraction, the Gelato.
The whole family will love it!

Coffee: COFFEX

DUNDAS & FAUSSETT CAFE & RESTAURANT

111 Dundas Place
ALBERT PARK VIC 3206

If we take a step back in time to June 25, 2005, our coffee sage has reviewed this little hip and posh coffee shop; thankfully my experience today was A LOT better than his misadventure back then.(Sorry Pete!)
Nestled in amongst the centre of busy Bridport St, with it's trendy cafes, lined up one after the other.

The decision was difficult yet seemed obvious, once made, about where to go to consume the daemon bean!
Bustling and vibrant, kiddy friendly (I have two so I know), its menu was both enticing as well as variant.
Wow, what a selection, from all day breakfast through to delicious pasta and meals, well presented in this stylistic and chic corner megalith amongst so many tiny single front, single serve cafés.
It was pure bliss; Frank and his attentive and caring staff did their utmost to make us feel totally comfortable as well as special.
My short Machiatto was lovely…well presented, with great care to detail it’s taste almost perfect, both aromatic and sharp.
My wife’s latte was beautifully offered, flavorsome and creamy, smooth and rich, just like it should be.
It’s amazing what two and a half years between reviews can achieve.
A strong one bean maybe even a bean and a half, for Frank and his mighty crew.
A stand out amongst the Bridport Street coffee strip.

Coffee: Crivelli

KOKO BLACK

KOKOBLACK
167 Lygon St
CARLTON, 3053
Melbourne, AUSTRALIA

If you LOVE chocolate, and I do mean LOVE chocolate, and all things chocolate, then this is truly the place for you! For me, this is a chocoholic’s heaven, beyond compare! Everything about this place was outstanding: The service, the attention to detail, the ambient atmosphere, the décor, infact it was a faultless experience in the delights of the humble cocoa bean.

Although there may be many other chocolatiers and chocolate boutiques here in Melbourne, there is only one KOKOBLACK! Now to the real bean, the bean that keeps the world turning (or MCR will thrash me!).

Unlike its sister the cocoa bean, the coffee bean used here seemed a bit bland and ordinary, but hey that is probably because of the comparison to the exquisite chocolate flavours on offer. The ristretto (My bev of choice) seemed a tad bitter with hints of being over extracted, maybe too fine a grind or time to clean the grinder. The latte was well made, velvety and creamy the milk adequately camouflaging the deficiencies of the espresso.
A solid performance though, but to be clear, they are chocolatiers! Coffee is only there to compliment the main attraction.
Nevertheless the combination of chocolate and coffee was enough to keep me going strong for a week, deliciously and satisfyingly!
A strong one bean here.
Highly recommended and make sure you try a truffle with your coffee, at any of the 5 or 6 locations around Melbourne.
The ultimate adrenaline rush!!!!

Coffee: Vittoria

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Cafe Frappe, Oakleigh Mall.

I had to pick up my car from the Mech’s early this morning. He’d had it for 3 days replacing the cam belt,.. so when my brother in law (Badge) dropped me off and I finally saw her again.. it was quite emotional. After we violated the credit card, I realized I would be driving right past "little Athens" on the way to my office, and for those that don’t know Melbourne well, this place is a cultural icon where every Greek hangs at some point. The coffee isn’t famous there but hey, nothing ventured yadda,.. yadda.. (there are 1 million Greeks in Melbourne apparently).

I parked my car near by and entered the "old greek man zone" (OGMZ) in the main mall area, and went to Café Frappe. A Frappe is a cold coffee made with milk and Nescafe.. I didn’t order one of those.. I did the Long Macchiato thing, but was underwhelmed with Coffex mud. I drank it, what the hell else was I to do?

I then listened intently to the old man soccer yabber.. and figured enough was enough.. I know this place does killer Greek pastry’s Sanakopita, and the like,… so I can’t be too hard on them. I do like the place but in small doses.

There must be a good coffee in Oakley somewhere.. I mean.. we are Greek, we do everything well…! No?!

No beans but there is hope for the area!

The Middle Bar and Café, 22 Armstrong Street. Middle Park VIC

(GUEST REVIEWER: Steve Anagnostou)

I chose this place as my first (hopefully of many) review as I consider it quite the "beanfeast". The atmosphere of this modern and popular suburban café was clean and exciting. It had an inviting ambience, it was spacious and was well appointed and comfortable.

Sparsely laid out tables covered a large section of the footpath as well as the inside, making it pram and child friendly. The staff, including the hands on owner, JOE, were both courteous as well as knowledgeable, not in your face and overbearing. The menu packed to the brim with culinary delights to satisfy even the fussiest of patrons, and all-day breakfast, a definite two thumbs up!!!

Finally, the devil’s cup:
GOLDILOCKS

Just great, a definite two beans up!! Both samples were brilliant, the ristretto was awesome, an explosion of flavours, aromatic and sweet, pure nectar of the underworld, while my double shot flat white was just about perfect.
Even my wife’s weak decaf skinny latte’ tasted half ok.
A coffee connoisseur’s delight.
Temperature, texture/body, flavor, aroma, acidity and aftertaste are my measuring benchmarks and all were perfect, or near enough too.
Well Done and thanks…….you’ll be seeing us again, real soon.


Coffee: LavAzza




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coffee & politics at AIX

I was ambushed by the Australian election while enjoying a coffee at AIX. You can't escape the election at the moment, but it was an interesting moment where the coffee scene collided with politics. Coffee at a social level for me is about enjoying the moment, with a friend, a colleage and even an element of chaos. Near the end of the clip, someone voiced thier opinion by dumping water on me from up on high. It could have been worse, but thankfully not. As a true professional, I continued to film, and then proceeded to finish my coffee. Not sure who these guys are, anyone able to shed some light on the matter?

Vera Cafe in Church St, Brighton.

I have reviewed this place before. I love it, the staff are really freindly, professional and they make a great coffee. The place is reminisent of the 1920's. White table cloth on the tables, ceiling fans slowly turning, sun shining through wooden slats in the windows.

I tucked myslef down the back this morning and knocked off some work (God bless wireless Internet). Enjoy another moment in time with me.

Mailing Room Cafe Visit 3, Canterbury

I had an opportunity for some time out on Friday so I dropped into the infamous Mailing Room Café. I can’t say I was sceptical, both the reviews have been done by people I have the highest regard for, but I was delighted across the board. I was greeted with a friendly smile and having asked, was told that I could use a power plug for my computer. I have mentioned before that while wifi access is welcome, give me easy access to a power point these days. My muffin came out post haste, but I waited a wile for the brew. Long enough to only conclude that this was a quality thing and it would take time. I didn’t get an impression of disorganisation; to the contrary, these people were efficient and happy to be there.
My long macchiato arrives soon after and I was delighted with all the key points. Hardly any bitterness, the creama smooth and thick and just the right temperature. The weather was cool, grey and drizzly, I could have curled up there all day, but I had to keep moving.
Certainly it’s a three beaner, no doubt.

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Torch Cafe - 178 Swan St. Richmond (revisit)

Another attempt at a vid. Torch really rocks in Swan Street Richmond. I’m spending more time there, due to Pitch Club stuff,.. yes blatant self promotion. I have to say though.. I generally fire up about Wifi being the killer thing that few coffee shops offer. Now I say this.. let me Pug into Power!!!! So few places have really catered for the road warriors. I am totally connected with my 3 thingy what’s-it now so I am happy, as long as I can power up after my shitty 15min battery fails… yes, I need another…

Here we are.. Tarentino, I am not!!

Cafe Veloce - 9-11 Claremont St. SY.

NEW REVIEWER: Kellie Trubiano.

Like most Melbournians, I appreciate a good coffee. 17 ears in the industry will do that. So when my first gig turned out to be the new Jeff Dutton Showroom in Claremont Street, South Yarra, with Mauro Marcucci (Caffe Cuccina, Termini, Pizza e Birra) at the helm, and whom I have been following for many years. I was shall we say, looking forward to it.

Mauro has managed to create a captivating atmosphere with those wonderful vintage cars.

I took my husband for moral support and we were delighted to eat a breakfast
that extraordinary! The prices are not over the top, but the big question was the coffee! I am delighted to say it went down very well. It was smooth and full flavoured, enough for me to want another. The creamer was thick and creamy, not a bubble in sight!

My test of quality is to order another. Thankfully, the second was as good as the first. I sat and enjoyed my second cafe latte, whilst my husband
drank his espresso.

The coffee at Caffe Veloce is their own special blend which was by
both Mauro and Aldo Cozzi of Di Lorenzo Caffe! They have captured the real
authentic Italian taste, which you can also take home either in bean form or
ground, for those who enjoy there freshly brewed coffee at home.

A solid two bean experience, but may go up when its looked at again.
Kellie Trubiano.

A moment in time at AIX Cafe - Centre Way, Melb CBD.

I use AIX so much, the owner Gianni wants to charge me rent. He is a funny guy, who loves to communicate his distaste for my 'lay back' attitude. I get much joy from his banter and his lovely wife Mary. Their cafe was voted one of the best in the world recently by a tourist mag. I tend to agree. Gianni's coffee is one of the jewels in my life (2nd to my kids and wife). I don't even order it any more.. I simply plonk down and wait for that steamy long Mac. I welcome them to the three bean club. Its about time. They earned it!!

Here's a moment in time, Friday the 12th Oct 2007.



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Torch Cafe - 178 Swan St. Richmond

Again I say, acknowledge your customers! Torch is becoming a regular hang due to our new business Pitch Club. Monday avo, around 3pm I am greeted with a big smile and a “Hi!!”… its like a shot in the arm regardless of how your day is progressing. The people there are authentically groovy and kind. I assure you, they don’t know me, ther modus operandi is what it is. Have fun, good food and a damn fine coffee. For me, this late in the day is mocca time. It arrives in a groovy bowl and with a rubber thingy around it. An important feature if you are all thumbs or drool on your fingers. I sipped my beverage, and pondered who the hell that artist was, who I knew I knew, but could not recall! The barista lass puts me out of my misery! Good ol Jeff Buckley! I’ve done coffee here several times, and I have no hesitation in welcoming these guys to the three bean club.

Cavallini – 354 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill.

I have a client who runs an international business out of her home office in Clifton Hill. She had just returned from Asia and asked that we meet near her place at a coffee shop. She nominated Cavallini. I arrived a little ahead of schedule, got a ark right out front, and spent some time looking for an ATM. I know Clifton Hill from my youth. It’s a lovely part of the world and looks amazing in autumn and winter. I did not have an opinion regarding its coffee scene. I never had the pleasure. Well pleasure it was, as I entered into Cavallini, and secured a table. This place had an Italian village atmosphere, and is ideal if you write poetry, movie scripts or have a panache for sweets and fine Italian chocolate.
It was after 3pm, my no go coffee time, so I asked if they did a hot chocolate. Boy was that a silly question. I was served up a cup of a smooth, hot very thick chocolate drink that was so decadent, I felt a pang of guilt. It was beautiful, delightful, inspirational, and potentially illegal in many countries.
When my client arrived, she opted into the same beverage, and she was too delighted. I also got some scuttlebutt on some rivalry between this place and Degani(?) a few doors down. Competition is a good thing I have to say. I loved the place, but no beans as I didn’t have a coffee.

Nicks Bar - 207 Queen St, Melbourne.

I have been lunching with a client at this place for over a year now, and never tried their coffee. It was not conscious, I just normally went elsewhere for my next meet and did a coffee there (wherever that was). This time, Frank, my client, insisted that I try the coffee, and assured me that it was ok. I was delighted with a smooth and creamy long macchiato. I have to confess, Frank gave the game away and UI think the owner actually made sure it was up to par, but nevertheless this was a damn fine brew. It was a good hot temperature, which I love, and the taste was clean and little bitterness. Again, in the frenzy, I didn’t check the coffee type, but I would give these guys a solid 2 beans.

Waterfront Restaurant - Port Melbourne 1 Station Pr

Had the pleasure to lunch with a client at the Waterfront Restaurant yesterday. I enjoyed the view over the bay, and the rain bucketed down, the chill in the air kept at bay by the bar heater above us. To bad we were talking business, it would have been a great spot to philosophise for the whole avo. The meal was of course as lovely as it was expensive. When it came time to coffee’s I my expectation of something delightful was at a high, and then it arrived… a very ordinary Giordano (aka Grinders) Long Mac. I have actually had this coffee done well in the past, but obviously the investment in a good barista is not as important as the chef. Maybe next time.

Kojo Brown - 294 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC.

I had an impromptu meet with a buddy of mine who owns a music training school. We rendevoued in Richmond and stumbled into Kojo Brown. Aesthetically, this place looked great. The sort of place you could work, have a meet or just kick back with the paper, but what about the coffee. It was afternoon, and I generally switch to green tea’s by 2pm, but I figured what the hell. I had been under the pump with work so I ordered a short black. I was delighted with quick service and a coffee whose crema seemed to have no end. I dug through it with my spoon and it was creamy and consistent. The taste did not let me down either.. the coffee was excellent. I didn’t see the brand of coffee they use.. but I’ll certainly visit again. At least a one beaner.. maybe a two when next I visit.

Limoncello - Sandringham

My family and I went to Limoncello, 54 Station St Sandringham, for breaky this morning. Helen ordered the standard latte and I did the Long Mac thing. I found this place to be excellent in all regards. The coffee’s were out quickly, even though there was a crowd. The service was friendly and attentive, and the coffee was smooth and creamy. My long mac was slightly on the cool side, which I get a bit. I like it when the offer a hot jug of water with it to spice it up if I need to (conversations happen).

The food was great.. and they even had some colouring pencils for my little girl.

Worth a go. 2 beans.

Sweet Lovers, Station Street Moorabbin VIC.

Over the last 12 months or so I have been working a few days a week out of an office in Moorabbin. Suffice to say the coffee expectations in the area were not high. I found the best I could at the time in a place called “Sweet Lovers”. A Cake cum sandwich shop. It had the friendliest service with out a doubt (mind you some claims of great coffee near by were bewildering).

Well, slowly over time, I convinced the owner, Mark, that he should really consider a better bean for his establishment. To my delight, he made the leap to Red Star in the new year.

After that I dogged him to improve the coffee making skills of his staff. That in fact was the most dangerous bit, but I seemed to do it without being banned from the premises. Mark, Zaine and the rest of the team do a respectable coffee now (occasionally over extracting, but they are always making improvements). The atmosphere is friendly and its certainly fine for a business meeting. More recently they brought on a new staff member, who has a panache for mosaic.

7 Grams, Church St Richmond.

I had a long mac at 7 Grams this morning. It was an impromptu thing as I was near by. I had been meaning to drop in myself to see what all the fuss was about. I have to say its a strange week because the hard core coffee folk of the Melbourne Coffee scene are recovering from the Vic Barista Championships from last weekend (to be discussed next post). I have to say the 7 Grams guys are hard core coffee dudes, and the coffee experience there is second to none. The head Barista there (Con, I believe is his name), made me an unforgettable Long Mac, one that will keep me pumping for a few hours yet. The venue is small but if its a good day, outside has plenty of room for a meet and a yabber. If you are within 3 km of 7 Grams, make your way there for your coffee. You wont be disappointed. Welcome to the 3 bean club lads!!

AIX Revisited

It’s coming up to 3 years of MCR, and I have to say its been a blur of wonderful coffee experiences around town. I thought I would do a re-visit series and talk again about some of my favourite haunts. Those that know me, know that they can find me many a morning at AIX Crepery in Centre Way, the heart of groovy Melbourne coffee scene.

John and Mary, the owners there are a constant source of the local scuttlebutt on Degraves and centre way, and I guess what I love about it is that I can tuck away in the corner and enjoy some peace or even do a meeting or two (John complains but I know he loves it). The coffee experience at AIX is normally one of the best around town, simply because John is such a stickler for doing things in a consistent way (part of the key to a good Barista). So my Long Mac kick-off for the day is normally like an old friend. I love this place, it is quintessential Melbourne for me, and I am looking forward saying goodbye to summer and some wonderful cold wet days in early morning Melbourne.

By the way, I don’t know what’s going on, but MCR’s best day until a few weeks ago was in the realm of 270 unique visits,… we we did two days of 400+, including 428 yesterday… I have no idea why, I’ve been in deep parent land with my seldom wanting to sleep son. The coffee has been abundant, but the writing has been light. I make no apologies to readers with kids and I know you know… the rest.. I hope you find out!!

AJ's - 45 Williams St, Melbourne

so it's 9:30am, the corner of Williams st and Flinders lane. The legal end of Melbourne is far from bustling. At first glance, AJ's looked exactly as you'd expect a "cafeteria at the bottom of an office building" to look. .. one noticeable difference.

The tables and chairs at first glance look normal, however the bum size on these chairs was awesome. I am recommending them for long stints and wide loads.

But alas, one cannot award beans for wide-assed chairs alone.

The coffee was not too bad. Possibly not strong enough for my tastes. I did order a lattè (which would be a non standard reviewing coffee for me). I thought it was nice that they attempted some rosetta art though it definitely wins brownie points from me

For me, the coffee was certainly not one i would complain about. I could easily imagine getting really used to it if i worked in the building and it was my morning ritual.

Unfortunately i can't give it a bean, but i am looking for a second opinion.

guys?

Jaspers - Caffeine Dealers, 267 Brunswick St FITZROY

It's one thing to hang your shingle and get people to come try your coffee, but to me, it's a real statement to nominate yourself as a "caffeine dealer" .

If you could judge a place based on aroma alone... my goodness these guys win hands down!

Considering it was 4:45pm on a Monday afternoon,
a day of running around, projects meetings and
the general life craziness that goes with the first couple of weeks back at work for a new year...
Jaspers couldn't have delivered a better caffeine hit to pick me up and make me feel like balance in the "force" had been restored and everything in the world is good again.


let me break it down for ya:


Cafe Fit out / Vibe :
Nice enough, they went with a real "wall to wall cluttered" vibe. It had a real antique shop feel about it. most of what you can see you can buy which includes an amazing array of coffee and tea plungers, pots, glasses, mugs and saucers.
There is not a lot sitting room as most of the place is taken up by the incredible selection of coffee blends and boutique fine chocolates (they even sell "self tanning chocolate!...wtf?). After such a great coffee, these items act as "impulse shopping on steroids", unfortunately for my hip pocket, my love of dark chocolate got the better of me. I have no doubt they do a roaring trade.

They do have (limited) chairs and tables out the back in an undercover outdoor corridor type of thing...and of course the regular box seats on the footpath.


Barrister :
nothing slap dash here. She knew what she was doing, the proof was in the pudding (it was a kick ass long mach).


Coffee :
My official verdict was that it rates as one of the strongest, mild flavoured long mach's I've ever had. Temp was pretty well spot on. If i was to throw dirt on anything it might be that there was no cool Rosetta design


The Verdict:
Jaspers is the place to visit for a superb coffee drinking experience...probably 2 beans but it gets an extra half a bean for the fact that they very actively supports and promotes fairtrade certified. I think we all know that coffee tastes better with a teaspoon or two of social responsibility...

2.5 beans

Dalmatino - 280 Bay Street, Port Melb, Vic Australia.

I had an impromptu coffee with an old buddy of mine John Warkentin, a commercial photographer here in Melbourne (Hence I’m using his shots). We hit Port Melbourne Bay Street, and ended up at the groovy Dalmatino at 280 Bay Street. I have visited before for lunch but didn’t do a coffee. Well among the 3000 things wcaughtht up on I was delighted to see this new up-comer coffee brand Merlo on offering and clearly a competent barista at the helm. I talk about finding a place that has great coffee that you can do business in or a little work, well this is it. It ticked all the boxes and even had enough room for a pram if you are in the parenting zone. I don't think there was wifi on offer but all around good spot. Welcome to the 3 bean club guys!!

Vera - Restraurant Cafe & Bar.

In the heart of brighton (118 Church St, Brighton), for ambiance, class and a feeling of ‘specialness’ this place is the bomb. I did the old ‘power’ breakfast here with a client. Its next to the “Half Moon Bay” café which is not open for breaky it seems these days. But, the coffee I hear you ask. How was that? Well, it was fast out, and a touch ‘not hot enough’. The bitterness factor was low, so that’s good, and I followed (The Long Mac) with a latte which was a little weak for my liking. I didn’t get the brand of coffee (not visible) so I will have to re-view!!

The Maling Room, Revisited -Corner Maling and Canterbury Roads, Canterbury.

I wasn’t quite sporting the right look when I made the great coffee discovery at the exclusive Maling Road Canterbury precinct. Sweaty track pants, 1992 Cannes Film Festival t-shirt worn thin, hair stuck up in tufts and caffeine-deprived-circles under my eyes. The hour is well before eight on a weekday morning and the barista at The Maling Room doesn’t look particularly pleased to see me. Not the sort of customer you want to serve when you’re trying to get the impressive Synesso Cyncra coffee machine going.

I grab the papers and one of the many foodie magazines on offer, and self-consciously slink away to an outside table, trying to meld my sweaty countenance into the walls of this grand old post office. But not before I cast a quick look around – shelves full of elegant jars of pickled things, a back room with a deep couch for lounging (not in my sweaty state), a display case of interesting panini, quiche-type things and sweets. Original period detail has been retained, along with the streamlined modern touches straight out of the latest homewares catalogue. I feel a little put out by the indifferent attitude of the barista and the carefully choreographed surrounds. I make a mental note to try something else in the precinct on those other occasions when I decide to traverse the suburbs looking for a caffeine incentive to get out of bed and pound the suburban pavements.

When the coffee arrives, I note the extravagant rosetta on its creamy top – all swirls, with details so exquisite it feels anathema to ruin this beautiful piece of art by drinking it. But the aroma of the coffee makes me throw my scruples to the wind. On my first sip I feel I’ve looked across a room to discover the love of my life. I stop scanning the headlines and take a second sip. It is smooth and creamy, strong, with no bitter aftertaste, a perfect temperature. I savour every little sip, and feel a sense of loss when I realise I’ve reached the final luscious mouthful.

There’s no going back. How could I ever venture anywhere else?

I feel chuffed at my discovery but it seems I’m not the only one. After my visit, I read two articles in The Age on the café – one about it being up there as a specialist in coffee art; the other in Epicure, affirming my discovery that this café takes its coffee very seriously. A special blend is also prepared for those of us that wish to try replicating this experience at home.

Whilst the ambience of this café may be a little too Vogue for my liking, you can’t deny the perfection of the cup.

I may be wearing tracksuit pants, but I’ve died and gone to coffee heaven.

Spiri Tsintziras
MCR Special Guest Reviewer.

Au Citrone Cafe - Brighton

This place is run by what I presume is a wife/hubby team. Its at 610 Hampton Streat, near Sth Rd corner. On the surface it looks like a tea room for nana, but its actually not. I’vbe had a few business meetings there now and I have to say the service is spot on, the coffee decent and while its small, there is enough room to meet with another in relative comfort. They use Cisco coffee, which I know little about. I don’t think they are hard core baristas, but the coffee is consistent, smooth and at the acceptable temperature.
Well worth a visit. 1 bean.

No Pic, so I thought I would show you the view of the Ocean near by!!

Announcing our International Barista Blend.

Just a quick one re MCR’s launch of our International Barista Blend. After some weeks of negotiations, ideas and finding the right blend, I think I have found a wonderful coffee for our fans around the globe. This is an exclusive and specially roasted blend for MCR,…. Here it is.

I'll keep looking for those fantastic coffee houses around town.

Enjoy!

Sandringham Beach Coffee Shop

I’m enjoying doing a sailing course at Black Rock at the moment. This weekend we headed out in our maiden sail outside the figure eight laps near HMAS Cerberus. We were tasked to head out to Sandringham, where we would enjoy a coffee at the coffee shop there. Well,.. after a couple of wacks on the head with boom we got into the cove with the help of our instructor Michael (gent next to me). The sail was great (in fact we even capsized on the way back, oh the joy), but the coffee was very questionable. I had no choice but a flat white, so I couldn't really review. The coffee took a while to come out, and it tasted like warm milk that had been stored next to coffee for a while. Maybe next time.



From left to right: Richard (The capsizer), Michael (Chief Sailing Instructor), and yours truly)

7 Grams Cafe

7 GRAMS CAFÉ (505 Church Street, Richmond)



This little café on Church Street in Richmond has marketed itself towards a strictly business-based clientele. Their hours of operation are 5:30am - 4ish pm Monday – Friday and they seat approximately 30-40 punters. The coffee used is ‘Veneziano Coffee’, and they have a beautiful La Marzocco machine in prime position in the front window. I ordered my latte, being a little wary of the bean, given that I haven’t had a Veneziano blend that has blown me away.

I took a seat where I could watch the barista at work. The extraction was perfect. I couldn’t fault it. It was a beautifully steady stream of golden, caramelly oil falling from the group handle. At this point, I was excited. Maybe this was a new and different Veneziano blend, or maybe I just hadn’t had a well-made Veneziano coffee before. My latte arrived and was garnished with a double silver fern. This barista had obviously been well trained and was quite experienced. I took my first sip and was a bit puzzled. Where was this golden caramelly set of flavours that I was expecting? The coffee flavours just didn’t cut through the milk, so I ordered an espresso. The espresso came and had that creamy, viscous texture to it. I was expecting the flavour to coat my tastebuds, but when I drank it, I was disappointed. Given that the coffee preparation was ‘text book’ the only let down, in my opinion, was the base product. The coffee blend just didn’t do the barista or the La Marzocco machine justice. It just goes to show; it’s not just a good barista that makes a good cup, nor is it the espresso machine, or the coffee bean alone, but a combination of these equally essential ingredients.

I give it 1 bean…

La citta – 11 Degraves Street, Melbourne VIC Australia.

I’ve been doing some hanging out at this new little place over the last week. It’s got a great atmosphere, a very attentive team there and while they use a band of coffee that was unknown to me (Merlo from Queensland??), they manage an excellent Long Macchiato.

I even took some of my junior consultants to breaky there, and while its outside the scope of Melbourne Coffee Review, it also rocked. A solid 2 beaner.

Mag Nation's kinda special offer!!

Mag Nation have been smokin some old magazines, but I think this is something to get behind!! They are offering FREE COFFEE through to close of business (I assume) Friday 10th November 2006 (maybe it will become an annual thing?). 9 Days of free coffee, but you have to know the secret code... I'll be looking for the Cappaccino lovers, but the rest I'll be staying right away from the others. Mind you, there is no code for Long Macc.

Here are the secret codes:

For a latte: "excuse me, i am a little itchy. i was wondering if you have any anti-fungal cream?"

For a cappuccino: "hi, i've been lonely for a really long time. would you mind giving me a little comforting?"

For a flat white: "do you have any magazines about back hair removal?"

Feel free to pass this on to as many people as you like... (they may regret this,.. Melbournians love coffee, especially if someone else is paying).

See you there!!

Peter