A bit of you in every brew: Meeting Melbourne’s favourite coffees
If you’ve attended a Gary Peer auction, you may have noticed the familiar sight (and delicious smell) of our iconic coffee van parked nearby. It’s there to keep bidders, buyers and bystanders fuelled while all the action unfolds. After all, this is Melbourne – and we Melburnians need our caffeine. While our van might not serve every style on the city’s extensive menu, consider this your meet-and-greet with some of the greats.
1. Flat white
As the humble flat white – I’m an icon. But, as with most Aussie icons, my origins are hotly disputed.
Was I created here or in New Zealand? We can’t be sure. All I know is I’m the classic coffee that never disappoints.
I’m prepared in a 200ml ceramic cup with a single shot of espresso, topped with silky-smooth milk and no foam. Best sipped in surroundings that match my status.
2. Cappuccino
As the cappuccino, I’m the perfect way to say buongiorno to the day.
I’m a velvety blend of rich espresso, topped with equal parts milk and froth. I can often be found with a fine dusting of cocoa for a sweet finish.
While Italians have traditionally only enjoyed me as part of a morning routine, in Melbourne, I’m delicious at any time of the day.
3. Latte
Too hot to handle! As a latte, that’s how I’m often described.
Traditionally served in a 220ml glass, I’m the coffee that will make you sit down and relax as you wait for me to cool so you can take your first sip.
Comprised of a shot of espresso, topped with steamed milk and finished with a layer of micro foam – my subtle coffee taste and creamy texture make me worth the wait.
4. Long black
Strong, intense, but never bitter. I’m an acquired taste for those who can appreciate my full-bodied espresso flavour and smooth crema.
Don’t you dare mistake me for an Americano, though. I’m prepared by pouring hot water into a cup before the espresso. This keeps my flavourful crema intact.
5. Espresso
When you need to get it done – I’m the one!
As the base of almost every coffee drink, I’m the OG. Also known as the espresso.
Served as a single shot, I can give you the quick jolt you need before sending you on your way. Alternatively, try me as a ristretto – just the first part of the extraction for a rich, syrupy and acidic drink. Either way, consider me your new daily ritual.
6. Piccolo
I might be just a baby latte, but I still pack a flavour (and caffeine) punch.
Translating to ‘small’ in Italian, I’m the perfect option when you’re short on time but still craving a creamy coffee.
I’m prepared with a single espresso or a double ristretto shot, topped with steamed milk and a layer of micro foam, in a 120ml glass. I can become a macchiato with an even smaller dollop of foamed milk to lightly ‘stain’ your espresso shot.
7. Magic
Meet the magic – the perfect blend of strength and creaminess.
I’m a uniquely Melbourne-born beverage that’s fast become a staple of the city’s café culture.
Comprised of a double ristretto shot with steamed milk served in a 120ml cup, I bring a silky texture and rich, creamy taste. It’s all the deliciousness of a latte with a stronger coffee kick. I’m basically barista sorcery!
8. Iced Latte
When the temperature spikes, I’m your go-to for a refreshing caffeine fix.
As an iced latte, I’m prepared with a double shot espresso poured over ice and topped with cold milk. With no frothing, the espresso is the star of this show.
Just don’t make the mistake of ordering my sister beverage – the iced coffee – otherwise you might find yourself with an unexpected scoop of ice-cream or whipped cream in your 6 am cuppa.
9. Pour over
I’m delicate with plenty of nuance – floral, bright and fruity! Some would even call me an artisan.
And, thanks to the city, I’ve had a major glow-up.
No longer just the domain of bad catering coffee, I’m now a headliner at specialty cafes across Melbourne. Baristas use my gentle brew to showcase the quality of the beans and create a relaxing ritual experience.
10. Mocha
Can’t decide between coffee and chocolate? That’s where I come in.
As the mocha, I combine espresso with chocolate and steamed milk to create a smooth, indulgent drink that sits somewhere between café classic and sweet treat. Finished with a layer of velvety milk, I’m the perfect choice when you want your caffeine fix with a little extra comfort.
Honourable mention: Matcha
I might not technically be coffee, but in Melbourne’s café scene, I’ve earned my place on the menu.
Originally from Japan, I’m made from finely ground green tea leaves whisked with milk to create a smooth, earthy and slightly sweet drink served warm or over ice.
While my roots trace back to traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, Melburnians have embraced me as a popular alternative for a gentler lift. Consider me the calm one in a city full of strong coffee personalities.
