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Sensory Lab

3.6 (44 reviews)
Closed 7:30 am - 9:00 pm

Sensory Lab Photos

SENSORY LAB ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Outdoor seating

Recommended Reviews - Sensory Lab

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Colombian single origin today is rich and earthy
Grace T.

So if you're seeking a coffee experience that won't disturb your cucumber cool in the coming summer months, I'm pleased to note that Sensory Lab in David Jones does one lip-smackingly tasty iced coffee. This review isn't for one of those elaborate frothy affairs swirling with icecream, syrup and a halo of whipped cream, although life sometimes calls for one of those. The type done here is a tall latte served over ice - simple, everyday and so very enjoyable. Mine came out as an aromatic roast presented perfectly in a tall glass, sitting over fresh cold milk at the base. You can let this drink linger and enjoy the mingling flavours as ice melts into espresso shot. Update: if you're also on the market for a breakfast pastry there's a decent selection in the glass cabinet that are freshly baked each morning. Tried the fruit danish and it did not disappoint, crisply flaky with blueberries & apricot slices hiding a dollop of custard. Winning !

View from communal table in back
Michael K.

Fantastic coffee, and one of the few places that make pour overs in Melbourne or Sydney. This is something Australian coffee culture has yet to appreciate fully, even though it's the best way to extract maximum flavor from the bean. Really cute place, too. Very friendly staff.

People watching on a Sunday afternoon ...
Jason M.

Great any time of the day. The early opening is a life saver before meetings. The best thing is the team know how to make the perfect "magic". Even better they don't give you weird looks when you ask for one! The window table is great for people watching on a Sunday afternoon ;)

Vanessa R.

They're obviously going for the science angle with coffee making, and though I don't really understand how a delicious coffee ends up in a cup and in my hands, it's because I'm not really bothered by the process. I'm just happy it happens. And so, the lab coats worn by the staff, the laboratory equipment gracing the counter, none of that adds much to my experience of a tasty coffee, but it does make for an interesting space to spend the ten minutes or so that it takes to drink one's flat white. And the Sensory Lab delivers in the profound way it can - they serve up delicious, well-made coffee.

Hope M.

I couldn't agree with Matt A more - the coffee at Sensory Lab is awesome, but the wait sometimes borders on ridiculous!! I once waited for 18 minutes - yes, I got out my phone and timed it because on previous visits I was convinced I fell into an alternate universe where things just feel like they're taking longer than they really are. But no - it's damn slow here. On the 18 minute occasion it was peak coffee hour, but still... So why do I put up with this? Because the coffee is delicious and it's a really good spot for people watching, so I don't mind if I have time to spare. The look of Sensory Lab is another bonus - it's sleek yet functional, but better suited to lone coffee drinks or pairs rather than groups. As I'm a fan of both shopping and coffee-ing alone this suits me fine.

Tresna L.

This place isn't going to give you the best coffee in the CBD, but a great central location and extended opening hours (because it's attached to David Jones) means it's a practical option when you want a latte that's better than average or Cold Drip single origin on a hot day.

Syphon with some of their house Columbian blend

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10 years ago

Coffee was okay, bitter, I guess. Expected more than this. A tad expensive for the same quality you could get somewhere else.

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15 years ago

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14 years ago

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12 years ago

Nice coffee, but more expensive than I'd like. Slower than my usuals too - which makes it tough managing a toddler while waiting.

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Review Highlights - Sensory Lab

Decor-wise, it's in the back-side of David Jones, so you know it's already chic!

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