This place really does feel like an institution, and one of the great things about it is that it happens to be in an alley off of the main road. There was a time when such a place would never been found, but this is not such a time. It was certainly busy when I came here, and the service was pretty good, but then that is because it is an institution. I thought it was pretty good. read more

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The whole Melbourne coffee/brekkie culture can seem a bit much, but I gotta say..... Wow wow wow the hype is real, the peshawar naan, the coffee, the service,,the warehouse vibes, the whole package was an absolute pleasure. World class St. Ali, I cannot wait to come back tomorrow. read more

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Not worth it, got served by the owner who was an absolute prick, refused to elaborate when asked about a menu item, "it's a sweet, what more do you want" his exact words. Prices are ridiculous, $29.00 for eggs on toast, $8.00 for bacon on the side, then charged some arbitrary gratuity fee on top of a weekend surcharge. 4 people $375.00, not worth it by any measure. read more

What better way to start the day than with a cup of warm joe from the famous St. Ali? But first, finding this cafe was no easy feat. It involves some navigating unfamiliar streets as it was hidden in a teeny tiny alleyway and the restaurant was unmarked, but keep at it as you will get rewarded with one of the best coffee in Melbourne. St. Ali isn't exactly your quiet cafe. The interior is loud and hipster, but if you prefer a more peaceful and brighter atmosphere, there is a small patio outdoor. For breakfast, I had the Wagyu Steak Sanga ($24). The presentation was immaculate, consisting slices of perfectly cooked Wagyu steak on top of sourdough toast. They also give you a generous amount of salad on the side, not a fan of the arugula salad, particularly due to the blue cheese (personal dislike). The steak, however, was deliciously seasoned and quite tender... Despite it being boring halfway through. For my drink, I opted for the flat white coffee and it was a dream!! Rich, slightly bitter, well bodied with complex flavors... I enjoyed every sip of it. In all, a visit to St. Ali has been a memorable one! Great service, beautiful food and even more beautiful coffee. Definitely a spot worth many return visits. read more

St Ali - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

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cute cafe with great service. I enjoyed my long black and 2 sides - the smoked salmon and tomatoes. My friend got the hotcakes which were beautiful and delicious, very thick and fluffy. They were topped with white chocolate ganache, strawberries and edible flowers. read more

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A lot of it's been said before - it's busy, full of hipsters and they make great coffee. The latest menu is really something special. There's classics from "St Ali 2005", things for vegans and vegetarians and healthy options for those of you on the latest no carb, paleo, 4 hour body, "I can't eat..." diet. I'm a big fan of the flat omelet - jammed full of capsicum, onion and broccoli. It's simple, tasty and is a great way to get a veggie hit without resorting to salad. It's healthy enough that you can cram in a Sugadeaux cupcake afterwards without feeling guilty. St Ali is doing one of the best cold drips in Melbourne and it's what I order when the temperature is on the high side. Order any other coffee and you can be sure that it will be made to a fairly exacting standard and offer you caffeine fueled deliciousness. read more

St Ali was recommended to me by a friend, and I sure am glad I got out of the CBD long enough to stop by. Casual vibes, bench style seating and friendly staff await your arrival. It's table service here and there's plenty of room for all your friends. I ordered the tuna niçoise salad, which featured seared rare tuna, a winner in my books. Light and filled with flavour, I'd definitely get this salad again. The refresher juice with watermelon, apple & mint was a welcome thirst quencher given the warm day that it was. My only regret- leaving town before getting the chance to come back and try their highly raved about coffee for myself. read more

St Ali - Seared rare tuna niçoise salad. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

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A cafe in Melbourne. I have heard, by many a folk, that this little hidden joint makes the best coffee in Melbourne. When I arrived however, I immediately shouted "beer" before I could process my thoughts and unfortunately missed out on discovering the validity of their reputation. Nevertheless, I arrived during lunch rush hour and was promptly greeted with a smile and shown to a table that would accommodate my obnoxiously large red pram - noting that the space is a comfortable size although you wouldn't assume so from outward appearances. The menu was printed in mimic local newspaper style (super hip) and the floor manager wore a blue bow-tie and gold chain around his neck. Prices were pretty good (average $18) and the menu selection was varied and appetizing; if you weren't sure what you wanted to eat before you arrived I'm sure you could choose something from the menu and leave satisfied. I ordered smoked salmon on potatoes with capers and the flavors were perfect albeit the potatoes being cold; not cold enough to complain, just cold enough to notice. Since I skipped the coffee experience, which was the main reason I decided to eat there, I can't really say if this is one of the best cafés around. I've been to many cafés, all hidden, hip, and specializing...and St. Ali is one of them. Thus being said, I would still like to try the coffee and I would definitely recommend that you experience one of their meals at least once, if only to Instagram a photo of it. read more

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It's hard to pick a favorite among the amazing coffee spots in Melbourne but St. Ali won my heart. Of course you expect everyone to be able to sling a fine Flat White but love the fact that you get clear distinctions between their different milk coffee offerings. Plus, these guys know coffee, sneak a peak at their espresso list, appreciate the menu offering of the barista breakfast, and get ready for a coffee education like no other. But St. Ali isn't just about coffee, their food menu is equally creative and fantastic. The jam donut pancakes was a favorite of ours but their egg dishes (mmhmmm My Mexican Cousin) are equally awesome. St. Ali is really the best of the best #wideawake indeed! read more

Wow. Great coffee . Off the beaten path for sure. Melbourne revolves around the river and CBD. St Ali is a short walk south. They have a special that includes three different coffees. A great idea for tourists like us. We also had a very enjoyable breakfast. read more

St Ali - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

This large bustling industrial style cafe is where I caught up with a workmate Saturday morning around 10.30 for brunch. It was easy to get a table and we shared this long wooden table with another couple. We placed our coffee orders at the same time but my friends coffee arrived 10 minutes before mine. Negative. I ordered an extra hot skim mocha for 5 dollars and it was the size of a macchiato. Elixir mocha and all. Yes it was good but no elixir. And the size of it is just disappointing. My friend got charged an extra dollar for her almond latte. :( My mexican cousin which appears to be the most raved about dish on reviews with their secret corn fritter recipe was quite disappointing. First of all it tasted nothing like corn. You get three small fritters that could have been baked. They are green on the inside. Reminded me off the spinach cutlets that my mum makes. Lacked flavour. Had to douse it in salt and pepper. The accompanying tomato base and corn kernels did nothing to complement the flavour. We also got kingfish on a bed of beetroot pure with pomegranate seeds. The fish was delicious. The skin was delicately crisp and the fish so succulent. The beetroot puree with its slight sourness complemented the fish. Amazing but again quite a small portion. The bill came up to around 60 dollars. The most expensive brunch I've had in Melbourne and with small portion sizes too. Oh and if that wasn't bad already, while eating my morsel of a kingfish, the waitress tried to take my plate away. I had to use my ninja reflexes to thwart her attempt. There is a 4% surcharge if you use an amex and 2 percent for other credit cards. *shakes head* - as if everything else wasn't overpriced already. read more

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Who was St Ali? Where were they from? How were they canonised? Perhaps St Ali is the patron Saint of brunch. In which case they'd be more than pleased with this long standing legend on the scene. On my recent visit my chirpy smile was greeted at the door with straight faced nonchalance. Fortunately the person who took my order was happy, friendly and helpful. I sat down with the weekend papers .. no worries here finding something to read - there's LOTS to go round. My coffee came out quickly, which was smooth and more than acceptable. The mini jug of warm milk accompanying it was a nice touch, plus useful for getting a bit more out of the cup. Being an egg man I ordered a "Koo koo ca choo", which looked and tasted bloody delicious! A lovely blend of flavours and textures. The potato hash was crunchy, the mushroom fricassee beautifully creamy, truffle earthy. I added some bacon too. The poached egg was soft and gooey on the inside but one egg white was rubbery and firm, I had to put in some effort to cut through it. However I scoffed it all down and could've easily eaten another. It's a popular place with a mixed clientele, though a victim of its own success a bit, with quite a chaotic queue in order to settle my bill. All in all St Ali's three miracles are it's longevity, amazing food and honest coffee. Worth a pilgrimage. Music - medium, lots of hard surfaces and busy means you need to speak with a raised voice. read more

St Ali - Koo koo ca choo (with added bacon) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

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If you don't keep your eyes (and maybe your nose) peeled you may just miss this little coffee cafe, hidden away down a back street in South Melbourne, St Ali is one of Melbourne's most talked about and most prestigious coffee roasters. Besides all the hype I have been to St Ali a hand full of times and have had differing experiences each time. The coffee is always at a consistently high level opting to try their coffee of the week is always interesting and a bit of a treat. I have found the food however to be a little over priced, after ordering a Greek style salad and being presented with a plate swimming in feta and little greenery or tomato I was a little reluctant to hand over my credit card after the meal. My friends however ordered breakfast of poached eggs and corn fritters which comparatively looked incredible! If you are planning to head to St Ali for a Sunday brunch do be prepared for a pretty decent wait they get VERY busy and the staff are run off their feet. To compensate, the coffee roasters have recently opened their warehouse directly opposite the restaurant where they will serve you freshly brewed coffee while you wait for a table. read more

St Ali - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

First off, let's start by saying I'm a huge fan of Matt Perger. Second, walking inside and feeling the vibe was enough for 5 stars. Then my first taste of espresso blew my rating to a ten. Then I tried the pourover coffee and a cappuccino. Then my head exploded. Simple decor, comfortable, community tables, friendly staff, inviting, not pretentious, and all in all, made my top three favorite cafes I've ever visited. read more

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"Serious coffee" Taken to be seated and handed a coffee menu, the folk at the other end of the table look like friends of Mick Gatto. The food looks utterly amazing, but the coffee is the star - having the cold drip and it's defuckinglicious. The venue is ramshackle and disjointed, and adds to the charm. Music is good, loud enough you can hear the tunes, but not to deafen. read more

St Ali - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

My review relates specifically to the quality of the coffee roasted and served as I think it is a point which most people have missed because this is what they are known and recognised for. Loved my visit there. St Ali chompy is a great hearty & bold blend. I feel like drinking a long black of this is a meal in itself. The flavours are full & rich. Definitely a nice standard blend to have at any time. I brought home with me the Guatemala Finca San Antonio and have been doing pour overs, plunger & drip. A nice bright first taste which smoothens out to leave a very sweet after taste. Definite notes of plum, cocoa and butter. There are only a few cafes here in Sydney that are using their beans and I for one am looking forward to more. read more

St Ali - sneaky St Ali - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

We went on a Wed around 1pm and while there was no queue, it was very full. Its a loud & bustling environment full of many shared tables, great food, and exceptional coffee. This is definitely one of the best lattes in Melbourne. The food menu is extensive, with breakfast served until 3pm. There is plenty for vegetarians and the portions seemed generous. We especially loved the corn fritters with poached eggs, fresh corn salsa, and a touch of haloumi. The people next to us had a salted caramel doughnut that was drool-worthy. Service was speedy despite the full space. And they seemed genuinely worried that I didn't finish my dish (it was huge). It's not quiet in there, so don't plan on having a hushed conversation. There is table service for taking your order, but pay at the counter when you're done. read more

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This place is such a hidden gem! It's on a side street in South Melbourne in what looks like a garage. There's no sign saying St. Ali either but the people walking in make it more obvious that you're at the right place. The super high ceilings, friendly waitress and antique share tables make the place quite inviting. Their coffee is St. Ali's brew - amazing! Try their fluffy bits (pancakes) or the truffle gruyere toaster. Great place to enjoy a brunch while catching up with your friends and fam! read more

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Wow, just wow... The coffee is sensational, in fact, I'm a little angry because now coffee at other suburban cafes isn't the same and quite frankly I'd rather go without. I chose something a little different for breakfast which were the crumpets with goats cheese, maple syrup and hazelnuts. Delicious although I felt a little more goats cheese would have been a bit better. Staff are lovely and I like the overall vibe for a Monday mid morning. Glad I went. But oh...the coffee. Love read more

St Ali - Crumpets with goats cheese, maple syrup & hazelnuts. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

Good vibes, tasty food and up there as one of my faves. Only dowside is the noise. I found it hard to hear my friends

It's very difficult for finding this cafe even if though google maps. The door is inconspicuous but inside it's is warmly . Because it's is lately I just ordered one cup of flat white ,and it's wonderful. read more

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This place had been on my list for ages to try, and unfortunately the 45 min drive from home was not worth it. With most popular cafes a waiting list is available to pop your name at the door and wait around for a table to free up. We put our names down and waited for about 15 minutes which wss pretty good considering how busy the place was. We sat down and ordered our food and some drinks and was a bit disappointed that it took half an hour for our coffees to come out and a further 20 mins got food to come through. We shared a table with 2 other couple on a communal bench outside and both received their drinks before us even though we ordered first. Foodwise it was ok. We ordered some of St. Ali's staples which were the koo koo ca choo - a not so crispy potato hash with mushroom ragu and the Mexican cousin - corn fritters with a slither of haloumi and salsa. To top it all off we were overcharged for the main breakfast meals compared to what the menu stated and slapped with a public holiday surcharge which wasn't disclosed anywhere on the menu or mentioned when we ordered. Possibly a bad experience on a very busy day so I wouldn't completely disregard trying this place as there have been so many positive reviews, but keep in mind what you could be in for. read more

St Ali - Koo koo ca choo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

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Anyone who's anyone will know of St Ali in South Melbourne. They have been around for years, likely having lovingly created more than a million cups of coffee by now. These people are experts, and they know it. From your more traditional espresso-driven coffees, right through to cold brews and batch brews, they will have something for even the most discerning coffee snob. Food's not bad either, worth a try if it's not too busy. That being said, it gets busy - very busy. Be prepared to wait if you're going to commit to it. Customer service can be a bit snobbish, so if you are only after a coffee, grab it as a take-away, try one of the small selection of pastries as well, and go for a stroll around the neighbourhood instead. read more

I was in Melbourne for three mornings. Of those three days, I had breakfast here twice. The only reason I didn't eat here on day three was my sense of adventure keeps me from going to the same place so many times. The fact that I went two days in a row is a statement to how good it was. I never go the same place twice in the same month my less week. Excellent food, excellent coffee and excellent service. read more

St Ali - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

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Went to St. Ali's for coffee over the weekend. Super disappointed to pay $10 for 2 cold coffees. I thought it was too good to be true that the coffees were made and ready within a minute after I ordered. It seems like they were trying to palm off unwanted coffee already made and try to get away with it. Tsk tsk. Went back and told the waitress and she wasn't even apologetic that it happened. It's a shame as this is my second time to St. Ali. I enjoyed brunch time last time and had a better experience. read more

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The wait was worth it: this is an awesome place for brunch. They also take coffee seriously, as expected from a coffee roaster. I had quite an edgy entree that they were serving on their daily specials: pig head croquettes, ox tongue, fried lamb brains, asparagus, poached eggs, gentleman's relish and charred bread. One of the best offal dishes I've had and definitely scores high on the innovative marks. Service was pretty slow though, as the place was packed. Highly recommended though, and all of South Melbourne seems to know about this place. read more

St Ali - Pig head croquettes, ox tongue, fried lamb brains, asparagus, poached eggs, gentleman's relish and charred bread - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

This place is amazing. The coffee is the best I've ever had, and I'm quite the coffee enthusiast. Food by Jake Warhurst is divine. So delicious. I can't recommend it enough. Such creative dishes of all colours and flavours. Such a hidden gem in South Melbourne read more

St Ali - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

Funky joint to have a feed at the breakfast menu is very unique. The service is good and place was busy. It's easy to walk past as it is unassuming from the outside read more

I've long had a love-hate relationship with St. Ali. Sometimes they have driven me crazy with terrible service, rushed coffee and "love it or go f*** yourself' attitude. Other times they are over the top wonderful with brilliant service and I'll go back multiple times in a week. It's long been one of Melbourne's busiest cafes because the both the food and coffee is consistently awesome. Really, really freaking good. Ever since they poached the 'Dutchess of Spotswood's' Andrew Gale as head chef, the food has gotten better than ever. For creative, delicious meals with tons of variety on the menu (including veg, gluten free, paleo - the works) it's pretty touch to beat St. Ali. Even when I have professed to be 'over it', I must admit I'd still eat there at least once a month. I prefer their coffee for milk personally. Since switching to black coffee (no, I can never go back) I haven't enjoyed it as much, but that doesn't mean it's bad by any stretch. The filter options irk me because they charge for a slow process filter but batch brew. I wouldn't care so much if it cost $1-$2 like in the states, but I want it made with a little love if I'm paying $6 for it. I must say their coffee spider is pretty amazing. An awesome treat coffee or dessert - it's like my adult and childhood colliding in a glass. Overall I will stick with 4 stars because I am going to continue going back there as a regular and devour their food with a smile. Regardless of whether I get one in return. read more

I use to be a regular here, but one too many bad experiences made me stop. After 2 years, I was finally convinced to try it again. Coincidentally I ended up working around the area the day before I planned on breakfast. Only had time for a quick coffee and it was horrible. Ashy and bitter. Staff were arrogant and unfriendly. Next day I went for breakfast. Order my flat white and breakfast. Coffee was good today, really good. Great balance of sweet nutty flavours. For breakfast I had the big daddy. Lots of bacon-ie goodness with the right amount of spice. Epic and delicious. Next ordered a filter coffee. I watched as the barista brewed it slowly, then once he was finished, walked off and had his breakfast. Leaving my coffee sitting there as the over extracted elements continued to drip through. St Ali is a place that foodies and coffee people should check out. It's an institution now. But don't have high standards. They need to be more consistent with the coffee, and lose the arrogant barista attitude. read more

As far as brunch goes this is one of my absolute favorites. I love the food here (thank you Andrew Gale) it's inventive, thoughtful and most importantly wildly delicious. I am addicted to their black pudding and it's this side order that I always must have, it keeps me coming back. The specials have been consistently good, today was softly rendered pork knuckles, asparagus & capsicum reduction hit the spot, last week gnocchi, parsnip purée, truffle oil left me near moaning. yep food is on point. black pudding here is house made and a treat - soft, lovingly spiced with a hint of sweetness and dotted with unctuous pork fat - it is a must order side on every visit. If you don't have toast in your order just order one slice for the pleasure of being served a little parcel of cultured butter, it's delicious & a must for butter fiends. There is only one thing I would change and it's the coffee (I have mine black) not sure what's going on it just seems to be a very dark roast that I don't find particularly delicious. probably would be better in milk styles. read more

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This place is an institution around South Melbourne, great coffee, full of hipster types and great provisions. Personally I do appreciate the excellent quality of the brew however the food is a tad expensive and the crowds often make getting a corner of a table difficult. It's popular and with that comes the inevitable price rises, the crowds and the slowing of food orders at peak service times. If you're coming and are prepared to for a rush / crush you'll be fine. As I sit, sharing a table with three other couples, sipping my coffee thinking of the analogy of Bali or Phuket.... my imaginary friend would be saying "wow dude, ya should'a been here before it got popular...it was awesome". Anyway it's still awesome for coffee, it's just not how it was earlier on. The fare is good, everything I've had here has been great...the salmon is a healthy choice (my current preference) however there is a good selection for those with a hunger you can't step over. read more

One of my favourite meals of the day is breakfast. And what I love more than finding a new good breakfast spot, is finding a breakfast spot with breakfast items that i've never come across before! Can I say breakfast one more time? St Ali's menu is awesome. It's funny and it makes me want to eat everything on the menu. Alas, one can't be fat, so one chooses just one meal. I had to try the infamous 'My Mexican Cousin' and boy was it yum! I tend to find corn fritters more of a lunch sorta meal, but I was willing to shock my taste buds that morning. Not only was breakfast good, the coffee was amazing - as usual. Will I be back? Of course.. when I'm in the area again. read more

Loved the atmosphere, the food ! Definitely got all the Melbourne vibes ! we got- "The daddy" and "My Mexican Cousin". Yummm ! read more

St Ali - The Daddy & My Mexican Cousin ! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Melbourne, VIC

Once the good coffee box has been ticked you don't need to do much more to win me over but they totally did! Had a scrumptious lunch of Tasmanian salmon and greens. It was light, had good dressing, this beautiful cottage cheese and beetroot. And the salmon was just perfect. Cooked well and not over-seasoned. Yum! We had a fantastic waitress that was more than happy to help us. The waitress that brought me my coffee spilt it just the tiniest amount on the walk over and about took it back to have it redone, I appreciate how detail oriented they are, but that would just be a waste of coffee and we can't have that. Overall I'd definitely go back to this little cafe tucked into the side streets of South Melbourne. read more

Original since 1999 St Ali are masters of coffee, with beans from Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama (you can order beans online too!) we are enjoying a smooth, soothing brew and still completely absorbed by the plates sailing past ladened with amazing looking food. Hubby orders the Number 12 'bada bing bada boom' Chuckling away to himself!! Great name and amazing sausage! The 'special house made roll with spicy sausage, avocado feta mash and chefs chilli jam' Is AMAZING!! ......read more at my blog read more

The Astounding thing is that I've been visiting St Ali for many years now, yet have never come to review it, until Friday the 13th 2012. What on earth is going on? Over this time I've seen the St Ali space morph and change from humble origins and beginnings to what it is now. It has colonised any remaining space in the property and seating has expanded and blown out. This in addition to the great movements and replacements of staff. (They keep getting stoled to other new venues around town) It's now more like a coffee barn than anything else. But not a coffee barn in a negative or pejorative sense, or meaning a place of bland generic meaningless coffee, that's never been the case here. It's been a while since my last visit; even though I used to visit religiously. No reason why i stopped, but i just did; perhaps it was too too much of the same thing. So since it's inception I've seen most of it. although I do remember missing out on dinner trade, the various events and tastings, and coffee cupping guess when one has been to a place so many times, it isn't that special anymore. We take it now as established fact that St Ali is both exceedingly popular and busy, to the point where it may have outgrown itself. There was and still is the vicious clamouring and competition for a free seat or table. (Thank your lucky stars it isn't a Saturday morning.) The menu has stepped up; it's a great design and plays host to many grand dishes, replete with many great food options. Whether this be for lunch, brunch or some meal in between. Filter coffee menu; Cold drip, Pour over or Syphon $6-$8. You can also get regular coffee in all the styles either with house roasted blend or a COD (coffee of the day) which changes regularly. "From Chickens with love" Nb- breakfast. This has to one of my favourite menu descriptors since "sweeties" when describing dessert wines et all. My Mexican cousin it's famous, bordering on signature dish, is still ever popular and perhaps heeds the breakfast menu here. Aside, you'll Friend other great breakfasting options. There are two designs of the menu. They're both cool. Salads, Burgers, Pork Belly, Lamb Shoulder (boy that's a lot meat) and Yellow fin Tuna way hey! As well as Trout, Buffalo mozzarella salad and chicken burger. 63-63 Scientifically cooked eggs, trust me they're sublime, and our famous menu even feature great additions to your breakfasting hedonism. Istra bacon, grilled haluomi, Chorizo, Mozzarella ball, avo and feta mash, and no doubt other items I've overlooked. The "Royale" beef burger was great; not brioche bun, but nice soft good qualitybread, crispy bacon (always a winner) freshly ground beef, good cheese, witha side garnish of salad and house made freshly pickled things. Awesome! Go pickles, and they're even better with hot sauce. Breakfast sandwich, Granola, Sweet treats, Tea, Juice, and other liquids. Retail trade; Hot sauce and of course coffee to buy and take home. It seems all the publicity has paid off; It's 3pm and its still a roaring trade on day when people are supposed to be at work. read more

I absolutely love this place! Located very close to my house (what a win :-)) this warehouse styled cafe has all you need! They are mostly known for there amazing brunch menu "my Mexican cousin" a just try treat! Don't be the type of person who says I'll try something different until you have tried this dish! HIGHLY RECOMMEND. On top of that, their coffee amazing, and the service you receive is just fabulous no matter how busy they are! They serve all the food and drinks on amazing designed plates and serving plates! This is a must visit place, and worth the travel to the south side for! Only a couple stops further on tram from crown. This place is sure to impress your friends and show what Melbourne is all about! One of my favourites, and also there north Melbourne store which is more classy but everything resembles the same service coffee attitude and everything :-) read more

Great atmosphere, amazing coffee, delicious fresh OJ, great tunes, even a life drawing class on Wednesday nights! This place is more than a cafe. It's an experience. And a good place to sit and do some work. Try the Mexican Cousin Breakfast, available all day. It's so different to the usual plain old eggs and toast. Just try it! You'll love St Ali, and you never know what you're going to find there. Last time I was there, a wedding party was having their photos taken out the front and in the eclectic little alley! A gem in South Melbourne! read more

Everyone knows that the best coffee in the world is in Melbourne. It is one of those rare cities in the world where it is hard to have a bad coffee. Even the McCafe there serves a better than decent Latte. And so how do the cafes there distinguish themselves apart? By making exceptional coffee! And St Ali's is a prime example of that. 5 years ago when we were living in Melbourne, it was one of those cult coffee joints tucked in a nameless alley with no signboard. A person in the know would have to whisper in your ear about this place. You'd go, and that wonderful sweet nectar they brewed would silkily glide down your throat and blow you away. My my, they had taken coffee to a whole new level. You wouldn't tell anyone about this precious place, except perhaps only a few of your closest friends. Well, it seems the whispers have gotten too loud, because when we went this time, the place was packed! Still hardly a signboard, but it seems they have had to buy over the abandoned garages and ware houses beside them just to fit the crowd in. Coffee just as we remembered it, oh so good. Floral hint, no sour aftertaste, just perfect from first sip to the lingering flavor. So if you want good coffee, go to Melbourne. If you want exceptional coffee, head for a little alley and look for the crowd. Because no sign is going to tell you where to find it. read more