ST. ALi represents the cornerstone of coffee culture in Melbourne. With the main roastery and restaurant situated in South Melbourne, the iconic Melbourne brand has taken up residence in the CBD, in the new retail section of the Queen Victoria Markets.
Located in Therry Street, you can grab a coffee, pastries and fresh focaccias all day, while at night time, the building lights up and the cocktails come out for some local eats and cocktails nestled behind the beautiful cherry wood bar front.
For years ST. ALi has been the pinnacle of Melbourne’s high standards of coffee. Expanding this offering out to incorporate their incredible coffee into cocktails and paired with some unique food offerings. They offer their standard barista breakfast, which is a personal favourite to get the weekend started. A shot of espresso, cup of filter and a latte with an explanation of the beans from the friendly barista showcases just why ST. ALi are the best at what they do.
If you are looking for food, there is an array of pastries, including a croissant filled with pureed kale, spinach and fetta cheese that you will absolutely die for. There is also a selection of focaccias with various fillings that will give you a more substantial meal. There are more options with the cafe offering a city larder with a variety of different local produce, including deli meats, cheeses, pate, a range of take-home cocktails and even 2 litres of milk.
After 5 pm the cafe transforms into a cocktail bar with the detailed architecture being lit up by candlelight. The high windows that curve into an arch are magnificent, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu expands offering a variety of beer, wine and spirits with the signature cocktails offering a complex and refreshing take on the traditional coffee-based cocktail. They can be served straight up or with some vanilla-infused cream if you really want to treat yourself.
The food offerings at night go hand in hand with the cocktails. The standouts are prawn cocktail which is a fresh new take on the classic dish boasting a king prawn with a vodka-infused Mary rose sauce swirling with prawns, caviar and fresh salad leaves from the markets across the road. The beef tartare tacos are fresh and filling with a generous portion that pairs well with a deep burgundy red wine. The must-try is the bone marrow toast served with sardines and freshly toasted sourdough is an absolute winter warmer and pairs well with the signature coffee cocktail.
ST. ALi & The Queen is a welcome addition to the Munro area recently opened inside the Queen Victoria Markets. Their signature coffee is available all day while adding in some beautiful cocktails and light bites, it is the perfect place to get your day or night started. The beautiful architecture of the windows and bar make this a completely unique and inviting space. After spending some time there in the morning for breakfast and for cocktail hour, it really does offer the best of both and I can’t wait to make this a regular on my cocktail drink visits.
ST. ALi & The Queen is open 7 days a week from 7am till 10pm and is located at 141 Therry Street Melbourne.
