ST. ALi Coffee Roasters - South Melbourne, Melbourne

St. Ali Coffee Roasters in South Melbourne is a pioneering force in Melbourne’s coffee scene, tracing its roots back to 2005 when Mark Dundon opened the cafe and began roasting coffee. Salvatore Malatesta took over in 2008 and has since expanded the St. Ali brand, positioning it as the flagship of his cafe empire, which includes Sensory Lab, Auction Rooms, and Clement. St. Ali’s team of passionate coffee enthusiasts has created an atmosphere driven by their excitement for the product.

Considered the archetype for Melbourne’s third-wave coffee movement, St. Ali not only roasts high-quality coffee beans but also introduced an industrial-style cafe concept with exceptional brunch offerings. Its design has influenced numerous other cafes, with its concrete floors, exposed lighting, and communal seating becoming iconic. The cafe’s bustling atmosphere, with a dedicated team ensuring smooth operations, reflects its two-decade-long commitment to excellence.

St. Ali offers an extensive coffee menu, featuring signature blends, daily filters, and cold drips, sourced from Colombia and Honduras. The brunch menu includes favorites like chili scrambled eggs and the iconic ‘My Mexican Cousin’ corn fritters. Specials change daily, and the cake display boasts delectable treats like gluten-free brownies. Despite stiff competition in Melbourne’s cafe scene, St. Ali’s dedication to quality coffee and consistently delicious food has solidified its status as a beloved institution in the city.