7 independent Melbourne coffee shops with WiFi

So, I set myself a mission. Ever the optimist, I was convinced that I could make my coffee shop hopping dream a reality. And off I went, me and my laptop travelling Melbourne’s busy streets to find a new virtual office for the day. Happily, I found that there are some incredible speciality coffee spots perfect for freelancers if you just look carefully. These are some of my favourites.

Oh, and one quick note. If you’re going to be setting yourself up in a coffee shop to use their WiFi, please be sure to buy their products. It’s always a struggle for small businesses to survive and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to hog their valuable space without supporting them either.

1. Code Black Coffee

Code Black Coffee was one of the first coffee spots I visited after moving to Melbourne and wow did it set the bar high. Located in an industrial-cool warehouse in Brunswick, North Melbourne this is one of those spots that is worth travelling for.

From the moment you enter through their sliding doors, Code Black just oozes quality coffee and Melbourne cool. With their own roastery in-house, it’s safe to say the coffee is more than good. It’s perfect.

If you can, go hungry and try their brunch. You won’t regret it.

2. Fitzrovia

If Code Black brings the Aussie cool, Fitzrovia delivers the European charm. You’ll find this cute cafe in the heart of boho St Kilda, where the city’s former red light district is merging with a new wave of gentrification. Full disclosure, the Wi-Fi can be a little sketchy at times but, with a fully stocked bar and some of the best lunches in town, you’ll hardly notice.

After working in some of the best restaurants in London, Fitzrovia’s founders moved to Melbourne in 2009 and have been well known throughout its foodie scene ever since. For those dairy-free folks amongst you, Fitzrovia offer an interesting alternative in the form of macadamia milk. I must admit, I’m a fan.

3. Hannah

You’re guaranteed to receive a warm welcome at Hannah. On a hot day the staff will open up the floor to ceiling windows, creating that perfect inside-outside feel that is so uniquely Australian. With an extensive brunch-style food menu, Proud Mary coffee behind the counter and a unique approach to afternoon tapas, this is one of my favourite coffee spots in Melbourne.

Light-filled Hannah is the perfect spot to while away a hot Melbourne afternoon with a strong coffee and some cool air-conditioning.

Surprisingly, Hannah has rekindled my love for cappuccinos – they’ve fast become my go to on a cold autumnal Melbourne day. The Wi-Fi is pretty reliable and you’ll often see other freelancers or small businesses owners in their with laptops so there’s a nice community feel.

4. Mr Tulk

Looking for a Wi-Fi friendly coffee shop in central Melbourne? Mr Tulk’s your guy. A short walk up from the famous Bourke Street Mall, Mr Tulk is the perfect addition to your CBD itinerary.

With the State Library next door, the Wi-Fi is pretty fast and readily available, plus there’s an extensive menu of snacks and light bites to keep you fuelled during your work session. It can feel a bit studenty at times (Melbourne’s RMIT university is located just across the road) but the staff are lovely and, most importantly, the coffee is excellent.

5. State Library of Victoria

You might be wondering what a library is doing on a coffee shop list but bear with me. Melbourne coffee shops can have pretty short opening times, with many closing as early as 3pm, so this can leave you a bit stuck when it comes to that 4pm slump. Happily, I’ve found that the stunning State Library is open as late as 9pm, with their in-house coffee shop open for much of that.

The coffee isn’t half bad, and I’m willing to grin and bear it if it means I get to call this historical piece of architecture my office for the day. Allow yourself some time to wander through the upper levels of the Dome, where there’s always a revolving local exhibition to explore.

6. Lucy Lockett

Back up in North Melbourne you’ll find Lucy Lockett, a cutesy coffee spot located in East Brunswick that brings lovely hippy vibes. Nestled down an unassuming side street, Lucy Lockett feels inherently local in a very good way. 

With a veggie focused menu and extensive caffeine options, Lucy Lockett brings that fresh boost to your day! I’m particularly a fan of their iced coffee options for those hot and sticky Melbourne summer days.

7. Three Bags Full

Think cosy bare bricks, top notch baristas and, arguably, some of Melbourne’s best daytime food, and you’ve got Three Bags Full nailed. This Abbotsford eatery is filled with warmth thanks to its artsy home in a Melbournian warehouse. Always busting, Three Bags Full is a safe choice when it comes to finding a spot to get your work done.

Incredible coffee, a cool cosy vibe and great food. It’s no wonder Three Bags Full is my favourite coffee shop in Melbourne.

If you’re in need of some fresh air there’s a range of outdoor seating, so you can have a side of people watching with your flat white. Or, if you’re in need of some creative simulation, its art gallery is made to inspire.

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