When you’re away from the office, business meetings over coffee can be a low-risk way to engage with clients in a more relaxed and informal atmosphere. But it's important to do your homework and ensure you choose the right place. You want to talk without getting drowned out by the coffee machine; the vibe needs to appeal to both you and your client; and the menu must tick the boxes. Fortunately, Melbourne has many venues that offer this, plus great quality espresso. Here are our top 10:
1. St Ali Coffee Roasters
Situated in South Melbourne, St Ali prides itself on taking its coffee 'very seriously' – and rightly so, as their head barista is the proud winner of countless local and global awards. They also offer 'serious' food, specialising in tasty dishes with a pan-Asian influence. This hybrid restaurant-café is perfect for discussing financial matters over a leisurely lunch.
2. Top Paddock
Top Paddock is one of Melbourne’s popular brunch spots and falls into the top echelon of the Melbourne café scene. Situated in Richmond, just outside the central city, it features an eclectic menu that couples sweet and savoury in exotic combinations. The beautifully decorated space has an up-market feel and is a superb place to take your clients if you want to make an impression.
3. The Kettle Black
South Melbourne's,The Kettle Black, is all about attention to detail; from preparation to plating, the menu is created to ensure your experience is a visual delight. The same care is taken with the surrounding décor, including a beautiful outdoor area in front of a charming Victorian terrace. The interior is split into two halves – the first features Victorian décor from gold trimmings to lush flowers, while the second is minimal and sophisticated. The Kettle Black is bound to impress all your clients.
4. The European
The European is situated across from Parliament House and is open from 7.30am till late, which is great if you’re taking clients for drinks. Serving comforting, simple food it evokes the memories of rural France, Italy and Spain, and is renowned for serving one of the ‘finest coffees’ in Melbourne. Consisting of three venues, The European is reminiscent of the wine bars and cafés of old-world Europe. A sophisticated spot to show off Melbourne over an impressive wine list.
5. Little Mule
Situated near the café strip on little Bourke Street, Little Mule is an unpretentious venue ideal for business meetings, especially in the early morning before 9.30am when coffee is just $3. Featuring good coffee, free Wi-Fi and power outlets, Little Mule is geared toward both business people and freelancers. Cosy and welcoming, it offers fresh food, from bagels and salads to an impressive array of sweet and savoury muffins.
6. Oli and Levi
Oli and Levi's Coromandel Pl Cafe is one of three cafes in this groovy coffee chain and is located at the end of Coromandel Place, off Little Collins (don't be put off by the alleyway.) It offers a small, appealing menu with a hint of Asian flare. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, Oli and Levi attracts customers looking to escape for a moment over a top-quality coffee. For a quick business get-together, this is all you need.
7. Grossi Florentino
Grossi Florentino is an icon in the Melbourne restaurant scene and was recently revitalised with a new bar, fresh décor and modern menu. Featuring a wide-range of dishes, from suckling pig to warm Chocolate and sourdough ice cream, it’s a venue to visit for more than coffee. This heritage-listed building has an upstairs restaurant, a grill and a cellar bar. If you’re looking something different to wow a client – which combines history and modern gourmet fair – Grossi Florentino is your destination.
8. Balderdash
Balderdash has a lot more substance than its name suggests. It features a signature blend called the Five Senses – and they're right – it appeals to all the senses. People go for the coffee, but stay for the breakfast. Balderdash is an eclectic blend of grunge and glam, so if hessian sacks and communal timber tables are not appropriate for your meeting, you won't have any trouble finding another venue along Port Melbourne's Bay Street.
9. Urban Projuice
Are some of your clients vegan or vegetarian? Keep Urban Projuice in your back pocket. This café uses locally grown, seasonal ingredients and their meals are as pretty as the venue. We recommend pulling up a chair on the picturesque upstairs balcony or in the quiet courtyard out the back. Only staying for a drink? Try one of their popular raw, vegan and gluten free smoothies. The fresh, cold-pressed juices will also set you up for the day.
10. Koko Black
Situated in the impressive Block Arcade, Koko Black is a great spot to take out-of-town clients. The old-world charm and private atmosphere will help you to create new connections over legendary chocolate. One word of warning – no hot chocolate may ever compare.
At your next client coffee meeting, if your client mentions they’re looking for mortgage advice, why not suggest they contact us? We will take the extra effort and care to ensure they receive the best mortgage refinance options available.