Higher Ground

Love this place. Re-purposed power station (1891). Pleasant rustic feel. Has an ambience and inviting vibe. Seats inside (6 levels) and out. Discreet corner location. (Lt Bourke & Spencer) It will be busy, but the little wait will be greatly rewarded. Delightful variety of delicious food. We shared the Ricotta Hotcakes. 🥞 Generous servings. Coffee was exquisite. Bring a appetite.

You can tell why it’s one of the more iconic and sought after cafes in Melbourne CBD. We went on a Monday and it still got full shortly after 930 am so I highly suggest to book unless you’re wanting to queue for a while. The entire place is so unique and has an excellent vibe that’s curated through their decor as well as the moody lighting. Food wise, it’s actually great value, better than you’d expect when you step in the place. The ricotta hotcakes are huge and it’s definitely meant to be shared. The hotcake itself was nice but I found the chocolate layer unnecessary as the sweetness from the syrup was already well balanced with the ricotta and hot cake. The udon noodles was creamy and had a nice umami to it that I’d definitely recommend it if you like pasta and Asian flavours. Chilli scramble was ok and nothing too special but like all the dishes, the volume was surprisingly heavy. Coffee was standard Melbourne level which is good but not too standout. Overall it’s a great visit and I’d add it to the list of cafes to visit while in Melbourne!

It’s a busy Sat. brunch time. We had some bakery and coffe while we get a seat. Firstly ordered freah juice it was over price for small size for $10 order flat white with croissant together they said “We can not serve it same time” So I got a flat white first and mushroom croissant later and miss extra avocado so extra wait. but I enjoyed the mushroom croissant with avocado. I should order coffe after croissant. Barramundi was unique style but still over price I feel the size of Barramundi was super small. I went there in 2020 and this is my second time but I think this place getting too famous.

Conveniently located just a few meters from Southern Cross Station. The café is housed in a beautiful, spacious heritage building with high ceilings and a lively atmosphere. We loved the food — pancakes, waffles, pork dishes, and sourdough were all delicious. Good coffee and fast, attentive service even during busy times. It does get very busy, so it’s not ideal for quiet or intimate conversations, but overall highly recommended for great food and a vibrant brunch spot.

Atmosphere is food but for the food you have to wait quite a long time, one of the dishes arrived cold and I felt super sick after having my dessert. Food could be better. Although this was weeks ago but I forgot to do the review posting now so I don’t forget. Would be keen to try after few weeks if the service is better

The ricotta pancake was heaven in your mouth. 10/10 out of this world! Perfectly balanced, all the textures and flavours, and not too sweet. It could honestly feed 4 people though. Coffee had great flavour and smoothness, but could have done with an extra shot as we found our flat white and latte too weak. Pumping atmosphere, great service, overall 4.5/5!

Higher Ground is truly a Melbourne institution. I first visited about a decade ago, and it’s just as amazing as I remember. The atmosphere is vibrant and communal, with large tables, benches, and comfortable shared spaces. The coffee is phenomenal, and the pastry cart out the front is a great touch — perfect for takeaways or for grabbing a coffee while waiting for a table. We waited around 15 minutes, but didn’t mind at all; the place was bustling and the staff were genuinely friendly and helpful. This was easily the best breakfast we had in Melbourne, both for flavour and presentation, and the coffee is second to none. We’ll absolutely be back next time we’re in town.

We were recommended this place to eat by the nice people at Meriton Suites on our first morning in Melbourne. I can't say we were disappointed. In our week long stay we went back 3 times. The avocado pretzel was definitely a family fave. Great atmosphere, beautiful venue, great food and staff. 100% recommended.