Cafe
Auction Rooms Cafe | Coffee North Melbourne
Auction Rooms Cafe | Coffee North MelbourneSome booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
Auction Rooms Cafe is a beloved North Melbourne institution, housed in a converted 1920s auction house that retains its original high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and timber beams. The spacious interior feels airy and vibrant, with a long communal table at the center and quieter nooks along the sides. The menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, offering creative brunch dishes like house-made granola, poached eggs with smoked trout, and their famous ricotta hotcakes. Coffee is a serious affair here: they roast their own beans and serve a rotating selection of single-origin pour-overs, espressos, and cold brews. The outdoor courtyard is a sun trap on fine days, popular with laptop workers and friends catching up. Service is efficient and friendly, even during the weekend rush. The café's name and décor nod to its past as a livestock auction venue, adding a layer of local history to your visit. It's a short walk from the Queen Victoria Market, making it a perfect refuel stop after shopping.
Don't miss
- House-roasted single-origin coffee from their own roastery
- Ricotta hotcakes with seasonal fruit and honeycomb butter
- The original auction house signage and exposed brick walls
- Sunny courtyard seating for al fresco brunch
- Rotating art exhibitions on the walls from local artists
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Auction Rooms Cafe | Coffee North Melbourne
You don't need a tour to visit, entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Auction Rooms Cafe | Coffee North Melbourne with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
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- Weekend brunch queues can be 20–30 minutes; arrive before 9am to avoid the rush.
- They sell their own coffee beans to take home, ask at the counter.
- Free Wi-Fi is available, but power outlets are limited.
- Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the courtyard.
A bit of history
The building was originally an auction house for livestock and produce in the early 20th century. After decades of disuse, it was transformed into a café in 2010, preserving its industrial character and high ceilings.
Common questions
Do they have gluten-free or vegan options?
Yes, the menu includes several gluten-free and vegan dishes, and staff can accommodate dietary requests.
Is there parking nearby?
Limited street parking is available on Errol Street and surrounding streets; paid parking lots are a short walk away.
Can I book a table?
No reservations are taken, it's first-come, first-served. Groups may need to wait for a large table.
Do they serve lunch?
Yes, they serve an all-day brunch menu with lunch items like sandwiches, salads, and bowls from 11am.
Is the café kid-friendly?
Yes, children are welcome, and there are high chairs available. The courtyard is a good spot for families.
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