Melbourne in Lichfield — Restaurant in Lichfield

I always ensure I make time for a trip to Melbourne when I come to Lichfield because it has my favourite coffee, friendly staff and free treats for my dog. It’s always a great vibe! I used to live in Sydney & its closest i’ve got to replicating the coffee & vibe!

Unfortunately though not today…I visited because I came from Kidderminster to see my Mom so I saved my one coffee allowance (I’m pregnant) so I could get it from Melbourne.

I stood in the queue at around 13:53 waiting with one person ahead of me, when a man came out and told the queue that he had put a sign out which said (on the side opposite to where I was stood) the shop was closing. Neither me or who I was with noticed this sign. Assuming he was talking to those behind the sign I continued to stand there when he repeated that i couldn’t get coffee because he has to shut the machine down, i said, ‘when was the sign put out? (It was 13:57) He said, ‘13:50, but if you insist I’ll do you a coffee’ to which the person I was with said, ‘yes please’. Meanwhile the lady in the queue behind me, was told by the same man to go inside so she could be served her coffee because ‘they know her’…

I let the girl who served me know how grateful I was and was friendly and upbeat while ordering and I was met with an unenthusiastic, emotionless (very un-Melbourne!) person who clearly resented I was ordering 3 coffees at 13:58. When they were served I shouted into the shop to the original guy, who had his back to the hatch, ‘thanks guys I really appreciate it, have a great Sunday!’ No one responded or acknowledge me.

I completely understand wanting to finish work on time, especially on a Sunday. I’ve worked in retail for many years myself so I sympathise, but I would never let a paying customer or anyone for that matter feel uncomfortable for wanting or paying for a service I am providing them. I was so disappointed when I left. I know this isn’t the true sprit of Melbourne that’s why I decided to speak up because you’re a great business but if it was my first time visiting, I definitely wouldn’t be coming again.

I’ve given 5 stars because I’ve been many times over the years and it’s always been 100% positive experience with the...

What a breath of fresh air... Independent coffee shops are so few and far between these days. There's nothing special about generic coffees that you can get on every street corner so The Melbourne is the unicorn you're looking for.

The funky decor is worth popping in to see alone, not to mention the opportunity to buy the artwork.

Obviously, the main reason for visiting is to have a coffee - Deb sources the best coffee to create delicious cuppas. However, if you fancy something a bit different try the turmeric latte; it doesn't have any coffee in it, but don't let that put you off. I had mine made with almond milk (it's just my preference) which gave a delicate balance between sweetness and a slight spice kick.

There is a decent range of food on offer including vegan sweet treats, cruffins (it's a cross between a croissant and a muffin!), bagels and toasties.

This place is also dog friendly which is a big pull for...

Melbourne in Lichfield gets 5 stars purely for being a coffee shop open at 9:00am on a Sunday! Scratch the surface and you’ll find that the 5 stars are backed up by being awesome across all cool cafe criteria. Inside it is candy for the eyes. The espresso machine, the centre piece of every artisan cafe, looks amazing. The pop art work dotted around each room takes care of the trendy element. The boxes of toys compliments the families. Best of all is the modern fire place that will suitably provide warmth to the many occupants it endows. Pop in and say hello at least, the staff are warm, salt of the...