Cafe Reviews/Melbourne/Brother Baba Budan

Brother Baba Budan

359 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Reviewed by Chris JordanMay 2025

Location

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Overall Score Score: 8.4 out of 10
8.4
Overall Score
Coffee Score: 9.1 out of 10
9.1
Coffee
Atmosphere Score: 8.5 out of 10
8.5
Atmosphere
Service Score: 8 out of 10
8.0
Service
Food Score: 8.5 out of 10
8.5
Food
Vibe Score9.0 / 10

The Story

Brother Baba Budan was founded as a flagship outpost of Seven Seeds, aiming to bring specialty coffee culture to the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. Since opening in 2007, it has become an icon for coffee enthusiasts and a benchmark for quality and consistency. The cafe’s mission is to make world-class coffee accessible to everyone, blending a welcoming attitude with a high standard of craft. It continues to inspire a new generation of coffee drinkers and baristas, while drawing loyal fans from around the globe.

Craft & Expertise

Renowned for its rigorous approach to coffee, Brother Baba Budan showcases expertly roasted Seven Seeds beans prepared by highly skilled baristas. Espresso reigns supreme here, with each shot meticulously dialed in for balance and clarity, while pour-overs and batch brews are offered for those seeking filter options. The baristas engage customers with genuine enthusiasm and deep knowledge, ensuring each cup is tailored to your preference. Food offerings are concise but thoughtfully curated, including pastries and simple sandwiches, served on minimal yet comfortable communal tables. Drinkware is classic and sturdy, matching the cafe’s no-nonsense, quality-first ethos.

What Sets This Cafe Apart

What truly sets Brother Baba Budan apart is its blend of playful design and serious coffee expertise. The cascade of suspended chairs overhead transforms a compact space into a memorable visual experience, while the steady hum of conversation adds to its distinctive character. Its relentless commitment to quality, backed by the Seven Seeds legacy, ensures every visit feels like a masterclass in modern coffee. Few cafes balance personality, consistency, and reputation with such effortless charm.