Market Lane Coffee: A Melbourne Icon in Specialty Coffee
Introduction: What Makes Market Lane Coffee Special?
When it comes to specialty coffee in Melbourne, Market Lane Coffee stands out as a pioneer of quality, sustainability, and community-driven values. Since its inception in 2009, Market Lane has been on a mission to source, roast, and share exceptional coffee while respecting the people and processes behind every cup. With a strong focus on traceable, seasonal coffee, they've become a staple for Melbourne coffee lovers and home baristas alike.
In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Market Lane Coffee truly special, from their origins to their standout offerings.
The Story Behind Market Lane Coffee
Founded with Purpose
Market Lane Coffee was founded in 2009 by Fleur Studd and Jason Scheltus, who saw a gap in Melbourne’s coffee culture. At the time, finding fresh, traceable, high-quality coffee was rare. They wanted to redefine what coffee could be and spark appreciation for ethically sourced specialty coffee.
A Home at Prahran Market
Their journey began at Prahran Market, where they opened their first roastery and cafe. This bustling location was ideal—surrounded by shoppers who value seasonal, high-quality produce. Market Lane’s focus on transparency and storytelling resonated with the market’s community.
Core Values: Quality, Sustainability, and Transparency
Market Lane is driven by three core principles:
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Quality: Sourcing the best coffee beans and preserving their integrity through expert roasting.
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Sustainability: Building lasting relationships with coffee producers and promoting environmentally conscious practices.
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Transparency: Sharing the journey behind each coffee—from farm to cup.
These values not only inform their approach to coffee but also how they engage with customers and partners.
The Roasting Process: Crafting Excellence
Market Lane’s roasting team works from their Brunswick East headquarters, where they roast on a 45kg Probat. Every batch is treated with care, highlighting the unique characteristics of each coffee while maintaining consistency and balance.
Their goal? To make beautiful coffee accessible, exciting, and easy to enjoy.
Featured Coffees in This Month’s Subscription Box
Seasonal Blend: A Balanced and Creamy Espresso
Flavour Notes: Creamy texture with orange, date, and hazelnut finish
Origins: Antigua, Guatemala (Santa Clara Estate) & Sidama, Ethiopia (Ayla Bombe)
Process: Washed
This Seasonal Blend is a vibrant espresso offering with a creamy mouthfeel and layers of citrus, date, and hazelnut. Perfect for milk-based drinks or enjoyed black, it’s designed to deliver balance and sweetness with every sip.
Marimbus Espresso: Smooth and Chocolatey
Flavour Notes: Creamy milk chocolate finish
Origin: Fazenda Progresso, Brazil
Process: Washed
Sourced from the Borré family’s Fazenda Progresso, this Marimbus Espresso is crafted for those who love a balanced, chocolatey coffee. Its smooth finish and versatility make it a standout for both black espresso and milk-based beverages.
Las Piñas: A Juicy and Sweet Filter Coffee
Flavour Notes: Juicy stone fruit acidity, medjool date, and honey
Origin: Ibagué, Tolima, Colombia
Process: Washed
Las Piñas is an exceptional single-origin filter coffee with vibrant stone fruit notes, a medjool date sweetness, and a honey-like richness. Sourced from Reinaldo Parra’s farm in Colombia, it’s ideal for pour-over and French press enthusiasts.
Why Market Lane Coffee Stands Out in Melbourne
Melbourne’s coffee scene is bustling with roasters and cafes, but Market Lane has carved out a unique space. Here’s why they’re a favourite:
Commitment to Freshness
Market Lane only sources fresh crop coffee, ensuring that every batch tastes as vibrant and flavourful as possible. They work seasonally, meaning their offerings are always in sync with harvest times.
Direct Relationships with Farmers
Market Lane prioritises building direct, long-term relationships with coffee producers. For instance, they’ve worked with Guatemala’s Ricardo Zelaya since 2008 and continue to support producers like Reinaldo Parra in Colombia.
Beautiful Simplicity
From their minimalist packaging to their approachable cafes, Market Lane focuses on what truly matters: great coffee. There are no frills—just exceptional beans and warm service.
A Café Experience Like No Other
Market Lane now operates nine cafes across Melbourne, from Carlton to the Queen Victoria Market. Each location reflects the unique character of its neighbourhood while staying true to Market Lane’s ethos. Whether you’re grabbing a takeaway espresso or settling in for a pour-over, the experience is designed to be welcoming, simple, and unforgettable.
Brewing Market Lane Coffee at Home
Want to enjoy Market Lane Coffee from the comfort of your home? Here are some tips for brewing:
For Espresso Lovers
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Use 22g of coffee for a double shot.
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Aim for an extraction time of 28-30 seconds.
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Pair their Seasonal Blend or Marimbus Espresso with milk for a creamy flat white or latte.
For Filter Enthusiasts
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Use freshly ground coffee.
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Brew using a pour-over method (e.g., V60) or French press.
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Try Las Piñas for its juicy acidity and sweet, honeyed finish.
Sustainability: Coffee That’s Good for Everyone
Market Lane’s dedication to sustainability goes beyond words. From paying fair prices to supporting environmental initiatives, they ensure that their coffee benefits both farmers and the planet. Their approach reflects a belief that good coffee should be good for everyone involved.
The Future of Market Lane Coffee
After over a decade of success, Market Lane shows no signs of slowing down. They remain committed to quality, community, and pushing boundaries in Melbourne’s coffee scene. As they continue to grow, their focus on transparency and sustainability remains at the heart of their mission.
Conclusion: Experience Market Lane Coffee
Market Lane Coffee isn’t just about coffee—it’s about connection, quality, and celebrating the incredible work of coffee producers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a casual coffee drinker, Market Lane offers something for everyone. Visit one of their cafes, grab a bag of their exceptional beans, and savour the experience that Market Lane has to offer.
FAQs About Market Lane Coffee
1. Where can I buy Market Lane Coffee?
You can purchase their coffee in-store at one of their nine Melbourne cafes or online via their website.
2. What is Market Lane’s Seasonal Blend best for?
The Seasonal Blend is versatile and perfect for both black coffee and milk-based espresso drinks.
3. Does Market Lane Coffee offer subscriptions?
Yes, they offer coffee subscriptions, delivering freshly roasted beans straight to your door.
4. Are Market Lane Coffee beans ethically sourced?
Absolutely. Market Lane prioritises direct, long-term relationships with farmers and pays fair prices for their coffee.
5. What brewing method is best for Las Piñas?
Las Piñas shines as a filter coffee—try it with a pour-over or French press to appreciate its juicy acidity and honey sweetness.