Overview
279 is the kind of place that’s easy to miss—but unforgettable once found. Nestled on Victoria Street in West Melbourne, this minimalist Japanese café and listening bar offers a quiet, beautifully crafted experience that speaks to detail, balance, and calm. It’s the flagship of the team behind Uminono and Ichigo, and like those venues, 279 brings a deeply thoughtful approach to food, design, and service.
The café’s menu is focused and elegant. Signature Japanese sandos—like pork katsu, egg salad, or prawn cutlet—are served on impossibly soft milk bread, sliced with precision and packed with flavour. Morning sets include traditional options like grilled salmon or tamagoyaki with miso soup, rice, and pickles. The food is quietly satisfying—light, clean, and made with intention.
Coffee is central to the experience. 279 is known for its hand-poured filter brews and meticulous espresso, using beans from roasters like Market Lane or guest micro-lots. Matcha, hojicha lattes, and Japanese teas offer comforting alternatives. Vinyl plays softly in the background, completing the slow-living atmosphere that makes 279 as much a mindset as a café.
The interior is raw and spare—concrete, timber, soft natural light. Every detail, from ceramics to cutlery, is curated with a minimalist sensibility. It’s a small space, but one that leaves a lasting impression, ideal for quiet reflection, solo visits, or meeting over beautiful food without noise or fuss.
Last update July 2025
