The Herbert Café: A Northcote Hideaway with Heart

Tucked beside Northcote Station in a converted garage, The Herbert Café keeps things charming, understated and thoroughly local. It’s a neighbourhood gem that feels just right—unpretentious, thoughtful, and quietly cool.

Design with a Story

The fit-out is as intentional as the coffee. Co-owner and designer Tobias Münch (Umbau Design Studio) hand-built much of the space using recycled timber from a nearby Girl Scouts hall. Planter boxes, a herb garden growing through the centre of the communal table, and warm wooden textures bring life to the minimalist palette.

Modest Kitchen, Mighty Flavour

The menu may be small, but it delivers—wholesome, unfussy food made with local ingredients and lots of care. Expect rotating sandwiches, fresh-baked goods, and dishes like chickpea and avocado smash, chorizo baked beans, and bircher muesli that are big on flavour and kind to the wallet.

Local Beans, Poured Right

Coffee is front and centre here. Padre beans from Brunswick are pulled on a La Marzocco machine, perched atop a chunky granite bench that anchors the space. Filter or espresso, dine-in or take-home—it’s all done well. Part cafe, part community hangout, The Herbert is that rare spot where everything feels intentional—but never overthought.