Melbourne: Barista Experience at Degraves Espresso

If you’re a coffee lover visiting Melbourne, chances are you’ve already heard of Degraves Espresso – a bustling, iconic cafe nestled in one of the city’s most lively laneways. Now, imagine taking your coffee obsession a step further by actually becoming a barista for an hour. That’s what this Barista Experience promises: a behind-the-scenes look at how some of Melbourne’s best coffee is made, along with a taste of the city’s vibrant coffee culture.

We haven’t personally done this experience, but from what we’ve gathered, it’s a genuinely engaging way to learn about coffee craftsmanship. Two things that really stand out: the opportunity to handle the machine and make your own coffee and the chance to hear stories about the laneway’s history and the cafe’s founder. Plus, you’ll walk away with a goodie bag of their signature blend, perfect for recreating a bit of Melbourne coffee magic at home.

That said, it’s worth noting this experience is quite focused: it’s a one-hour session, so if you’re expecting a deep dive into coffee science, you might find it a bit lighter. It’s best suited for those who want a hands-on, fun activity rather than an in-depth barista training. Overall, if you’re into coffee and enjoy local neighbourhood vibes, this tour probably checks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Short, engaging experience perfect for a quick coffee fix and learn.
• Hands-on activity handling the machine and creating latte art.
• Learn about Degraves’ history and the founder’s passion behind the cafe.
• Take home a 250g bag of their signature blend to savor later.
• Expert guidance makes it accessible for beginners.
• Not suitable for children under 15 or those with specific mobility or allergy considerations, so check the restrictions if traveling with minors or special needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An honest look at the Degraves Espresso Barista Experience

If you’re wandering Melbourne’s famous laneways, stopping at Degraves Espresso is a must. It’s a vibrant spot that embodies the city’s love affair with coffee. What makes this experience stand out is the chance to step behind the counter, a rare treat in a city that’s so passionate about its caffeine.

The actual tour takes place in a converted bank teller space within the cafe, which feels cozy and intimate rather than overly commercial. During the hour, you’ll be guided by an instructor in English, who takes you through the essential skills of grind, machine handling, and pouring. What we particularly like is that the session isn’t just about watching – you’ll get to try different coffees, handle the machine, and practice making your own. This is a real plus if you’re curious about the craft or just want a fun, interactive activity.

What’s on the agenda?

The experience begins with a quick overview of the history of the laneway and the story of the founder behind Degraves Espresso. This background adds a layer of authenticity that many coffee tours lack. It makes the experience feel rooted in local culture rather than just a cookie-cutter class.

Then, the focus shifts to learning the techniques. You’ll get guidance on different coffee styles and how to master latte art, which many visitors find surprisingly doable with expert tips. The perfect pour is emphasized, and you’ll have the chance to try out the milk varieties, seeing how each impacts the final cup. The instructor’s expertise is evident; reviews mention how knowledgeable guides help make the session both educational and enjoyable.

What’s included and what’s not?

You’ll handle the coffee machine, which is a significant highlight. Handling that shiny espresso machine can be intimidating at first, but with step-by-step instructions, it becomes surprisingly manageable. The session also includes tasting different coffees — a nice touch for discerning palates.

At the end, you receive a 250g bag of their signature blend, an excellent keepsake and a way to extend the experience at home. Not many short activities offer such a tangible takeaway, making it feel like a good value for the price.

Who is this best suited for?

This experience is ideal if you’re a coffee enthusiast wanting a taste of Melbourne’s cafe scene from a barista’s perspective. It’s also perfect for first-timers or casual coffee drinkers curious to see if they can recreate their favorite brew. However, it’s not designed for those seeking a comprehensive barista training or a deep dive into coffee science. It’s a fun, beginner-friendly session with a genuine local touch.

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Practical details and considerations

The location couldn’t be more convenient: it’s right in the heart of Melbourne’s laneway district, between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane. Look for the green neon sign that marks the spot.

The duration is just one hour, which makes it easy to slot into a busy sightseeing day. It’s a private group experience, so you won’t have to share your instructor with strangers, and it’s flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

While the experience is largely accessible, note that children under 15, wheelchair users, and those with specific health considerations are not suitable. The tour rules are strict about no pets, no alcohol, and no large bags, which keeps the environment safe and clean.

Pricing-wise, it’s a small investment for a personalized, memorable activity in Melbourne. Considering you learn skills that you can potentially use beyond the tour (like making better coffee at home), it’s a practical choice for coffee lovers.

Authentic insights from reviews

One traveler from Austria praised it, saying, “It was a pleasure to take part in the barista course. You can tell that the staff and the family who run the café enjoy what they do and put their heart into it. I learned a lot during the course and expanded my knowledge of coffee. I would recommend it to any coffee lover!” This highlights how genuine and passionate the guides are, making the experience more meaningful.

Another review emphasizes the knowledge of the staff, calling out their expertise as a major plus. This is reassuring because a passionate guide can really elevate what might otherwise be a simple class into a memorable experience.

Final thoughts

All in all, the Melbourne Barista Experience at Degraves Espresso offers a friendly, hands-on peek into the city’s beloved coffee culture. It’s a great way to connect with the local vibe, learn some practical skills, and take home a taste of Melbourne’s famed coffee scene. Whether you’re a casual drinker or an aspiring barista, this activity provides an enjoyable, brief escape into the art of coffee making.

If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even with a small group, you’ll find that this experience is well-paced, personable, and genuinely insightful. It’s especially valuable if you enjoy stories about local spots and want to understand what makes Melbourne’s coffee scene so special.

Who should consider this experience?

This tour is best for coffee enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone looking for a fun, interactive activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing. It’s friendly for beginners and offers a taste of Melbourne’s rich coffee culture without requiring a big time commitment. If you’re after a memorable, locally rooted experience that combines learning with fun, this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 15 years old, mainly because of the equipment and adult-focused content.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Is the experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour rules specify that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with certain mobility challenges, so it’s best to check if you have specific needs.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes are fine; just avoid high-heeled shoes and large bags, as these aren’t permitted inside.

Will I be making a full espresso shot?
Yes, you will handle the machine and create your own coffee, including mastering the pour and latte art.

What do I get at the end of the session?
You’ll take home a 250g bag of Degraves Espresso’s signature blend, which is a nice souvenir and a way to keep the experience going.

Can I book for a group or just solo?
The experience is a private group, so whether you’re alone or with friends, it’s a dedicated session.

Is prior coffee knowledge needed?
No, it’s designed to be beginner-friendly and guided in a way that anyone can follow along.

How long does the experience take?
Just one hour, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

If you’re craving a fun, authentic glimpse into Melbourne’s coffee scene with some practical skills thrown in, this experience at Degraves Espresso is worth considering. It’s a friendly, well-organized activity that combines culture, craftsmanship, and a good dose of local flavor—an ideal way to add depth to your Melbourne trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: