Eau de Vie, Melbourne

Melbourne takes its coffee more seriously than perhaps any other city on earth. So when a cocktail bar in this town claims to make a great espresso martini, they'd better deliver. Eau de Vie doesn't just deliver — they exceed every expectation.

The Drink

Hidden behind an unmarked door on Malthouse Lane, Eau de Vie approaches their espresso martini with the precision of a specialty coffee roaster. They source single-origin beans from a local roaster and pull their espresso on a La Marzocca — the same machine you'd find in Melbourne's best cafes.

The texture is extraordinary. Silky, almost creamy, with a foam that's dense and persistent. The coffee flavour is bright and complex — you can taste notes of dark chocolate and dried cherry. The sweetness is dialled back compared to most versions, which lets the coffee character really shine.

The Atmosphere

The speakeasy vibe is strong here. Dark wood, leather banquettes, and bartenders who clearly love what they do. The menu is extensive, but regulars know that the espresso martini is the real star.

The Verdict

This is Melbourne in a glass — unpretentious excellence. The quality of the coffee comes through in every sip, and the balance between bitter, sweet, and boozy is spot-on. A must-visit for any espresso martini enthusiast.

Price: AUD $24 | Serving Style: Nick and Nora glass | Coffee Bean Garnish: Single bean, centred