The hospitality icon is expanding well beyond your daily cuppa and breakfast with its new European-style coffee and cocktail bar in Queen Victoria Market. You’re invited to try out the menu and drinks list before the public. 

 

St Ali has long staked its claim as one of Melbourne’s best specialty coffee roasters, with a beloved South Melbourne cafe, retail range and whisky and gin collaborations. Now, it’s opening its first all-day venue called The Queen, serving coffee and pastries by morning, and cocktails and small plates by afternoon and night.

 

Orlando Marzo (2018 and 2022 World Class Bartender of the Year) has curated the cocktail list, which features his signature bottled Loro cocktails as well as all-new creations, including a Gimlet made with Nicaraguan cascara (the dried skins of coffee cherries), redcurrants and gin.

 

The menu will change weekly depending on what’s in season, as all produce comes from Queen Victoria Market. There will also be a takeaway counter of fresh sandwiches and treats, as well as a specialty grocery store filled with pantry essentials, coffee, wine and cocktails. 

 

On April 20, St Ali and The Queen will open exclusively to Access members and Broadsheet editors for an Editors’ Preview night – the day before it opens to the public.

 

You’ll be the first to try the food and drinks offering, with a cocktail on arrival followed by a three-course, aperitivo-style tasting menu of small market-led dishes paired with cocktails. Further drinks can be purchased for consumption.

 

On the night, you’ll hear from Marzo himself (and St Ali CEO Lachlan Ward) in conversation with Broadsheet xxx. Plus, you’ll enjoy 15 per cent off the entire range at the grocery store.

 

There are very limited spots available, so don’t miss out. Secure yours via the link below.