172 Oxford Street (corner Stanley Street) Collingwood, Vic 3066.
(03) 9836 9889
Google map link
Coffee Brand 5 Senses + In House Roasts.
This is the first cafe to break the overall median score of 17.
Question: Was the coffee really that good?
Answer: Hell, yes.
There is something inherently right about this place. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere, knowledgeable, approachable and friendly staff, plenty of different coffee options, plus experience, innovation and an owner willing to gently yet strongly educate. Such has been our experience here.
There are at least two blends on the menu that change regularly and several single origins are available, some as espresso and some as filter – (cold drip and syphon).
One key factor that makes this place work well is that Proud Mary hasn’t forgotten to offer choice, service and hospitality. By no means should one believe that this place is perfect, because they do have their off-days (see our second review where the only thing faster than the coffee arriving was the paint drying). However, on that particular occasion they could not have been any busier. Every table was full inside and out and there were people queuing up at the door. To be able to still produce good quality coffee shows the capability of the staff and systems.
So try this place at a less busy time and don’t be afraid to badger the baristas, or even Nolan himself…our experience has been that they are ever willing to share knowledge.
Score Summary.
Macchiato: 18, 15.5, 18.5
Espresso: 17, 17, 17.5
Ristretto: 18, 16.5, 19
Overall Mean Score: 17.46. Highly Recommended.
oh wow, that means I have to re-visit to redeem the overly strong latte they made me the other day. I think what I really need to do is to find out the blend they use on the day and order accordingly. Thanks for the review.
It might be worth asking them to not make it so strong too. As you know we don’t specify strength or ask for our coffee to be modified in any way, so that what we get is hopefully a true reflection of the place.
But that’s where it may cause a problem, if I ask them to tone down the strength, it may come out too weak if at that time they happen to make the perfect latte. So as per your reason, I always ordered my latte “normal” to gauge what I can expect from the cafe (for my subsequent visits if I like their coffee).
Fair call. I withdraw that statement. In fact the Cafe Latte here is pretty bang on for me, even if it edges to the strong side.
You should try the latte @ Caboose (City Square), that’s even stronger than Proud Mary’s!
Sounds like something for the meanest of hangovers….