Stepping into the courtyard of Allpress Espresso Roastery and Cafe in Collingwood is akin to entering an industrial version of The Secret Garden. The walled area plays host to the roasting company run by Michael Allpress that has gradually grown from humble origins - a coffee cart pushed around the streets of Auckland - into a worldwide venture that includes footholds in Sydney, London, and now Melbourne.

The cafe is minimalist without appearing overly sparse. The menu emphasises local produce and sharing options. Breakfast plates, bedecked in hearty ingredients like provolone, ripe tomatoes and San Danielle prosciutto, are a wholly satisfying way to begin a day; while a selection of sandwiches, affettati misti (sliced cold meats), and simple lunch dishes continue the theme into the afternoon. Printing new menus everyday ensures that the food on offer is consistently fresh, flavourful and appropriate to the season.

There is also a naturally lit, open plan space above the roastery that has been branded Allpress Studio, and is available for neighbourhood arts, exhibitions and events.