Drugstore Espresso’s Synesso espresso machine is on overdrive all day as locals and office workers roll in and out of the split-level space.

They're serving up Rosso coffee – the same beans used at sister cafes Union St Brewers in Brunswick and Prospect Espresso in Camberwell. Pull up a stool on the pavement while you wait for your takeaway (there's an irresistibly affectionate dog who loves a tummy scratch), or head upstairs for something more substantial.

On the food front; expect good eggs, healthy breakfasts (don't be deceived by the hip hop on the speakers – we are still in South Yarra) and a decision of 'burgers' or 'not burgers' for lunch. Easy.