arrow cafe Melbourne

Welcome to Arrow Café, your local oasis in the heart of Carlton. Located at 488 Swanston Street, we’re proud to serve up Melbourne’s signature café experience—warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the city’s rich coffee culture.

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About

Whether you’re a student on the go, a city professional seeking a quiet corner, or a traveler exploring nearby Queen Victoria Market or the University of Melbourne, Arrow Café offers a calm, comfortable escape with food and drinks that hit the spot.

Melbourne is world-famous for its café scene, and much of that legacy began right here in Carlton. The suburb has long been a cultural melting pot—home to Italian migrants who introduced espresso to Australia, and later, a new wave of global influences that shaped how the city drinks and dines. This neighbourhood helped define what a Melbourne café is: creative, consistent, and community-minded. Arrow Café proudly continues that tradition.

Featured Menu

$ 4

Espresso

Bold, smooth, and rich— delivering pure espresso satisfaction.

$ 5

Flat White

Velvety texture, smooth espresso, expertly steamed milk—Melbourne’s favourite flat white.

$ 5

Cafe Latte

Creamy, balanced, and smooth with a gentle espresso kick.

$ 5

Cappuccino

Foamy, rich, and bold with a dusting of chocolate magic.

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We serve everything you’d expect from a great local café, and then some. Our coffee—whether it’s a silky flat white, a strong long black, or a refreshing iced latte—is crafted with care, using locally roasted beans that reflect Melbourne’s high standards. Tea lovers aren’t left out either, with a selection of classic and herbal brews. Pair your drink with one of our freshly baked pastries, or settle in for something more filling—all-day breakfast favourites, seasonal salads, gourmet sandwiches, or juicy burgers made to order.

The vibe at Arrow Café is unpretentious and cosy. Our interiors are designed for comfort, with seating options for solo diners, group catch-ups, or quiet study sessions. There’s plenty of natural light, friendly service, and the kind of atmosphere that invites you to stay just a little longer. It’s a place where regulars feel at home, and newcomers are always welcome.

Surrounded by Carlton’s leafy streets, historic architecture, and student buzz, Arrow Café is more than a pit stop—it’s a part of daily life. We’re inspired by the diversity and pace of Melbourne, and we put that energy into every dish and drink we serve.