Master of None: A Gem in Malvern’s Coffee Scene

Master of None Espresso stands as a testament to the art of simplicity done exceptionally well. This cosy espresso bar, located at 57B Station Street, has carved out a niche for itself in Melbourne’s vibrant coffee culture by focusing on quality brews and inventive toasties that elevate everyday fare to something special. In a city renowned for its caffeine obsession, Master of None distinguishes itself with an unpretentious approach, emphasising fresh ingredients, attention to detail, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.

The Essence of Master of None

Drawing inspiration from the adage “jack of all trades, master of none,” this cafe playfully inverts the phrase by mastering the essentials: exceptional coffee and straightforward, yet creative, food options. Partnering with Allpress Espresso, known for its premium beans, Master of None ensures every cup is a masterpiece of flavour and balance. The baristas here are passionate about their craft, serving up everything from classic flat whites to more adventurous pours, all in a space that feels like an extension of the neighbourhood.

The cafe’s interior is minimalist yet inviting, with a focus on functionality that mirrors its menu. Patrons often praise the attention to detail, from the carefully selected ingredients to the thoughtful presentation of dishes. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a quick takeaway on a weekday morning or linger over brunch on the weekend, soaking in the laid-back vibe of Malvern.

A Menu That Delights

Master of None’s menu is a celebration of brunch classics with a twist, available from their comprehensive 2025 offerings. Divided into categories like Brunch, Toasties, and Sides, it caters to a variety of tastes while keeping things accessible and affordable.

Brunch Highlights

Toast: Served with butter and preserves on grain, sourdough, or fruit toast (gluten-free option available for +1). Priced at $8, it’s a simple start to the day.
Croissant: With butter, raspberry jam, or Nutella; fresh or toasted (add ham and cheese for +3.5). At $6, it’s a flaky delight.
Banana Bread: Toasted banana, honey, and coconut bread with butter (almond butter +1). $8, gluten-free and dairy-free options.
Boiled Eggs & Toast: With butter on your choice of bread. $12, gluten-free available.
Granola for PM: Baked granola with seasonal fruit, natural yoghurt, and milk of choice. $18.
Bircher Muesli: House-made with berry compote, yoghurt, fresh berries, and granola. $14.
The Dean: House-made porridge with steel-cut oats, flax seeds, cardamom, yoghurt, banana, maple syrup, walnuts, and dried fruit. $16.
Avocado Smash: Avocado, Meredith goats cheese, and pepitas on toasted grain. $18, gluten-free option.
Bowl of Goodness (Green Salad): Rocket, parsley, cherry tomatoes, avocado, Meredith goats cheese, mixed seeds, fried shallots, chilli tuna (or falafel), and honey mustard vinaigrette. $21, gluten-free.
Bowl of Babel (Soba Noodle Salad): Soy-soaked boiled egg, rocket, carrot, edamame, red onion, radish, crispy snow-peas, ginger, cherry tomatoes, dressed with soy, gochujang, tahini, and sesame oil. $21, vegetarian and dairy-free.

Toasties: The Stars of the Show

Toasties are the cafe’s signature, described as elevated toasted sandwiches with various and attractive ingredients. Options include:

Basic Toasties: Cheese and tomato ($11), ham and cheese ($11), or ham, cheese, and tomato ($12). On grain, sourdough, gluten-free, or flatbread (+1.5).
Chicken: Roast chicken, chives, mayonnaise, Bavarian mustard, tasty cheddar, avocado, and rocket on sourdough. $16, gluten-free option.
The Daryl: Ham, tomato, caramelised onion relish, tasty cheddar, and fresh rocket on sourdough. $15.
The Balkan: Ajvar (red bell pepper relish), salami, cherry tomatoes, Meredith goats cheese, tasty cheddar, and rocket on sourdough. $16, gluten-free option.
The Abraham: Roast beef, onion, swiss cheese, and a fresh cabbage, rocket, carrot, and horseradish slaw on sourdough. $17, gluten-free option.
Falafel Piadina: Falafel, spicy kasundi, tomato, avocado, tahini, rocket, and crunchy cabbage on flatbread. $16, gluten-free and vegetarian.
Tuna Melt (Open Toastie): Parsley, lemon zest, capers, mayonnaise, blanched leek, and tasty cheddar grilled on sourdough. $18, gluten-free option.
The MON (Open Toastie): Meredith goats cheese, fresh tomato, basil, and olive oil on toasted grain. $16, gluten-free and vegetarian.
Jimmy Junior: Vegemite and cheese on sourdough (add avocado +5). $10, vegetarian.

On the Side

Extra condiments are available for $1 each, allowing customisation to suit any palate.

The menu emphasises fresh, house-made elements and accommodates dietary needs with gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free options throughout.

Why Visit Master of None?

In a suburb like Malvern, where options abound, Master of None stands out for its commitment to quality without pretension. Reviews highlight the interesting combinations in their toasties and the consistently excellent coffee, making it a favourite for both quick stops and leisurely meals. Whether you’re a local resident or passing through, it’s a spot that embodies Melbourne’s love affair with cafes – approachable, delicious, and community-oriented.

Operating hours are weekdays from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm and weekends from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm, ensuring early birds and weekend brunchers are well catered for.