Kaefei - Melbourne

This is such a frustrating review to write as the coffee is decent, as is the fruit toast and it's next door to my work so it's so convenient - sadly everything... read more This is such a frustrating review to write as the coffee is decent, as is the fruit toast and it's next door to my work so it's so convenient - sadly everything else is pretty woeful, almost resembling an episode from Fawlty Tours. Reviews on other sites are in contrast to the positive posts here. To put my review into context, I have visited pretty much every morning for the last five weeks for a jumbo flat white and a fruit toast. I haven't been here for lunch.Overcharging: I typically arrive around 7am when it's usually just the Barista working, an Asian gentlemen with absolutely zero people skills whatsoever. No smile, no welcome, no greeting or pleasantries at all. He's been charging me an eye watering $9.40 for the coffee and toast. From time to time a different, older gentlemen has charged me $7.20. On Wednesday I was again charged $9.40 so queried this to be told that it should actually be $7.20 as the prices are reduced when you buy a coffee and toast. The barista could not have cared less when I pointed this out to him. No apology, I then spoke with the Manager. A nice gentleman but when I enquired about a refund for being overcharged by $50 over the last 5 weeks his defence was that "we have just introduced this price" - nonsense as he charged me $7.20 about three weeks ago.Barista: probably the worst customer service I've had the misfortune to encounter. I've traveled far and wide so I don;t make that claim lightly. On one occasion I entered the cafe at 6.50am as he was writing on the blackboard. He ignored me and continued to write on the board. I stood for a full five minutes before other customers tried to get attention from any other staff. I even walked into the kitchen to see if anyone could help. Eventually the barista walked back in but said nothing at all to me. Far from impressed I left. Slow service: between 7 and 7.30am there are hardly any staff on at all, at best it's one young waitress and the utterly miserable barista. It takes an eternity to get the toast and coffee. Usually the coffee comes out quickly before the toast has even been put on so my coffee is cold by the time I get to work,Staff - other than the barista, the staff are usually extremely friendly and polite. The Manager has always been friendly but he let himself down by lying about overcharging and his failure to offer any sort of refund. I don't often award one star but this place absolutely merits it. Avoid.

I called in for breakfast pre-7am so an early opening café and only a few steps from Flagstaff Station. It's spacious with a range of different seating and stan... read more I called in for breakfast pre-7am so an early opening café and only a few steps from Flagstaff Station. It's spacious with a range of different seating and standard breakfast fare on offer although I did find the serve less than generous. It was very nice though.

Located close to Parliament Railway station, this is a pleasant spot for breakfast. Inside there is plenty of space to relax and read the paper while enjoying b... read more Located close to Parliament Railway station, this is a pleasant spot for breakfast. Inside there is plenty of space to relax and read the paper while enjoying breakfast. Look for the "pun of the day" on the chalk board outside.

I come here every morning for my coffee and my office often orders our morning breakfast from here. It's my favorite spot to grab coffee because I need at least... read more I come here every morning for my coffee and my office often orders our morning breakfast from here. It's my favorite spot to grab coffee because I need at least two shots of espresso to get my brain going in the morning.

I am very particular about my coffee, as there are many factors that contribute to a good cup. From the type of beans and how they are roasted, to the water qua... read more I am very particular about my coffee, as there are many factors that contribute to a good cup. From the type of beans and how they are roasted, to the water quality and temperature, every detail matters. I have certain criteria for judging exceptional coffee, such as avoiding extra hot temperatures, adding sugar, or visiting during busy times. One day before my training session, I visited a cafe called Kaefei to order a latte. The aroma was robust, and the coffee had a smooth and deep flavor with a hint of natural sweetness from the organic beans. I returned the next day and had another excellent cup of coffee, speaking with the barista who continues to improve his craft daily. I noticed that the size of the latte glass and the takeout cups can affect the taste of the coffee, but Kaefei's paper cup was crafted to match the glass size, resulting in a consistent and delicious flavor. Overall, this cafe excels in providing great, consistent coffee with attention to detail and a skilled, passionate barista. I give it 2 out of 3 coffee beans.