male barista making a coffee at a concrete bench surrounded by plants

OUR STORY

The Herbert Cafe has been a hub for the Northcote community since 2013. Created from shared passion for sustainability, design and coffee - the original owners used salvaged and recycled materials to convert a warehouse into a unique cafe space.

From the beginning it was more that just a cafe - with long tables and cosy corners being a place where locals meet, work, connect and gather. It has seen friendships form, families grow and neighbours become regulars.

In 2025, The Herbert Cafe began a new chapter under new ownership. While some small things have changed, we continue the tradition of a relaxed and inclusive space, serving our coffee strong and letting our values guide our decisions. Being a small part of people's day is what drives us, and we're proud to help keep this little institution a part of the Northcote community.

OUR MENU

At The Herbert, we focus on specialty coffee and seasonal food. We work with quality and local suppliers with food that is simple, fresh and hits the spot.

We also understand that everyone eats differently. If you have any dietary requirements, allergies or food preferences, please let our team know and we'll do our best to accommodate you. We have lots of vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

GETTING HERE

The Herbert Cafe is located at 41 Arthurton Road, Northcote, on the corner of Herbert Street. We are open 7 days: Monday–Friday: 7am–3pm, Saturday: 8am–3pm, Sunday: 08:30-3pm.

How to get here:

  • Car: we have car spaces available, and there is lots of free on-street parking nearby

  • Train: we are across from Northcote Station on the Mernda line

  • Bus: the 508 bus stops right outside the cafe

  • Tram: the 11 and 96 trams can drop you a short distance away

  • Bike: bike racks are available outside if you’d like to ride in

  • Walk: we are an easy walk from Northcote, Thornbury and Fitzroy North

ACCESSIBILITY

Everyone is welcome at The Herbert Cafe.

Our space is wheelchair and pram accessible, and we have an accessible toilet. We recognise that accessibility means different things to different people, and we're committed to creating a space where everyone feels comfortable and included.

If you have any accessibility requirements, questions or suggestions, please speak with our team. We're always happy to listen, learn and make reasonable accommodations wherever possible.

DOGS WELCOME

Dogs are always welcome in our outdoor seating areas. Water is available on request, and our team will probably also provide pats.

COMMUNITY AND EVENTS

The Herbert Cafe is a place where community connects, ideas are shared and friendships are built. We host a small flea market for locals to sell their trinkets, clothes, creations and wares. We also look to support local events, groups and causes. We are a licenced venue and can host small private events. If you have something in mind please reach out.

image of a coffee in a glass with decorative heart art on a wooden table, in the background is a doily and a plant in an amber glass vase