Pillar of Salt - Church Street, Richmond. (House blend)

The cafe: The strip of Church Street between Alexandra Avenue and Swan Street has never been my favourite part of Melbourne. Although it's technically north of the Yarra, it's definitely not a 'NOY' part of Melbourne. Mind you, it doesn't have a 'SOY' feel about it either. In fact, I don't know what it is... Maybe Richmond trying to do Toorak (badly) best describes it... Anyway, there is no doubt Kael and Matt have a pumping cafe going on down there. A few tables out the front, about 7-8 tables as well as a decent sized communal table inside and then seating for another 25-30 out the back. And it's always busy. It has a pretty good menu and there is always a line to get a table on the weekend. The weekend has a 'beautiful people' crowd and weekdays have a mixture of local office workers, Fitness First trainers from across the road and property developers dressed 10-15 younger than they should be... You may also see the odd celebrity there too.

The coffee: Firstly, I should point out that Pillar of Salt do not usually serve a short mac in this type of cup. It's usually a small shot glass but I always ask for mine in an espresso cup. The aroma is quite strong giving the indication it's quite a dark roast. And the taste is quite rich and viscous. Whilst the temperature is spot on, the overall balance is a little out of whack. The bitterness does spike a little on the finish. Probably a bit more liquid and touch more milk would help. There is no doubt they are using quality beans, but the execution needs a little work. A tad too much coffee packed into too small of a shot. Having said that, it's not at all unenjoyable and probably the best short mac in that part of town. $3.50. Score 7/10.