Crossbar Cafe

This cafe is plainly decorated at the top level of the Ian Potter gallery. The view from the café is pleasant, seeing an alleyway leading down to Yarra River. I had simple lunch there, and the coffee was quite excellent. The wrap is tasty. The atmosphere and service are average, not as good as the one in the NGV on St.Kilda Road.

This café topped off my gallery experience today. Located at the top level of the Ian Potter gallery, you are greeted by a minimally decorated café overlooking a quiet alley leading to the Yarra River or Federation Square the opposite direction. The tables were spotless and the barista on duty was friendly, efficient and masterful in his work. My strong skinny latte was made to perfection and looked elegant. There are also some nice treats aesthetically presented near the counter that are worth checking out. I have no idea why the ratings are so low for this elegantly cute café, my experience was stellar and I emplore others to give this a shot.

More fool me for not checking the total: $65 for 1 non-alcoholic high tea, 1 coffee and a scone. The waiter repeated my order incorrectly every time and thoroughly confused me, although the right order was brought to the table. Coffee was good, cakes fresh and very nice, but at that price, never again.

The cafe is bright and has a reasonable range of treats, sandwiches and salads on offer.  For drinks there's coffee and tea, and a selection of juices, soft drinks, water and a choice of wines and beer.  It's on Level 3 of the NGV Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square with good views to the Yarra River. All round it's a good option for a coffee and light snack when visiting the gallery.  NGV members get a 10% discount at the cafe!