The Journal Cafe

Bookish Flinders Lane cafe known for dirty chai and eggs, though some regulars sense a slide

Old-school, cosy cafe set inside the City Library, with bookshelves, vintage touches, art and laptop workers. Reviewers describe warm chatter, cool air-conditioning on hot days and a relaxed place to linger.

Library-side setting with a literary feel; all-day breakfast and lunch menu with daily soup, egg salads and a mushroom pie; coffee blend that reviewers single out; staff who help with split bills.

Has a Melbourne laneway-and-library cafe character; reviewers mention a former Italian-feel under the original owner that regulars say has faded.

Many call it affordable, with meals around $15 a head. A few feel portions have shrunk, and one found toasties pricey for what you get.

Summary drafted with AI from public reviews.