Madlily's Espresso

I drop by Madlily's Espresso quite a bit, usually when I'm around the heart of Perth. The location is bang-on perfect, because it's just off St Georges Terrace, in the thick of the city buzz. So, if you're walking past the busy streets, it's real easy to just pop in for a quick caffeine fix.

As soon as you step in, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee just hits you. They've perfected the art, so every cup is spot on, and the regulars know it. The place gets a solid crowd on the weekdays, but don't sweat it — the baristas are quick and efficient. They keep the line moving fast without making you feel rushed.

What I love about Madlily's is their consistency with their brews. Whether you're after a flat white or a cappuccino, it's always smooth and creamy. If you're into espresso shots, they really pack a punch. And there's no sky-high price tag attached either, so it doesn't burn a hole in your pocket.

Take note, though, the shop closes on weekends, so make your visits during the weekday run. They're welcoming from 6:30 in the morning, which makes it perfect for those early birds needing their caffeine hit before work. And they close up around 3:30 in the arvo, just in time for the after-lunch crew needing a pick-me-up.

The vibe inside is pretty mellow. It's not a huge space, but it's got this cozy feel that just works. Perfect for someone like me who likes to people-watch while sipping on coffee. You've got the option to sit outside too, which is nice when the Perth sun isn't too harsh. Plus, your four-legged pals are welcome, so bring them along for some company on your coffee run.

I reckon another perk is that it's wheelchair accessible. It might seem minor, but it's pretty major in making the space inclusive for everyone. They've got the seating all set up to make sure anyone can enjoy a coffee there comfortably.

If you prefer your coffee on the go, they offer takeaway. You can grab a cup and possibly head towards Elizabeth Quay. It's only a short stroll away, and the views over the water are brilliant, especially on a clear day. Or, if you feel like stretching your legs more, Kings Park isn't too far off. It's a bit of a trek, but nothing like sipping good coffee and enjoying nature.

The place doesn't have a flashy website, just their Facebook page. It's enough if you want to catch updates or reach out quickly. Just look them up; they're easy to find.

Nearby, you've got the upmarket Brookfield Place with its mix of high-end shops and historic architecture. It's a good place to wander through if you've time to spare. And if you fancy a bit of a gastronomic adventure, it's got a ton of options for a proper meal after your coffee. Only minutes from Madlily's, there's London Court — a charming little lane that feels like a time capsule. Wandering through there is always fun, with the quirky shops lining the narrow path.

Madlily's has easily earned its high ratings; they're consistently scored around 4.5 stars, and I'd say that's right on the money. When you've been to different places around Perth, you start to appreciate those that get the fundamentals right. That's exactly what Madlily's does—great coffee, good vibe, and they cut no corners in service.

You don't tend to get many surprises here, and that's just fine by me. Knowing that every visit comes with good coffee and a relaxed vibe is more than enough to keep me coming back. In a city like Perth, with its mix of crazy-paced streets and laid-back spaces, Madlily's fits right in as my kind of place.