Gust Cofetarie (174 - 176 Queen St, Melbourne)

From the outside, Gust does not look like anything special - except for the sign proclaiming it has an award-winning barrista. Situated just around the corner from the office, of course I had to try it.

I've been several times now, and each time cannot go past their short macciato. My philosophy is, if you can drink it in its most pure form and enjoy it, it's got to be good coffee. Last time I visited I was having a heart-felt conversation with a good friend of mine, and four shots of coffee later, we walked out buzzing.

A good short macc or espresso is like eating chocolate which is 95% cocoa - it's so toxic, but you can really savour each millilitre and let it's syrup just permeate your mouth. Mmmm.

Gust's environment is like a sophisticated cafeteria with a Japanese bent, with a few lounges and armchairs on the sides. The colour scheme features red which I always like, but I tend to prefer a more intimate, loungy feel in coffee shops. Still, the coffee is a definite winner - well worth a visit just for the espresso.

7/10