Higher Ground, Melbourne CBD

Excitement and anticipation levels were high as its launch date approached, with Higher Ground being a sibling of the likes of ever-popular Top Paddock and The Kettle Black. We visit in the morning, but it's less like a cafe and more like a workspace and bustling hive of activity. Set within a heritage-listed 19th-century powerhouse on the Southern Cross end of Little Bourke Street, there's no denying the interior is impressive. Exposed brick abounds, broken up by potted plants and contemporary decor. It's cavernous and unlike any eatery I've...