St Ali & The Queen by Fiona Lynch Office

Melbourne is a city known for its coffee culture, and St Ali & The Queen, designed by Fiona Lynch Office, is a welcome addition.

Opened in July 2023 within the new Munro Development hub – a central element in the revival of the Queen Victoria Market – the space combines European sensibilities with Melbourne modernity.

Inspired by the dynamic simplicity of the market’s Food Hall, St Ali & The Queen is bold and refined in character, defined by raw materials and clean lines.

Inspired by the dynamic simplicity of the market’s Food Hall, St Ali & The Queen is bold and refined in character, defined by raw materials and clean lines. “We wanted to embrace the traditional food hall’s classic design language of box aluminium stalls and channel its raw, brutalist feel into our design,” explains Fiona Lynch, “while also creating a space that cultivates the spirit and warmth of European hospitality.”

As an all-day venue – coffee by day and cocktails and food by night – St Ali & The Queen is a warm and versatile mixed- use space. Purposeful zoning and spatial planning allow for flexibility within and an easy transition from coffee breaks to drinks and dining. Featuring a takeaway coffee window, counter bar and custom-designed seating, the space overlooks the market, cultivating a rare relationship with the hustle and bustle of the surrounding community.

Coloured marble and tactile timbers contrast against the exposed brickwork and concrete floors.

Coloured marble and tactile timbers contrast against the exposed brickwork and concrete floors. A cream and grey travertine stone from Artedomus and the green-veined Afrodite marble from Signorino provide pops of colour against the warmth of the timber. These natural materials are then paired with brass and leather, moulding a sophisticated palette that particularly comes alive in the evening.

The space features furniture custom designed by Fiona Lynch and crafted by Ross Thompson. The stools and tables are made using reclaimed Oregon timber, while feature lamps – one designed by Fiona Lynch and produced by Volker Haug, the other a Flos 265 wall lamp–speak to the value of craftsmanship in creating a welcoming ambience.

Architecture by Six Degrees Architects. Interior design and furniture design by Fiona Lynch Office. Build and joinery by EMAC Constructions. Furniture Manufacture by Ross Thompson Furniture.