Mario's has a massive reputation among those in the know. It has been visited by celebrities both home-grown and across the seas; and throughout it all, Mario's has barely changed, except perhaps, the artwork adorning the wall. This is the key to Mario's. Simplicity and consistency.

Since opening on April 28 1986, Mario's has become the signature cafe, not only for Brunswick Street, but perhaps all of Melbourne. Career waiters, good food, and good coffee keeps the tables full around the clock, and being the first to embrace the concept of 'all-day breakfast' has solidified the cafe's reputation among Fitzroy's more artistic (and more nocturnal) residents.

Belying its shabby, completely unglamourous exterior, Mario's is still a place to be seen, just make sure you grab a coffee while you're there so you can understand why.