OUR HISTORY

BRENDA & ANDREW LY

We're both raised in the West by hardworking Chinese Vietnamese families who taught us that the best moments in life happen around food, conversation and community. Growing up, we watched our parents welcome people in, share what they had and make everyone feel at home. We’ve always loved hosting, cooking and bringing people together, so hospitality has always felt like a natural fit for us.

For us, food has always been at the centre of everything. It's how our families show love and stay connected. Coffee has consistently held that same meaning for us. It’s never just a drink. It’s a pause. It’s a catch-up. It’s time spent with the people who matter.

Brenda has lived in West Footscray her whole life, and with our home and family close by and a baby on the way, it means so much to us to contribute to the community that raised us. Stacey and Melodee have created something truly special - not just a café, but a community home filled with stories. We feel honoured that they’ve trusted us to continue that legacy. Our goal is to listen, learn, and build this next chapter together with the community and our amazing team. We’re so excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to share good food and coffee and continue the Migrant Coffee story.

MELODEE MALAZARTE & STACEY EARSMAN (2019 - 2025)

Migrant Coffee is a space dedicated to our mothers. Founded by two best friends who share a love of culture and joy in daily ritual, connecting with people and our history is at the centre of everything we do. As proud daughters of immigrants, our mamas taught us to work hard to make something meaningful with what we have, even if it’s very little. Migrant isn’t just a cafe. It’s a space for our people to connect, celebrate and share stories.

Our menu has twists of Filipino, Thai and Island flavours, fusing our love of bagels with tastes from home. Classic New York style bagels are a head nod to the city where we met, and the food we bonded over. We use Coffee Supreme beans and quality supplies from people whose brands tell authentic stories with purpose. Our operations are simple so we can focus on bringing good vibes and building with our community. As a women-owned and run business we stand for equality and inclusion. We call Melbourne’s westside home and are blessed to be part of its beautifully diverse community. Our stories are your stories, and our space is yours to share.

Maligayang Pagdating | Yin Dee Ka | Kia Ora

MIGRANT COFFEE ACKNOWLEDGES THE KULIN NATIONS AS THE TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS OF THE LAND ON WHICH WE OPERATE, AND RECOGNISE THEIR CONTINUING CONNECTION TO LAND, WATERS AND CULTURE. WE PAY RESPECTS TO ELDERS PAST AND PRESENT, AND ALL ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES. ALWAYS WAS, ALWAYS WILL BE.