The cuisine and food scene in Melbourne
It is no secret that Melbourne is very famous for its excellent food and first-rate coffee. A deeply multicultural city, Melbourne has a variety of authentic restaurants that are a must-visit. No matter what you are in the mood for, you are guaranteed a good meal and a great coffee in Melbourne.
Melbourne's food and coffee scene
Melbourne's food scene is a true delight for anyone passionate about eating and drinking. The city is renowned for its delicious smorgasbord offerings, with a food culture that is constantly evolving. Whether you're craving traditional Italian pasta or authentic Chinese dim sum, Melbourne has got you covered. In addition to the classic foodie hotspots like Lygon Street and Chinatown, there are also plenty of trendy neighborhoods that offer exciting culinary experiences. For instance, the bustling Fitzroy neighborhood is home to some of the best Spanish tapas bars in the city, while Oakleigh boasts a wealth of Greek bakeries and restaurants. Meanwhile, Footscray is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to savor the flavors of Ethiopia.
And if you're a vegan, you'll be happy to know that Melbourne's vegan food scene is thriving. From plant-based cafes and restaurants to specialty vegan markets, endless options exist for those who follow a vegan diet. So whether you're in the mood for a hearty vegan burger or a creative vegan sushi roll, you'll find plenty of delicious options.
But no discussion of Melbourne's food scene would be complete without mentioning its world-famous coffee culture. Melbourne is home to some of the most skilled and creative baristas in the world, who are always pushing the boundaries of what's possible when it comes to crafting the perfect cup of coffee. Whether you prefer a classic cappuccino or a more adventurous coffee concoction, you'll find it in Melbourne. Some of the city's top coffee spots include Proud Mary, Market Lane Coffee, and St. Ali, which are known for their high-quality beans and innovative brewing methods. And while an AUD 100 cup of coffee at Monk Bodhi Dharma might not be in everyone's budget, it's a testament to Melbourne's obsession with the perfect cup of joe.
Popular dishes in Melbourne
One of the most beloved meals in Melbourne is brunch, and "smashed avocado" on toast with feta or goat's cheese and a side of eggs is a must-try. Almost every café in Melbourne has its own take on this classic dish. Another popular dish is authentic Greek souvlaki, which can be found in many Greek areas throughout the city. Check out Very Good Falafel in Brunswick or Kalimera Souvlaki Art in Oakleigh for a delicious and affordable option. For a hearty Vietnamese meal, head to one of the many Pho restaurants around Melbourne, such as I Love Pho in Richmond, where you can enjoy a generous bowl of Pho for just AUD 10. Other trendy food options to explore include the latest plant-based food craze, which has given rise to vegan restaurants like Smith & Daughters and Transformer Fitzroy. Additionally, Melbourne's obsession with burgers shows no sign of slowing down, with popular burger joints such as Huxtaburger, Betty's Burgers, and 8Bit continuing to draw in crowds.
Must try restaurants in Melbourne
There are some musts for anyone living in Melbourne when it comes to food. Restaurants that have been around for a while are always busy and never disappoint. From fancier places to cheap thrills, there is something for everyone. Some of them are:
Attica - a fine-dining restaurant that offers a unique and innovative menu showcasing Australian ingredients and flavors.
Cutler & Co - located in the trendy suburb of Fitzroy, this restaurant serves contemporary cuisine with a focus on seasonal produce.
Stokehouse - a beachfront restaurant in St Kilda with stunning views of the ocean, perfect for a sunny day.
Cumulus Inc. - a popular brunch spot in the CBD serving modern Australian cuisine and a great selection of wines.
Chin Chin - a buzzing Thai restaurant in the CBD known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious food.
Movida - a Spanish tapas restaurant that has been a staple in Melbourne's food scene for over a decade.
Tonka - an Indian-inspired restaurant in the CBD serving modern and inventive dishes.
Café Di Stasio - a chic Italian restaurant in St Kilda with an extensive wine list and exceptional food.
Good Times - a casual eatery in Fitzroy that offers mouth-watering burgers and fried chicken.
Smith & Deli - a vegan deli in Fitzroy that serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.
Hotel Jesus - a Mexican restaurant in Collingwood that serves up some of the best tacos and margaritas in town.
Touch Shop Take Away - a burger joint in Fitzroy that serves up Melbourne's best burgers.
Naked for Satan - a Spanish-inspired bar and restaurant in Fitzroy that offers delicious tapas and cocktails.
Leonard's House of Love - a quirky bar in South Yarra that serves up delicious burgers and cocktails.
In addition to these eateries, Melbourne is also home to several vibrant foodie neighborhoods. Brunswick Street in Fitzroy is lined with fantastic bars and restaurants, while Sydney Road in Brunswick is a great spot for authentic cuisines at reasonable prices. Richmond is famous for its cheap and delicious Vietnamese food, and Carlton is a must-visit for Italian cuisine.
