In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best food in Melbourne, where to go, and what to try!
When I first went to Melbourne, I was overwhelmed by the many food choices. How could I ever decide what to eat?
Fortunately for me, the city has an incredible culinary scene. There are many restaurants and cafés, and many famous chefs live here.
Despite the abundance of street food, Melbourne is not a street-food town. It’s a restaurant town – a very, really fantastic one.
Chefs dial up the city’s melting pot motif inside cramped cafés, cozy trattorias, and elegant dining rooms that are repeatedly hailed as among the world’s best, presenting everything from crispy Chinese eggplant to handmade pasta to still-squirming native wichetty grubs with a spirit of hospitality that transforms diners into mates.
Melbourne has numerous international cuisines and food options, so let’s check them out!
1. Japanese food
Check out the menu that is a must in most of the Japanese based restaurants in the country:
- Sushi
- Ramen
- Udon
- Takoyaki (octopus dumplings)
- Tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet)
- Gyoza (potstickers)
2. Italian food in Melbourne
Italian food is a staple of Melbourne’s culinary scene, with pizza, pasta, and gelato all proving popular among Melbournians.
While Italian cuisine may be served in larger restaurants and bars, the smaller family-run establishments often serve the best dishes.
If you’re looking for the best Italian food in Melbourne, then try these restaurants:
- Oro: A small restaurant with an excellent menu that changes daily; try their signature risotto or gnocchi with truffle butter sauce.
- St Kilda RSL: Great selection of pizzas on offer here with all kinds of toppings, including meatballs if you’re feeling adventurous! They also do great desserts such as tiramisu cake, which will satisfy sweet tooth cravings while sitting by one of their fireplaces during winter months!
3. Burgers
- Burgers are cooked on a flat surface, like a grill or griddle.
- There are many different burgers, but they all have one thing in common: they’re made from ground meat (usually beef), formed into patties, and cooked to perfection before being served in a bun with various toppings.
- Burgers can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Coffee
You can’t visit the city without trying its coffee. Melbourne’s reputation as a coffee city is well-deserved, and there are many great cafés to choose from.
The unique culture of Melbourne’s coffee scene means that what you get at one place might not be exactly what you’re looking for, but it will be good nonetheless. If you want something more than just good, try these places:
- The Barista School: This café has taught people how to make the perfect espresso since 2003! They also have in-house roasters who source their beans from around the world and brew up some amazing brews at this hidden gem in Richmond (it doesn’t look like much from the outside).
- Single Origin Roasters: They serve up delicious origin blends onsite at their café in South Yarra and sell bags of freshly roasted beans, so you can enjoy them at home too! Their baristas are trained by experts like former World Barista Champion Toby Morris, so if anyone knows how best to prepare each type of bean, it must surely be him.
Chinese food in Melbourne
Chinese food is one of the most popular cuisines in Melbourne. It’s easy to see why: It’s delicious, healthy, and quick to prepare. Many options are available, whether you’re after dumplings, dim sum, or noodles.
Dumplings are small parcels filled with meats or vegetables. They can be steamed or fried (the latter being called pot stickers).
Dim sum refers to small bite-sized portions of food served in steamers and on carts at Chinese restaurants – they’re often served during breakfast as part of an elaborate tea ritual, but any time is good! Noodles come in many shapes and sizes, so try some when you visit your local Chinese restaurant!
If you eat in Melbourne, you must get some of these dishes.
- You can find these dishes at any of the many restaurants in Melbourne.
- But if you want to try some of these dishes, you can check some places below.
- Ensure you order them as fresh as possible. The fresher, the better!
- If you’re ordering takeout or delivery, ensure they’re still hot when they arrive at your door (or wherever else you eat them). This will help ensure that all their flavor stays intact until it enters your mouth!
Some Great Proposals for Places to Eat!
1. Carlton
Carlton is a little suburb, but it delivers a powerful punch because of its solid Italian immigration heritage, which brought the cuisine many know and love with it.
Expect to discover the greatest gelati, pizza, pasta, and coffee in this northern Melbourne area, all of which can be found on Lygon Street, the district’s core.
2. Fitzroy
Fitzroy is a trendy gourmet district featuring inexpensive bars and swankier established eateries for fine dining enthusiasts. Gertrude Street is a microcosm of Fitzroy – previously a gritty neighborhood. It now attracts a stylish demographic that patronizes prominent clubs, restaurants, pubs, shops, and galleries.
3. Southbank
Southbank enjoys its busy atmosphere and high-end eateries. This is the supper venue for you if you like dressing up for dinner and making it a nice occasion to remember. The neighborhood has established itself as a destination for exceptional dining experiences, having hosted Heston Blumenthal’s acclaimed temporary The Fat Duck.
Read more blog posts about Food in Melbourne
In conclusion, Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences. From hidden laneway cafés to world-renowned restaurants, there is something to suit every palate and budget.
With the help of this ultimate guide, visitors and locals alike can explore the city’s vibrant food scene and discover new culinary delights. Whether you’re after classic Australian dishes or exotic international flavors, Melbourne’s food culture is sure to leave you satisfied and craving more.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the best food in Melbourne. We wish you happy eating, and may your stomach always be full!
0 Comment