Melbourne may be one of the most expensive cities to live in, but that doesn’t mean you have to burn a hole in your pocket every time you eat out. Here’s our roundup of the best food spots in the city for all three meals, at different price points. Ready, set, munch!
Breakfast
$: To's Bakery
$6.50 Bánh Mìs? Yes, please. Located in Footscray, this Vietnamese bakery is always bustling. Their standard rolls filled with meat and vegetables start at $5.50, while more elaborate selections cost slightly more. This little bakery can get pretty cramped in peak hours, so be sure to arrive early to secure your goodies—they open at 5am!
$$: Wide Open Road Coffee Roasters & Cafe
Melbourne isn’t short on places for a good brew, but coffee enthusiasts are sure to be partial to the house-roasted beans at Wide Open Road. And it’s not just coffees they’re good at, this cosy spot serves up warm toasties and sweet treats at pocket-friendly prices. For less than $15, you can treat yourself to a huge toastie filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables of your choice.
$$$: Kettle Black
One of the most refined eateries in South Melbourne, this gorgeous café has made a name for itself for its excellent coffee and fine food. The Bacon Benedict has everything you need to start your day right—smoked bacon, a perfectly poached egg drizzled in Béarnaise, all served on a bed of sourdough. Pair it with their single-origin coffee and you’re good to go.
Lunch
$: Beatbox Kitchen
Burger lovers, this one’s for you. A Melbourne institution, this eatery in Brunswick has been serving up delicious burgers since 2009. Get a cheeseburger and fries for just $10, or opt for the fried chicken option for $13. Most items on the menu are under $15, including their delicious vegetarian options.
$$: Tipo 00
Named after the fine flour used to make pizza and pasta in Italian dishes, this restaurant has had snaking queues since its opening in 2015. The pasta is the highlight of the menu. From Cannelloni to Tortelloni, Italian food lovers are sure to be spoiled for choice. The Tagliolini al nero, squid ink pasta, makes for a unique and satisfying dish—visually and taste-wise.
$$$: Flower Drum
Chinese food gets a new spin at Flower Drum. Named after the traditional dance known as the “Ballet of the East”, this fine-dining establishment is beloved by visiting Chinese nationals and locals alike. Expect to shell out $50 or more for their mains—the dishes are well worth the prices, though, since the kitchen only uses locally-sourced premium ingredients.
Dinner
$: Kalimera Souvlaki
Dinner under $10? Sorted. An underground favourite of locals, this joint serves up souvlaki and gyros, Greek fast-food staples with an Australian twist. The gyros at Kalimera come in chicken or pork, with chips and pita bread – this carb-loaded delight is perfect to fuel up before a night out, or when you’re looking for something quick, cheap, and easy.
$$: The Lincoln Hotel
You can’t beat a pub feed. Pubs are the backbone of Australian drinking culture, and a meal at the local is a must-do no matter where you visit. From steaks to schnitzels, the Lincoln Hotel serves up Australian classics made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Even better, a filling meal here with a drink will set you back under $50. Win-win.
$$$: Doot Doot Doot
Driving up to the Jackalope hotel where this restaurant is housed is a treat in itself. From the tree-lined drive to the interior décor, Doot Doot Doot is a den of opulence. Can’t decide what to get? Their eight-course degustation provides you the opportunity to sample the best the kitchen has to offer.
