Being a Melbournite, I couldn’t resist listing my Top 5 for Melbourne as well. I’ll make it quick and not bore you with long descriptions. Melbourne is definitely foodie heaven and I apologise if any of these places are now outdated, it’s been a while since I’ve been back!
My Top 5 for Melbourne
1. Pathee Thai, Revolver Upstairs
Reasonably priced scrumptious Thai food in a grungy laid-back setting. You have to climb a very steep staircase and head right to the back of Revolver Upstairs, pushing past the cool rock kids sprawled out on worn-out couches. Dig into spicy Thai food while knocking back a cool Hoegarten (on tap!). Lots of vegetarian options!
229 Chapel Street, Prahran
2. Kimchi
GrandmaRibs, hot steaming dumplings, sizzling spicy octopus, all accompanied by several free side dishes including kimchi, beansprouts, and other little savoury salads. Hidden out in modest Carnegie, this place is worth the trip there!
125 Koornang Road, Carnegie
3. Vegie Bar
As the name suggests, this is an all vegetarian place serving creatively assembled vegetarian dishes, wheat and gluten free cakes (it sounds bland but trust me – YUMMY!) and organic wines (EXTRA YUM), amongst other delicious morsels.
378 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
4. Espy Kitchen
An institution, The Espy in St. Kilda has been a stable watering hole for generations of Melbournites. The Espy Kitchen, while not fine dining, serves up solid pub meals from fish and chips to Asian-inspired dishes. Convenient to grab a bite after several pots of beer!
The Esplanade, St. Kilda
5. 7 Apples
Still in St. Kilda, this gelati/ice-cream takeaway is the perfect spot to grab a cool dessert before strolling down the St. Kilda pier on a warm summer’s evening. Choose from flavours such as the basic vanilla to more exciting options like ferrero rocher and apple pie!
75 Acland Street, St. Kilda
I could keep going on here as well, but like I said, I’ll keep it (relatively) short and sweet!