Melbourne's food scene is a veritable tapestry of flavours, textures and culinary innovations. As the city pulses with creativity and passion, it is home to an eclectic mix of eateries ranging from chic cafés to refined dining experiences, each spotlighting the rich tapestry of Australian cuisine. In this guide, we delve into a selection of remarkable venues that showcase the best of what this city has to offer, inviting both locals and visitors to savour Melbourne's culinary gems.
Sweet Evelyn - Brunswick, VIC
Embracing a community-minded ethos, Sweet Evelyn café on Union Street in Brunswick serves as a creative haven where connections flourish over a shared love of food and coffee. The space is decorated with recycled timber tables and cabinets brimming with enticing pastries, enveloping you in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. On sunny days, guests can enjoy their beverages alfresco under inviting market umbrellas, all while soaking in the vibrant energy of conversations swirling around them.
Sweet Evelyn’s menu is a delightful nod to both tradition and trends, featuring standout dishes like Middle Eastern-style baked eggs layered with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, chickpeas, and feta. For those craving a twist, the huevos Mexicano is an explosion of flavours with potato gems, jalapeño salsa and chipotle mayonnaise that brings a zesty spin to your brunch experience. Whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying a peaceful moment alone, Sweet Evelyn is the perfect spot to unwind.
Ready to experience the magic? Book your table here.
Winter Malvern - Malvern, VIC
Located on Winter Street, this café captures the essence of casual sophistication with its airy and bright interior adorned in sleek white and blonde wood. Potted greenery adds to the relaxed vibe, inviting guests to linger over thoughtfully crafted meals that cater to both locals and hungry visitors. Large glass windows create an inviting view of the bustling streets outside, making it an idyllic spot for a leisurely lunch or a vibrant morning fare.
The menu showcases the creativity of its chefs, starting with the tightly composed chilli scrambled eggs, featuring vibrant cherry tomatoes and aromatic fried shallots beautifully paired with a crusty sourdough. If you prefer a lighter option, the grilled prawn roll comes generously filled with fresh ingredients like shredded lettuce and a touch of jalapeño hot sauce. On the side, you can’t go wrong with a crisp serving of chips, complementing your meal perfectly.
Don’t miss out on the charm of Winter Malvern; reserve your spot now.
Bellboy - Brunswick East, VIC
At the heart of East Brunswick lies Bellboy, a café that boldly redefines classic brunch offerings with a modern twist. Named in homage to owner Emilio’s early days in the hospitality industry, the café's aesthetics are strikingly charming, featuring a blend of polished stone and warm timbers. The inviting atmosphere encourages patrons to engage in leisurely meals, while the spacious outdoor terrace caters to those wanting to soak up the sun with family and friends.
The culinary team produces an array of delectable dishes, with the chilli scrambled eggs emerging as a standout, served atop garlic-buttered seeded sourdough and paired seamlessly with sausage and fried kale. For those leaning towards a fresh, wholesome option, the chop chop salad is a vibrant mix of textures, incorporating chicken, brown rice, edamame, and a zingy harissa dressing that dances on the palate, ensuring you leave feeling revitalised.
Why wait? Book your experience at Bellboy today.
Potluck - Caulfield, VIC
Potluck elevates the concept of sharing meals with a vibrant cultural flair on Glen Huntly Road. There’s an inherent warmth to its operation inspired by family gatherings and culinary memories, inviting diners to engage in a creative fusion of dishes from across Asia. The lively atmosphere encourages everyone to indulge freely, fully embracing the joy of food with unique sharing options that promote connection and community spirit.
Kick off your meal with a tantalising selection of fried chicken drizzled with rich Korean honey mustard or dive into the comforting prawn and pork wontons, steeped in a fragrant sweet soy broth. Larger offerings, such as the mapo tofu, bring traditional flavours front and centre, making it a meal to remember. For a warming finish, the beef noodle soup with short rib is both hearty and deeply satisfying, compelling you to return again and again.
Experience the flavours of Potluck; secure your reservation now.
Izakaya Miyazaki - Melbourne CBD, VIC
Hidden beneath the streets of Melbourne’s CBD, Izakaya Miyazaki offers a refined glimpse into authentic Japanese cuisine. This intimate setting exudes charm with its moody lighting and minimalist decor reminiscent of the izakayas found in Tokyo. The open kitchen acts as both visual and olfactory delight, showcasing the culinary mastery behind their diverse offerings, where every dish is treated as an art form.
Best known for its exceptional Miyazaki Wagyu, the restaurant also delights seafood lovers with seasonal sashimi sourced directly from Japan’s renowned Toyosu Market. The uni, with its luxurious creamy texture, marks a high point for those eager to explore the depth of Japanese flavours. With an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional techniques, Izakaya Miyazaki presents a culinary journey well worth taking.
Don't miss this gem tucked away in the city; make your reservation here.
As our culinary journey through Melbourne comes to a close, it’s evident that this vibrant city holds a treasure trove of dining experiences, each venue telling its own story. Whether you’re after the comforting familiarity of a café or the intricacies of fine dining, Melbourne’s ever-evolving food culture promises to satisfy your palate and ignites your passion for exploring the diverse world of gastronomy.
