We all know Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital, but did you know it’s also a great place for foodies? The best food you can find here reflects the city’s multicultural soul and creative spirit, where you can sip early morning flat whites or have a late-night dumpling feast. One thing’s for sure: in Melbourne, you’ll never go hungry.
So loosen your belt and bring your appetite. Here’s your friendly, no-fuss guide to the best food in Melbourne, and where to try it!
1. Classic Melbourne coffee
Melbourne’s famous flat white starts the day the right way
If there’s one thing Melbourne is famous for, it’s coffee. Cafés here take their brews seriously, and brunch is more than just a meal; it’s a lifestyle.
Where to get the best Melbourne coffee:
- Address: 172 Oxford St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia
- Address: Rear of, 493-495 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Start your day with a perfectly balanced flat white, paired with smashed avo, ricotta hotcakes, or eggs done exactly how you like them. Neighborhoods like Fitzroy, Collingwood, and South Melbourne are lined with cafés that turn simple ingredients into brunch masterpieces.
Even if you’re “not a coffee person,” Melbourne might change your mind.
Klook Tip: Going on a cafe hunt? Save yourself the stress of finding cafes one by one and join a Melbourne cafe tour, where you’ll visit four of the best coffee places in the city!
2. Brunch classics: smashed avo and eggs done right
Smashed avocado on sourdough, Melbourne’s ultimate brunch classic | Photo by Nguyễn Thanh Ngọc on Pexels
Brunch is basically Melbourne’s favorite sport.
Smashed avocado on sourdough is the star, often topped with feta, chili, lemon, or poached eggs. You’ll also see fluffy hotcakes, creative egg dishes, and beautifully plated breakfast bowls. It’s casual, it’s social, and it’s something you’ll want to eat more than once during your trip.
Where to get brunch in Melbourne:
- Krimper Cafe Melbourne
- Address: 20 Guildford Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
- Address: 160 Union Rd, Ascot Vale VIC 3032, Australia
3. Dumplings and noodles
Juicy dumplings are a must-try comfort food in Melbourne
One of the reasons Melbourne’s food scene stands out is its diversity. The city is home to communities from all over the world, and their cuisines are proudly represented. With this, Melbourne’s dumpling scene is legendary.
Where to get the best dumplings in Melbourne:
- North East China Family
- Address: 302 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
- Address: 14-16 Market Ln, Chinatown, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
From juicy xiao long bao to pan-fried dumplings and hand-pulled noodles, this is comfort food at its best. Chinatown and the CBD have lots of affordable spots where you can eat the best of the best.
Klook Tip: Craving some dumplings? You’ll want to try this dumpling food tour where you’ll sample the best xiao long bao Melbourne has to offer!
4. Chicken parmigiana (“parma”)
The iconic chicken parma you’ll find in Melbourne pubs | Photo by Reynaldo Yodia on Pexels
In Melbourne, it’s called a parma, and locals have very strong opinions about it.
This pub classic features crumbed chicken, rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and a side of chips (and usually salad). It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect after a long day out. You’ll find parmas in pubs all over the city, each with their own loyal fans.
Where to get the best chicken parma:
- The Duke of Wellington
- Address: 146 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
- Young and Jacksons
- Address: 1 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
5. Italian pasta and pizza on Lygon Street
Lygon Street is the heart of Melbourne’s Italian food scene | Photo from Nathan Jones on Wikimedia
Melbourne has one of the strongest Italian food scenes in Australia, and it shows.
Lygon Street is famous for its pasta, pizza, and old-school Italian dining vibes. Expect generous portions, comforting flavors, and lots of options, from creamy carbonara to wood-fired pizza and handmade gnocchi.
Where to get the best Italian food in Melbourne:
- Address: 303 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia
- Capitano Carlton
- Address: 421 Rathdowne St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia
6. Pastries and sweets
Melbourne’s sweet side shines with chocolate and desserts | Photo from Klook User Ray ***
Got a sweet tooth? You’re in the right city.
Melbourne is famous for its pastry scene, where buttery croissants, glossy fruit tarts, and rich cakes fill café counters across the city. It’s totally normal to plan your day around coffee and cake here, and no one will judge you for dessert-hopping.
If you want to take those sweet cravings a step further, consider heading out of the city on a Yarra Valley wine, gin, whisky, and chocolate tour. Just an easy day trip from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is known for indulgent tastings, artisan chocolate, and beautiful countryside views.
Back in the city, you can end your food-filled day with gelato, grab a takeaway pastry for later, or settle into a cozy café for cake and coffee. In Melbourne, saying yes to dessert is always a good idea.
7. Fresh, local flavors at Melbourne’s markets
Queen Victoria Market is a must for fresh food and local flavors
For a true taste of the city, head to the markets. Queen Victoria Market is a must-visit, where you’ll shop fresh produce, try hot food stalls, and local specialties.
South Melbourne Market is another favorite, known for its ready-to-eat bites and relaxed vibe. Markets are great places to sample a little bit of everything and maybe pick up snacks for later.
Melbourne’s food scene isn’t about trends. It’s about passion, diversity, and quality. Come hungry, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to explore! Your next favorite meal in Melbourne might be just around the corner.
FAQs about the best food in Melbourne
What food is Melbourne famous for?
Melbourne is famous for its coffee culture, café brunches, and multicultural food scene. The city is especially known for flat whites, smashed avo, artisan pastries, and top-quality espresso.
What are Melbourne's most iconic restaurants?
Melbourne has lots of iconic dining spots that locals and visitors talk about for years. Places like Chin Chin, Attica, and Vue de Monde are often mentioned for their creativity and bold flavors.
What is the specialty of Melbourne?
Melbourne’s specialty is its food and coffee culture, especially how it blends global flavors with fresh local ingredients. It also stands out for its multicultural food scene, where Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Chinese, and modern Asian flavors are part of everyday eating, not just special occasions.
Is Melbourne a foodie city?
Yes, it’s one of the top foodie cities in the world. People happily queue for brunch, debate the best coffee spots, and plan weekends around markets and dining.
What is Melbourne's best restaurant?
There’s no single “best” restaurant in Melbourne; it really depends on what you’re craving. Fine dining fans often point to Attica for its innovative take on Australian ingredients. If you prefer lively, modern flavors, restaurants like Chin Chin are hugely popular.
More Melbourne guides for you
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