Top 6 Places to Eat in Melbourne

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
A scenic view of Melbourne's modern skyline along the Yarra River featuring a vibrant cruise boat.
John Simmons, Pexels

Melbourne's culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a rich tapestry of global flavours and dining experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets.

1. Soi 38

Cuisine: Authentic Thai Street Food

Stepping into Soi 38 feels like being transported to a bustling Bangkok street market, complete with plastic stools and brightly coloured tables. This casual spot delivers an authentic Thai experience, with a menu that is expansive and true to street food inventiveness. The boat noodles and various noodle dishes are a highlight, bursting with classic Thai flavours. It is a fantastic choice for those seeking a quick, flavourful, and budget-friendly meal.

Price: AU$15 - AU$20 per dish / US$10 - US$13

Getting There: Located in the CBD at 38 McIlwraith Place, it is easily walkable from most central Melbourne locations.

2. Udon Yasan

Cuisine: Japanese Udon Noodles

Udon Yasan offers a swift and satisfying udon experience, perfect for a quick, cheap, and cheerful meal. Guests choose their bowl, load up on various sides, and customise with free toppings like tempura flakes and spring onion. The curry udon noodle is a popular choice, providing a hearty and comforting dish. This place consistently delivers on value and taste, making it a favourite for a casual lunch or dinner.

Price: AU$10 - AU$15 per dish / US$7 - US$10

Getting There: Situated at 186 Bourke Street in the CBD, it is centrally located and easily accessible on foot.

3. The Borek Shop

Cuisine: Turkish Borek and Pastries

A visit to The Borek Shop at Queen Victoria Market is an essential Melbourne experience for cheap eats. This legendary stall serves up simple yet incredibly satisfying boreks—flaky, filled pastries—with options like spicy potato, cheese and spinach, or spicy lamb. The queues can be long on weekends, a testament to its popularity, but the $5 price point and deliciousness make it well worth the wait.

Price: Approx. AU$5 per borek / US$3-4

Getting There: Located within Queen Victoria Market, accessible by tram to Stop 7 Elizabeth St/Victoria St (Routes 19, 57, 59) or a short walk from the northern end of the CBD.

4. NOMAD Melbourne

Cuisine: Modern Middle Eastern & Mediterranean

NOMAD offers a vibrant dining experience inspired by travels through Spain, Morocco, and the Middle East, with food expertly cooked over fire and smoke. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, suitable for both couples and groups seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed meal. Signature dishes often feature locally sourced produce, showcasing the best of Australian ingredients with a unique twist. The wine list highlights Australian and international organic and sustainable wines.

Price: Mains AU$40 - AU$70 / US$26 - US$46; set menus available

Getting There: Found at 187 Flinders Lane in the CBD, it is within easy walking distance of major tram lines and Flinders Street Station.

5. Reine & La Rue

Cuisine: French/European Fine Dining

Housed within the stunning 138-year-old Gothic Bank building, Reine & La Rue offers a truly luxurious dining experience. The French-inspired menu is a feast of fine-dining favourites, including caviar service, freshly shucked oysters, and premium Wagyu. The grand arches and elegant setting create an intimate and romantic ambiance, making it ideal for special occasions.

Price: Mains AU$50 - AU$100+ / US$33 - US$66+; degustation options available

Getting There: Located at 380 Collins Street in the CBD, it is easily accessible by tram along Collins Street or a short walk from surrounding areas.

6. Vue de Monde

Cuisine: Modern Australian Fine Dining

Perched on the 55th floor of the Rialto building, Vue de Monde provides sweeping city views, offering a truly spectacular backdrop for a fine dining experience. The restaurant is known for its inventive modern Australian cuisine, often featuring a multi-course degustation menu that showcases the finest native ingredients. The elegant setting, with its black walls and celestial lighting, makes it a highly sought-after destination for an extremely special and memorable evening.

Price: Set menus from AU$260 - AU$320 per person / US$170 - US$210+

Getting There: Located at Level 55, Rialto, 525 Collins Street, Melbourne CBD. Easily reached by tram along Collins Street or a short walk from Southern Cross Station.

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