Japanese $$ Ipuddo is a famous ramen franchise from Japan. The CBD restaurant has a beautifully decorated Japanese interior. Everytime I pass this place it has a long line. Very rich and wholesome ramen; I tried the original chashu, noodles had a good bite to it and a very comforting hot broth. Not too saltyContinue reading “Ippudo (CBD)”
Tag Archives: cbd
San Churro (CBD)
Dessert $ This place was insanely busy the day I went. Located in QV, it’s clearly a favourite to go to after dinner in the city. Pretty pricey for what you get, and the churros are a bit oily, but if you don’t put your expectations too high, it’s a decent place for a hotContinue reading “San Churro (CBD)”
Pafu (CBD)
Bakery/Dessert $ This place always smells amazing, thought I’d finally give it a try! Tried the puff pastry with matcha pistachio, very flaky and a decent bite, but could’ve been a bit sweeter. 🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐 6/10
Pepe’s Italian and Liquor
Italian $$ The Pepe pop-up at the aus open had the lasagna, which I am always a sucker for! Sadly it lacked flavour, would not say was worth the price. Hopefully the restaurant version is much better. 🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝 6/10 https://www.pepesitalian.com.au/
Marameo
Italian $$ Got to try the pop-up of Marameo at the Aus Open. Had their black pepper pasta, can’t say I was blown away, fairly peppery, and could’ve used more cheese! It was peak dinnertime so may have been made in a rush, if I try the actual restaurant one day I hope for better.Continue reading “Marameo”
Nico’s
Sandwich Deli $ Came across the pop-up at the Australian Open. Tried the chicken schnitzel and the Cubano sandwich, and wow were they delicious! The schnitzel really did not look like much, but it was well crumbed, tender meat, soft bread, and a fantastic salad! I never care for salads, but this one was slightlyContinue reading “Nico’s”
Aru (CBD)
Asian $$$ Fine dining version of southeast Asian food! The mains blew me away, the duck was super tender and the skin was so crispy, and the clay pot rice was the best I’ve ever had, crunchy on the outside and super flavourful. Would go back just for the rice! Aru also has fancy AsianContinue reading “Aru (CBD)”
Dao Noodle (CBD)
Chinese $ Famous for it’s DMX noodles i.e. knife sliced noodles, this is a cute Chinese restaurant gem hidden away from the busy CBD streets that makes it’s own noodles. The Shanxi traditional pork noodles are beautifully fresh with a tomato sauce, almost like a perfectly balanced Asian spaghetti bolognese. The braised beef is notContinue reading “Dao Noodle (CBD)”
My Modern (CBD)
Bubble tea $ It’s definitely hard to keep up with the numerous bubble tea places in Melbourne CBD, but this was a fun one we passed and decided to try. Went for the dragonfruit tea; it was sweet but refreshing and served in a cute transparent can! My Modern is a decent choice if youContinue reading “My Modern (CBD)”
Azuo (CBD)
Asian Dessert $ Heard of this Asian cake shop and decided to try it! Beautifully presented in an individual clear casing. I tried the pork floss and taro; taro was light and sweet, but pork floss for a bit too adventurous for me, wasn’t for my palate! Might try more mainstream flavour next time. It’sContinue reading “Azuo (CBD)”
Society (CBD)
Modern Australian $$$ This fine dining restaurant was a little hard to find, within the small laneways between Collins and Little Collins in the CBD. Relatively new with an la carte menu, Society definitely has some delicious dishes, but overall did not feel worth the incredibly steep prices. The standout was the lobster ravioli, incrediblyContinue reading “Society (CBD)”
Cafe d’ Hong Kong (CBD)
Cantonese $ If you ever feel like eating Cantonese without going to Hong Kong, this place will curb your cravings. Displaying a variety of Hong Kong’s unique blend of Asian and Western food, the food isn’t fantastic quality but fairly decent with generous serving sizes. I’ll never get over how odd it is to seeContinue reading “Cafe d’ Hong Kong (CBD)”
Brioche by Philip (CBD)
Bakery $ I’ve passed this place a few times and always wanted to try it. Great pastries and good coffee! They’re famous for their brioche and sourdough. The tuna melt was a favourite of mine, although the ham and onion roll and ham and cheese croissant were still tasty. Would like to come back toContinue reading “Brioche by Philip (CBD)”
Seoul Station (CBD)
Korean $ On the prominent corner of MC in the city, this Korean fast food place serves unique Korean hotdogs. Dipped in batter and coated with sugar, this hotdog is then topped with tomato sauce and mustard. Certainly not a combination I’d ever tried before! Other options included being coated with potato or ramen. AnContinue reading “Seoul Station (CBD)”
Joomak (CBD)
Korean $ An old student haunt, this bar has great peach rice wine served in a bowl. It’s a bit hidden and hard to find being down an unassumingly staircase, but worth the initial confusion. Great for Korean snacks and drinks, definitely a fun place for a late night. 🍶🍶🍶🍶🍶🍶🍶🍶 8/10 http://www.joomak.com.au/
Ruyi (CBD)
Chinese $$ An interesting modern take on Chinese food, Ruyi sits in one of Melbourne’s city laneways. It’s not overly expensive, but it is a slightly fancy fusion take on some classic dishes. Tried the numbing beef, was a bit tough, probably wouldn’t get again, although the numbing effect was pretty cool. The pork bellyContinue reading “Ruyi (CBD)”
Hanaichi (CBD)
Japanese $ If you ever want cheap, fast, filling Asian food in the city, you should go to Hanaichi. A student’s dream lunch. Situated in QV, this place has a filling rice meal for around $10, great value for money. The Kay’s chicken has surprisingly decent quality fried chicken, highly recommend. 🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛🍛 8/10 https://hanaichi.com.au/
Robota (CBD)
Japanese $$ Famous for it’s Japanese grill style, this place has a great set menu with a mix of sashimi and grilled meats. The chicken meatball with it’s egg yolk sauce and wagyu beef are must-trys. Beautiful interior as well, modern Asian vibes. 🍢🍢🍢🍢🍢🍢🍢🍢🍢 9/10 https://robata.com.au/menu
Sushi Hotaru (CBD)
Japanese $$ Love a good quality sushi train! You can either take right off the train or order through the touch screen. Dishes certainly add up, but worth it! Great quality fish. Often a line so get in early! Seared salmon and chicken karaage are my favourites. 🍣 🍣 🍣 🍣 🍣 🍣 🍣 🍣Continue reading “Sushi Hotaru (CBD)”
Hochi Mama (CBD)
Asian fusion $$ Modern Asian food is such a staple of Melbourne! Beautifully presented food, could have richer flavours though. The curry and sashimi were my favourites. 🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚🍚 8/10 https://hochimama.melbourne/cbd/
Pokéd (CBD)
Hawaiian/Japanese $ I feel like a poké bowl is uniquely satisfying; it is filling and warm from the rice but doesn’t feel too heavy from the toppings and sauces. A fantastic lunch meal when you don’t want to be too unhealthy but are very hungry. The menu looks a little complicated, but essentially you canContinue reading “Pokéd (CBD)”
Pinchy’s (CBD)
Seafood $$ When a pop-up appeared near home, decided to give this place a try! The lobster rolls were crunchy and flavoursome, the fries worked well with the truffle aioli. The other tacos were nice, but not particularly memorable. Everything was well-presented, but still felt hungry after; given the price, was hoping for more. 🦞Continue reading “Pinchy’s (CBD)”
Scoopy (CBD)
Dessert $$ It’s been a long time since I’d tried Bingsu, a Korean shaved ice dessert. But then Scoopy had a pop-up near me! With condensed milk and mochi pieces, the taro flavoured Bingsu was a great way to finish the day, not too sweet, but delicious. Have since tried it in person, not bad!Continue reading “Scoopy (CBD)”
Hawker Chan (Chadstone)
Asian $ Sadly, since eating here between lockdowns, the Chadstone branch has closed! But there is still a store in the city! Which I’m sure is just as delicious. For me, this is a perfect Asian comfort food; chicken rice with charsiu (roast pork) is just a classic! Definitely worth it’s Michelin star, and notContinue reading “Hawker Chan (Chadstone)”
La Petite Creperie (CBD)
French $ The wonderful buttery smell of crepes alone is enough to draw crowds at this small stall on Little Collins St on the CBD. The service is lovely and friendly, and while not super cheap, you can’t go wrong with crepes! Great if you’re craving dessert at night in the city. A nice sliceContinue reading “La Petite Creperie (CBD)”
Sal’s (CBD)
Italian $ For a traditional New York pizza slice, go to Sal’s! Wasn’t expecting a simple Margherita to taste so good! Will come back for more one day. 🍕🍕🍕🍕🍕🍕🍕🍕🍕 9/10 Home
The Waiters Restaurant (CBD)
Italian $$ A cute Italian restaurant that’s hidden away in the city, this place has a wonderful stripped back vibe that feels like you’re eating at Nonna’s house. Order from a no-fuss menu for a pleasant Italian meal. Wouldn’t be my favourite Italian place and was more expensive than I expected, but a lovely restaurantContinue reading “The Waiters Restaurant (CBD)”
Culprit (CBD)
Cafe/Deli $$ Only tried a coffee and a cookie from this place, but looks like it has quite the variety! The red velvet cookie was a bit dry, but coffee was decent. If I was ever in the area again, would like to try the deli. ☕☕☕☕☕☕☕ 7/10 https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/melwh-w-melbourne/
HuTong (CBD)
Chinese $$ A popular place for dumplings in the city, this place wouldn’t be my go-to for Chinese, but has decent food. More expensive than I’d like, but a nice atmosphere, good for groups and families. 🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟 7/10 https://hutong.com.au/city
Lollo (CBD)
Italian $$ A unique mix of Italian and Indian food, this restaurant in the new W hotel of Melbourne looks very chic. They’re famous for their duck lasagne, their modern deconstructed take on the traditional lasagne. If you’re expecting a regular lasagna, you might be disappointed, but if you keep an open mind, it’s delicious!Continue reading “Lollo (CBD)”
Lune (CBD)
Bakery $ This place has a lot of hype! Came late in the afternoon when not much was left, next time I’ll go much earlier. Had a chocolate croissant; flaky and buttery. Not mind-blowing, but still great. 🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐 8/10 https://www.lunecroissanterie.com/
Hot Star Chicken (CBD)
Fast Food $ Throwback to cheap lunches in my student and early career days! Deep fried crispy goodness. However much saltier and greasier than I remembered. Perhaps much better shared with a group, but a decent late night snack. 🍗🍗🍗🍗🍗🍗🍗 7/10 https://hotstarmelb.com.au/
David’s Hot Pot (CBD)
Asian $$$ True hotpot dining in all it’s glory. You know when it’s full of asians it’s a great place. You’re given a paper menu to tick what food you’d like, then are given a huge pot of soup to cook your food. Meat and soup were tasty, large range of toppings available, ethnic decor,Continue reading “David’s Hot Pot (CBD)”
Chin Chin (CBD)
Asian $$ A quintessential Melbourne restaurant; i.e. hipster and fusion. Great quality modern Asian fusion. Mains were the highlight, super tasty, went basic with the butter chicken and pad seuw, both were delicious, butter chicken was super creamy, and beef very tender. 🥡🥡🥡🥡🥡🥡🥡🥡🥡 9/10 Home
Supernormal (CBD)
Asian Fusion $$ A cute Asian fusion restaurant in the CBD. Opted for the banquet so we didn’t have to make any decisions! Highlights were the prawn and chicken dumplings, and the peanut butter parfait for dessert. Lowlights were the kingfish, and the lamb shoulder; it was very tough and chewy, and the kingfish wasContinue reading “Supernormal (CBD)”
The Mess Hall (CBD)
Italian $$ On a street full of great Italian restaurants, it must be tough to stand out! But this quaint little restaurant has an authentic vibe, with great quality pasta. Duck ragu pappardelle was delicious with good bite! The seafood tagliatelle had a decent amount of prawns, but was a little salty. Gnocchi was anotherContinue reading “The Mess Hall (CBD)”
Punch Lane (CBD)
Modern Australian $$ Comfy wine bar with a casual vibe. Highlights were the gnocchi (so so pillowy), John Dory fish and the chips, super crunchy! The bread was a little tough, and the steak tartare could be more flavourful, but mains were a real winner. PUNCH LANE 🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝 9/10
Handpicked Wine (CBD)
Wine Cellar $$ Stumbled across this place after the nearby bar was full, what a great find! Simple but classy menu of cheese and wine. Great for a post dinner snack and drink, and without the noisiness of a bar! Fairly new place according to the waiter; the idea was to have a restaurant withContinue reading “Handpicked Wine (CBD)”
Din Tai Fung (CBD)
Taiwanese $$ One of my favourite places for xiao long bao (pork dumplings). Super juicy with a light dumpling skin, mmm. They even have instructions on how to eat it printed on the chopstick packets! Food comes very fast and you order everything (with pictures to guide you) on an ipad. My other favourite hereContinue reading “Din Tai Fung (CBD)”
Osteria Ilaria (CBD)
Italian $$$ In terms of Italian in the city, had never heard of this place! But this place is a gem! Everything was beautifully flavourful and buttery. Highlights were the croquettes (wonderfully crunchy), duck pappardelle (nothing like that bitey fresh pasta) and fried potato. On top of that, desserts were also incredible, ricotta gelato hadContinue reading “Osteria Ilaria (CBD)”
Lulu’s Char Koay Teow (CBD)
Malaysian $ When you’re after authentic, good quality Char Koay Teow, this is the place. Taste was on point, prawns were delicious, and decent amount of noodles. Love these little places that only do a couple of dishes but do it well. 🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜 9/10 https://www.facebook.com/lulucktmelbourne/
JoJo Little Kitchen (CBD)
Malaysian $ Hidden in a little alleyway is this little Asian gem. Great noodles, hits the spot. You can pick if you want dry or soup noodles, and what thickness. Fried pork wasn’t as good as I hoped, but still decent. https://www.instagram.com/jojolittlekitchen/ 🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜 8/10
The Westin (CBD)
High Tea $$ There was a ‘high cheese’ at the Westin, serving baked camembert and gouda scones. Delicious! I never feel full after high tea, but was fun to try. Not always a cheese themed high tea there, as themes change with the seasons. https://www.westinmelbournedining.com.au/ 🧀🧀🧀🧀🧀🧀🧀 7/10
The Loft (CBD)
Cafe $$ On one of the top floors of Peter Mac hospital, this has a large outdoor area with beautiful views akin to a fancy hotel. Decent lunchables. Home 🥪🥪🥪🥪🥪🥪🥪🥪 8/10
Hakata Gensuke (CBD)
Japanese $ When you can’t go to Japan for ramen this is the next best thing! Always a huge line, but moves fairly fast and quick service once inside. My go to place in Melbourne for ramen. I’m basic and like the Signature Tonkotsu, the gyoza and chicken kaarage are great sides. 🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜 10/10
Maccaroni Trattoria Italiana (CBD)
Italian $$ A great little Italian place in an alleyway of the CBD. Good quality pasta and pizza. https://www.maccaronitrattoria.com/ 🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝🍝 8/10
Sargon Cafe (CBD)
Brunch/Cafe $ Great coffee, even by Melbourne standards! Goes fantastically with their range of bagels. ☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️ 8/10
Meet Sando (CBD)
Brunch/Japanese $$ Located near Queen Victoria Market, a hipster corner cafe. Their Katsu Sando (Japanese style sandwiches) was definitely worth the trip! Chicken was so tender, and bread was so soft. Highly recommend for a good brunch/lunch! Home ☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️ 8/10
Miznon (CBD)
Pop Up/Mediterranean $$ Went to the pop up at the Australian Open, and tried the popular baby cauliflower in pita bread. Delicious! Almost a meaty bite to it. Would want to try the actual restaurant. https://www.miznonaustralia.com/ 🥙🥙🥙🥙🥙🥙🥙🥙🥙 9/10
Nobu (CBD)
Japanese $$$$ A fantastic Asian fusion located in Crown. Decided to go a la carte. Wagyu beef tacos were so tender and perfectly balanced, and toro sushi literally melts in the mouth! Crispy chicken with ranch and truffle salt was amazing too. Soft shell crab sushi maki also fantastic, warm and crunchy. All went wellContinue reading “Nobu (CBD)”
Shortstop (CBD)
Donuts/Dessert $ Can’t go too wrong with a donut. As expected, delicious. But pricey. https://www.short-stop.com.au/ 🍩🍩🍩🍩🍩🍩🍩🍩8/10
Layla (CBD)
Mediterranean $$ Had the set menu for $45, such a great range of food. Couldn’t even finish it! Didn’t feel too heavy as lots of tasty veges included. In a nice outdoor marquee in the CBD. 100% would go again. https://www.laylabar.com.au/ 🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗10/10
Coda (CBD)
Asian fusion $$ Fantastic modern asian. Fancy but won’t break the bank. Best dishes: Salmon Gravlax, Hervey Bay Scallop, Steak Tartare, Yellow Duck Curry 🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜10/10
Palermo (CBD)
Argentinian $$$ A rustic restaurant in the CBD with chill vibes and excellent South American flavours. https://www.palermo.melbourne/ 🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟🥟9/10
Roule Galette (CBD)
French $ Delicious sweet and savoury crepes in a cute alleyway in the CBD. https://www.roulegalette.com.au/ 🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐🥐9/10
Rice Paper Scissors (CBD)
Modern Asian $$ One of my favourite places to eat in the city. Best value modern Asian I’ve had, they have 5 dishes to share for $34. They also have great desserts. Fantastic place for groups! 🥢🥢🥢🥢🥢🥢🥢🥢🥢🥢10/10
Thai Tide (CBD)
Thai $ Huge menu! Small dishes though, good to get a few to share. Desserts were a highlight. https://www.thaitide.com.au/ 🍲🍲🍲🍲🍲🍲🍲🍲8/10
Straight Outta Saigon (CBD)
Vietnamese $$ Great value for the ‘A Bit of Everything’ menu. If you’re after upscale Vietnamese food and don’t mind paying a bit more, this is the place to go. Entrees were flavoursome and delicious, but the flat rice noodles were quite bland and disappointing. https://www.straightouttasaigon.com.au/menu 🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜 6/10
Cupcake Central (CBD)
Dessert $ Looks better than it tastes, but still mostly sugar so can never go too wrong! Has both basic and quirky favours. Got a delivery, came really late. But when you feel like cupcakes, you feel like cupcakes. https://cupcakecentral.com.au/ 🧁🧁🧁🧁🧁🧁6/10
on weekends, we brunch 