What Food To Try in Melbourne and Food Prices

Avocado Smash - Avo Smash (breakfast delight) - Creamy avocado spread on toasted sourdough topped with poached eggs and chili flakes. Locals often enjoy this hearty breakfast at brunch spots, usually while catching up with friends.

Chico Roll - Street Food Icon - A deep-fried roll filled with a savory mix of meat and vegetables, reminiscent of a spring roll but uniquely Aussie. People often grab these as a late-night snack after a night out, rolling into a nearby fast-food joint.

Parma - Chicken Parmigiana (pub classic) - A breaded chicken breast topped with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, served with chips and a side salad. This is a favorite dinner order at pubs, especially on Wednesdays when many places offer special deals.

Lamington - Melbourne Specialty (local cake) - Sponge cake squares coated in chocolate and rolled in coconut flakes, often served at tea time. I learned that asking for a lamington at a bakery makes the staff share their favorite flavors!

Fish and Chips - Perfect Combo - Crackly battered fish paired with thick-cut chips, typically enjoyed by the beach or at a casual seaside eatery. It’s common to share a plate with mates, accompanied by tangy tartar sauce and a squeeze of lemon.

Pea & Ham Soup - Seasonal Comfort (hearty dish) - A thick, rich soup made from split peas and ham hock, perfect for chilly days. Many locals savor it during winter at cozy cafés, often accompanied by crusty bread.

Banh Mi - Vietnamese Sandwich - A baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, offering a fusion of crunchy and spicy flavors. You’ll find this tasty treat at food trucks, especially around lunchtime in busy city areas.

Beef Rendang - Slow-Cooked Delight - Tender pieces of beef simmered in coconut milk and spices until rich and flavorful, served over rice. This dish is popular during family gatherings, often featured at festive occasions to share with loved ones.

Flat White - Flat White (velvety coffee) - A smooth espresso-based coffee with steamed milk, crafted with a silky microfoam layer on top, making it a local favorite. Often savored in intimate cafes during Melbourne's vibrant brunch scene, it's best enjoyed in the morning or mid-afternoon while catching up with friends.

Frosé - Frosé (frozen rosé wine) - A refreshing blend of rosé wine, strawberries, and a touch of lemon, blended into a slushy consistency perfect for hot days. You'll typically find this at outdoor bars during summer, where locals sip it leisurely while enjoying the sunshine.

Espresso Martini - Espresso Martini (coffee cocktail) - A delightful mix of vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup served chilled and garnished with coffee beans. Enjoyed as an evening pick-me-up in trendy bars, it’s a favorite among night owls and is often mistaken for just another dessert drink.

Pavlova - Pavlova (meringue dessert) - A delicate meringue shell topped with whipped cream and a colorful assortment of fresh fruits, bringing a balance of crispy exterior and soft interior. This iconic sweet is a must for celebrations like birthdays, especially in the summer when berries are plentiful.

Sorbet - Sorbet (frozen fruit dessert) - A refreshing frozen dessert made entirely from fruit purees and sugar, offering a light and fruity burst on hot days. Locals love to indulge in this during summer festivals, with flavors like passionfruit and mango being especially popular—just make sure to skip the dairy version if you’re looking for something lighter.