Top Recommendations for Melbourne’s Iconic Foods
1. Meat Pie
No visit to Australia is complete without indulging in a traditional meat pie. Melbourne serves up some of the finest variations, often filled with tender minced meat, gravy, and sometimes cheese or onions. Look for bakeries like Pie Face or grab one from local markets like the Queen Victoria Market.
2. Vegemite on Toast
While it’s an acquired taste, Vegemite on toast is a quintessential Aussie breakfast. Spread thinly over buttered toast, this salty and savory treat is beloved by locals. Many Melbourne cafes like Hardware Société offer it as part of their breakfast menus.
3. Chicken Parma
Melbourne’s pubs are famous for their hearty Chicken Parmigiana, lovingly referred to as Chicken Parma. This dish consists of crumbed chicken topped with tomato sauce, melted cheese, and often served with chips and salad. The Corner Hotel in Richmond is a popular spot to try this pub classic.
4. Dim Sims
Melbourne’s take on dim sum, these larger-than-life dumplings are filled with pork, beef, or vegetables and can be steamed, fried, or baked. Head to South Melbourne Market for some of the city’s best dim sims, crafted from traditional recipes.
5. Lamingtons
This iconic Australian dessert features sponge cake coated in chocolate and rolled in coconut. Some bakeries even add a layer of jam or cream in the middle. Try these at Beatrix Bakes or other boutique bakeries across the city.
6. Flat White Coffee
Melbourne is the coffee capital of Australia, and the flat white is its signature brew. Combining smooth espresso with steamed milk, this drink is a must-try for caffeine enthusiasts. Visit cafes like Proud Mary Coffee or Axil Coffee Roasters for an authentic experience.
7. Kangaroo Steak
For a taste of the wild, try kangaroo steak. High in protein and low in fat, this dish is often grilled to perfection and served with native spices. Look for it at modern Australian restaurants like Attica or Charcoal Lane.
8. Melbourne Brunch
Melbourne’s brunch culture is legendary, with dishes like smashed avocado, poached eggs, and ricotta pancakes taking center stage. Visit trendy spots like Top Paddock or The Kettle Black for a memorable meal.
9. Barramundi
This native Australian fish is a popular menu item in Melbourne’s fine dining and casual eateries alike. Served grilled, pan-fried, or baked, it’s often paired with fresh vegetables or salad. Try it at restaurants like Donovans by the beach.
10. Pavlova
Named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, this meringue-based dessert is an Australian favorite. Topped with fresh cream and seasonal fruits like strawberries or passionfruit, it’s a sweet finale to any meal. Look for it at places like Cumulus Inc.