Top 10 cheap eats in Melbourne city – the best and most lively city in Australia

Melbourne is a true melting pot, where diverse cultures from around the world converge. Each corner of the city offers a unique culinary experience; Springvale delights in Vietnamese cuisine, Oakleigh boasts authentic Greek flavors, Glen Waverley presents the vibrant tastes of Hong Kong, Dandenong serves up a delightful fusion of Afghan and Indian dishes, and Richmond tempts with an array of Italian delights.

The city is a tapestry of Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, and now Chinese influences, creating a vibrant mosaic of cultural experiences. To help locals and visitors alike make the most of their dining adventures, I’ve compiled a list of affordable yet exceptional eateries. Navigating Melbourne is a breeze, thanks to its extensive public transportation network, and the streets are alive with a diverse community eager to savor the multitude of offerings, from restaurants and coffee shops to theaters and exhibitions.

The following cheap eats are places with many items under $20.

Here is my list of the top 10 restaurants in alphabetical order:

1. B3 Cafe
2. Butcher’s Diner
3. Coppe Pan Japanese Bakery
4. Don Don
5. Hella Good
6. Lulu’s Char Koay Teow
7. Rose Garden Chinese Restaurant
8. Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza
9. Salero Kito Padang
10. Soi 38

The top 10 list

1. B3 Café B3 Café is a treasure trove for baguette lovers in Melbourne, offering an array of delectable options at incredibly wallet-friendly prices. Indulge in a simple baguette for just $7.5, or elevate your experience with a deluxe version for $10.
2. Butcher’s Diner Tucked away at the end of Bourke Street, towards Spring Street, Butcher’s Diner beckons with a no-frills menu featuring mouthwatering burgers, sandwiches, and snacks. This unassuming joint is your go-to for a quick and satisfying lunch.
3. Coppe Pan Japanese Bakery Nestled in the depths of Melbourne Central’s basement, Coppe Pan Japanese Bakery is a haven for bread aficionados. Their freshly baked, authentically Japanese breads are a hit, especially among university students. Whether you crave tempura, teriyaki, or grilled meat, this place delivers. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming display – the bread here is an absolute revelation.
4. Don Don Don Don, once a neighbor to Melbourne Central, has found a new home near Southern Cross Station. While its choice of location may be a tad out of the way, it still reigns supreme as the go-to spot for budget-friendly Japanese fare. From mouthwatering curry beef, pork, and chicken to their impeccable bento boxes and sashimi don, it’s a popular haunt for university students.
5. Hella Good Craving Greek delights? Look no further than Lonsdale Street, opposite QV Melbourne, where Hella Good has risen from the ashes of George Calombaris’ Jimmy Grants. Take your pick between succulent chicken or lamb souvlaki, and don’t forget to savor their heavenly fetta-topped fries.
6. Lulu’s Char Koay Teow Lulu’s is synonymous with its signature Char Koay Teow – flat rice noodles adorned with Chinese sausage, pork, and plump king prawns. Customize your dish with your preferred level of spiciness and a choice between cockles or duck’s blood sausage. It’s a lunchtime hotspot, bustling with patrons eagerly waiting to savor this culinary gem.
7. Rose Garden Chinese Restaurant Discover a culinary haven at Rose Garden Chinese Restaurant, where locals swear by the top 10 dishes. My personal favorite? The Crispy Pork Omelette on Rice, crowned with a fluffy egg and delectable gravy – it’s the heart and soul of this establishment. But don’t stop there; the other offerings are equally superb and well worth a visit.
8. Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza For a slice of pizza paradise, Sal’s is the ultimate destination. Despite their unassuming appearance, these pizzas pack a punch of flavor. My go-to? Slices loaded with a symphony of meatball, pepperoni, and sausage, accompanied by their mouthwatering garlic knots and special tomato sauce – all for just $17. Bring your friends along for a taste sensation like no other.
9. Salero Kito Padang When it comes to crafting your perfect plated meal, Salero Kito Padang reigns supreme with its extensive range of Indonesian delights. Take your pick of rice or noodles, complemented by an array of meats, vegetables, and seafood, all crowned with a deep-fried egg and sambal sauce.
10. Soi 38 Tucked away in a carpark, Soi 38 might just be the quirkiest location for a restaurant, but it’s a hidden gem for Thai cuisine lovers. Their straightforward yet exceptional Thai rice and noodle dishes are a must-try. Dive into their tantalizing boat noodles, along with a selection of other noodle soups and rice dishes that promise to tantalize your taste buds.

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