Overview
These days, we're all on the hunt for cheap eats in Melbourne. And Brunswick East is already home to plenty of damn good spots — CDMX, Wild Life Bakery, Mankoushe, Nico's Sandwich Deli and Thaila Thai. But there's always room for more.
Enter Tawooq, the new Lebanese street food spot on Brunswick East's booming Lygon Street.
Here, just nine menu items are up for grabs, each costing less than $15. The Lebanese wraps come stuffed with either falafels, beef shawarma, fries or the signature chicken tawooqs (grilled chicken covered in a creamy yogurt-based marinade).
Baguettes are loaded with small spicy sausages (makanek or sujuk), tomatoes, pickles and sauces, as well as asbe (grilled chicken livers). But don't get turned off by the idea of liver, because this baguette is one of the most succulent of all the meat-filled bites. Nonetheless, those wanting something more western can order the classic fried chicken or beef burger. These look great, but you really should go to Tawooq for the Lebanese eats.
Pair your lunch or late-night meal (Tawooq is open till 2am on Friday and Saturday nights) with soft drinks or order some fresh smoothies from its sister brand Laiimoon. Located within the same space, you can get its traditional Lebanese sahlab (milk pudding) or one of its smoothies packed with fresh fruit.
It's a small selection of food and drink, but you've only got to master a few to become a true food destination in Melbourne.
You'll find Tawooq at 109 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, open 11am–11pm Sunday–Thursday, and 11am–2am on Friday and Saturday. For more details, head to the venue's website.