Overview
Whether you're balling on a budget or looking to splash out, Melbourne's got snacks for days. Some of our greatest dishes are one (or two or three)-bite wonders, from the iconic South Melbourne dim sim to Scotch eggs and handheld fried chicken. They're the kind of snacks that hit the spot without the fuss — quick, satisfying and sometimes indulgent.
Feeling peckish? Here's where to find some of Melbourne's best snacks.
South Melbourne Dim Sim — South Melbourne Market
Chinese-Australian entrepreneur William Wing Young invented the dim sim, and South Melbourne Dim Sim have added to their long-lasting appeal, serving up "cricket ball-sized" dimmies since 1949. You'll find them at eateries all around town but the best spot to snag one is at their original market location — available steamed or fried.
Napier Quarter Anchovy Toast— Fitzroy
Is anchovy toast a trend or a staple? Napier Quarter's version — a Melbourne favourite since 2016 — suggests the latter. A thick slice of rye topped with lemony mayo, sliced boiled egg, salsa verde, and a few perfectly placed anchovies brings the perfect mix of salty, creamy and crunchy. Chase it down with an espresso — only $2 if you drink it standing at the bar.
Gemini Tapioca Fritti — Coburg
This Coburg wine bar does small plates with a twist, and the tapioca fritti is a must-try. These chewy fritters are made with mozzarella, parmesan and tapioca pearls, then dusted with pecorino and served with a seasonal mostarda. Visit Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 6pm to add a house red or fizz from $10 or select cocktails from $15.
Times New Roman Napolitana Pasta — Brunswick East
If you thought Good Times' pastas were a steal, you need to meet their sibling. Their napolitana pasta — a simple dish made with tomato, basil and oil — is available in petite serves for just $6. If you're still hungry, there are other snackable bites like white anchovies, olives and tuna pate for the same price. Drinks start at $8, so you can mix and match your way to a perfect meal.
Hareruya Pantry Harechicki — Carlton
Anyone who knows the joys of Family Mart famichiki should run for this local take on the Japanese convenience store snack. Boneless chicken fillet is coated in a tempura-style batter, double-fried, seasoned with housemade yuzu chili, then packed into a portable sleeve that makes it perfect for snacking on the go. Find it exclusively at the Carlton location.
Yakikami Japanese A5 Sando — South Yarra
We won't lie, this is steep for a snack. But the Yakikami sando is not your ordinary sandwich. It champions A5 wagyu beef from Japan that's been crumbed, lightly fried, and paired with a madeira wine reduction, all tucked into fluffy white shokupan. When you're craving something special, this is the one.
The Rocket Family Sondwishe — Brunswick East
This spin-off of much-loved Lebanese eatery Rumi is a go-to for minimal intervention wines and vinyl. But just as big a draw are the sondwishe — flatbread wraps filled with lamb and beef kafta, falafel, chopped chicken, or fries and toum. They're about the size of a taco, served up fast and fresh, making them perfect for ordering as you go.
Reed House Ramen Scotch Egg — Lonsdale St
Reed House takes the humble Scotch egg to a whole new level. Inspired by the soft, savoury eggs that top ramen, these eggs are cured in soy and vinegar then wrapped in pork sausage and deep-fried to order. The dish is finished off with mushroom ketchup, a nod to the condiment's origins, creating a perfect balance of savoury, salty and rich.
Images: supplied
By Quincy Malesovas