I living in Australia, I’ve walked countless lanes, peeked behind stalls, and spent more time than I’ll admit to in Melbourne’s food markets. But there’s one thing that keeps pulling me back into these chaotic, fragrant, and multicultural corners of the city: the snacks. Not the polished fine dining or the influencer-famous brunch plates, but the honest, addictive street eats that locals queue up for week after week.
Today, I want to take you on a personal tour of my favorite hidden market food spots around Melbourne. These aren’t your typical tourist bites — they’re places I return to whenever I need comfort food, conversation, or just a reminder of how rich this city’s food culture really is.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or living here long-term, these are 10 Melbourne market eats you don’t want to miss.
🥟 1. Borek at Queen Victoria Market
đź“Ť Shed C, Queen Victoria Market, 513 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000
If I had to choose just one food stall that perfectly captures the vibrant, multicultural heart of Melbourne’s food scene, it would be the unassuming Borek Shop tucked inside Queen Victoria Market’s bustling Shed C.
This spot has been serving freshly baked boreks to hungry Melburnians for over two decades—and at only \$7 each, they’ve become something of a cult obsession. The boreks are long, golden, slightly greasy (in a good way), and crammed with flavourful fillings like spicy minced lamb, creamy spinach and cheese, or buttery potato and herbs. You can actually watch them roll the pastry and slide each one into the oven on-site. It’s mesmerizing, in a comforting, carb-loaded way.
Must-Try:
- Lamb Borek – It’s hot, flaky, just spicy enough, and honestly the kind of thing I crave on cold Melbourne mornings. Paired with a cup of strong coffee from the Dairy Hall nearby, it’s my go-to breakfast whenever I find myself in the area.
On weekends, the line stretches out from the stall, curving past spice shops and fruit vendors. But it moves fast—and it’s worth every minute.
How to Book:
No bookings. Just walk up and order. But here’s a trick: arrive before 11:30 AM and you’ll beat the worst of the crowds and have your pick of the freshest batch.
Pro Tip:
Order two. One for now, and one to wrap in napkins and stash in your bag. The boreks somehow hold their crispiness for hours, making them ideal for lunch on the go—or a cheeky second breakfast.
If you’re staying in the CBD, Queen Vic Market is a quick tram ride away. And trust me, your tastebuds will thank you.
🍢 2. Don Don Japanese Takeaway (Kantani Japanese) — Prahran Market’s Hidden Gem
đź“Ť Inside Prahran Market, 163 Commercial Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141
Now here’s a place that flies under the radar unless you’re a regular at Prahran Market. While most people head for cheese, charcuterie, and artisan coffee, I always make a beeline for Kantani Japanese—a quiet corner stall that serves some of the most satisfying Yakitori skewers I’ve had in Melbourne.
Unlike the Don Don franchise in the CBD (which has its own cult following), this little spot has a far more relaxed, mom-and-pop vibe. The owners greet you with a smile, take your order, and grill your skewers on the spot, sending up those savoury wafts of soy and caramelizing chicken that I swear can make a full-grown adult weep with joy.
Must-Try:
- Teriyaki Chicken Yakitori – Tender pieces of chicken thigh glazed in a sticky-sweet teriyaki sauce, skewered and grilled until just charred at the edges.
- Shiitake Mushroom Skewer – Juicy, earthy, brushed with a light soy glaze.
They’re sold à la carte starting from \$3 per stick, making this a budget-friendly way to snack or build a full meal. On some visits, I’ll order four different types and call it lunch. Other times, just one or two is enough to keep me fueled while shopping.
Booking Tip:
No reservations or pre-orders are required—just walk up and order. But the best time to go is between 11 AM and 1 PM, when the turnover is high and everything is fresh off the grill.
Bonus Tip:
Add a small cup of miso soup for just \$2—light, warming, and perfectly balanced. It’s the kind of side dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Prahran Market itself is a destination worth visiting—less touristy than Queen Vic, more refined than South Melbourne, and deeply beloved by local chefs. I often come here on Fridays to stock up on produce and treat myself to a yakitori lunch. It’s low-key, filling, and authentic in the best possible way.
🥣 3. ReWine Cheese & Wine Bar
đź“Ť Queen Victoria Market Dairy Hall, 513 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000
A wine bar inside a bustling produce market might seem unexpected—but that’s exactly the kind of delightful contradiction that defines ReWine. Nestled inside the historic Dairy Hall at Queen Victoria Market, this cozy little nook has become one of my favourite midday hideouts—especially on rainy Melbourne afternoons.
Their concept is as clever as it is sustainable: locally-sourced wines on tap, poured straight from barrels into reusable bottles. But it’s not just about wine—ReWine serves up one of the best cheese toasties I’ve had in the city. The Truffle Cheese Toastie (AUD \$12) is golden, crunchy, and filled with molten, earthy goodness that pairs perfectly with a glass of their Pinot Noir or Chardonnay, both of which are available by the glass, tasting flight, or refillable bottle.
Must-Try:
- Truffle Cheese Toastie – Decadent, cheesy, and packed with umami.
- Pinot Noir from the tap – Smooth and vibrant with a dry finish.
Pro Tip:
Bring an empty wine bottle and refill for 10% off. It’s part of their eco-friendly model and a great souvenir. I often leave with a full bottle of Shiraz to enjoy later at my Airbnb.
Ideal for solo travellers, casual dates, or catching your breath between shopping sprees.
🥗 4. Dianne’s Delights (Salad Bar)
đź“ŤSouth Melbourne Market, Stall 40
This may sound simple, but Dianne’s salad bar is something of a South Melbourne icon. Bowls of fresh, colourful, homemade salads and roasted vegetables — hearty enough for a full meal. \$13–15 per box, depending on size.
Must-Try:
- Roast Pumpkin Couscous
- Zaatar Cauliflower
Tip:
Go early afternoon for fresh trays.
🌮 5. La Tortilleria Pop-up
đź“ŤOccasional Stall, Preston Market, 30A The Centreway, Preston VIC 3072
I first discovered La Tortilleria at their Kensington restaurant, but when they set up a casual taco stand at Preston Market — I was hooked.
Must-Try:
- Carnitas Taco (AUD \$6)
- Masa Chips with Salsa Roja
Booking:
Pop-up, so follow their Instagram for appearance dates.
Secret:
Order three tacos and get a free hibiscus tea (not on the menu!).
🧆 6. Egyptian Deli
đź“ŤDandenong Market, 40 Cleeland St, Dandenong VIC 3175
Run by a lovely Egyptian couple, this stall does some of the best falafel and hummus I’ve had outside the Middle East. The spices are deep, the pita warm and fresh.
Must-Try:
- Falafel Plate with salad and tahini – only \$10
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (sold by weight)
Local Tip:
They also sell their own spice blends — perfect souvenirs.
🥪 7. Market Lane Coffee Toast Bar
đź“ŤPrahran Market, Stall 13
Yes, Market Lane is mostly known for coffee. But have you tried their buttered toast with Vegemite + avocado? Sounds simple, but the sourdough is from Baker Bleu, and they use cultured butter. It’s a morning ritual.
Cost:
AUD \$7 for toast, \$5 for a flat white.
Best Platform:
Order ahead via the Skip app (sometimes they give 10% off).
🧀 8. Maker & Monger
đź“ŤPrahran Market, Stall 98
You haven’t had a proper grilled cheese until you’ve had the one from Maker & Monger.
Must-Try:
- Swiss Raclette over Kipfler Potatoes (AUD \$17)
- Toasted Comté + Onion Jam Sandwich
The staff are cheese nerds — and I mean that lovingly. Ask for tasting samples!
🥟 9. Swords Wines & Tapas
đź“ŤQueen Victoria Market Dairy Hall
This wine stall doubles as a fantastic stop for house-made dips, olives, and little jamón platters. For \$20, I can snack like I’m in Spain and watch the market buzz go by.
Must-Try:
- Marinated Artichokes
- Goat Cheese & Beetroot Dip
You can grab takeaway packs — perfect for a DIY picnic later.
🍰 10. Agathé Patisserie
đź“ŤSouth Melbourne Market, Stall 28
Last but not least, the cult croissant stop. Agathé is the place for buttery, crisp, flaky pastries with Parisian flair.
Must-Try:
- Matcha Almond Croissant – AUD \$9
- Crème Brûlée Brioche – heaven in a bite
Booking:
Pre-orders open on Fridays via their website for weekend pickups.
🎟️ How to Plan & Save
Here are my go-to platforms for planning foodie market adventures across Melbourne and beyond:
| Category | Platform | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Booking.com | Best for short-stay apartments near markets |
| Flights | Jetstar, Skyscanner | Look for Avalon Airport for cheaper fares |
| Food | TheFork | Restaurant reservations and discounts |
| Market Tours | GetYourGuide | Great for guided food tours |
| Local Deals | Groupon AU | Occasional deals on wine tastings, brunches |
Every time I wander into one of Melbourne’s food markets, I feel like I’m being let in on a local secret. Whether it’s the scent of turmeric from a North African deli, or the buttery perfume of French pastries, there’s always something new to bite into.
Markets like Queen Vic, South Melbourne, and Prahran aren’t just tourist attractions — they’re living, breathing pieces of the city, and the snacks you find hidden in their corners say more about Melbourne than any skyline photo ever could.
So go hungry. Bring cash. And don’t be afraid to talk to the stall owners — they’re the real flavour of Melbourne.
