Melbourne’s Green Scene: 10 Must-Try Plant-Based Restaurants
Embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the Top 10 Plant-Based Eateries in Melbourne for Vegans and Vegetarians. With the rise in popularity of plant-based diets and a growing awareness of the environmental and health benefits of reducing meat consumption, Melbourne has seen an influx of exceptional vegan and vegetarian restaurants. From innovative, gourmet dishes to comforting, familiar flavors, these eateries have mastered the art of plant-based cuisine, proving that you don’t need meat to create a delicious and satisfying meal. So, whether you’re a devoted vegan, a flexitarian, or simply curious about plant-based dining, let us guide you through Melbourne’s best vegan and vegetarian restaurants that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Table of Contents
- No Time to Read? Here’s a Snappy Summary of This Article
- #1 – Smith & Daughters
- #2 – Parcs
- #3 – Red Sparrow Pizza
- #4 – Maha
- #5 – Gong De Lin
- #6 – Shimbashi Soba
- #7 – Transformer Fitzroy
- #8 – Matcha Mylkbar
- #9 – Vegie Bar
- #10 – The Cornish Arms Hotel
- Conclusion
- FAQ FOR MELBOURNE’S GREEN SCENE: 10 MUST-TRY PLANT-BASED RESTAURANTS
No Time to Read? Here’s a Snappy Summary of This Article
- Diverse Delights: Melbourne offers a vibrant plant-based culinary scene with an array of flavors and cuisines.
- Iconic Joints: Don’t miss out on renowned spots like Smith & Daughters, serving innovative vegan comfort food.
- Asian Fusion: Explore unique blends at places like Monk Bodhi Dharma, combining vegan dishes with Asian influences.
- Healthy Indulgences: Experience guilt-free pleasure at Matcha Mylkbar, famous for its superfood-packed menu.
- Artistic Vibes: Enjoy not just food but art at Transformer Fitzroy, where the dishes are as creative as they are delicious.
- Sweet Endings: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Girls & Boys, offering an all-vegan dessert heaven.
#1 – Smith & Daughters
Introduction: Smith & Daughters offers a unique dining experience with a focus on serving delicious food that appeals to both vegans and non-vegans alike.
The restaurant’s interior has a trendy and vibrant atmosphere, reflecting the owners’ passion for food and design. It has a welcoming and inclusive ambiance that has attracted a diverse customer base over the years.
Menu Items:
- Starters: Smoky black bean and chorizo dip with corn chips, Buffalo mozzarella-style vegan cheese with pickled vegetables, Spiced chickpea panelle with romesco sauce
- Mains: Paella with saffron-infused rice, seasonal vegetables, and vegan chorizo, Eggplant parmesan with vegan cheese, marinara sauce, and basil, Jackfruit carnitas tacos with salsa verde and pickled cabbage
- Sides: Paprika and garlic roasted potatoes, Grilled asparagus with lemon aioli, Mexican street corn with vegan mayo and chili
- Desserts: Churros with chocolate dipping sauce, Coconut flan with caramel sauce, Chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream
Location: 175 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia
Contact: +61 39123 1712
Website: Website Link Here
#2 – Parcs
Introduction: They are PARCS. A small-ish, 20-seater bar with a minimal waste and ferment focus. They serve food that’s from a little bit of everywhere, bound not by cuisine but an ethos: to rescue off-cuts from restaurants and not-perfect fruits and vegetables from markets.
Menu Items:
- Unripe: Oyster, mango kombucha aged in bees’ wax, Some ferments & preserves, Chinese donuts, mustard brassica dip, nutmeg
- Ripe: Kimcar fried rice, pickled bok choy, salmon trim “hae bee hiam”, Charred & chilled green beans, okara sambal, salted onions, Lard grilled trout, fermented spring onion, rhubarb salsa, g. wax
- Very Ripe: Chef Mic’s raspberry koji & pandan kuih, Brioche miso ice cream, poached banana, cacao husk & walnut
- For Later: Orange kosho jar, Bread miso jar
Location: 198 Little Collins St
Melbourne VIC 3000
Contact: +03 9972 7015
Website: Website Link Here
#3 – Red Sparrow Pizza
Introduction: Red Sparrow Pizza is a popular pizzeria located in Melbourne, Australia. The pizzeria was founded by Michael Craig and Jamie McBride, who wanted to provide a vegan-friendly pizza option that didn’t compromise on taste. They opened their first location in Collingwood, Melbourne, in 2016.
Menu Items:
- Margherita: A classic pizza with tomato sauce, vegan mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- Funghi: A pizza topped with a medley of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, thyme, vegan mozzarella, and truffle oil.
- Potato and Rosemary: A unique combination of thinly sliced potato, rosemary, garlic, vegan mozzarella, and olive oil.
- BBQ Jackfruit: Featuring tangy BBQ jackfruit, red onion, pickles, vegan mozzarella, and BBQ sauce.
Location: 406 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia
Contact: +61 3 9417 5500
Website: Website Link Here
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Read Also:
Top 10 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Singapore
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#4 – Maha
Introduction: Maha is a renowned restaurant located in Melbourne. It was established by chef and restaurateur Shane Delia in 2008. Maha has gained a reputation for its innovative approach to Middle Eastern flavors and its elegant dining experience.
The restaurant combines traditional Middle Eastern cooking techniques with contemporary flair, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and exciting. Maha’s menu features a range of shareable plates and larger mains, showcasing the vibrant and diverse flavors of the region.
Maha’s menu is known for its attention to detail, use of quality ingredients, and the incorporation of unique Middle Eastern spices and flavors. The restaurant offers a refined dining atmosphere with warm and welcoming service, making it a popular choice for special occasions and fine dining experiences.
Menu Items:
- Spiced lamb shoulder with harissa, pomegranate, and couscous
- Middle Eastern spiced duck breast with quince, labneh, and dukkah
- Smoked hummus with pickled vegetables and flatbread
- Black garlic and feta falafel with beetroot tahini and cucumber relish
- Persian love cake with saffron, rosewater, and pistachio
Location:21 Bond St, Melbourne, VIC, Australia, Victoria
Contact: +61 3 9629 5900
Website: Website Link Here
#5 – Gong De Lin
Introduction: This place is so popular that it’s actually one of the 10 most ordered from spots in all of Museum. You might be wondering what’s popular here. Of the 70 things on the menu, the Sweet And Sour Vegetarian Pork is one of the most popular and the Rice and the Sweet And Sour Vegetarian.
Menu Items:
- Soup: Sweet corn soup, Hot and sour soup, Jade biddha temple longevity soup
- Main course: Sweet and sour vegetarian pork, Mixed Fungi in Szechuan sauce, Kung bao vegetarian chicken
- Rice: Spicy bean curd on rice, Vegetarian shredded pork in Szechuan style on rice, Fried rice cake with Chinese cabbage
- Dessert: Elight treasure sweet rice pudding, Pan-fried red bean paste pancake, Deep fired sweet pumpkin cake
Location: 3/264 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Contact: +61 3 9663 7878
Website: Website Link Here
3/264 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
#6 – Shimbashi Soba
Introduction:Shimbashi Soba is a well-known Japanese restaurant located in Melbourne, Australia. It specializes in serving traditional Japanese soba noodles and other authentic Japanese dishes. Shimbashi Soba aims to provide an authentic dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
Menu Items:
- Bento: Karaage chicken bento + miso soup, Teriyaki salmon Bento + miso soup, Teriyaki tofu bento + miso soup
- Tapas: Edamame, Agedashi Tofu, Nasu Dengaku, Vegan Gyoza, Salmon Sashimi, Vegan Miced Tempura
- Chilled Soba: Vegan seiro, Vegan spicy tan-tan salad soba, Spicy salmon salad soba
- Warm Soba: Kake soba, Vegan kake soba, Vegan tororo mushroom soba, chicken soba, Red dragon soba
- Sushi & Sashimi: Salmon sashimi, vegan sushi roll, spicy seared salmon sushi roll
- Desserts: Roasted Japanese tea ice cream, Matcha vegan ice cream
Location: 140 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia
Contact: +61 3 9193 9097
Website: Website Link Here
#7 – Transformer Fitzroy
Introduction: Transformer Fitzroy is a popular vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia. It offers a unique dining experience with a focus on plant-based and sustainable cuisine. Transformer Fitzroy is known for its creative and innovative menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients and diverse flavors.
The restaurant’s menu features a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, often inspired by different cuisines from around the world.
Menu Items:
- Snack: Popcorn, shichimi togarashi, salt and vinegar, Marinated mount zero olives, persian fetta, Pickled baby beets, pinenuts and piqiillo pepper
- Charred broccoli with almond cream, chili, and lemon, Spiced cauliflower fritters with harissa yogurt and pickled vegetables
- Miso-glazed eggplant with sesame, coriander, and crispy shallots, Sweet potato gnocchi with mushroom ragu, kale, and hazelnut, Roast pumpkin and quinoa salad with tahini dressing, spinach, and pomegranate
- Dessert: Coconut & cardamom panna cotta, saffron poached peaches white miso, macadamia, brik pastry
Location:
99 ROSE STREET
FITZROY, MELBOURNE
Contact: +61 3 9419 2022
Website: Website Link Here
#8 – Matcha Mylkbar
Introduction: While 2015 saw matcha green tea powder catapult onto the health food scene, 2016 has bigger and brighter (green) things on the horizon. It gained popularity for its unique plant-based menu and its creative use of matcha, a powdered green tea known for its health benefits and vibrant color.
Matcha Mylkbar specializes in offering a wide range of vegan and vegetarian dishes that are both visually appealing and delicious. The menu incorporates matcha into various dishes, creating a distinctive flavor profile
Menu Items:
- Matcha Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes infused with matcha and topped with a variety of toppings such as fresh fruits, coconut yogurt, and maple syrup.
- Matcha Burger: A plant-based burger patty topped with matcha-infused vegan cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo, served on a bun.
- Matcha Hotcakes: Light and fluffy hotcakes made with matcha and served with a selection of toppings such as vegan ice cream, caramel sauce, and crushed nuts.
- Matcha Latte: A popular drink made with matcha powder and plant-based milk, offering a rich and earthy flavor.
- Specials: Apple pie porridge, Choc Mousse, Breaky Burger
Location: 72A Acland St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
Contact: +61 3 9534 1111
Website: Website Link Here
#9 – Vegie Bar
Introduction: Vegie Bar is a well-established vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia. It has been serving delicious plant-based food since its opening in 1998. Vegie Bar features a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by various cuisines from around the world.
Vegie Bar is known for its casual and welcoming atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options available. It has become a popular spot for vegetarians, vegans, and those looking for tasty and healthy plant-based options.
Menu Items:
- Buddha Bowl: A nourishing bowl packed with a variety of grains, roasted vegetables, greens, and a choice of protein like tofu, tempeh, or falafel.
- Vegan Pizza: A selection of vegan pizzas with creative toppings such as vegan cheese, roasted vegetables, plant-based meat substitutes, and flavorful sauces.
- Lentil Burger: A hearty burger made with a lentil-based patty, served with salad, vegan cheese, and a side of sweet potato fries.
- Raw Zucchini Pasta: A refreshing and healthy option featuring zucchini noodles tossed in a raw tomato or pesto sauce, topped with nuts, seeds, and fresh herbs.
- Vegan Nachos: A crowd-pleasing favorite, loaded with corn chips, vegan cheese, black beans, guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream.
- Fresh juices, smoothies, and desserts, including vegan cakes and raw treats.
Location: 380 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia, Victoria
Contact: +61 3 9417 6935
Website: Website Link Here
#10 – The Cornish Arms Hotel
Introduction: The Cornish Arms Hotel is a well-known establishment located in Brunswick, Melbourne, Australia. This cracking pub and rooftop bar is the perfect place to catch up with your vegan & non-vegan friends. The Cornish Arms Hotel and Rooftop Bar has a creative and extensive range of vegan dishes alongside their equally impressive main menu, ensuring that dietary preference is no barrier to good food and a night out with friends.
Menu Items:
- Vegan Parma: A vegan twist on the classic Chicken Parmigiana, featuring a breaded and baked vegan schnitzel topped with tomato sauce, vegan cheese, and served with a side of chips and salad.
- Vegetarian Burger: A hearty burger made with a vegetarian patty or plant-based protein, served with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a range of condiments, accompanied by chips or sweet potato fries.
- Vegan Fish and Chips: A vegan version of the traditional British dish, typically made with battered and fried plant-based protein or mock fish, served with chips and vegan tartar sauce.
- Vegan Curry: A flavorful curry made with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices, served with rice or naan bread.
- Vegetarian Nachos: A delicious plate of corn chips topped with vegetarian chili, melted cheese, guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream.
Location: 163A Sydney Rd, Brunswick, VIC, Australia, Victoria
Contact: +61 3 9380 8383
Website: Website Link Here
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re a foodie who loves exploring new tastes and cares about what goes on your plate, Melbourne’s green scene is a dream come true. These 10 must-try plant-based restaurants are just the tip of the iceberg. With a city that’s so open to culinary experimentation, you’ll never be disappointed. So, get ready to embark on a food adventure that’ll have you craving veggies like never before!
FAQ FOR MELBOURNE’S GREEN SCENE: 10 MUST-TRY PLANT-BASED RESTAURANTS
- Q: Are these plant-based restaurants in Melbourne suitable for vegans and vegetarians? A: Yes, these must-try plant-based restaurants in Melbourne offer delicious options for both vegans and vegetarians, promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
- Q: How can I book a reservation at these Melbourne plant-based restaurants? A: Many of the listed restaurants accept online bookings. You can find contact details and reservation options on their respective websites or through popular reservation platforms.
- Q: Are there any plant-based dining options that cater to specific dietary requirements? A: Most of the top plant-based restaurants in Melbourne offer menu options that cater to various dietary needs such as gluten-free, nut-free, or soy-free choices.
- Q: What are the price ranges for dining at these must-try plant-based restaurants in Melbourne? A: The price ranges vary among the restaurants, offering options for both budget-friendly meals and upscale dining experiences, reflecting the diverse Melbourne green scene.
- Q: Can I find similar plant-based dining experiences in Singapore? A: Yes, Singapore also boasts an impressive selection of plant-based restaurants. Check our guide to Singapore’s plant-based dining scene for local options.
- Q: How are Melbourne’s plant-based restaurants contributing to sustainability? A: Melbourne’s must-try plant-based restaurants prioritize sustainability by sourcing local and organic ingredients, minimizing waste, and promoting ethical food practices.
Have a Place to Recommend?
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