No matter where you fall on the dietary scale from vego fanatic to vegan fiend, finding food to satisfy and excite those with dietary requirements can be a real task. Lucky enough for you Melbourne vegan, vegetarian or just hungry friends, we’ve gotten the best spots from local up and comer King IV. When she’s not carving out a niche of futuristic R&B sonic wonders, the Melbournian producer is chowing down at these tasty haunts, one meat free mouthful at a time.
#1 Vegie Bar, Fitzroy
One of the most famous vegetarian destinations in Melbourne, but for good reason. I have been here countless times and am determined to try everything on the menu. It is ALWAYS busy here, so you either need to come early or be prepared to spend time soaking up the Brunswick Street atmosphere. My go-to is the spiced lentil & walnut burger, but if you’re on a budget the roti wrap is still a home-run.
#2 Little Africa, North Melbourne
Not exclusively vegetarian, but very accommodating to non meat-eaters and cost-minded people. I think African food is the under-dog of Melbourne cuisines and is well worth discovering. This place is BYO which is always handy and if you bring a friend you can enjoy an epic vegetarian combination platter for literally $35.
#3 Smith and Daughters, Fitzroy
They’re only open on weekends for breakfast, which is my favourite time to go. Don’t expect any of your traditional breakfast options, Smith & Daughters are all about highlighting the true essence of vegan eating with inventiveness and full-flavour. The vegan Mac & Cheese is a must.
#4 Sister of Soul, St Kilda
Vegetarians and vegans are pretty spoilt for choice in the north, but for south-siders, ‘Sister of Soul’ has you totally covered. This place is always worth the trek for me, with dishes like teriyaki tofu skewers and deep-fried eggplant, it’s cutting-edge for vego eateries in Melbourne.
#5 Very Good Falafel, Brunswick
Very Good Falafel is a special one for me, it has a such a beautiful homely atmosphere and I enjoy being there as much as I enjoy the food. Again not exclusively vegetarian, but if you’re a true falafel fan you cannot beat these dynamites. Made with home-grown chickpeas and drenched in a ridiculous tahini sauce – there are no gimmicks and they get it right every time.
Image source: Broadsheet, A Spoonful Of Wanderlust, Pieces of Victoria.