Whether you’re in the mood for a speedy snack, a plate of dumplings, or an all-you-can-eat feast, these delicious budget-friendly eats will keep both your cravings and wallet happy.
Ta-ke Don

Need a quick bite between classes or before hopping on a train? Swing by Ta-ke Don, a new grab-and-go spot serving up hearty rice bowls for just $10. Choose from tasty options like chicken katsu or tempura prawns, and for those who like it hot, don’t skip the Thai chilli and basil sauce for an extra burst of flavour.
Bali Hai

Say goodbye to boring lunches and hello to delicious deals! Bali Hai, Melbourne’s fresh new Asian fusion hotspot, is serving up a $20 booze and bao special every Thursday and Friday. Swing by between 12pm and 2pm, sip on your choice of cocktail, and sink your teeth into juicy chicken or duck bao buns.
Kajiken

Japan’s cult-fave noodle joint Kajiken has landed in Melbourne, and it’s a must-visit for ramen lovers. Their signature aburasoba (that’s soupless ramen!) is just $17.80 and comes fully loaded with pork chashu, bamboo shoots, green onions and nori. Round out your meal with budget-friendly bites like $9 takoyaki or crispy pork gyoza.
Thai Social

Craving authentic Thai flavours on a budget? Thai Social’s got you covered. Tucked inside Emporium and decked out with vibrant hawker-style vibes, this spot dishes up all the classics like pad thai and pad see ew. But the real hero? Their weekday noodle soup special — get your choice of steaming noodle bowls, from dry egg noodles to tender braised beef soup, all for just $13.90.
Brim CC

Just a stone’s throw from Southern Cross Station, Brim CC is your go-to for a hearty, wallet-friendly Japanese lunch. Their donburi bowls start at $13.90, with options like curry tofu or veggie tempura. After something saucy? Go for the chicken don topped with their signature teriyaki glaze. You’ll also find value-packed bites like 20-piece veggie gyoza for $16.80 and steaming bowls of ramen starting at $15.80.
Kantin

At the city end of Lygon Street, Kantin brings the heat with a laid-back take on Indonesian favourites. Dive into crowd-pleasers like mie goreng or nasi goreng for $16.50. Or save a buck and opt for their sate ayam manis — tender skewers of sweet chicken satay served with a rich, nutty peanut sauce.
Cafe Tesorina

When in doubt, sandwich it out. Tucked away in the leafy streets of Parkville, Cafe Tesorina serves up fresh sangas daily. Grab a ciabatta stuffed with prosciutto, marinated feta, and rocket for a gourmet bite. On a budget? The $13 ‘big cheese’ toastie hits the spot with a molten mix of mozzarella and Swiss on warm sourdough.