Insta-Famous Toastie Shop

Brighten up your lunch with trendy Korean snacks at Rainbow Toastie. Known for their vibrant, colorful treats, their K-style toasties are a must-try. Choose from options like yabby tail, BBQ beef, spicy chicken, or other cheese-filled flavors. Each one is served between two thick slices of toast with scrambled egg. Feeling extra hungry? Opt for the version with ultra-thick egg. Pair it with an iced dalgona coffee for a perfect meal.

Melbourne’s First Gilgeori Toast

Palette offers Korean-style sandwiches in a light, minimalist setting in North Melbourne. This café blends local and Korean aesthetics and was among the first in Melbourne to serve the iconic street toast, sparking a local trend. The toast starts with buttery brioche, a fluffy omelette, and a hash brown. Customize it with toppings of your choice, but don’t miss the candied bacon. Enjoy it with Seoul’s favorite drink, an iced americano, or a pastel-colored soda.

Breakfast K-Sandwiches

The K-sandwiches at this small hidden cafe are incredibly popular and often sell out by midday. Three Drops Coffee crafts their bestselling sandwiches with fluffy eggs, cheese, and generous amounts of tasty sauce inside soft, pillowy bread. They offer a classic ham and cheese, a vegetarian option, and even a sweet sandwich. Order yours with guacamole and a coffee for breakfast, or preorder for lunch to ensure you don’t miss out. They also serve an excellent bulgogi baguette made with a traditional family recipe and the chef’s secret sauce.

Mexican Feast at Bodega Underground – $48 per Person

Enjoy a delicious pre-show meal at Bodega Underground featuring spicy Mexican cuisine. For just $48 per person, indulge in a set menu of six dishes plus dessert. Start with guava mimosas upon arrival. Whether you choose the regular or vegan option, everyone gets to enjoy scrumptious churros, and everything is gluten-free. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot.

Pre-Theatre Dining by the Yarra at La Camera – $50 per Person

Experience the perfect pre-theatre meal at La Camera in Southbank. For $50 per person, you can dine while overlooking the river, enjoying an Italian set menu. Begin with your choice of entree, followed by a main course ranging from spaghetti bolognese to cheesy pizza. The options are plentiful and satisfying.

Quick Bites at Robata, $55 per Person

Enjoy the quick bites menu under the neon lights at Robata. Designed for a swift dining experience, this express menu ensures you are satisfied and ready to go within an hour. For just $55 per person, indulge in a variety of sushi and yakitori, accompanied by a complimentary Asahi super-dry or a wine of your choice.

Express Banquet at The George on Collins, $55 per Person

Planning to catch a show but still want to savor a full banquet? The George offers a $55 pre-theatre banquet menu featuring the restaurant’s finest dishes. Exclusively available to ticket holders, this menu includes five dishes such as braised lamb ribs and green chicken curry. For those with a bigger appetite, you can add a serving of crispy pork belly.

Tipo 00

Tipo 00, named after the finely ground flour used to make pizza and pasta, is owned by chef Andreas Papadakis – last seen in the kitchen at Vue de Monde – as well as head chef Alberto Fava (ex-Merchant) and Luke Skidmore. Papadakis cooks with the same ingredients and techniques acquired from his time in fine diners, but takes an unfussy approach with clean, simple elements here.

Location: 361 Little Bourke Street Melbourne 3000

Website: tipo00.com.au

Mamasita

Designer Sarah Townson of Anthology has warmed up the exposed-brick interior with fresh moss, antique mirrors, gothic chandeliers and burgundy banquettes, which line the wall opposite the bar. It’s stocked with all the makings of a classic Parisian cocktail spot (think dirty Martinis and French 75s) and an extensive selection of French and local wine.

Location: Level 1 11 Collins Street Melbourne 3000

Phone: (03) 9650 3821

Website: mamasita.com.au