12 Places Found
The Village Bakery
The Village Bakery Brunswick West: A Quiet but Genuinely Rewarding Bakery Experience in Melbourne Melbourne never runs out of breakfast spots. 😊 This time I am in Brunswick West, and I finally had the chance to visit The Village Bakery the right way — on a quiet weekday. My first visit had landed on a weekend. The place was so busy that I struggled to order, could not find a seat, and barely managed to take any photos. Near the entrance, a notice board warns customers to wait outside for coffee and to keep groups to a maximum of six people. If you see those signs, do not be surprised — this place gets seriously crowded, especially on weekends. So this time I came on a weekday. Good decision. ## You Taste It Better When It Is Quiet There is a real difference in the experience when the place is calm. The croissants and tarts, the buttery layers inside them — you actually notice all of it when you are not rushing or squeezing past people. The buttery finish that lingers on your palate is genuinely impressive. It was a cold day when we visited, and the fact that the butter stayed soft and smooth rather than cold and heavy was a nice little detail. The coffee is equally good. After each sip, the aroma stays with you in exactly the right way. On a quiet day, both the food and drinks felt carefully prepared — unhurried and precise. ## What We Ordered I usually lean towards savoury at breakfast, but on this visit the chocolate croissant genuinely beat everything else. The filling was perfectly runny, and the outer layer had a crunch that made it a memorable experience on its own. Whether it reaches the same standard on a busy day, I cannot say — but on this visit, it was excellent. Here is what we ordered: - 1 chocolate croissant - 1 mushroom Quiche *(Quiche is a French-style savoury tart)* - 1 flat white - 1 cappuccino Total: **$30.23 AUD** — not cheap, not expensive. Considering the quality and the experience, I think it is fair value. ## What Else Is on the Menu The selection here is genuinely impressive. Some of the things that caught my eye: Portuguese tart, cupcakes, croissant sandwich, doughnuts, pizza, pie, cake, börek and various breads. Free drinking water is also available, which is a small but appreciated touch. Fair warning: if you do not plan some extra exercise after visiting, you might leave a kilo or two heavier. 😊 ## The Venue and Practical Notes The staff are friendly and attentive. The tables are not crammed together, so the person next to you is not in your space — always a good sign. When we visited, the weather was cool with a breeze — classic Melbourne, warm in the sun but cold the moment you step into the shade. We did not manage to sit outside this time, but on a nice day the outdoor seating looks like a lovely option. That is something I would like to try on my next visit. There is no dedicated parking for the venue, but street parking is available in the side streets nearby. The Coles supermarket across the road also has a car park that can be used, so parking is not really an issue. No official website. Instagram: **@the_village_bakery** ## Final Thoughts The Village Bakery is absolutely worth visiting — but get the timing right. If you come during peak hours or on a busy weekend, the experience might not reflect what this place is really capable of, and you could leave with the wrong impression. Come on a quiet weekday for your first visit, and you will understand why this bakery has earned such a loyal following in Melbourne's north-west. Have you been to The Village Bakery or do you have a favourite spot in Brunswick West? Feel free to share on Instagram and tag us.
Pizzicotto Pizzeria
There is hardly a day when I do not feel like trying another Italian pizzeria in Melbourne. For me, if a place is truly confident with Italian pizza, then the pasta should also be just as impressive. At Pizzicotto, I tried both — and honestly, both were excellent. As soon as you walk in, the smell coming from the large woodfired oven makes an impression straight away. Even before you sit down, you feel like you have come to the right place. I am not usually someone who goes for too many toppings or overly mixed flavours on pizza. But the eggplant pizza I tried here easily became one of my favourites. They also have a potato and meat pizza — I was a little biased against the idea of potato on pizza at first, but the potato made it a genuinely different and interesting experience, even if the meat felt slightly heavy for me personally. But if you ask me what my absolute favourite was, I would definitely say the pasta made with meat broth. I have shared a photo of it so you can see it for yourself, and the flavour was truly incredible. It was the dish that impressed me the most at this place, and I would not hesitate to order it again. I also believe the ingredients they use are high quality, and that is probably one of the reasons why everything tastes so good. Dessert should also be part of the experience if you are having Italian pizza and pasta here. I did try one, but we finished it so quickly that I did not even get the chance to take a photo — which I think says it all. As for pricing, I have included a photo of the menu in this post so you can get an idea of what to expect. The venue itself has both indoor seating and a semi-open area, so it does not feel stuffy or overwhelming. It is a comfortable place to sit and enjoy a meal, and I think it is even more enjoyable if you go with a group — when everyone orders something different, you get the chance to share and try several flavours, which is always a bonus. The noise level can get a little higher when the place is full, but not to a point where it bothered me or made it hard to talk with friends at the table. One time, we went there for a friend's birthday dinner. The staff brought out the cake we had brought with us while singing Happy Birthday, and then several other customers joined in as well. It turned into such a sweet and memorable moment that still makes us smile when we think about it. The owner and staff are genuinely warm, friendly, and attentive — and for me, that is a very important detail when deciding whether I would return to a place. There is a certain warmth that Mediterranean hospitality brings, and you can feel it here. What also stood out to me was how kind they were not only to dine-in guests, but also to people picking up takeaway orders and Uber Eats drivers. Even the way they greet people at the door creates a very positive feeling. One thing I should definitely mention before you plan your visit: trying this place in the evening without a booking might end in disappointment. I have experienced it three or four times, and it is always very busy at night. I personally go with a reservation every time, so if you are planning dinner here, booking in advance is really the way to go. You can book through the website, though personally I still think calling might be the better option. There is one more thing I cannot leave out. I tried the cheapest red wine on the menu and enjoyed it so much that I noted down the name and bought it later from a shop. When I tried it again at home, it was still nice — but it was not nearly as enjoyable as it was at the restaurant. That does not mean the wine was bad at all. I just think ambience can really change how a flavour feels. For those coming by car, there is no dedicated parking area. However, there are plenty of street parking spots around the venue, which I think is a big plus. If you live nearby, takeaway is also available. Pizzicotto is also a comfortable and family-friendly place to visit — there are enough options for children, and the space works well for families. In short, if you are thinking about dinner around Strathmore and feel like having pizza or pasta, Pizzicotto is absolutely worth trying. With its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and friendly team, it is one of those places I would happily go back to. Instagram: @pizzicotto.strathmore Website: https://www.pizzicotto.com.au/
Forget Me Not Eatery
Today's review takes us to Forget Me Not, a lovely spot on Mickleham Road in Melbourne's north. To be honest, I do not think this place gets the attention it deserves beyond its local crowd. Locals clearly know about it and enjoy it, but I feel Forget Me Not deserves to be discovered by more people across Melbourne's north. It is one of those places that offers much more than a quick meal — the menu is generous, the kitchen is strong, and the atmosphere makes you want to stay a little longer. I have been here more than once, and I went back again especially to add it to Eatmap. ## A Sunday Breakfast That Turned Into Pizza We have a small tennis group of four people on Sunday mornings. After tennis, we decided to go to Forget Me Not for breakfast. Our plan was only to eat breakfast, but once we saw the menu and noticed the wood fired oven was going, we ended up ordering a pizza as well. When I see a wood fired oven in action, I find it hard to say no. The pizzas were cooked exactly the way you would hope. The base was nicely crisp, the edges were well-charred, and the flavour was really enjoyable — you can see this in the photos. There are more than 10 pizza options on the menu, priced around $20 to $26. They are also quite generous in size; one pizza would easily be enough for one person. Because we were there for breakfast, we ordered it more as something to share. ## The Breakfast: Getting the Eggs Right For me, one of the most important parts of any breakfast is how the eggs are cooked. Not undercooked, not overcooked — that balance where you get no raw taste but the egg still has some life in it. At Forget Me Not, they got it right. Honestly, that alone is enough reason for me to come back after tennis. The rest of the plate felt fresh too. I especially liked the mushrooms. Maybe I was very hungry after the game, but I genuinely enjoyed every part of it. They also have toastie options, vegetarian choices, and a kids' menu — so there is something for most people at the table. And if you add a coffee on top, it is a very nice way to start the day. ## The Nursery Setting: What Makes This Place Different One of the most distinctive things about Forget Me Not is that it sits within a nursery. As soon as you arrive and see the greenery near the car park, the place already feels calmer. This part of Melbourne has its open spaces, but it is not quite like Eltham where trees surround you everywhere. The nursery atmosphere adds something genuinely peaceful to the experience. Before or after your meal, you can walk around, look at the plants, and even buy flowers or trees if you like. Easy parking is another big practical plus. ## Evenings, Live Music and Events In the evenings, Forget Me Not shifts more into restaurant mode. On some nights, they also have live music and DJ performances. I have not experienced this side of it myself yet, but I think the area genuinely needs a place like this. A restaurant with live music in this location adds something special to Melbourne's north. They also seem to cater for special occasions — Mother's Day, birthdays, and other celebrations. So it is not only a breakfast or lunch destination, but somewhere that could work for a more organised gathering. ## One Minor Negative My only negative comment is about the toilets. To use them, you need to leave the main dining area and walk towards the nursery side — they feel a little separate from the venue. There was some renovation happening when I visited, though I was not sure whether that was related. When the food and atmosphere are this good, it is a small thing, but worth mentioning. ## Final Thoughts Overall, Forget Me Not is definitely worth trying. It is especially great for a weekend breakfast when the weather is nice, and if you get the chance, a dinner night with live music could be worth experiencing too. Because they do get busy on weekends — particularly outdoors when the weather cooperates — I would suggest making a booking if you are planning a weekend visit. Places with good food, friendly staff and a genuine atmosphere are worth supporting. The more we support places like this, the more enjoyable the food options become in our local areas. Have you been to Forget Me Not on Mickleham Road? Or do you have another favourite spot in Melbourne's north? Feel free to share on Instagram and tag us.
Costco Food Court
Today we are visiting something a little different, but a place that I personally enjoy a lot: the Costco Market Food Court. The main reason we are here is pizza. Since it is American-style pizza and also very affordable, it makes the experience even more enjoyable. Costco is actually a large warehouse-style retail store. However, what stands out for me is the food court section, which offers genuinely tasty food options. The pizzas are particularly impressive because they are made with good-quality ingredients and generous toppings, which makes them both filling and flavourful. There is one important detail to keep in mind. To use the Costco Food Court, you need to have a Costco membership. The annual membership fee was most recently 65 AUD. It may be possible to obtain a visitor pass for the day, but I cannot say that with certainty because I have a yearly membership. At the entrance you need to scan your membership card. If you cannot scan your card, you cannot enter the store. Inside the warehouse, you can also purchase various products in bulk at competitive prices. I will not go too deeply into the market section, but it is worth mentioning that it is quite easy to spend more money than expected while browsing the store. Costco Pizza Prices and Options When it comes to pizza, I noticed that there are three different pizza varieties available. I only tried one of them, but I was very satisfied with it. A slice of pizza costs $2.99 A whole pizza costs $15.99 Personally, I can usually eat a maximum of two slices. Costco pizzas are genuinely large, so it seems quite difficult for one person to finish an entire pizza alone. One day I would like to try ordering a whole pizza just to see how many slices I can eat, but I would definitely need to be very hungry for that. The three pizza varieties available at the Costco Food Court are: Pepperoni Cheese BBQ Meat My choice was the Cheese Pizza, and I enjoyed it so much that I did not feel the need to try the other varieties. It is definitely a flavour that deserves a chance. Other Food Options at Costco Food Court Although pizza was my main focus, there are other menu options available as well. One example is Chicken Tenders with Fries, which is definitely worth trying. In fact, I would say that it tastes even better than some well-known franchise chicken restaurants. I am not exaggerating; it is genuinely very good. I cannot comment in detail on how filling it is, because even though I have visited Costco several times, I usually choose pizza. I only ordered the chicken tenders once to try them by sharing the portion. However, for people who enjoy chicken, it is certainly a menu item worth trying. The price is $8.99 for three chicken tenders served with fries, which is quite reasonable considering the taste and portion. Another option available at the Costco Food Court is the hot dog. I personally do not enjoy hot dogs very much, so I only tried it once. However, I noticed that many people around me were ordering it, which suggests that it is quite popular. The price for the hot dog is $1.99. I have already shared the full price list in the photos. Costco Food Court Drink Options One of the best advantages of the Costco Food Court is the drink system. The drink selection is quite satisfying, but the most important feature is that you can refill your drink multiple times. When you order a drink with your meal, you receive an empty cup. You can then fill the cup with any drink you like and refill it as many times as you want. The price of the drink is $0.99, which makes it a very affordable option. Seating and Busy Hours There is another point worth mentioning. Because the prices are very good and the food is prepared with quality ingredients, the seating area can often be quite busy. This can sometimes make it difficult to find a place to sit. However, if you visit outside of peak hours, you can easily enjoy your meal in a comfortable and relaxed way. Does Costco Food Court Offer Delivery? You might wonder whether Costco Food Court offers food delivery. Currently, there is no takeaway delivery service available. If you want to try this food, you need to visit a Costco warehouse store in person. Final Thoughts In my opinion, the Costco Food Court is definitely worth trying. If you ever visit a Costco store and have never tried the food court before, you should at least try one slice of pizza. If you have already visited the Costco Food Court, feel free to share your experiences in the comments.
Pehlivan Turkish Street Food
Pehlivan Turkish Street Food, Hadfield: Real Charcoal-Grilled Turkish Kebap in Melbourne's North As someone who has been living in Melbourne for more than five years, I only discovered Pehlivan Turkish Street Food this week — through a friend's recommendation. After my visit, I wanted to share the experience on EatMap straight away. Do not let the words "street food" in the name make you think this is just a small takeaway spot. Pehlivan Turkish Street Food is a cosy, sit-down Turkish restaurant with its own indoor seating area and a warm, authentic feel. The restaurant is 100% halal. There is also an important distinction worth making. In Melbourne, many places use the word "kebab" to mean döner. But this is not a döner shop. Pehlivan Turkish Street Food serves proper Turkish kebap cooked over charcoal. As you can see in the photos, there is a small charcoal grill inside the restaurant. The number of tables is limited, so if you are planning to visit, I would strongly recommend making a booking. We made a last-minute decision and had to sit outside in the cold because the inside was completely full. They do bring heaters to the outdoor tables, which is a nice touch. But if you are sitting a little far from the heater, you can still feel the cold. Especially during winter, sitting inside would make the experience much more enjoyable. ## What Is on the Menu? The menu has plenty of options: lamb shish kebap, Adana kebap, chicken shish kebap, falafel kebap, lahmacun and gözleme, along with a good selection of meze dips and sides. We visited as a group of 4 adults and 2 children and ordered 2 Platter to Share meals, priced at **$55 per person** on the menu. The Platter to Share included: Lamb shish, chicken shish, Adana kebap, cutlets, chicken wings, four meze dips, tabouli salad, sumac onion salad, rice and warm Turkish bread. We also ordered çiğ köfte and chips on the side. Çiğ köfte is normally sold as a menu item, but the owner kindly offered it to us as a gesture, so we were not charged for it. To be honest, 2 platters were a lot for 4 adults and 2 children — especially with the extras. We could not finish everything. My suggestion: either go very hungry, or share the platter with people who can really eat. ## How Was the Meat? For me, the meat was easily the strongest part of this place. The lamb shish and chicken shish were cooked very well — properly done but still juicy, which made them tender and full of flavour. You could clearly taste that charcoal-grilled quality, and it made a real difference. Adana kebap is a slightly different topic for me personally. I have quite high expectations for Adana, and I will be honest — I have not yet found the exact version I am looking for anywhere in Melbourne. So this is not a criticism aimed specifically at Pehlivan. The Adana here was definitely not bad; it was generally good. It just did not fully match my personal benchmark. Still, when I look at the meal as a whole, I would come back for the meats without hesitation. My simple test for any place is this: "Would I want to eat this again?" For the meats at Pehlivan Turkish Street Food, the answer is a clear yes. ## Meze, Salad and Sides The sumac onion salad that came with the platter was genuinely enjoyable. I can honestly say I would eat that again on its own. The tabouli salad was a little different from what I have had elsewhere — less bulgur, more greens. If I set aside the classic version in my head, it was actually quite nice. But it was noticeably different from the standard. For the meze dips, we were served cacık, hummus, carrot dip and a capsicum-style dip. The hummus was the highlight — my friend pointed out it did not taste like a ready-made product, and I agree. The other dips were fine, but none of them left a strong impression. To be completely honest, I would not tell someone to visit Pehlivan specifically for the meze. The dips were decent, but the meats are the real reason to come. ## Service, Atmosphere and Parking The staff were friendly and welcoming throughout. Small details like bringing the heater outside matter, and the team here got those right. There is both indoor and outdoor seating. The indoor area is small but feels authentic and cosy — almost like a family-run local in Turkey. Even with the charcoal grill going, the restaurant did not feel smoky at all. The ventilation worked well and there was no unpleasant smell inside. I cannot comment much on the noise level since we sat outside, but when I stepped inside briefly it did not seem overly loud. It felt like somewhere you could sit and have a proper conversation. Parking is straightforward — street parking on Middle Street is generally available without too much trouble. ## How Were the Prices? I will share the menu photo so you can check current prices directly. For our group, we ordered 2 Platter to Share meals, 3 bottles of water, chips and çiğ köfte — the çiğ köfte was kindly offered by the restaurant and not added to the bill. In total, we paid **$240**. For 4 adults and 2 children, and considering we could not finish all the food, I think the price was reasonable. Compared with similar places in Melbourne, the quality and portion sizes made it feel fair. My only real criticism is about the water. There was no tap water available; bottled water was sold separately. I do not think that should be standard practice for a sit-down restaurant. That said, the food quality makes it easy to overlook. One last note: when a place has "street food" in its name, people naturally expect it to be a bit more affordable. But Pehlivan is not a street food stall in the classic sense — it is a small sit-down restaurant. The name feels more like a branding choice than a reflection of the price point. ## Final Thoughts Pehlivan Turkish Street Food is one of the places worth visiting if you are looking for real charcoal-grilled Turkish kebap in Melbourne's north. Come for the meat. The lamb shish and chicken shish were genuinely good — well-cooked, juicy and full of that charcoal flavour. The meze was generally fine, but the meat is the clear star of the meal. Make a booking before you go, and if you can, grab a table inside — especially in winter. We managed fine outdoors with the heater, but I would be lying if I said I was not slightly stressed about the food getting cold. If you are in Melbourne and craving real Turkish kebap rather than döner, **Pehlivan Turkish Street Food** in Hadfield is worth adding to your list. I would go back, especially for the meats.
Kebabs on Bell
Today, when I went out to the Preston area for work, I managed to carve out a short window of time. When I have time, I am hungry, and I am around Preston, I cannot leave without having a lamb döner at Kebaps On Bell. Döner is very common in Melbourne and its surrounds. But you cannot just say “döner” and move on, because there are serious differences between venues. For me, the first big difference is this: some places make döner from minced meat, while others put on what they call “yaprak döner” (sliced, layered whole cuts of meat). That genuinely makes a big difference in flavour. Another key point is the cook level of the meat. This is one of the most critical details that determines how good a döner tastes. And of course, you cannot forget the bread. Even though döner is often made with pide bread, at Kebaps On Bell they use a different type of bread, and it is honestly a great choice. The range of fillings is also quite generous. This is a personal preference, but the freshness and variety of the ingredients is a real plus for döner lovers. One döner in bread will easily fill one person up. If you are not very hungry, it can even feel like a lot. At Kebaps On Bell, döner is not the only option. There is lamb and chicken döner, and you can also get mixed (lamb + chicken). Beyond döner, there are options like falafel and shish kebab. There are also alternatives such as lahmacun and soup, and I think they are absolutely worth trying for flavour. But for me, the parsley and cheese pide is one of the must-haves at this place. The butter spread on top adds another layer of flavour. One thing I should say upfront though: having both kebab and pide can be too much for one person to finish. I have already shared the options and the price list in the visuals, so you can check the details there. My personal view is that, for döner in Melbourne and the surrounding areas, Kebaps On Bell can sit among the top places. In terms of flavour, there is more than what I described, and nothing missing. The venue being small is a bit of a downside. Especially during the lunch break, it gets very busy, and sometimes I struggle to find a seat. But I also try to see the positive side: places that are heavily preferred usually pay more attention to their product and how they treat customers. Another drawback is that I did not see a toilet inside the venue. Yes, Kebaps On Bell is located within a small shopping centre, so the centre itself may have toilets. But I did not see a toilet that belongs to Kebaps On Bell. If I am wrong, please correct me in the comments. I had not been able to go out and have a proper döner for a long time, so finding the chance today genuinely felt good. I said the place is small, but even so it has a warm atmosphere. Most of the staff are friendly and attentive, and even with the crowd, that is a big positive for me. On one wall, there is the story of the venue, and you can also find that in the visuals. By the way, they actively use their Instagram account @kebabsonbell, so you can follow them there and have a closer look. Döner is the kind of food that creates a great flavour when many ingredients come together. And as someone who really loves döner, I keep trying different places based on recommendations from friends around me. When it comes to price: I cannot say the döner is cheap, and I cannot say it is expensive either. But when I think about the amount of filling and the flavour I got, I think the price sits at a good level. The meat portion is generous (and it is not minced meat), and the ingredient amount is also quite high, even a bit too much, to the point where it spills out the sides. I shared that in the visuals too. If your palate enjoys döner, give this place a go, and I would love to hear what you think. If you have better döner spots, write them in the comments. When I get the chance, I will try them and share my review. See you at the next places very soon.
Cucina 3064
Melbourne’s skyscrapers and coffee-scented laneways are great, but sometimes you just want to escape into nature a little. That is exactly where we are today: Cucina 3064, an Italian-spirited restaurant about 40–45 minutes from the CBD. I am not completely sure, but it seems the name comes from the 3064 postcode. Located inside Marnong Estate in Mickleham, within the wine cellar area, Cucina 3064 genuinely feels like a premium venue. I say “premium” because both the food and the interior design, inspired by Italian neighbourhood kitchens, promise an experience that feels “like family”. When you walk in, it can give off a fine-dining vibe at first. However, it is also the kind of place where families with kids and groups of friends can truly relax. With its views (especially on a nice day) and the warmth and friendliness of the staff, it easily wins people over. Timber details, a spacious layout, big windows, and dining with vineyard views outside create a truly unique setting for a relaxed, enjoyable time. It is also a big plus that it is open seven days a week. From Monday to Sunday, breakfast is served daily from 8.00 am to 11.00 am, and they also offer lunch and dinner every day of the week. I will review Marnong Estate in more detail in another post, but today is all about Italian food. As shared in the photo, I ordered Margherita pizza, Rigatoni (pasta), and Kids Chicken & Chips as mains. The pizzas arrived as if they had come straight from a proper wood-fired oven, with the crust and base cooked extremely well. The flavour of the sauce and cheese was also very good. For me, it was genuinely a great pizza experience. The pasta also stood out, especially because it seemed to be cooked in its own sauce, which made it even more appealing. After the meal, you should absolutely try the Marnong Misu dessert. They do it in their own signature way, and in my opinion it was a perfect 10. It did not have that eggy taste I sometimes notice at other venues, and it tasted fresh. And of course, if you are at Marnong Winery, you should try a red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes alongside your pizza. Another nice touch is the kids’ menu: it comes with character-themed drawing sheets for children, and they also serve it with colouring pencils, which I would definitely count as a bonus. There is one thing worth noting about the waitstaff: because they do not want to overwhelm customers, they do not hover too much for orders. However, if you make it clear you are ready, they come straight over to take your order. Some people might call this “uninterested”, but I honestly see it as a way of letting guests feel comfortable. I was very happy with the staff’s friendliness and attention. Cucina 3064 does not have its own Instagram account, but you can follow @marnongestate for updates. In short: if you are thinking, “I do not need to dress up too much today, but I want to eat well and enjoy a beautiful view,” then Cucina 3064 is exactly the place you are looking for. You will be satisfied by the scenery, the flavours, and the atmosphere. It is also a positive that there is no parking hassle, and the seating options are varied, with an indoor dining space, a bar area, and outdoor seating. When I visited, it was not very busy, so it was not noisy, but of course when it is full there may be a bit more sound and crowd energy. I also think it is the kind of venue where making a reservation is necessary, so I should mention that. With a setting that is perfect for anyone who loves taking photos, Cucina 3064 is also a great choice for birthdays and special occasions. And after your meal, stepping outside and soaking up the view is another kind of beauty on its own. Give it a chance, and you might find yourself thinking, “Why did I not know about this place earlier?” Because I know I want to go back soon to try their breakfast. Finally, one more important detail: it is wheelchair accessible, which is definitely worth noting.
Eau De Vie Melbourne Review: A Hidden Cocktail Bar in Melbourne City
Today I want to tell you about a place in Melbourne City that truly feels like a hidden gem: Eau De Vie Melbourne. If you are looking for a hidden cocktail bar in Melbourne City, this is one that definitely stands out. When I arrived at the door, I honestly did not expect the inside to be this impressive. To be very honest, the entrance is so simple that finding the place can be a little difficult. I did not notice a sign at the entrance, and if there is one, it definitely does not stand out. I will share a photo of the door because first-time visitors might easily say, “No way, this cannot be the door.” But yes, that really is the door to Eau De Vie 😊 Once you step inside, though, you might start asking yourself, “How is this place still considered hidden?” because it is actually quite busy. That alone says a lot about how popular the venue is. In my opinion, if you are thinking of visiting this Melbourne cocktail bar, especially in the evening, making a reservation is a very good idea. Going without a booking could be a little risky. Eau De Vie Melbourne is one of the standout cocktail bars in Melbourne City, and even though I would not say I am an expert when it comes to cocktails, the drinks I tried here were genuinely excellent. It was not just my own choices either — the cocktails my friends ordered were also very impressive in both flavour and presentation. In fact, I can comfortably say that some of the presentations go well beyond the usual cocktail style. You can see that clearly in the photos as well. For that reason, I think this is definitely a place worth considering if you are searching for unique cocktails in Melbourne or a bar with a more memorable atmosphere. The seating layout is also very well thought out. There is a bar area, but there are also larger tables available inside. On top of that, there are four-person seating sections where people sit facing each other, and these reminded me a little of train carriage-style booths. If you sit in one of those areas, you can enjoy your time with your own group without really needing to engage with the people around you. But if you prefer a more social atmosphere, the bar area or the larger shared tables would probably suit you better. So whether you want a quieter evening or something a little more lively, there is a good option here for both. Another thing I really liked was the approach of the staff. They ask what kind of flavours you enjoy and then recommend cocktails based on that. I think that is a big plus, especially for someone who is not very familiar with the menu. I honestly felt they were very good at what they do. It makes the whole experience feel a bit more personal and enjoyable. We came here after dinner just to have a few drinks, so I did not try the food. Because of that, I do not think it would be fair for me to comment too much on the food menu. Still, it does seem like the venue could also work for people who want something to eat or snack on alongside their drinks. As for the atmosphere, the place can get noisy because it is busy, but I did not find it overwhelming. You can still hear the person you are talking to, so I would still say it is suitable for a nice catch-up with friends. When it comes to price, I definitely would not call it cheap. At the same time, I would not say it is overly expensive either. Considering the cocktail presentation, the creativity behind the drinks, and the overall experience, I think the prices feel fair. It is the kind of place that works well for a special evening or when you feel like enjoying a quality cocktail experience in Melbourne City. Lately, whenever I get the chance, I have been trying to explore more bars and cocktail spots around Melbourne. Looking at it within that category, Eau De Vie Melbourne would very comfortably make it into my personal top five.
Mile End Bagels
We recently visited Mile End Bagels at Brunswick and it was such a satisfying experience. We ordered the brisket bagel, the avocado and chilli oil bagel, and an iced strawberry matcha. Honestly, the food was outstanding. The brisket bagel was rich, tender and packed with flavour. The meat was beautifully balanced with the other fillings. Every bite felt generous and comforting. The avocado and chilli oil bagel was just as impressive. Fresh, vibrant and full of texture, with that gentle chilli kick bringing everything together. It felt simple but done exceptionally well, which is often harder to achieve than it sounds. The iced strawberry matcha was delicious in flavour. The strawberry added a lovely sweetness that paired beautifully with the earthy matcha. The only small downside was that it was not quite cold enough. On a warmer day especially, it would be even better served properly chilled. That said, the taste itself was spot on. Overall, a fantastic visit. Great flavours, quality ingredients and bagels done right. Definitely a place we would happily return to when in Brunswick.
Grill'd Highpoint
Grill'd Highpoint: A Genuinely Satisfying Burger Experience in Melbourne When it comes to burgers in Australia, Grill'd is one of the first names that comes to mind. They position themselves as a "healthy burger" brand, and while you can decide for yourself what that means, what I can say with confidence is that their burgers are genuinely satisfying — and that matters more to me than the label. Grill'd has locations across multiple states, and I have had the chance to try several Victorian branches. But today I want to write specifically about Highpoint — one of my favourite Grill'd locations. ## Why Grill'd Highpoint Stands Out One of the biggest practical advantages of this branch is its location inside Highpoint Shopping Centre. Parking is almost never an issue, which is already a good start. Being inside a busy shopping centre also means the kitchen is constantly moving, and in my experience, that tends to mean fresher food coming out more consistently. The staff here are noticeably experienced. Tables are checked regularly, and the cleanliness of the venue is genuinely good — even during peak hours. These might sound like small things, but they make a real difference to the overall experience. ## Are Grill'd Burgers Actually Filling? Grill'd markets itself around the idea of healthier burgers, and that side of things you can judge for yourself. But what I keep coming back to is how filling their burgers actually are. A single burger here does the job properly — the patty size, bun choice and ingredients all work together to leave you satisfied without feeling heavy. My personal favourite is the **Wagyu Wunder**. If you are a meat lover and cannot decide what to order, this should be your first choice. It is genuinely different and one of the most flavourful burgers on the menu. I have also tried the **Chilli Addict** and **Mustard & Pickled** burgers across different visits and both are worth trying, especially if you enjoy bolder flavour combinations. ## Bun Options Are a Nice Touch One detail I appreciate at Grill'd is the choice of bun for each burger. Some burgers work better with a panini-style bun, others with the traditional option — and it is worth thinking about when you order. There are also gluten-sensitive options available, and if you are unsure what to get, the **Build Your Own** option lets you put together exactly what you want. The menu goes beyond beef too — chicken, vegetarian and vegan options are all available. But for meat eaters, my recommendation remains the Wagyu Wunder. ## Chips, Onion Rings and Zucchini Chips A burger without a side is not a complete meal. Grill'd's sides are worth talking about. The **rosemary chips** have a subtle herby flavour that I actually love, despite not usually being a fan of rosemary. The balance here is just right — it adds flavour without being overpowering. I genuinely cannot visit Grill'd without ordering them. **Onion rings** are consistently well-cooked and exactly what you expect — a reliable classic. **Zucchini chips** are the side I would most recommend trying. When they are cut thin and cooked well, they are genuinely excellent — probably my favourite side option at Grill'd. That said, I do have a small criticism here: when the zucchini is cut too thick, the texture does not quite work. I have experienced this at Highpoint and at other branches too. Thinly cut and properly cooked, they are fantastic. Thicker cut, they can feel a little underdone. It is a small but fixable inconsistency that I think Grill'd could improve on. ## QR Code Ordering System Grill'd uses a QR code ordering system at the table, and I think it works really well. You scan the code, enter your table number and place your order from your phone. When you are with a group of friends, this is especially convenient — everyone can choose at their own pace without crowding around the counter or holding up the line. It is practical, it runs smoothly, and it makes the experience feel a little more relaxed. ## A Small But Clever Service Detail There is a small wooden stick sitting in the holder with the napkins, cutlery and condiments at each table. One side is red, the other white. When you sit down, the red side faces up. After your food arrives and you have started eating, a staff member comes over to check how everything is. If all is well, they flip the stick to show the white side. It is a tiny detail, but I think it is genuinely well thought out. It gives the team a quick way to check on tables without being intrusive, and it makes the service feel more attentive. Small things like this make a difference. ## Final Thoughts Grill'd is a brand that genuinely sits above the average fast food chain. The ingredients are better, the portions are filling, and the variety on the menu means there is something for most people — including vegetarians and vegans. Have you been to Grill'd? Feel free to share on Instagram and tag us.
Miksa Food Truck
I am starting my EatMap adventure. I actually had many options in mind for my first place, but I chose to begin with one of my favourites: Miksa Food Truck. You can call Miksa Food Truck a true street-food spot. It opens at 6:00 pm on Thursday and serves in the evenings only, four days a week, including Sunday. The name “Miksa” comes from reading “Aşkım” backwards, and “Aşkım” in Turkish means “My Love”. The owner clearly does this job with love and genuinely gives customers a real flavour festival. When quality minced meat, charcoal fire, and salad come together, the result is a standout taste. You should definitely try it. One note though: on cold nights, dress warmly or choose a less chilly day. Even though the top is covered, the sides are open and it can feel cold. I have tried kebab in many places across Melbourne, but this one has a different taste and experience. As I said, Miksa Food Truck is open from Thursday to Sunday (4 days), starting service at 6:00 pm and finishing at 10:00 pm. If you want to try it, aim for that time window, but do not arrive too late. On some days they can close early because items sell out. They also actively use Instagram at @miksafoodtruck, so you can follow them there. When it comes to pricing, there are many places in Melbourne that serve kebab, and while Miksa Food Truck is unique in taste, the prices are slightly above the usual standard. Still, it definitely does not fall into the “expensive” category, and I think the flavour is worth it. In the bread roll serve, the salad and meat work really well together. The bread is lightly toasted, never overdone, and that perfect toast level adds even more flavour. The oil brushed on top of the bread gives a completely different kind of enjoyment. Cooking the meat over charcoal is also a big plus. I shared the price details in the photo: it is usually AUD 18–19, and drinks are AUD 4.50. Payment options include cash (pay upfront) and card. Also, the single bread roll serve comes with two kofta pieces. Even though the menu is not very large, I have tried several items, and Adana Kebab is my favourite. The cooking level is excellent: not undercooked, not overcooked. The meat stays juicy, which is ideal for anyone chasing flavour. You will definitely taste the quality. The important thing to remember is that this is not a full restaurant, it is a food truck. The staff are friendly, and it is clear they enjoy what they do. There is not much back-and-forth: you line up, place your order, sit at any free table, and when your food is ready they call your name. You collect it, eat with enjoyment, and that is it. I noted the location as well: it is around Campbellfield. As you get closer on the map, the charcoal smoke will basically guide you straight to the spot. If you feel like dessert after your meal, you also have the chance to try a great künefe under the “Cuppa Tucca” brand. Dessert lovers should definitely give it a go. This was our first place on EatMap. Maybe I did not take the best photos, but they are all original and taken by me. I know I need to improve my photography, and I will be more careful from now on. I would love your comments below so I can improve. Please critique me and tell me what I should pay more attention to. Of course, comments from people who have tried Miksa Food Truck are also very important. I would love you to go and try this flavour too, and share your own experience.
Glou
Last week, while walking along Smith Street in Collingwood and thinking about which venue I should try, I found myself at Glou. What first caught my attention was the atmosphere and overall vibe at the entrance. But once I stepped inside, I came across something even more surprising, and I immediately wanted to try it and share it on Eatmap. In Melbourne, on tap beer is very common and comes in many different varieties. But at Glou, the format felt a little different. Here, you are met with on tap wine. Seeing wine served in this format genuinely surprised me. On top of that, there were so many options. In fact, there were enough choices to make anyone who wants to try them all a little too happy. On this visit, I tried two wines: Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Even though I am usually someone who prefers Pinot Noir, at this venue I liked the Pinot Meunier more, just letting the interested ones know. Also, there were not only red and pink options. There were white wines as well, but I forgot to take a photo of them. Since my main goal during this visit was really to experience the surprise of seeing on tap wine as soon as I walked in, I only tried Chappy’s Crisps from the food side. Still, I can say that the bar food options looked good enough to make wine lovers happy. I also shared a photo of that, so you can check the images. Next time I go, I will definitely try the bar food option that looks like a cheese board and includes olives. By the way, the cheese is vegan cheese. Another detail that caught my attention was the rows of bottles displayed on one of the walls. At first, I thought they were there just as decoration. But when I looked at the menu, I realised they were actually takeaway bottles available in half-litre, 1-litre, and 2-litre sizes. So if you visit the venue and really like one of the wines you try, you can choose one of those bottle sizes, have it filled, and take it home with you. The fact that the prices are not too expensive and that the wines taste good is also a big advantage. If we think about how standard bottle shop wine bottles are usually around 700–750 ml, the 1-litre wine prices here ranging from $36 to $48 feel quite notable. Another detail I should mention is that these are reusable wine bottles, which is something important to me. I also shared the detailed pricing as a photo, so you can have a look there if you want. The staff were also definitely friendly, warm, and attentive. They were especially knowledgeable about wine. You can ask any questions you want, of course about wine, and they can also help you make a choice. But be careful, because their knowledge and suggestions may convince you to try more than you planned. Yes, we can definitely call this place a wine bar. Maybe I was this impressed because it was my first time coming across this concept, but it really is a venue that deserves to impress. With its flavours, its ambience, and the interest shown by the staff, it stands out. Also, this is not only a place for people who prefer wine. It is also a very suitable venue for those who prefer cocktails, and of course there are non-alcoholic options too. So it should not be thought of as only a wine-focused place. I did not think I would give 5 stars for atmosphere to a venue, but I think this place truly deserves 5 stars. I definitely think this is a place that deserves a chance. And once you give it one chance, the second chance will probably come naturally. Go and try Glou, and share your thoughts with us.