Things you can only eat in the city

Melbourne is full of standout eats you won’t find anywhere else. These dishes are local legends, some with decades of history, others cult favourites in the making. From market doughnuts to midnight burgers, here’s what to try in the city.

Hot Jam Doughnuts at Queen Victoria Market

The American Doughnut Kitchen van at Queen Victoria Market has been selling fried jam-filled doughnuts since the 1950s. The doughnuts are crunchy, sugary and piping hot, served out of a blue and white bus that’s a Melbourne icon. Find the jam injection point and eat with care, it’s part of the experience. No market visit is complete without one.

Four’n Twenty Pie at the MCG

You haven’t done the footy properly until you’ve eaten a hot Four’n Twenty meat pie at the MCG. Available at The Food Store inside the stadium, this classic comes with chips or a hotdog if you’re extra hungry. The setting makes it: thousands of fans, the smell of fresh turf, and a steaming pie in hand. It’s Melbourne nostalgia wrapped in pastry.

Lobster Roll at Supernormal

Sweet lobster, buttered bread and Kewpie mayo come together in Melbourne’s most famous roll. Andrew McConnell first served it in 2010, and it’s never left the menu since. Served at his sleek Flinders Lane restaurant Supernormal, this dish is indulgent but not over the top. A little taste of luxury between bites.

Magic coffee at Patricia

Order a “magic” at Patricia Coffee Brewers and you’ll get a double ristretto with silky milk, served in a five-ounce cup. Strong, smooth and beloved by locals, it’s Melbourne’s signature coffee style. The standing-room-only cafe has a loyal following. It’s quick, it’s no-fuss and the coffee always hits (especially if it's a magic).

Mont Blanc at Good Measure

Part filter brew, part dessert, the Mont Blanc at Good Measure is topped with whipped cream, nutmeg and orange zest. It’s sweet, aromatic and surprisingly balanced. Sip it in a lounge-style setting that turns into a cocktail bar after dark. Perfect for a quiet moment or a caffeine fix before a night out.

Watermelon granita at Pellegrini’s

Pellegrini’s is a Melbourne classic, and the off-menu watermelon granita is the ultimate hidden gem. Served in a frosted glass with a slice of lemon, it’s tart, sweet and ice-cold. You’ll want to sit at the counter, soak in the old-school charm and order a pasta to go with it. This is still one of the best spots for a solo meal in the city.

Late-night cheeseburger at Gimlet 

This brasserie cheeseburger at Gimlet is rich, juicy and only available after 10pm. It features a thick Gippsland beef patty, tangy sauce, pickles and a fluffy potato bun. Two slices of American cheese melt into the meat perfectly. Pair it with a late-night martini, and thank us later.

Peking Duck at Flower Drum

Flower Drum’s Peking duck is legendary. The crispy skin, tender meat, house-made pancakes and sweet plum sauce are prepared with exacting care. This is fine-dining Cantonese, served with white tablecloths and decades of experience. Call ahead and make a booking, it’s worth it.

Tiramisu at Tipo 00

Tipo 00 does pasta right, but the dessert is just as memorable. The 'Tipomisu', a take on tiramisu, is rich with caramel, chocolate and espresso-soaked sponge. It’s not overly sweet; it's strong, creamy and deeply satisfying. An excellent finish to a perfect Italian meal.

Borek from The Borek Shop

You’ll smell it before you see it: The Borek Shop’s pastries are hot, crispy and filled to the brim. Choose lamb, cheese and spinach or potato for just a few dollars. It’s fast, filling and always fresh. A Queen Vic Market essential and truly a Melbourne icon.

Flinders Street Station–shaped treats at Flinders Waffles

This spot takes taiyaki to the next level with waffles shaped like Flinders Street Station. They come filled with Nutella, custard or red bean and topped with soft serve. Choose from seasonal flavours like matcha or yuzu. It’s fun, quirky and very Melbourne.

Anchovy toast at Carlton Wine Room

Crispy fried bread, soft ricotta and salty anchovies meet sweet pickled cucumber in this snack that punches way above its weight. It’s the perfect wine bar bite. Served at one of the city’s most consistent restaurants, it’s simple, flavour-packed and ideal with a glass of white.