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Hungry Melbourne. Insider guide to getting fatter through eating better

The freshest bruschetta, a hunky Italian man, an artisan coffee made by a barista who makes a six figure salary, a hearty helping of perfect Thai food. All this and more in the second part of guide to delicious, awe inspiring, not too pricey breakfast, lunch or dinner in Melbourne.
All of these places have been road tested by one of our tasty team at Budget Direct Insurance. Someone who knows how to eat really well without sending the bank balance spiraling. Here is everything you need to know:
Journal, Little Collins Street, I think – but best to Bing it to be sure
Lets start with a reminder that this is a cash only venue. Or at least used to be. Food is simple, and simple in the way that it is marvelous. These guys do the best bruschetta of all time.
Ying Thai, Carlton
For some reason, good Thai food is near impossible to find in Melbourne. And when you arrive here, you’ll think it still eludes you. The décor looks like it was flung together by a dozen six year olds who have eaten far too many gum drops and ice cream. It’s hilarious. But trust us, Ying Thai is the best Thai you’ll eat in Melbourne. Hands down. It’s cheap. And they do takeaway. Boom. You’re welcome.
Non Solo Pasta, Docklands alongside the entrance to the Myer building
This place is filled with hunky men who are friendly, a little sassy and speak Italian. But make no mistake, they’re there for the food and the coffee. The pizza is also awesome. So is the coffee. Good for drinks too.
Grace café, Avoca Street South Yarra
Simple breakfasts. Good quality ingredients. Quality bread with free-range eggs that are properly yellow and not layered with hormones, vitamins and other supplements.
Da Noi, Toorak Road, South Yarra.
A special date night kind of place. For proposals, anniversaries, getting out of the dogbox and so on. Melbourne’s answer to Sean’s of North Bondi. They farm almost everything they sell at their little patch of Sardinian heaven about 90 minutes out of the city. There’s a degustation style menu. The four course option, which comes with a fifth bite for free, plus a bottle of wine, comes in at around 300 AUD
Pure Pie, 383 Bay Road in Port Melbourne.
Disclaimer: We know the owners.
Disclaimer: We know pies.
Disclaimer: These pies are amazing. Pastry is incredible and the filling more so. Try the sausage rolls too. Magic.
St Ali, South + their second location on Nicholson Street, Brunswick East.
Ever had a 63/63 egg? Cooked for 63 minutes at 63 degrees in it’s own shell, the egg takes on a cool new form. It’s as much science as it is cuisine. All the food here is outstanding. Rumour has it the barista makes a six figure salary because he is that good and valuable to the business. Second location opened mid-2014 and is just as popular.
Know of any other places to eat great food on your travels? Let us know.
Wherever you go, whatever you do, remember it’s vital to have good travel cover.
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