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10 Best Cafes and Restaurants to Try near Lonsdale Street, Melbourne - Where to Eat in the Heart of the CBD

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Lonsdale Street, nestled in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling CBD, is more than just a major thoroughfare — it’s a vibrant stretch filled with mouth-watering flavours, international cuisines, and hidden culinary gems. Whether you’re a local looking to discover new favourites or a visitor eager to dive into Melbourne’s renowned food scene, this street offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

From cozy laneway cafes brewing artisan coffee to buzzing restaurants dishing out authentic ramen, Greek feasts, modern Vietnamese, and Instagram-worthy desserts, Lonsdale Street truly has something for everyone. Its diverse dining scene reflects Melbourne’s multicultural identity — where east meets west and tradition mingles with innovation.

Photo by Justin Clark on Unsplash

In this guide, we’ve handpicked 10 of the best cafes and restaurants on Lonsdale Street that consistently impress with flavour, service, and atmosphere. Whether you’re craving a hearty brunch, a soulful bowl of noodles, or a late-night dessert fix, these spots deliver the goods.

Ready to explore the best of what Lonsdale Street has to offer? Scroll down, bring your appetite, and get ready to experience Melbourne’s CBD at its tastiest.

Let’s dive into the top places to eat on Lonsdale Street, Melbourne!


1. Hardware Société

Address: 10 Katherine Place, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM​

Hardware Société is a Melbourne brunch institution offering French-inspired all-day breakfasts with an Aussie twist. Their menu features delights like baked eggs, duck confit, and flaky pastries, all served with expertly brewed coffee. The Parisian vibes and charming decor make it a must-visit spot for brunch enthusiasts.​



2. Hakata Gensuke Ramen – Healeys Lane

Address: Shop B1 & B2, 550 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM; Friday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM; Saturday: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM; Sunday: Closed​

Hakata Gensuke brings authentic Hakata-style ramen to Melbourne. Their rich pork broth and perfectly cooked noodles are complemented by side dishes like chicken karaage and gyoza. The addition of Kushiage and Onigiri pop-ups offers a unique dining experience reminiscent of Fukuoka's street food culture.​




3. Stalactites

Address: 177–183 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM​

Stalactites is a family-owned Greek restaurant that's been a Melbourne staple since 1978. Known for its souvlakis, mixed grills, and homemade dips, it's a go-to spot for authentic Greek cuisine. The cave-like decor and late-night hours make it perfect for both lunch and post-bar bites.​



4. Mr. Ramen San

Address: Shop 12A, 200 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Mid City Centre)

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM; 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM; 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Sunday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM; 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Monday: Closed​

Mr. Ramen San offers handmade noodles in flavorful broths, making it a favorite among students and CBD workers. Their Kyushu Tonkotsu ramen, with its rich pork bone broth, is a standout. The cozy atmosphere and affordable prices make it a must-visit for ramen lovers.​



5. Krimper Café

Address: 20 Guildford Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM​

Krimper Café, nestled in a laneway off Lonsdale Street, boasts a rustic-industrial charm. Known for its specialty coffee and inventive brunch options, it's a favorite spot for remote work or relaxed weekend meals. The spacious interior and unique decor add to its appeal.​



6. Hochi Mama

Address: 35 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Lunch Daily: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM; Dinner Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM​

Hochi Mama is a vibrant venue blending Vietnamese street food with a modern twist. Their menu features creative cocktails and dishes like Vietnamese tacos and crispy soft-shell crab. The buzzing atmosphere makes it ideal for group dinners and date nights.​



7. Brother Baba Budan

Address: 359 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Brother Baba Budan is a cult favourite among Melbourne’s coffee aficionados. Operated by Seven Seeds Coffee Roasters, this small but mighty café is known for serving some of the best espresso in the CBD. The quirky interior — with chairs hanging upside down from the ceiling — adds character to its minimalist space. The focus here is purely on top-tier coffee: expertly brewed filter, espresso, and rotating single origins that highlight the nuances of global beans. While the food offerings are minimal (think pastries and toast), it’s a must-visit for caffeine purists or anyone chasing the perfect cup in the heart of the city.




8. Shanghai Street Dumplings

Address: 342 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Lunch: Monday – Sunday: 11:45 AM – 2:45 PM; Dinner: Sunday – Thursday: 4:45 PM – 8:30 PM; Friday – Saturday: 4:45 PM – 9:00 PM​

Shanghai Street Dumplings offers authentic Jiangnan-style xiao long bao and pan-fried dumplings. With a comfortable atmosphere and highly trained staff, it's a favorite for quick lunches and pre-theatre meals. Their menu also includes noodles and other classic Shanghainese dishes.​




9. Axil Coffee Roasters – Lonsdale Street

Address: 50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: Closed​

Axil Coffee Roasters is a cornerstone of Melbourne’s specialty coffee scene, renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Situated at 50 Lonsdale Street, this café offers a sleek, modern space where coffee enthusiasts can enjoy expertly brewed beverages crafted from beans sourced through direct relationships with farmers. Beyond their exceptional espresso and pour-over options, Axil provides a selection of pastries and light meals, making it an ideal spot for both quick coffee breaks and relaxed catch-ups. Their dedication to ethical sourcing and roasting excellence ensures every cup delivers a rich and satisfying experience. 



10. Rosa’s Canteen

Address: Level 1/500 Bourke Street (entrance via Lt Bourke St), Melbourne VIC 3000

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM; 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Closed on weekends

Rosa’s Canteen is a charming Italian eatery just a stone’s throw from Lonsdale Street, offering modern Italian dishes with a home-style heart. The space is sleek and sunlit, with large windows overlooking the city skyline — ideal for business lunches or dinner dates. Rosa’s menu features handmade pasta, hearty meat dishes, and fresh, seasonal produce that pays homage to classic Sicilian recipes. Signature favourites include the slow-cooked beef ragu, crab linguine, and their indulgent tiramisu. With friendly service and generous portions, Rosa’s blends casual dining with elevated flavours — a true hidden gem in Melbourne’s food scene.

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