Best Bites in Balaclava: The suburb’s 10 must-visit culinary hotspots
Balaclava – where old-world charm meets modern hospitality. Where saying hello to passers-by is normal, not novel. And where modern multiculturalism is not only showcased – but shines out of every street corner and shop window. Yes, Balaclava is a treat – especially for foodies. With the all-you-can-eat Carlisle Street running through the heart of this bustling suburb, your tastebuds will be spoilt for choice – a fact the team here at Gary Peer knows all too well! So if you’re chomping at the bit to sink your teeth into some good eats, we’ve got you covered with our top picks.
1. All Things Equal
The best part of Balaclava is its strong sense of community – something All Things Equal serves up in spades.
Bridging the gap between people with disability and the wider community, this social enterprise is more than just a café. It’s a movement.
So if you’re looking for a safe, inclusive and delicious spot to become your new go-to, All Things Equal will have you eating well. And feeling better!
What to order?
Vegans, vegetarians, and all-round food enthusiasts – rejoice! This menu caters to all tastes. Equally!
But if we were to single out a favourite? It’s hard to look past the Avo Green Benny.
Visit All Things Equal’s website
.jpg)
2. Moonhouse
Escape the stresses of everyday life by slipping into the surreal at Moonhouse.
Amping up the ambience of your usual dining experience, this ‘world between worlds’ combines an art deco atmosphere with an array of Asian fusion flavours.
The result? An undeniable feast – for your eyes and stomach.
What to order?
With décor as delightful as this, why stress yourself with decision-making?
Sit back, relax and melt into the moodiness with Moonhouse’s delicious set menu.
3. Bounty of the Sun
When you enter this stylish izakaya, it’s like standing under a serene Japanese sky.
Seriously. Hundreds of pieces of pine hang from the ceiling, coming alive with chimes and music with each gust of air.
And the food is just as divine. Cosy, communal and crowd-pleasing, Bounty of the Sun is the perfect spot to unwind for your next after-work drinks.
What to order?
An izakaya is an informal Japanese bar, specialising in drinks and snacks – to share!
So get your friends together and go nuts. (Literally). And be sure to toast the working week with a round of Cucumber Gimlets while you’re at it!
Visit Bounty of the Sun’s website
4. Si Señor Art Taqueria
If there’s a better way to spend your day off than soaking up the sun with a margarita in hand, we’ve yet to hear about it.
And in the covered courtyard at Si Señor, you can emulate that experience: rain, hail or shine.
Whether you dine inside or out, you’ll enjoy your meal with a showing – of the best, brightest and most colourful artwork Melbourne’s local artists have to offer.
What to order?
When it comes to authentic Mexican food, you can’t beat the classics. So get yourself (and the table) a plate of Guacamole Del Señor to share.
Because really, if you’re out for Mexican, you can’t not get nachos.
Visit Si Señor Art Taqueria’s website
5. Batch Espresso
This one’s for all our New Zealand neighbours out there. Especially those who love that saying… what is it again? Like a Kiwi in a candy shop?
Because aside from the great coffee and pastries, Batch Espresso serves up stashes of New Zealand lollies and choccies.
Savoury or sweet, Batch can satisfy all your cravings.
What to order?
One word: Shakshuka.
Tomato, mozzarella, chorizo, eggs – need we say more?
Visit Batch Espresso’s Instagram
6. Dana Patisserie
You know what they say: come for the croissants, stay for the shelf of other pastries!
Because when you come to Dana’s – the cutest café on Carlisle – you’ll be leaving with a full stomach. (And some room for the road!)
What to order?
Treat yourself to a bite of Dana’s decadence with our top crowd-pleaser: the almond croissants.
Visit Dana Patisserie’s website
7. Ziggy’s Eatery
Who doesn’t love a Big Apple burger?
At Ziggy’s, sink your teeth into a true New York burger – made with 100% Aussie produce. The best of both worlds!
Then, wash it all down with some tap beer, good times and great beats. And if it’s conversation you’re after? Assaf and Moshik – this place’s founders – have that box well and truly ticked.
What to order?
Just like its people, Ziggy’s burgers are full of character – with their own unique story (and sauce) to match. Your job? To get to know them all!
But if you’re anything like us, you won’t be able to resist the charm of The Cheeez.
Visit Ziggy’s Eatery’s website
8. On the Juice
They say you only get out what you put in. So if you want to feel lighter, sleep better and get stronger – you need to give your body the right fuel.
Enter On the Juice.
With fresh produce and top-grade organic ingredients – sourced entirely from Australian growers and suppliers – you’ll feel cleansed and charged in no time.
What to order?
Is it function you’re looking for? Grab a Liver Cleanser for a well-deserved system flush.
But let’s not forget form. Because the tuna toastie looks – and tastes – phenomenal.
9. Monk Bodhi Dharma
Melbourne’s coffee is famous for many reasons – and Monk Bodhi Dharma is one.
A specialist coffee and tea house with distressed brick walls and timber tables, this place has the perfect blend of personality and pizzazz.
So if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a cosy, charming atmosphere (and strong, rich coffee) – Monk Bodhi Dharma is for you.
What to order?
Monk Bodhi Dharma is entirely vegan, which means anyone can enjoy anything on the menu. (So get exploring!)
Our personal favourite? Well, we have a couple. There’s the zucchini hot cakes – which come with beetroot relish, pickled cucumber, and chilli & vegan sour cream – for one.
For a treat that’s both mouth-watering and alliterative, though, try the Bodhi Buddha Bowl. Containing spicy beans, creamed corn, pickled jalapeños, vegan sour cream, coriander, corn chips and brown rice, this bowl is vegan and gluten free. And absolutely packed with goodness – for your Bodhi and mind!
Visit Monk Bodhi Dharma’s website
10. Tulum Turkish Restaurant
Traditional Turkish with a twist might be Tulum Turkish Restaurant’s motto.
Because even with a deep respect and love for Anatolian cuisine, Tulum’s owner and chef, Coskun Uysal, believes that it’s time for a new Turkish kitchen.
Which is why when you step into Tulum Turkish Restaurant, you’ll be greeted with the same salivating smells you’ve come to know and love. But when your food comes to the table, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with Tulum’s re-imagining of classic dishes.
What to order?
With a lucky seven-course menu up for grabs, why choose? Order a few different plates for the full taste test of Tulum’s take on Turk.
Visit Tulum Turkish Restaurant’s website
.jpg)