Melbourne prides itself on its diverse culinary scene, offering endless dining options spanning cuisines from around the globe—it's a classic case of being spoiled for choice, and something that can't be overlooked when visiting other cities.
Yet, it’s almost impossible to find a venue championing our incredible local flavours and indigenous produce—especially one that doesn’t set you back a month’s paycheck. And that's where Melbourne's newest Indigenous female-owned gem, Interlude, enters the chat.
Interlude is nestled in the vibrant heart of Melbourne’s Chapel Street where you'll find native flavours intertwined with cultural celebration. The two deadly queens bringing you Melbourne’s deadliest hotspot are Kaylah Truth and Apryl Day, whose infectious spirits and unwavering commitment have reshaped the culinary and social landscapes of Australia.
If you're a fan of Aussie Hip-Hop then you'll be familiar with the name Kaylah-Truth. A Gurang and Ngugi woman, ‘the First Lady of Brisbane’, an OG of the Aussie music scene who's toured nationally and performed with acts like TLC and Lupe Fiasco, with her track ‘Oh Diva Me’ a bonafide bop in its own right and on high rotation around the country.
And Apryl Day, a proud Yorta Yorta, Wemba Wemba, and Barapa Barapa woman, whose legal expertise and activism have propelled her to the forefront of social justice movements nationwide.Apryl's dedication to justice is deeply personal, rooted in her family's experiences and fuelled by the memory of her late mother, Aunty Tanya Day whose tragic death in custody ignited a fierce campaign for much-needed justice reform here in Victoria.
Together, Kaylah and Apryl have woven their vision into the fabric of Interlude and created a space that transcends mere food and drink to become a hub of cultural celebration and community connection—where everyone is welcome.
Apryl has meticulously curated the native-abundant antipasto selection and if you know anything about Native cured meats, you'd know that they are almost impossible to come by.
Complimenting the tucker is a carefully crafted cocktail list that's made with consideration and infused with the essence of our ancient land. Their cocktail syrups are made on-premises—special mentions to the Bush Mojito, Davison Plum Sour and the Green Ant Dirty Martini.
But Interlude offers more than just a culinary experience, it's a place where strangers become friends, and stories are shared amidst the laughter and music. If you follow the Interlude’s Instagram, you would have seen that it's a regular spot for local artists and creatives, and internationals too—from US Brent Faiyaz & Soulection to locals like Barkaa, Paul Kelly and Baker Boy.
So, whether you're a seasoned foodie seeking a taste of something unique, looking for a venue to impress your international visitors, looking to support Indigenous-owned businesses, or just keen for somewhere to meet your friends before you hit the clubs on Chapel—Interlude's always-open invite is welcoming you to join them on their journey—a journey of taste, culture, and community.
This Friday 26 April & Saturday 27 April, the Interlude celebrates its first birthday—and from the yarns they told me—you'll want to be there. So done be gammin, and I'll see you there.
Matt Moncrieff xoxo
Matt Moncrieff is an Urban List guest editor and a highly regarded Yamatji cook hailing from Kuwinyuwardu (Carnarvon), Western Australia. An accomplished My Kitchen Rules semi-finalist, Matt's recent groundbreaking petition, aimed at introducing native ingredients into mainstream supermarkets, garnered overwhelming support with nearly 12,000 signatures.
Image credits: supplied