Food

Here’s the thing: belonging isn’t up for debate. And if you really want proof? Just look at these nine Black-owned businesses and cultural spaces—serving up suya skewers, good coffee, big art, and even bigger vibes.

Whether you’ve been out at one of Melbourne’s best restaurants and require an equally excellent dessert or just have a craving for sugary goodness that warrants an excursion, Melbourne is home to plenty of dessert bars, patisseries and other sweet offerings that are sure to tickle your fancy. 

We may not love Melbourne’s cold, but it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in a steaming cup of hot cocoa. Sure, you can enjoy hot chocolate any time of year (no judgment here) but there’s something special about cradling a warm mug in both hands, savouring its silky richness as it melts away the chill.

From cosy homewares and winter fashion to affordable beauty products, these dupes prove you can live like a baller on a budget. 

The Lelit Bianca V3 is a stunner, no doubt about it. But visual appeal aside, this is definitely the coffee machine you buy when you’re ready to go beast-mode on your home coffee. That being said, it’s also not for everyone, and I’ll tell you why.

You've seen that mouth-watering cheese pull on socials, now you want to try it for yourself. What do you do? Hit up Urban List of course.

Love K-BBQ? It’s time for J-BBQ. Yakiniku, meaning ‘grilled meat’, is at the heart of Japanese BBQ experience, and there's no shortage of places to find it in Melbourne. 

From smoky mezcal cocktails to slow-braised birria tacos dripping with consommé, Melbourne's Mexican food scene is hotter than a habanero right now. We've scoured the city to bring you the must-try taquerias, cantinas and modern Mexican kitchens that'll transport your taste buds straight to Mexico City.

Melbourne’s Japanese cafe scene has always marched to its own beat—espresso in one hand, chopsticks in the other. But lately, a new wave of Japanese-inspired spots has been quietly rewriting the Melbourne brunch playbook. 

Today’s diners are more intentional, discerning, and value-driven than ever. They’re eating out more frequently, but scrutinising every dollar, expecting premium experiences without the premium price tag.