Take a break from shopping, working, or running errands, and amble down Vulcan Lane to find a bite to eat. This charming and historic area is full of characterful buildings that are home to a range of shops and dining establishments, giving the lane a great atmosphere to take in as you munch on a midday meal. Here are some of our recommendations for a lazy lunch or a grab-and-go snack.
For a bit of midday escapism, head to the charming Le Chef and enjoy an authentic French meal and atmosphere. Menus change monthly as they’re crafted around seasonal produce, but delicious bread is always a theme of the lunch menu. Brioche stars in the French toast and in the steak sandwich, and it wouldn’t be a French bistro without a croque monsieur and madame on offer.
It’s easy to see why Melba’s original cafe has stuck around for over 20 years in its Vulcan Lane location, and why it remains so popular. Cafe Melba is renowned for its coffee, food, service, and atmosphere - a good reason to dine in for your lunch. The salmon hash is a favourite of many, or you could mix it up and try the ancient grain risotto.
For coffee connoisseurs, head to Mojo for an easy lunch accompanied by their exclusive single-origin coffee. Sandwiches and salads rotate frequently, and baking gleams temptingly in the cabinet if you want to finish your meal with something sweet. Grab a stool at the street-facing bar, and watch the bustle of the laneway as you sip on your coffee.
Treat yourself to a long lunch at the Occidental Belgian Beer Cafe. Lunch is good value and includes two courses - a soup (ideal for winter) and a main. The selection of main courses covers a range of tastes - whether you’re in the mood for meat, pasta, or salad. For comfort food, try the braised corned beef, complete with buttery potatoes, savoy cabbage, and creamy parsley sauce. And then there's always the fish and chips, which is always a tempting option.