Ballard’s

Skip the usual High Street circuit. Inner-north epicureans and devout carnivores alike are quietly conceding that this cozy Thornbury wine bar serves some of the most electric food in Melbourne. It’s entirely plant-based—but you won't miss the meat for a second. Go straight for the "feed me" menu. It’s a masterclass in texture and technique. Think brilliant BBQ potato skewers. Dangerously savory mac and cheese bites. Focaccia built for swiping through perfectly roasted eggplant. The culinary wizardry here is staggering. Wash it all down with a vibrant *glou-glou* pour from their stellar lo-fi wine list. The space is intimate. The tables are tight. The service is incredibly warm. Just grab a seat, order a glass, and let the kitchen run the show.