Hobson Bay Hotel head chef Ben Pigott’s guide to eating and drinking in Hampton

Top notch Indian, brilliant Chinese and smashable margarita pizzas — there’s plenty of delicious things to eat in Hampton in Melbourne’s inner south.

Experience brilliant Chinese by the bay in Brighton at Bok Choy.

Hobson’s Bay Hotel head chef Ben Pigott shares his favourite places to eat and drink in Hampton in Melbourne’s south.

ROTI BOTI INDIAN RESTAURANT

Best Indian I’ve had in Melbourne. The Goa fish curry is phenomenal, so fragrant and elegant, delicate flavours and not too spicy which is great for the kids, too. The service is always spot on and the portions are very generous, such great value for seriously delicious take away.

513 Hampton St

Il Forno Picture: Instagram.

Roti Boti in Hampton. Picture: Instagram

IL FORNO

For great Italian takeaway this side of the city, head to Il Forno. My favourite is the pizza soppressa, made with salami, capsicum, black olives, basil, plus gorgonzola giving these classic flavours a brilliant twist. My daughter smashes the margarita, oozing with gooey mozzarella and basil. The perfect local pizzeria.

273A Hampton St

HAMPTON GATE CELLARS (FINEST DROP)

My local bottle-O. They stock a fantastic selection of local and craft beers, plus heaps of local wines. Sign up for their unreal wine club to get significant discounts of the owner Steve’s favourite drops and lots of great recommendations for wine, especially Victorian wines.

249 Hampton St

Eclair is a local favourite for dessert. Picture: Melbfoodbaby/Instagram.

Hobson's Bay Hotel head chef Ben Pigott

ECLAIR

Eclair is just a few doors down from me serving the very best baguettes exactly how they should be — beautifully light and chewy! I love having a local bakery I can pop past on the weekends and grab fresh bread for the day, still warm out of the oven. It reminds me of living in France. You have to get in quick though as they usually sell out by early afternoon.

275 Hampton St

BOK CHOY

Awesome Chinese takeaway right by the water in Brighton. The fluffy lobster omelette is a real winner when I’m feeling like something luxurious. Fried rice and mixed veggies always wins with the family, too.

300 New St, Brighton

FYI: Williamstown’s historic Hobson’s Bay Hotel has been reborn with brassiere dining, bar and rooftop deck open daily from noon. 28 Ferguson St, Williamstown.

hobsonsbayhotel.com.au