Where to eat and drink in North Melbourne

Don’t sleep on the inner north’s bounty of delicious eating hot spots. Here are five must-try places, according to a local chef.

The Courthouse is one of the best places to eat in North Melbourne, according to a local chef. Picture: Mark Stewart.

Terror Twilight and Yolk Group executive chef Dale Kemp shares his favourite places to eat and drink in the city’s north.

Don’t expect average eggs on toast at Lumen People. Picture: Instagram.

Best place for a coffee and breakfast

Lumen People

A quaint cafe run by hospo pros serving Seven Seeds coffee and a seasonally-driven menu. It’s not your average eggs on toast, but rather carefully thought out dishes working closely with local suppliers, at a fair price point. Lumen’s also great for a glass of wine in the afternoon. My go-to dish is sardines on rye toast with sweet n’ sour onions and ricotta. I always add a soft egg.

2A/520 Victoria St

Join the queue at Bread Club and see what the fuss is about. Picture: Instagram.

Where I take the family

Bread Club

This cool community bakery always has a line out the door, for good reason. Bread Club bakes a selection of sourdough, pies and weekend specials such as pepperoni focaccias and scrolls.

558 Queensberry St

Manze is behind one of the city’s best-value set-menus. Picture: Instagram.

When I want to be a little fancy

Manze

A small Mauritian restaurant with a wine list among the best. The service is warm and friendly. The great-value $75 set menu takes you on a flavour journey. Manze now has an ala carte menu that’s perfect for a snack and a glass of wine in the sun at their outdoor tables.

2/1/5 Errol St

The Courthouse delivers a wholesome British pub experience. Picture: Mark Stewart

Best counter meal and beer

The Courthouse

A recently renovated gastropub dishing up English-style fare in cozy surroundings. It’s a wholesome menu that sees local ingredients star in traditional British pub favourites. Opt for the lamb rump and wash it down with one of their English ales — you won’t regret it.

86-90 Errol St

Stock the fridge at Parkhill Cellars. Picture: Instagram.

Where I stock the pantry, fridge and freezer

Parkhill Cellars

A family-owned wine store that opened more than 20 years ago. It has an ever-changing

range of beer, spirits and wine, specialising in back-vintage and premium drops. Whether it’s Grange or harder-to-find boutique winery label, the range is extensive and the service is always relaxed and approachable. It also stocks some pretty special bottles of champagne.

45 Errol St