Where to eat, drink in Moonee Ponds

From fat sandwiches, sizzling prime cuts, modern Turkish cuisine and a late night pizza pit-stop— these are the best places to eat and drink in Moonee Ponds.

From fat sandwiches, sizzling prime cuts, modern Turkish cuisine and the best late-night pizza pit-stop— these are the best places to eat and drink in Moonee Ponds, according to Ascot Food and Wine head chef and owner Dave Stewart.

Komur is a family-owned Turkish restaurant in Ascot Vale. Picture: George Salpigtidis.

KÖMÜR

Kömür is a family-owned, Turkish eatery serving tasty traditional cuisine. With a big focus on barbecue, Kömür translates to “charcoal” and dishes up an array of quality meats, alongside fresh salads and homemade dips. Perch at the bar and you’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into owner Emir Uker’s home. My go-to is the Adana plate featuring skewered lamb mince — if you’re lucky you might even score some of Emir’s mum’s baklava. It’s insanely good.

446 Mt Alexander Rd, Ascot Vale

20 YOUNG STREET

Moonee Ponds locals know 20 Young Street is the place to be at lunchtime. You’ll often see a long line spiralling out the door – and it’s worth the short wait. As well as an abundance of fresh sandwiches made to order, this family-owned venue dishes up ever-changing, homely Italian classics. Think schnitzels, pasta, lasagne and porchetta. It’s just the best.

20 Young St

YOKOSO IZAKAYA

I’m a big fan of Japanese cuisine and Yokoso never disappoints. Great to dine in or for takeaway, I recommend the sushi and sashimi, alongside gyoza, and the teriyaki salmon steak with fresh veggies and you’ve got yourself a nutritious and delicious feed.

702 Mt Alexander Rd

ESCA GRILL

Esca Grill has been operating locally for as long as I can remember. Ideal if you’re looking to toast on a special occasion, I love the white table cloths and attentive service. Known locally for its premium steak and seafood, I can’t go past the freshly shucked oysters and Southern Highlands eye fillet cooked medium rare.

650 Mt Alexander Rd

MOONEE PONDS PIZZA

Everyone needs a good local pizza place and Moonee Ponds Pizza is mine. I prefer thin pizza bases and these guys nail it every time. Without fail my order is the Volcano Pizza with tomato, cheese, hot salami, olives and peppers. It’s also conveniently on my drive home from Ascot Food and Wine if I’m feeling peckish after service.

45 Holmes Rd

Ascot food and wine executive chef Dave Stewart. Picture: Kristoffer Paulsen

MR CHARCOAL ESSENDON

Another family-owned business, these guys have perfected the roast chicken – it’s tasty and

succulent and always served with a smile. The ideal dinner when you don’t feel like cooking, I always opt for the quarter chicken with rice, house tzatziki, fluffy pitta and a fresh Greek salad.

1073 Mt Alexander Rd, Essendon