Opinion 10 vegan restaurants in Melbourne for plant-based foodies

There’s no question: Melbourne does great vegan food – and lots of it! Here are 10 vegan restaurants in Melbourne that all plant-based foodies need to try.

When it comes to vegan cuisine, Melbourne stands out as a true paradise for plant-based food lovers. The city boasts an impressive array of vegan restaurants, offering diverse flavours and creative dishes that cater to every palate. 

Having lived in Melbourne for nearly a decade, I’m continually amazed by the city’s ever-growing vegan dining scene. With new spots popping up regularly, it can be challenging even for locals to keep track—let alone visitors! 

Whether you’ve called Melbourne home your entire life or are just here for a quick visit, let’s take a tour through some of the city’s best vegan restaurants and plant-based food destinations. 

Tyranny of Distance

Windsor

This former petrol station turned spacious restaurant and bar offers an entirely plant-based menu. The vibrant, colourful space exudes a casual vibe, offering up dishes like eggplant parma, ‘duck’ roti rolls, mushroom ‘pork’ tacos, massaman curry, and a Korean fried ‘chicken’ burger.  

Plus, you can pair your meal with an expertly crafted cocktail (or three) for the ultimate vegan dining experience. 

Tyranny of Distance is serving food from 5pm to 10pm everyday. See opening hours.

Check out Tyranny of Distance on Instagram

Green Man’s Arms

Carlton

Prominently positioned on Carlton’s Lygon Street, Green Man’s Arms is a beloved plant-based pub putting a vegan spin on classic gastro-pub fare—from falafel platters and loaded mezze boards to their standout eggplant schnitzel. 

Its warm, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a casual night out or a cozy Sunday lunch. Sustainability is key here, with local brews and eco-friendly practices at the forefront!  

Green Man’s Arms is open for lunch and dinner (bookings essential!). See opening hours. 

Check out Green Man’s Arms on Instagram

Funghi e Tartufo

Melbourne CBD

In the heart of Melbourne on Hardware Lane, this entirely plant-based Italian restaurant proves you can enjoy indulgent Italian cuisine without meat or dairy. With white tablecloths, exposed brickwork, and an extensive vegan wine list, it’s as chic as it is delicious.  

The standout dish? The pappardelle Funghi e Tartufo – fresh pasta in a decadent truffle and mushroom sauce. Or take your tastebuds on an adventure with the chef’s selection and savour a curated culinary journey. 

Funghi e Tartufo is open Wed-Sat from 5pm. See opening hours.

Check out Funghi e Tartufo on Instagram

Gojé

Yarraville

Imagine an entirely plant-based frozen yoghurt store – or better yet, visit Gojé! With six rotating flavours and a dazzling array of toppings, it’s a dessert lover’s dream. From fresh fruits to vegan Aero, salted caramel sauce, and their iconic chocolate peanut butter-date rolls (which they’ve limited to two per customer due to their popularity!), there’s something for everyone.  

The charming location only adds to the experience, with the option to sit inside, relax out the front, or enjoy your froyo while strolling through Yarraville’s cute homewares, gifts, and bookstores.

Goje is open every day from 2pm to 9:30pm. See opening hours.

Check out Gojé on Instagram

Smith & Deli

Collingwood

Smith & Deli and its big sister, Smith & Daughters, are iconic Melbourne vegan restaurants. Smith & Deli combines the benefits of a deli, grocery store, and buffet-style restaurant under one roof. 

At their Collingwood location, you’ll find an ever-changing menu of mains and sides, from tandoori pies to kale Caesar salad, alongside their signature deli meats, cheeses, and treats. The industrial-chic vibe makes it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.  

Smith & Deli is open for breakfast and lunch six days a week. See opening hours.

Check out Smith & Deli on Instagram

Gong De Lin

Melbourne CBD

Gong De Lin is an elevated dining experience for fans of vibrant Chinese cuisine. Their extensive vegan menu includes everything from crispy Peking “duck” to fragrant mapo tofu.  

Located in the heart of Melbourne CBD, this hidden gem’s flavours and authenticity are truly unmatched. Don’t miss their dumpling platters, sweet and sour ‘pork’, and sizzling Szechuan ‘beef’! 

Gong De Lin is open daily. See opening hours.

Check out Gong De Lin on Instagram

Brother Bon

Northcote

Brother Bon’s eclectic menu combines Asian-inspired dishes with Aussie-American comfort foods – from sizzling duck in plum sauce to their mouth-watering Katsu sandwich.  

Located on the hustle and bustle of High Street, Brother Bon’s creative menu and casual yet vibrant atmosphere make it a local favourite.

Brother Bon is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. See opening hours.

Check out Brother Bon on Instagram

Lona Misa

South Yarra

A collaboration between Melbourne chefs Shannon Martinez and Ian Curley, Lona Misa delivers Latin-inspired, plant-based dishes in a moody, upscale setting. Designed for sharing, the menu includes patatas bravas, paella, and a Brazilian moqueca.  

Perfect for special occasions, it offers a tasting menu for those wanting the full experience.  

Lona Misa is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. See opening hours. 

Check out Lona Misa on Instagram

Red Sparrow

Collingwood, Prahran

Melbourne’s first 100% vegan pizzeria, Red Sparrow, serves wood-fired pies that rival traditional offerings. From classic margherita to inventive cheeseburger pizza, they’re known for their mix of classics and bold flavour combos.  

One of Melbourne’s most popular vegan restaurants, their sides and desserts (from buffalo wings to “Notella” pizza) as well as their delicious cocktails (vegan Amaretto Sour anyone?!) make every visit unforgettable. 

Red Sparrow is open for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday. See opening hours.

Check out Red Sparrow on Instagram

Pickles Milkbar

Carlton

Pickles Milkbar offers a nostalgic yet modern take on plant-based dining. This charming hole-in-the-wall deli features a menu brimming with breakfast classics, decadent baked goods, bagels, and their signature sandwiches – which have earned them a devoted following.   

Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or a relaxed lunch, Pickles Milkbar is truly a vegan sandwich lover’s dream. From their hearty ‘chicken’ shawarma and “hangover cure” brekky sandwich to their fresh BLT and Caeser salad sanga, we’re confident you’ll find your new fave feed at this hidden Carlton gem!   

Pickles Milkbar is open for breakfast and lunch daily. See opening hours 

Check out Pickles on Instagram

Looking for more great vegan restaurants in Melbourne? 

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Melbourne’s vegan restaurants and plant-based food options. There are endless listings on Google or HappyCow to explore – and we’re sure locals will have even more great recommendations! 

But why stop there? Whether you’re after a fast feed, a fine dining experience, or tips on transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, find more plant-based inspiration, recipes, and vegan dining guides on VegKit today.  

Happy eating!