This is a review for 24 hour restaurants in Melbourne, VIC: "This place gets really busy but now there are multiple locations. You grab a pot and fill it up with all the ingredients you want. They have a variety of ingredients from tofus, veg, mushrooms, noodles, seafood and meats. Then you pay at the counter (charged per gram of food in the pot) and tell them what soup you want. I recommend getting their signature mala broth. It’s quite spicy so even the mild or medium spice should be enough if you don’t want to drink too much water. You can get your own pot or share with friends. It just depends on how hungry you are. I think that the price is great for the food but you may have to wait in line during meal times because it is very popular." See more reviews for this business.
Ah, the joys of late-night dining! There’s something uniquely comforting about the idea of being able to stroll into a restaurant at 3 AM and order a plate of something delicious. Maybe it’s the thrill of the hunt, or perhaps it’s just the sheer joy of avoiding your own cooking. Whatever the reason, it seems that 24-hour restaurants are a bit like unicorns in Melbourne—everyone’s heard of them, but finding one that actually exists is a different story.
So, let’s dive into this late-night culinary adventure, shall we?
The Current Landscape of 24-Hour Dining in Melbourne
First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: the pandemic has taken a toll on many late-night eateries. Pre-COVID, Melbourne had a plethora of 24-hour options, but now it feels like we’re left with just a few brave souls still open for those of us who have cravings that simply can’t wait until breakfast.
Take, for instance, the infamous China Bar in Burwood. It’s become somewhat of a legend among night owls, but let’s be honest—how often is it actually open for the full 24 hours? You might find yourself at 3 AM staring at a locked door, wondering if you’ve been misled by the glowing neon sign. It’s the culinary equivalent of a mirage.
What’s Still Out There?
Now, if you’re on a quest for late-night dining, here are a few other options that might just save your midnight hunger pangs:
1. Macca’s: Yes, I know, it’s not fancy dining, but when you’re craving fries at 2 AM, nothing hits quite like a Big Mac. Plus, they’re everywhere, so you’re bound to find one nearby. Just be prepared for the occasional existential crisis while waiting in line.
2. 24-Hour Bakeries: If you’re lucky, there might be a bakery in your vicinity that stays open all night. Freshly baked bread or pastries can be a game changer when you’re wandering around at odd hours, looking for something to soak up that questionable late-night snack you had earlier.
3. Late-Night Food Trucks: Some food trucks operate on a late-night schedule, especially in busy areas. They might not have a permanent location, but if you can find one, it’s like finding gold at the end of a very greasy rainbow.
4. Cafés and Diners: Some cafés and diners have extended hours, typically on weekends. They might not be 24/7, but if you’re out and about, it’s worth checking if they’re still serving food after midnight. Just don’t expect them to be bustling with energy; you might find the staff are more interested in their coffee than your order.
Tips for Late-Night Dining
If you do manage to find a place that’s open, here are a few tips to make the most of your late-night dining experience:
– Check the Hours: Always double-check if they are indeed open 24 hours. This is not the time for surprises, unless you’re into that sort of thing.
– Call Ahead: If you can, give them a ring. This not only saves you time but also allows you to gauge if they’re still serving food or if they’re on a cleaning spree.
– Be Adventurous: Late-night menus can be eclectic. Don’t shy away from trying something new—after all, you might discover a hidden gem that you would’ve otherwise overlooked.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the quest for true 24-hour restaurants in Melbourne might feel like a scavenger hunt, there are still options out there for those who find themselves awake when the rest of the world is fast asleep. Whether it’s a greasy burger from Macca’s or a late-night pastry from a bakery, the key is to embrace the adventure. So grab your friends, or just your own sense of hunger, and head out into the night. Who knows? You might just stumble upon the next great late-night eatery—and if not, at least you’ll have a good story to tell. Happy hunting!
Inspired by: “24 hour restaurants that still exist near the south Eastern suburbs? Or just anywhere?” (r/melbourne)