Are you ready for a delightful lunch experience in Melbourne? Gather your friends and savour the flavours of the city's fantastic lunch venues. Get set to explore the CBD's culinary offerings or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Fitzroy. There's something for everyone, from Richmond's classic pubs to Hawthorn's cosy cafes. Take advantage of the seaside charm of St Kilda or the trendy spots in Brunswick East. Check out Tagvenue's curated listings of Melbourne's best lunch spots for hassle-free venue hunting – good food and company await!
In Melbourne, prices of lunch venues average $2250 minimum spend per event. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Melbourne, based on Tagvenue data:
From $1500 | to $5000 | minimum spend per event |
From $30 | to $75 | per person |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated August 2025), the best options include:
Entire Venue at Frontside Food & Wine
in Port Melbourne - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘The venue was amazing, aswell as the food and drinks. You’re really getting what your paying for.’
Dining Terrace at Hophaus
in Southbank - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘We had our Christmas lunch at Hophaus and it was so good!’
Private Dining Room at Ludlow Bar
in Southbank - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘The quality of the food and service was excellent.’
You can secure a lunch venue in Melbourne on short notice, however your success will hinge on several factors. Firstly, consider the day of the week, as weekends, particularly Sundays, are peak times for brunches and lunches. Weekdays generally offer more availability during lunch hours. You should also consider the time of day. Lunch reservations peak between 12 pm and 2 pm. Consider earlier or later slots for better chances. Popular restaurants in trendy areas may be fully booked, while casual cafes or pubs in quieter suburbs could have more openings.
If you want to improve your chances of finding lunch venues on short notice, try the following strategies.
Contacting restaurants directly allows you to inquire about last-minute cancellations or bar seating availability. Online venue marketplaces like Tagvenue can help you make immediate bookings. Also, many cafes, pubs, and casual eateries operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also discover hidden gems or restaurants in less touristy areas, which may be more accommodating to last-minute diners.
Here are a few of some great affordable lunch venues in Melbourne: