Eating well in ³Ô¹ÏÍø doesn’t have to cost a lot. From hearty rice bowls to fresh banh mi, the city offers plenty of satisfying lunches for $10 or less. Here’s a list of spots where you can grab a great meal without breaking the bank.

Wow Crepes – $8 Chinese jianbing 

Wow Crepes serves up traditional Chinese jianbing that's highly customisable. These crispy crepes are filled with egg, pickles, and your choice of protein. It’s a popular street food that’s both filling and flavourful. Located inside the Kmart Centre, off Bourke Street, it’s a quick and tasty lunch option. Perfect for a meal on the go.

Crossways – $9.50 all-you-can-eat curry 

Crossways offers a vegetarian all-you-can-eat lunch. Your mixed plate includes curry, rice, pappadums, and a dessert. It’s a simple, hearty option that’s also great value. Located on Swanston Street, it’s a favourite among students and workers. Note: you'll need to add 50c for takeaway. 

Madame Vuu – $9.50 banh mi 

Madame Vuu serves Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches and noodle bowls. Each sandwich is packed with your choice of protein, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The baguettes are crisp on the outside and soft inside. It’s a quick, flavourful lunch option in the city. Ideal for those looking for big taste (and big value).

Udon Yasan – $9.90 beef & egg udon 

offers a beef and soft-boiled egg udon soup for under a tenner. The broth is rich, and the noodles are freshly made in-house. It’s a comforting, warm meal that’s ready fast. Located on Bourke Street, it’s a go-to for noodle lovers. Great for a quick sit-down power lunch or to take back to work.

Ta-ke Don – $10 Rice Bowls 

Ta-ke Don specialises in Japanese rice bowls that are as filling as they are financially responsible. Options include chicken katsu, karaage, and simmered tofu. Each bowl is hearty and comes with high-octane toppings. Located on Little Lonsdale Street, it’s a popular lunch spot. Perfect for a filling meal without that's light on your wallet.

Three Drops – $10 kim-cheese jaffle 

Three Drops offers a kimchi and cheese jaffle that's simple but packs a punch. The sandwich is toasted to perfection on three (yes, three!) slices of bread, with a spicy kick from the pickled kimchi. It’s a unique twist on a classic comfort food. Located in the Capitol Arcade, it’s a cosy spot on a busy strip.

Me & Yogi Indian Kitchen – $9.90 Chickpea Bowl 

Me & Yogi serves a chickpea bowl that's incredibly filling. The dish is packed with warming spices and served over rice. It’s a hearty, vegan-friendly option that’s full of flavour. Located on Collins Street, it’s a convenient city lunch spot. Ideal for those looking for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Hanaichi – $9 chicken curry don 

Hanaichi offers a chicken curry don fit for a salaryman. The dish features tender chicken over rice with a mild curry sauce. It’s a simple, comforting meal that’s ready quickly. Located in the QV Centre, it’s a go-to for a fast workers lunch. Great for those craving Japanese ingredients and home-style cooking.

Teow Teow – $6.90 Boat Noodles 

Teow Teow serves authentic Thai boat noodles at street food prices. The small bowls are loaded up with various options like pork or beef. Located in Heng Food Hall on Bourke Street, it’s a hidden gem. Ideal for trying multiple dishes without overspending. Perfect for a quick, tasty lunch.

Tokui Sushi – $3 sushi rolls 

offers freshly made sushi rolls that feel like a trip to Family Mart. Options include teriyaki chicken, avocado, California rolls, and more. It’s a quick, affordable option for sushi lovers. Located at 260 Lonsdale Street, it’s convenient for a grab-and-go meal. Ideal for a light, budget-friendly lunch.