Top Melbourne Markets to Hit: Your Ultimate South Melbourne Market Foodie Guide & Must-Visit Shops
Since swinging open its doors in 1867, South Melbourne Market has been a beloved city landmark and a go-to spot for locals. This vibrant community hub is all about fresh produce and a dazzling array of unique food stalls. Every aisle is buzzing with passionate vendors who serve up traditional, heartfelt service with a smile.
Out of Melbourne’s iconic markets, South Melbourne Market is my top pick. It’s got an incredible variety of stalls, high-quality retail goodies, and a super clean vibe. One thing that really stands out is the diversity—you can even pop into a beauty spot for a haircut or eyebrow shaping. How cool is that?
Before diving into the must-visit shops, here’s a quick peek at the market map to get you oriented:
Bottom left: Food Court / Yellow zone: Fresh produce / Green zone: Retail shops / Other areas: Fruit & veggie stalls and more retail.
Must-Visit Shops
TEA DROP
Tea Drop is a rare gem in Melbourne—a tea lover’s paradise that left a big impression on me. While the market is packed with food stalls, drink spots are harder to come by, so I love grabbing a tea here before kicking off my shopping spree.
With over 30 tea varieties to choose from, you can sip on freshly brewed hot or cold options that are fragrant and refreshing. Watching the staff brew your tea is such a soothing vibe. Not sure what to pick? The friendly team will guide you toward a sparkling tea or fruity blend based on your taste.
Plus, their tea bags come in chic, high-quality packaging—perfect for gifting friends back home.
AGATHE PATISSERIE
I’ve raved about this wildly popular bakery before, and it’s an absolute must when you’re at the market. The queues are always long, which tells you just how loved it is. A big glass window lets you peek at the baking process while you wait.
Their star item? The pandan croissant—a rare treat that’s not overly intense but has a perfectly chewy texture. They’ve got tons of other drool-worthy pastries, mostly sweet. But let’s be real: most visitors are here for the pandan croissant, and it sells out fast.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to snag one. They’ve got a smaller outpost at Royal Arcade in the city center, but the main market location has the best selection.
PADRE COFFEE
This coffee spot has been a market staple for over 15 years, and it’s always buzzing. Whether folks are chatting over a quick espresso or sipping on the go, the lively atmosphere is infectious. The cozy space doesn’t have many tables, but that just adds to the social, community feel.
Their coffee menu is a standout, with three signature blends—Lucky Boy, Daddy’s Girls, and Trouble Maker—each with a fun, quirky name. Not sure which to try? The baristas are happy to recommend the perfect cup for you. You can also grab their house-roasted coffee beans to take home.
Another cool find is their Drip Bag coffee (think pour-over packets), which isn’t common in Melbourne cafes. These make awesome souvenirs for coffee-loving friends. If you’ve got time, chill at the outdoor seating and feel free to pair your coffee with food from other stalls—just tidy up after!
UGO BURRATA BAR
My absolute favorite food stall at the market is Ugo Burrata Bar, and their “The Ugo” buffalo mozzarella sandwich is a game-changer. Packed with rich pesto, house-made crispy porchetta, and creamy buffalo mozzarella, every bite is a mix of crunchy, savory goodness. The porchetta can be a tad oily, but the fresh pesto balances it perfectly. It’s a generous portion, so consider sharing!
They also sell fresh buffalo mozzarella, great for pairing with a salad if you’re cooking during your trip. Prices start around HKD 50 for the smallest portion. Bonus: they’ve recently launched adorable buffalo mozzarella-shaped candles—super cute and available for purchase!
APTUS SEAFOOD
For seafood lovers, Aptus Seafood is a must. Unlike Hong Kong’s live seafood tanks, this stall focuses on super fresh catches. Their oyster selection is unreal, with seven or eight varieties from different Aussie regions. Priced per piece, they’re perfect for sampling. My pick? The Tasmanian oyster—sweet, fresh, and budget-friendly.
Beyond oysters, you can grab ready-to-eat salmon, lobster, and more. There’s a bar counter for dining in, with sauces to jazz up your seafood. If you prefer cooked dishes, their sister stall serves up baked and grilled seafood goodies.
GEWÜRZHAUS
Gewürzhaus, run by a German owner, is a spice lover’s dream. With over 50 spices, each comes with details on its origin and best culinary uses. From savory to sweet, these spices are perfect for marinating meats or elevating daily dishes. Bakers will also find plenty of ingredients here.
What I love most? You can buy spices by weight (starting at 20g), making it easy to grab small amounts as gifts without waste. The beautifully packaged bottles are another great souvenir option. Feeling overwhelmed by choices? The staff are super helpful and will recommend spices tailored to your needs.
THE FRESH PASTA SHOP
Planning a home-cooked dinner? The Fresh Pasta Shop is your spot. Everything here is handmade and preservative-free, from pastas to stuffed ravioli and sauces. You can buy just the amount you need. Fresh pasta like this is hard to come by in Hong Kong (or it’s pricey at restaurants), so it’s worth trying your hand at an Italian feast.
Credit: IG @thefreshpastashop
Nearby Eateries
Want to explore beyond the market? Here are some awesome spots nearby.
CHERI EATERY
Cheri Eatery is a trendy brunch cafe that opened last year near the market. Think house-made gelato, fresh-baked treats, and hearty brunch dishes. With its bold red-and-white decor and outdoor seating, it’s a great place to relax and dig in.
Credit: Cheri Eatery
Address: 285–287 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Hours: Mon–Thu: 7AM–4PM, Fri–Sun: 7AM–5PM
Instagram: cherieatery
CODE BLACK COFFEE
For another coffee fix, check out Code Black Coffee near the market. This Melbourne staple has over 10 locations and a sleek, dark aesthetic that screams cool. It’s a local favorite for a reason.
Credit: Code Black Coffee
Address: 321 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205, Australia
Hours: Mon–Fri: 7AM–4PM, Sat–Sun: 7AM–5PM
Instagram: codeblackcoffee
HECTOR’S DELI
Hector’s Deli is a local legend for American-style sandwiches, with multiple locations around town. The sandwich menu is huge, with different breads for each style. The retro vibe and open kitchen make it fun to watch your order come together. Don’t sleep on their donuts—they’re just as amazing.
Credit: Hector’s Deli
Address: 253 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205, Australia
Hours: Mon–Sun: 7AM–3PM
Instagram: hectors_deli
Tips
Plan to spend about 2–3 hours at South Melbourne Market to soak in its variety and foodie delights. If you’ve got extra time, hop on tram 96 or 12 to hit St Kilda Beach for some coastal vibes. Prefer to stay in the city? Stroll to the Yarra River—it’s just a 15-minute walk from the market and a prime spot for photos.
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