With more and more people becoming health conscious, the culture of #fitspo and #cleaneating is a fast growing, cultural phenomenon. Wholesome and healthy foods are not only good for the body, but they’re also good for the soul. Here is a list of the top 5 healthy eats in Melbourne, because even though the summer season is coming to a close, your summer bod must live on.
421 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
If you’re after healthy eating with an Asian flare, head to Yong Green located on Brunswick Street. Yong Green is not only vegan and vegetarian friendly, they’re also offer organic, gluten free and raw meals that are not only Instagram worthy, but really damn delicious.
Yong Green believe in conscious eating that is nourishing to the body and to the earth. They work with accredited organic suppliers to make fresh and healthy food for all.
The restaurant itself has a bit of an Asian feel but the menu also has a wide selection of cuisines such as chili bean nachos (which can be vegan on request) or anything ranging from burgers to raw lasagne, so this place definitely has something for everyone.
Their dessert menu looks lavish with such delights as Tiramisu (raw, vegan, organic and gluten free) or a Caramel Slice (raw, vegan, organic, gluten free) that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
36 Bendigo St, Richmond
If Paleo eating sounds more appealing to you, and you love an all-day breakfast menu, don’t look any further than Patch café on Bendigo street, Richmond. Made with fresh and ethically sourced products, Patch is the first Paleo dedicated café that aims to put a spin on healthy eating with interesting flavour twists and bold eating. The menu changes seasonally, but the quality of the food stays the same.
The industrial space which Patch is located gives it a very urban feel. The café is hidden down a bit of a laneway just off the street front, so keep your eyes peeled in case you miss it.
The all-day menu has your staples like ‘Let’s Smash It!’ smashed avo with poached eggs and spiced tomato salsa, pomegranates, quinoa and a wedge of burnt lime. Honestly, there’s so much going on with each dish – I’d recommend having a quick gander at the menu to get the full scale of it all (I’ve heard that the chili eggs are a favourite.)
2/242 Flinders Ln, Melbourne
If you’re in a rush on your lunch break, maybe you’re trying to clock up your steps for the day, swing past Laneway Greens on Flinders Lane. This salad bar style of eatery is good for a take away meal, or if you’re lucky enough to score a seat in this small but cosy establishment, you can sit at the window and watch the world go by.
There is a salad here for everyone, and to keep things exciting, the menu changes its line-up twice a year. Salads range from Roasted Pumpkin with Feta, to Lentils and Ancient Grains, to Bok Choy and Chicken. If you’re not after a salad, fear not, they offer a range of granola and smoothie bowls, pressed juices, smoothies all of which as the option of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free if that’s what you desire.
Get in nice and early if you can to avoid the lunch rush, but don’t let the crowds deter you from these healthy, delicious meals that your body will be thanking you for.
Various Locations
‘Fonda’ translates to a small house that serves food. Fonda is a term that is associated with the coming together of people to enjoy home cooked food, ‘Mi Casa Su Casa’ – My House, Your House.
Located in Richmond, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Chadstone, Knox, CBD and Winsdor, Fonda Mexico brings Mexican street food to the suburbs and promises fresh, healthy, locally sourced food made with love. There is nothing to feel guilty about when enjoying these street inspired dishes, with tortillas made daily from fresh, organic corn and wholesome ingredients of beef, chicken or market fish – all ingredients sourced from The Queen Vic Market.
Each house is open late and there is an extensive list of drinks that you can enjoy after work with your tacos or quesadillas or whatever takes your fancy (I can’t choose, they all sound so good!). There are gluten free options available, as well as some vegetarian options if you so desire.
Sounds like the perfect summer spot to me, but if you still want to enjoy some beautiful Mexican food in the dead of winter, wrapped in a blanket and drinking margaritas, pretend that it’s summer because they have a take away option as well!
10 Sutherland St, Melbourne
A café dedicated to healthy treats and desserts, without the added guilt? Sign me up! Actually, can I throw a futon out the back and live here?
Raw Trader promises all this and more, with special attention to all things vegan, organic, paleo, gluten free, dairy free, sugar free and of course, raw.
Located down a little alleyway in Sutherland Street, this cute café is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD, and is a great place for an afternoon tea and a cake or three. If you’re just looking to pop in and out, Raw Trader also offer a range of house-made teas, granola and other retail products. Everything sold here is made here, and everything is delicious.
Come down and treat yourself to a range of cakes, raw tarts, slices and chocolates, and leave
feeling satisfied and guilt free.
