Australia is known for its many famous tourist attractions.
You can explore the Great Barrier Reef and its many islands, Sydney’s renowned Opera House, the ancient wonder of Uluru, and the vastness of national parks like Kakadu. Enjoy the vibrant red desert in the Outback, or the white sandy beaches along the coastline.
There are many great reasons to undertake a road trip adventure here… but there is a lesser-known experiences for travellers, both international visitors and local ones alike. The fabulous street food.
Australian Street Food
Australia is a multicultural country, home to people from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds. This diversity has had a very positive influence on the street food scene in Australia.
From traditional Chinese dumplings to Greek gyros, the street food options in Australia are diverse and reflective of the many cultures that make up the country. This diversity allows foodies to experience a wide range of flavours and cuisines, all in one place.
It has also led to the fusion of different cuisines, which creates unique and exciting new dishes. You might find a street food vendor serving up a fusion of traditional Chinese dumplings with a modern Australian twist. This fusion cuisine is a reflection of the diverse backgrounds of the people living in Australia, and it allows for the creation of new and innovative dishes.
Sydney to Melbourne
Some of the best spots to experience street food in Australia, are in Sydney and Melbourne, so we’ve put together a road trip to help you devour your way from one to the other!
The most convenient way to travel this route, is by campervan or motorhome. It allows you to spend longer in favourite destinations without needing to make changes to accommodation bookings, plus, you can hire vans that have a kitchen (complete with fridge), so you can buy extra snacks and indulge on the road.
You will find lots of options for campervan hire from Sydney or Melbourne, and can either choose a one way or round-trip drive.
Ready to experience the best street food Australia has to offer? Read on.
Sydney Street Food
In Surry Hills, grab a bite from one of the many food trucks parked on Crown Street. You’ll find everything from traditional Australian meat pies to gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizza. The food trucks here are known for their unique and creative menu items, so make sure to try something new and exciting.
In Chippendale, dumplings are a must-try at Din Tai Fung. This world-renowned dumpling house serves up steaming hot dumplings filled with a variety of meats and vegetables. The dumplings here are delicate and flavourful, and the restaurant also offers a wide variety of other traditional Chinese dishes.
And, in the bustling Chinatown neighbourhood, you’ll find delicious Chinese street food, including Cantonese roast meats and hand-pulled noodles. Head to Dixon Street to find a variety of street vendors selling everything from steamed buns to spicy Szechuan noodles.
With your stomachs full and your taste buds tantalized, it’s time to hit the road and continue your street food journey.
Wollongong
As you leave Sydney, make sure to stop in Wollongong for some authentic Greek street food. The Illawarra region is home to a large Greek population, and you can find delicious gyros and souvlaki at the Wollongong Mall Food Court. The mall food court is a great place to find a variety of street food vendors, all in one convenient location.
The Wollongong Night Market, which takes place every Wednesday evening, is a great place to find a variety of street food options from different cuisines.
Batemans Bay
Further down the coast, you’ll reach the beautiful town of Batemans Bay. Here, you can find delicious seafood at the Batemans Bay Seafood Co-Op. Try the oysters, freshly caught and shucked right in front of you. These oysters are some of the freshest and most delicious you’ll ever have, and they’re a perfect snack to enjoy while taking in the stunning coastal views.
Footscray
As you approach Melbourne, make sure to stop in the suburb of Footscray. This diverse neighbourhood is known for its authentic Asian street food, including Vietnamese banh mi, Chinese dumplings, and Thai curries. Try the pho at Pho Hung Vuong, where the broth is made with a variety of spices and herbs, giving it a rich and flavourful taste. Or grab a banh mi from one of the many food trucks on Barkly Street, where you can find delicious sandwiches made with a variety of meats and vegetables.
There are various street food vendors on Hopkins Street, including Ethiopian, Chinese and Thai cuisine. Footscray also has a Night Market, which takes place every Friday evening, where you can find an assortment of multicultural food stalls.
Melbourne
Finally, you’ll reach Melbourne, known for its diverse range of street food options from around the world.
Make sure to check out the Queen Victoria Market for a variety of street food options, including traditional fish and chips, paella, shawarma, kofta, falafel, souvlaki, samosas and pizza. Be sure to come with an empty stomach and an open mind! The market is open on certain days of the week, so remember to check the schedule before you go. The market is also a great place to find locally made crafts and souvenirs to take home.
Overall, this foodie road trip to Melbourne from Sydney, is a great way to experience the diverse and delicious street food that Australia has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Chinese dumplings, Greek gyros, or fresh oysters, you’re sure to find something delicious along the way. So, pack up your campervan, hit the road, and enjoy the taste of Australia!
