Are you new to Student Village, The University of Melbourne Campus and hoping to try some of the city’s best food without breaking the bank? Melbourne city has a lot to offer - and luckily for you, there are many affordable options available. If you’re looking for some cheap eats for $20 and under - We’ve got you! Here are 7 student budget-friendly places for cheap eats in Melbourne!

1. Miznon

Does Israeli Street food sound like a bit of you? Then you’ll want to head down to Hardware Lane and stop by Miznon, asap! Think of fresh pita pockets with slow-cooked slow-roasted lamb. Their famous baby cauliflower is a veggie lover's dream!

Address: 59 Hardware Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Distance from campus: 7 minutes by car, 12 minutes by tram    

2. Wildlife Bakery

Fancy a grilled cheese toastie? Boy, have we got the bakery for you. Think freshly baked sourdough with a caramel topping…um YUM?! But that’s not all, fresh sandwiches, fruit bread, mince pies and whole cakes that are perfect for birthday celebrations! What’s more, the cafe menu features summer salads that are to die for!

Address: 90 Albert Street, Brunswick East, Melbourne, 3057

Distance from campus: 12 minutes by car, 20 minutes via tram

3. Red Sparrow Pizza

This all-vegan pizzeria is a must-visit! Non-vegans are usually sceptical of vegan cheese. Why? Well because it’s typically bland and can be tasteless. Allow the guys at Red Sparrow Pizza to change your mind. Known for their ​​woodfired-oven Margherita - this place is top tier. 

Address: 406 Smith St, Collingwood, Melbourne VIC, 3066

Distance from campus: 23 minutes by tram

4.    Shanghai Village Dumplings

If you’re a dumping or noodle lover (let’s be real…who isn’t?), listen up! You’re about to have a new local in town. Enjoy a plate of 15 fried dumplings for only $7.80 or grab any noodle dish for under $9! This is a student’s dream! This is the perfect, affordable place to take your mates to enjoy some good food and company.

Address: 112 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Distance from campus: 6 minutes by car, 19 minutes by tram.

5.   Just Falafs

This is the best falafel in the whole of Melbourne, seriously! If you’re a falafel fan - it’d be rude not to visit Just Falafs. Enjoy a jam-packed pita pocket FULL of goodness when you order their signature Haloumi plate with golden fried cauliflower, falafels, hummus – and you know, all the good stuff! Fresh salads are made daily.

Address: 207 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North VIC 3068, Australia

Distance from campus: 11 minutes by car, 25-minute via tram

6. Hella Good!

The guys at Hella good are taking Greek street to another level. Serving up hella good souvlaki and hella good chips! This is the perfect meal to share with friends. Better yet, make a group order and have a nice outdoor picnic at your student accommodation together.

All three locations here.

The closest campus location: 287 Lonsdale St

Distance from campus: 6 minutes by car, 11 minutes via tram

7. Delhi Streets 

Tucked away in between Spencer and Flinders Streets, you’ll find Delhi Streets for authentic Indian cuisine. This spot is buzzing and has such a great atmosphere, with Hollywood movie posters hanging on the walls and Indian pop music blasting. The food here is next level! A must-visit for sharing! This would be the perfect place to visit with your new housemates.

Address: 22 Katherine Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Distance from campus: 12 minutes by car, 22 minutes via tram

So, there you have it – 7 of our favourite budget-friendly spots to eat in Melbourne city! Follow our weekly blogs for more on-campus updates, tips, tricks, and recommendations.

Enjoyed this blog? Check out more from Campus Living Villages:

• New Year, New Resolutions: Student Edition.
• Self-care Rituals to Add to Your Routine.