Cheap Eats in East Melbourne Under $20 — 2026
The cost of eating out has gone up everywhere, but East Melbourne still has pockets of genuine value. If you know where to look, you can eat a filling, properly made meal for under $15.
Under $15
Bakery pies and sausage rolls are the foundation of cheap eating in East Melbourne — $7 to $9 for something filling. Asian takeaway (rice and a curry, noodle boxes) comes in at $12 to $14. A few cafes do lunch specials that squeeze a decent meal under the $15 line. Check the smaller places off the main road — they are usually cheaper.
Under $20
At this price point, East Melbourne opens up properly. Pub parmas with chips and salad for $18. Thai and Chinese restaurant mains with rice for $16 to $19. Pizza from the local woodfired place for $15 to $18. A bowl of ramen for $17. You are not compromising at this level — these are proper restaurant meals that happen to be priced sensibly.
Lunch vs Dinner
Lunch is almost always cheaper. Many restaurants in East Melbourne run lunch specials — same kitchen, smaller portions or set menus, 20 to 30 percent cheaper than dinner. Weekday lunch between 11:30am and 1pm is the sweet spot. Some places do a $12 to $15 lunch set that would cost $25 after 5pm.
Saving More
- BYO wine: Several restaurants in East Melbourne are BYO — saves $30 to $50 on a dinner for two.
- Takeaway vs dine-in: Same food, often $2 to $3 cheaper without the table service.
- Loyalty apps: A few local cafes and restaurants use apps that give every 8th or 10th meal free.
- Market days: If East Melbourne has a local market, the food stalls are consistently good value — $8 to $14 for a meal.
More guides: Best Restaurants in East Melbourne | Cost of Living | Weekend Guide
