Went to Spiga for a Christmas get together on a Wednesday at lunchtime. The place was full but the service was still excellent and friendly. Wine prices were very steep - $8 for a glass is too much in my opinion! The food was better value, I had a chicken salad which was huge and very good for about $17. It's a little pricey for everyday lunches but I would come here again for a special occasion. Nice warm and cosy atmosphere.

Approximate cost: $17-25

I shop here about once a week. Deli items are consistently fresh and last longer than from other supermarkets I've frequented in the past. Deli staff on the other hand are curt and cocky as a general rule. Checkout staff are much, much better. The checkouts move quickly even when the store is busy. Sundays are crazily busy so try to avoid them if you can! The aisles are quite well laid out and I never have trouble finding things. I'm starting to become disappointed at how much of the stock is Woolworths branded - but this is an issue with Woolworths in general and not the Moonee Ponds store.

DJ's in the city is a very busy store so there is no real service to speak of except at the counters, which is consistently quick and friendly. I feel they have a great range of price points for casual clothing and makeup and skincare. The store is always tidy unlike many other department stores. I like the pleasant relaxed atmosphere and the fact that they stock OPI nailpolish - my fave.

Approximate cost: $n/a

I've been to the Doot several times on Wednesday nights for $12 parma. The parma is one of the best I've tasted - nice and thick chicken breast with ham, sauce and plenty of cheese! The chips are good too. No table service which is fine, and they do beers by the jug for reasonable (average) prices.

Update 6/3/09 - The parma seems to have gone downhill and is now more like a schnitzel than a chicken breast. Shame since I really like the place.

Approximate cost: $12

Three of us went for beers and food on a Friday night. A mixed crowd of Xmas revellers, after work drinkers, and families with kids (?!)
The few beers we tried were very good - all local. There was a booklet explaining them on the table too which I thought was really interesting.
Food was good - my partner had the Mexican parma which was massive!! He really enjoyed it. I had tandoori chicken salad which was excellent- very tasty.

Approximate cost: $20

Lovely fresh fruit and veg - shop around the different stalls for the best price ;)
Great snacks, I highly recommend the spinach and cheese boreks and the bratwurst... mmm....
The meat and fish are the best and cheapest you will get in Melbourne. Make sure you bring a trolley or some green bags.
The stall where you get 3 dips and crostini for 10 bucks is amazing... and the cheeses and olives are divine from anywhere here. Saturday there are more fruit and veg stalls, but it's easier and cheaper to park on Sundays so it's a toss up when to go!

The Night Market is fantastic - really cute and quirky jewelery, plants, clothing that you would never see at the normal market. This is on Wednesday nights through summer. The food at this is amazing too - try the paella, swordfish pies, and lots of nice wine :)

Approximate cost: $n/a

My partner and I have visited Arcadia on several occasions for weekend breakfasts.
The vegie breaky is only $10 and is huge, fresh and very tasty. I have also ordered the french toast which is great too. Coffee is good and the wait staff keep the water coming which is great. Nice warm atmosphere and lovely friendly service.

Approximate cost: $10 (brekky only)

This place is pretty busy - we arrived just before 6pm on a cold and windy Saturday and they weren't sure if they could fit us in (2 of us). The restaurant was empty when we arrived so I can't really comment on the atmosphere. We did get a table and the service was prompt but unsmiling. Meals came out quickly and were of excellent quality - very very tasty. Would have had another glass of wine but no one came over to ask if we wanted one. When we left there were only 2 other groups seated so I am not sure why the initial concern about fitting us in. I would highly recommend the food here but everything else let the restaurant down a bit. Definitely make a booking.

Approximate cost: $30-35

I'm very particular about my hair (med length, straight, blonde) and felt comfortable with everyone at Duffy. The hair stylist listened to my needs and did exactly as I asked - so rare of hair salons. Very happy with the result and will definitely be back. I also like the fact that their prices are on their website (www.duffyhairdressing.com.au) I had a half head of foils and a style cut and it was much cheaper and better than other cuts I've received around Melbourne.

Approximate cost: $155

This warm small restaurant in the dining strip of Mt Alexander Rd is a little gem!

It's BYO which gives it an immediate thumbs up! The atmosphere is quiet, warm and cosy - nice for a casual romantic dinner.

Service was prompt and unobtrusive. The food was excellent, I highly recommend the salt and pepper squid.

We will be frequenting this place I'm sure!

Approximate cost: $15-20