YUM! As a vegetarian it's tough to get that 'fast food' deliciousness. A bit of mustard, pickles, toasted bun and a great veggie pattie were a pleasant surprise. Great truck food - even better when parked outside the Penny Black, so it can be combined with sunshine and a good drink.

Approximate cost: $10

If you want to get your true Fitzroy on, then your night is not complete without a visit to the LuWow. Tiki to the extreme and with heaps of character. Drinks aren't exactly cheap, but they make a killer Pina Colada that will make your head spin. If you're not familiar, then it's worth checking out. Something completely different with a great atmosphere.

I came to Code Black for a coffee with friend last week who recommended it. Was pleasantly surprised by this cafe/coffee wholesaler tucked away on Weston St in a semi-industrial block. It's right next to Barkly Square, but off the main drag. I had a great toasted sandwich with hummus and grilled halloumi which was so filling I could only eat half. Iced hot chocolate's and coffee's were also delicious. Staff were friendly and helpful with food and drink. Building is open, warehouse, with a window allowing you to watch the chef's prepare your meal.
Stylish and with a James Bond theme. Definitely recommended for a good hearty brunch/lunch. Lots of breakfast options.

It can be tricky finding a good quality Greek restaurant outside of the inner suburbs, but Eos has become a family favourite. We generally order takeaway - lamb platter, dips platter and fish. The food is tasty and hot even after a trip in the car. We usually do our own Saganaki as it doesn't travel very well (needs to be piping hot).

One of the best cafe's in Eltham. Generally bustling by lunchtime, Volumes serves up a great range of food. Set at the back of the bookshop, with entry off the main road, it's well known to locals. For the warmer months there is also an outdoor seating area overlooking the street (keep in mind this is often occupied by smokers), but if you don't mind that, it can be a lot quieter than indoors which is very echoey.

Tropicana do a good fresh juice at a good price for the city. I had a Black Forest smoothie the other day which was delicious. Their sandwiches are also a really good size. It beats going into Boost Juice and fighting the cues. Plus the atmosphere is great fun. The whole shop is filled with bags of oranges which also smell lovely. You can't miss it from outside for all the oranges hung outside.

Retrostar have a good range of vintage clothes, but the price tags don't match at all. Head to Fitzroy or Collingwood and you'll find similar stores with lower price tags. I'm not sure if it's the city location that drives up the dollars, but I couldn't really find anything worth buying for the price on it. Range has gone down hill in more recent years. Good for a look, but you're not likely to find a bargain.

If you need a quick bite to eat in the city and you're near Flinders Street Station, Pepperoni's is a good place to get a cheap bit to eat. A pizza slice will set you back about $2 or two slices for $3 or so. You can't really beat the value. Quality is a bit average, but you get what you pay for.

A great throwback bar, tucked away in a Melbourne laneway and then up a flight of stairs. Despite going on a Saturday night, the bar wasn't packed, which kept the casual vibe. Bar staff were friendly and helpful with picking a drink. Decor was pretty funky, with a 60s vibe. I didn't get to check out the menu, but the food I saw coming out for other people looked pretty tasty. I'll have to head back to get an extra dose of the experience next time.

Manchester Press is about as hidden away as you can get. Tucked away down a little laneway, the little sign out the front doesn't give much away. Hidden inside are friendly staff and some delicious lunch items. I thoroughly enjoyed their hot chocolate, and although not much of a coffee drinker myself, have heard some very good feedback from friends (who are quite picky!)