Welcome to Wickham Forest, one of Melbourne’s most welcoming neighborhoods—and a surprising hub for culinary delights just waiting to be discovered. While Wickham Forest itself is a serene, residential retreat lined with lush oaks, its surrounding streets buzz with an incredible variety of dining experiences, from casual coffee corners to international restaurants and hidden food truck gems. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, here’s your go-to foodie itinerary for exploring the best bites around Wickham Forest.
Locally-Loved Restaurants Worth the Reservation
For starters, Wickham Road is your main artery to a world of flavors. Within a five-minute drive from the heart of Wickham Forest, a string of standout restaurants await.
- El Antojo Latin Kitchen
*Cuisine:* Latin American
*Price Range:* $-$$
Located near the intersection of Wickham Rd and Lake Washington Rd, this family-run spot thrills with perfectly seasoned street tacos, crispy empanadas, and homemade churros. Their “arepas” are legendary—crispy outside, fluffy inside, and packed with shredded meats or fresh veggies. It’s the sort of place where regulars are greeted by name.
- Thai Thai House
*Cuisine:* Thai
*Price Range:* $$
Nestled a block west of Wickham Forest on Post Road, Thai Thai House is your destination for fragrant curries and dazzling noodle dishes. Don’t miss the Tom Yum soup—spicy, tangy, and deeply comforting. Their green curry and “drunken noodles” are local favorites, and the service is always warm and quick.
- PizzaVola
*Cuisine:* Italian/Pizza
*Price Range:* $-$$
Just south on Wickham Road, PizzaVola earns rave reviews from neighborhood families and students alike. Their thin-crust, brick-oven pizzas are loaded with fresh toppings, and the garlic knots are a must. Bring the kids—there’s always a cheery, bustling atmosphere here.
- Makoto Sushi Bar
*Cuisine:* Japanese/Sushi
*Price Range:* $$-$$$
Tucked into the Wickham Corners, Makoto is a sushi institution beloved for its ultra-fresh nigiri, inventive rolls (try the “New Melbourne Roll” for a local twist!), and generous sashimi plates. Sit at the sushi bar for a full experience or grab a cozy booth.
Cozy Cafés for Coffee & Conversation
Whether you need an early pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, Wickham Forest’s perimeter has several cafés to choose from:
- Sun Shoppe Café Satellite
*Cuisine:* Café/Breakfast
*Price Range:* $
Just east of the neighborhood, this laid-back coffeehouse is celebrated for artisanal espresso, cold brew on tap, and laidback vibes perfect for remote work or a weekend read. Their house-made muffins and avocado toast are irresistible.
- Love Bug’s Donuts & Bakery
*Cuisine:* Bakery/Café
*Price Range:* $
Nestled close to the intersection of Wickham and Parkway Drive, Love Bug’s is a tiny but mighty bakery where the scent of fresh pastries is impossible to ignore. The cronut here—a croissant-doughnut mashup—is a true hidden gem in the Melbourne scene. Get there before 10am for the biggest selection.
Food Trucks and Fresh Surprises
Wickham Forest locals are spoiled by a steady stream of food trucks, especially during special events at Wickham Park (just north on Wickham Road). Here are some frequent favorites:
- El Bori Food Truck
*Cuisine:* Puerto Rican
*Price Range:* $
Look out for this festive truck parked by Lake Washington and Wickham Rd most weekends. Its mofongo, plantain-based bowls, and flavorful “pernil” (roasted pork) draw admirers from all over the city.
- Rockabilly BBQ
*Cuisine:* Barbecue
*Price Range:* $-$$
This spot offers slow-smoked ribs, brisket sandwiches, and southern sides like mac and cheese and fried green tomatoes. The always-friendly staff and generous portions turn first-timers into instant fans.
International Flavors On Your Doorstep
Adventurous eaters will love Wickham Forest’s access to authentic global cuisine. Within a mile, you’ll find:
- India Fest and Other Pop-ups at Wickham Park
*Cuisine:* Indian/Festival Eats
*Price Range:* $
Wickham Park regularly hosts food-centric festivals, like the annual India Fest (held each Spring), where regional Indian snacks, curries, and sweets are served by local families and organizations. It’s a fun, affordable, and surprisingly authentic way to try something different.
- Paella 2 Go
*Cuisine:* Spanish
*Price Range:* $$
A lesser-known gem, this Spanish food truck rotates between local strip malls and Wickham Park events. The seafood paella brims with shrimp, mussels, and saffron rice—perfect for sharing.
Local Traditions and Sweet Spots
No foodie trip to Wickham Forest is complete without celebrating the neighborhood’s special sweets and seasonal treats:
- Jeremiah’s Italian Ice
*Cuisine:* Dessert
*Price Range:* $
Just a quick hop north at the Wickham and Parkway intersection, Jeremiah’s is a staple for creamy soft-serve swirled with bright, tangy Italian ices. The mango “gelati” here is especially refreshing on hot Melbourne afternoons.
- Swiss-Delice Bakery
*Cuisine:* European/Pastries
*Price Range:* $-$$
This bakery is famous for delicate éclairs, almond croissants, and decadent chocolate truffles. It’s a must-stop for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Hidden Gems & Quick Bites
Don’t overlook these local favorites tucked away in plazas close to Wickham Forest:
- La Estancia de Luisa
*Cuisine:* Colombian
*Price Range:* $-$$
This under-the-radar spot on Aurora Road serves up amazing “bandeja paisa”—a Colombian feast featuring grilled meats, eggs, fried plantain, and beans. Service is fast, portions are generous, and the “arequipe” dessert is house-made and unforgettable.
- Pho Cali
*Cuisine:* Vietnamese
*Price Range:* $-$$
Pho Cali, just south off Wickham, does a brisk lunch business serving fragrant bowls of pho and crispy spring rolls. Their Vietnamese coffee is superb and very reasonably priced.
Conclusion
The Wickham Forest area may be quiet and green, but its food scene is as colorful as Melbourne itself. From family-run bakeries to bustling food trucks and unassuming strip-mall wonders, your next favorite meal is just around the corner. Grab your friends (or head out solo!), hungry for discovery—because some of the Space Coast’s most memorable eats are right here in your own backyard.