Vegie Bar is an iconic 20 year old Melbourne institution that hits the vegan spot and makes carnivores turn with a newfound sense of discovery. As a self confessed carnivore I’ve always said that I’m up for great vegetarian (having had amazing experiences in India). Come here for vegetarian food of the highest order and a great vibe.

Vegie Bar promotes healthy eating at a reasonable price, offers food from around the globe and does not believe food should be overworked but have minimal human involvement.

We came here with friends and enjoyed a large selection of quality dishes. Some of us at the table were vegetarian and some were at the other end of the scale (ie never ate vegetables). A couple of us wondered whether we could secretly slip some chorizo onto the pizza when it arrived – but that was deemed an inappropriate idea. Some of us were here to experience something new (or unfamiliar) and we should keep it that way.

Vegie Bar pumps with communal tables, exposed brick, specials written on a whiteboard, funky lighting, group tables and a great little area upstairs where you can peer on hipster HQ below. The place is always packed! There’s plenty of action as staff meander through the throngs to deliver meals to tables. Funky music is playing but you can’t really hear it because this place is loud with convivial conversation.

The pizzas are wonderful and great value. For around $12 you get a pizza that may well satisfy your hunger. I ordered 2 pizzas and could only eat half of each. The Sienna pizza is magnificent described as having a rich Italian napoli base comprising of fresh tomato, basil, red wine and garlic. Topped caramelized onion, roasted red capsicum, haloumi cheese, wild rocket and lemon are a sensational flavour profile. Vgie Bar is generous on the haloumi which appealed. The caramalised topping is also a winner. And the rocket is a great contrast. My friend often orders this from a nearby business and describes it as the best pizza she has ever eaten. I believe her.

The Italiano is also a pizza of note, featuring a pesto and napoli base with baby spinach, Spanish onion, sundried tomato, roast pumpkin (generous chunks), olives, mozzarella and fetta.

The Margharita is also a tremendous pizza and is really normally vegetarian anyway.

The Lentil Burger is a classic vegetarian burger. The stuffed mushrooms filled with tofu are amazing. The Mexican Burrito is fantastic consisting of Tortilla bread with refried kidney beans, spinach, onion & mushrooms, served with rice, topped with melted cheese, chilli, sour cream & guacamole.

All the meals are substantial in portion and you shouldn’t leave this place hungry. It feels like the restaurant is on your side.

The desserts are spectacular so you might want to plan accordingly.

Drinks include biodynamic or organic wines and some great fresh organic juices.

I enjoyed the hipster wait staff as friendly and engaging at all times. Veggie Bar only takes cash – so most of us dashed across the road for the ATM – where we noticed St Jude’s our next stop. You can book if the group is large enough.

Vegie Bar has now become a favourite destination for tourists coming to Melbourne as the archetypal vegetarian restaurant. May it keep setting benchmarks!

Vegie Bar380 Brunswick Street Fitzroy – Vegetarian - Food 9 Ambience 9