Askal Melbourne

Located in the bustling epicentre of Melbourne City is Askal, a vibrant homage to Filipino culinary traditions, infused with contemporary innovation. Founded on a shared passion among four Filipinos firmly attached to their culinary heritage, the Askal lads bring the much-revered flavours of the Philippines straight to your plate. By using core elements of their family recipes, tradition seamlessly binds the contemporary, showcasing the diversity of the Philippines through food.

The community-centric approach to dining adds a warm touch to the bustling streets of Melbourne, with the restaurant becoming a hub for culture, conversation and creativity, providing nourishment for the body and the soul. Askal, named after the Filipino word for the native street dog, is inspired by their resilience and adaptability, shining through in the food menu and cocktail list.

Menu-wise, the snack section is a great way to whet your appetite before diving into the larger plates, particularly the popular chicharrón or duck balut kwek kwek, which is guaranteed to evoke some nostalgic feels.

The main event is made up of elegantly plated dishes and street food-inspired offerings, including their signature Dish 1 combo and tender skull island prawns. If you still have room, you’d be mad not to finish on a slice of their show-stopping Tita Christine’s ube cake.

Askal’s cocktail list is just as noteworthy as the food; underpinning the traditional recipes are contemporary techniques, scribbled in pencil on a well-informed drinks list. You'll certainly find something eyebrow-raising from their collection of original tipples; the tequila, pomelo and lime concoction Aswang is particularly spook-tac-u-lar.