The Union Deli & Diner

In St Kilda, The Union Deli and Diner brings deli swagger and diner nostalgia under one roof. It’s casual to the core, fuelled by meats, beers and a bit of curated chaos. Think big flavours, good times and service with a wink.

The menu runs from stacked sandwiches to comfort classics. The meatball sub comes heavy with sugo, rocket and parmesan, while the room-service club layers grilled chicken, bacon and a soft egg. Beer-battered fried pickles land with Carolina Gold sauce, and smoked pork ribs hit sweet-and-tangy with pickled pineapple. (Yes, the lasagne has fans.)

Steak lovers head straight for the 250g porterhouse with pepper sauce, fries and a baby Caesar. On weekends, barbecue platters take over: brisket, ribs, wings and sausage with all the proper sides. Burgers, poutine and crisp salads round things out.

Drinks hold up their end, and desserts don’t shy away from hot Nutella doughnuts to strawberry pavlova with banana cream.

Bring an appetite. The Union Deli and Diner will do the rest.