LATE NIGHT REVIVAL?
Anyone who has travelled abroad knows that late-night eating culture is thriving in many parts of the world. In cities like Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and New York, food spots stay open well into the early hours of the morning, bustling with life. Whether it’s a crowded ramen shop in Japan, a hawker centre in Singapore, or a 24-hour dessert café in Paris, these places create a sense of community that brings people together long after the sun has set.
The perfect late night spot!
Melbourne, known for its incredible café and food scene, has never fully embraced this late-night dining culture—at least, not beyond fast food, kebabs, or pub meals. While the city comes alive in the evenings with bars and nightlife, finding a place to sit and enjoy a quality dessert past 10 PM can be a challenge.
Travelling has opened our eyes to the possibilities of what a thriving late-night food culture could look like. Overseas, late-night dessert spots are common, offering locals and travellers a chance to unwind, socialise, and indulge well past midnight. These places aren’t just about grabbing a quick snack; they create an inviting atmosphere where people can gather, share stories, and enjoy quality food in a relaxed setting.
This made us wonder—why doesn’t Melbourne have more of this? While the demand for late-night dining may not be as large as in some overseas cities, it’s clear that many people still crave quality food options after dark. Whether it’s a group of friends looking to extend their night out, a couple on a dessert date, or someone simply wanting to satisfy a late-night sweet tooth, there’s room for more places that cater to this culture.
Rather than reinventing the wheel, we look to the incredible late-night food cultures overseas for inspiration. There’s something special about knowing you can always find a delicious dessert, a warm drink, and a cosy place to sit, no matter the time. The idea of good food, good vibes, and a welcoming space late into the night is something Melbourne could embrace even more.
While the city’s late-night dining scene is still evolving, the shift is happening. More places are recognising that people don’t want their nights to end at 9 PM—and dessert lovers, in particular, deserve better options. As Melbourne continues to grow as a food capital, perhaps the future holds more places where great desserts and great company go hand in hand, no matter the hour.
Melbourne’s late-night food culture is evolving, and we can’t help but wonder—should we take it even further? We’ve seen firsthand how many people love indulging in a post-dinner dessert or late-night treat, and it raises the question: would Melbourne benefit from more places staying open until 2 AM or later? We’d love to hear from you—would you visit Drizzl’d if we extended our hours? Let us know your thoughts, and who knows—maybe Melbourne’s late-night dessert scene is just getting started! 🍩🍫✨