Let’s be honest—airport dining doesn’t always have the best reputation. But I’m here to tell you that Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) has genuinely stepped up its culinary game in recent years. As someone who’s killed many hours waiting for connections here, I’ve had plenty of opportunities to sample what’s on offer, from quick grab-and-go options to sit-down meals worth arriving early for.

Terminal 1 (Domestic – Qantas)

Hungry Jack’s might be a familiar fast-food option, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need when you’re rushing between gates. Their breakfast menu has saved me more than once during those dreaded 6 AM flights.
But the real gem in Terminal 1 is Bar Pulpo by Movida. This outpost of Frank Camorra’s Spanish restaurant empire serves tapas that will make you forget you’re in an airport. Their jamón croquetas are little spheres of happiness that have turned around my mood after a delayed flight announcement.

Terminal 2 (International)

International travelers are truly spoiled for choice.Brunetti brings a slice of Melbourne’s famous Italian café culture right to the departure lounge. Their display case of pastries and cakes is practically a tourist attraction in itself—I’ve literally watched people taking photos of it before digging into a perfect cannoli.

Two Johns Taphouse offers proper pub meals and a rotating selection of craft beers. It’s my go-to spot when I’ve cleared security with time to spare and want to enjoy one last taste of Australian brewing excellence before heading overseas.

Urban Provedore deserves special mention for travelers seeking healthier options. Their fresh salads and sandwiches using locally sourced ingredients are a welcome alternative to typical airport fare. Their smashed avocado on sourdough reminds me why Melbourne’s breakfast culture is world-renowned.

Terminal 3 (Domestic – Virgin Australia)

Pickett’s Deli & Rotisserie is the standout here, brought to you by respected Melbourne chef Scott Pickett. Their rotisserie chickens are juicy perfection, and the deli sandwiches make airplane food seem even sadder by comparison.

Macchinetta serves respectable Italian food and—more importantly—some of the best coffee in the airport. Given Melbourne’s coffee obsession, this is saying something! I once had a barista here talk me through the origin story of their beans while carefully crafting my flat white—a quintessentially Melbourne experience right before boarding.

Terminal 4 (Domestic – Budget Airlines)

Even the budget terminal has stepped up its game. EARL Canteen offers gourmet sandwiches that are worth every penny. Their pork belly sandwich with apple slaw and wilted spinach might be my single favorite airport meal in Australia.
Salsa’s Fresh Mex is perfect when you need something substantial but relatively quick. Their burritos are generously sized—I usually can’t finish a whole one, which means I sometimes have an unexpected in-flight snack for later.

Getting To and From Your Airport Feast

After enjoying all this food, you’ll need a comfortable way to get to your final destination. Airport Melbourne Taxis provides exceptional taxi services for airport transfers, business trips, and corporate travel throughout the Melbourne area. What I appreciate most about their service is the reliability—when you’ve just endured a long-haul flight, the last thing you want is uncertainty about your ground transportation. Their drivers know all the best routes from the airport, helping you avoid Melbourne’s notoriously unpredictable traffic.

Hidden Airport Dining Tips

Here’s a local secret: if you have extra time, head to the observation deck in Terminal 2 where you’ll find Café Vue. It’s slightly removed from the main hustle of the terminals, meaning you can hear your dining companion speak. The view of planes taking off and landing adds a certain something to your meal that no restaurant décor could match.
Another tip—if you’re on a morning flight, consider grabbing something from Wawa near the T4 car park. Their coffee comes from a local Melbourne roaster and will outshine anything you’ll get onboard by miles.

Worth Arriving Early For?

While I wouldn’t suggest showing up three hours early just for the food, Tullamarine’s dining options take some of the sting out of those recommended arrival buffer times. I’ve found myself occasionally disappointed when my flight is called because I wasn’t quite finished with my airport culinary adventure.
Whether you’re a traveler passing through, picking someone up, or a local flying out, Tullamarine’s restaurants offer more than just convenience—they provide a pretty decent taste of Melbourne’s famous food scene. And when you’re ready to head into the city to explore the real thing, Airport Melbourne Taxis will be waiting to whisk you away to your next destination in comfort and style.