Melbourne has seen an explosion of specialist Sri Lankan eateries in recent years, and it is now a bit harder to pick out the properly authentic places from flashier, newer establishments. However, luckily there is one such authentic place right in the heart of the CBD on Little Bourke Street. Chef Lanka is certainly no secret – the easiest way to spot it is by the queues that will form outside each lunchtime – but it is an absolute must for any vegetarians, connoisseurs of South Asian food or simply people visiting Melbourne looking for a delicious, hearty and very well priced feed. Given its popularity it’s always wise to book a table so you can be assured of a memorable Sri Lankan meal to look forward to – we recommend the fish or jackfruit curry, as well as Chef Lanka’s moreish wambatu moju eggplant pickle that comes almost without asking.