Lunch Review: The Workshop
The Workshop on Elizabeth Street at the top end of the city is an interesting spot. It’s somewhat hard to find, although not in a ‘too cool for school’ way: it’s on the first floor and the entrance to the staircase is actually on A’Beckett Street. As you enter, you are struck by its dark and moody feel, and almost labyrinth setup. It has plenty of nooks and crannies which would be perfect for some lunchtime romance, spirited conversation over a glass of the on-tap cider or a quick lunch. The music isn’t too loud, and it’s funky as opposed to doofy and annoying. For the more nostalgic among us, a dollar will buy you a trip down ‘80s memory lane with a game of Space Invaders. First impressions are positive and highly unpretentious.
Whilst moody, there is also a balcony for arty types to enjoy a coffee or lunch when the sun comes out. The menu is highly affordable and features many choices of the vegetarian persuasion. From a lentil shepherd’s pie, to a salami pizza, both carnivores and herbivores will appreciate the variety. There is a decent wine list, and the cocktail menu is even more extensive, with most of the items being significantly cheaper than the main menu items. Speaking of which, the food came out very quickly, which is obviously important for a weekday lunchtime in the city. We dined on the lentil pie and shared a nacho pizza, both were rustic, tasty and accessible in their offering. It’s good, simple lunchtime fare, inexpensive and not fancy, and doesn’t promise anything else. The pizza was especially flavoursome, with the corn chips and a touch of jalapeño lending it a reasonably authentic Mexican feel, while the peppers gave it that touch of heat which brought it to life.
The service was attentive and friendly, without being too lingering. We were made to feel welcome by the host and waitresses (who were very happy and pleasant) and then left alone to enjoy our lunch.
All in all it was a very positive and different experience. There is much to enjoy here, and the pricing is a very pleasant surprise. So much so that you actually find yourself wondering how they do it in this day and age. If I worked in the city I’m sure I would go there regularly for lunch, as eight bucks for a solid meal is an absolute steal. The Workshop is well recommended for a quick and highly affordable lunch in the CBD.
The Workshop is located at Level 1, 413 Elizabeth St, Melbourne. The new lunch menu is served ‘til 4pm daily, while pizzas are served through ‘til late.
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