By now, you’d have to think that Benjamin Townsend, aka Yung Cook God, is surely Melbourne’s favourite rapper-cook double threat. His social media following – over 500,000-strong all told – can’t get enough of his content – whether it’s a high-energy cooking video laden with humour, charisma and a plume of 420 spirit, or something cooked in the studio and released under his rap moniker Ivan Ooze. He’s Melbourne’s self-styled Snack, and when he’s between shoots you might find him in Moorabbin for schnitzels, Collingwood for ice-cream and Windsor for a post-gig cleanser. Here’s how he does Melbourne.
My local is The Espy. Just a short stroll from where I live, it has become a frequent haunt of mine. Its vibrant atmosphere, coupled with consistently excellent food and crisp beers, makes for a pleasant experience every visit.
I know I’m in Melbourne when I… Nothing says Melbourne to me more than enjoying a fresh N Lee chicken banh mi accompanied by a cold can of Coke on a sweltering day. The rich flavours and satisfying crunch of their Vietnamese rolls evoke a sense of home; a quintessential Melbourne experience.
My favourite place to stock up on supplies is South Melbourne Market. It’s my go-to for fresh produce. The lively atmosphere – particularly on a relaxed Wednesday – lifts my mood. I often treat myself to a snack from the food court – the perfect boost before heading into a filming session.
The best new thing I’ve found is Fluffy Torpedo ice-cream in Collingwood. It stands out with its unique flavours, from the simple, like milk, to the adventurous, like grape Aeroplane Jelly with marshmallow and pink salt.
The people I look to for cooking inspo are… Carolina Gelen is one of my biggest inspirations. Her creativity is captivating, and her recently published cookbook Pass the Plate is a treasure trove of innovative ideas. I haven’t tried many of her recipes yet, but her inventive approach to cooking always inspires.
My favourite spot for a pre-gig feed is Shanghai Village in Chinatown. The lively, bustling environment sets an energetic tone for the evening. The food is delicious, with lots of affordable options that make for a perfect, flavourful meal before a performance.
And for a post-show nightcap, it simply must be… Holy Grail and Lucky Coq in Windsor are my top choices for a post-show drink. Holy Grail has cosy booths for a relaxed vibe, while Lucky Coq has a more dynamic atmosphere. The downstairs area at Lucky Coq is particularly appealing, and an ideal spot to unwind or keep the night alive.
When I want to really go crazy on a fancy meal, I prefer to take on the challenge of preparing an extravagant meal myself. The last dining experience that truly impressed me, however, was at Attica in Ripponlea. Every dish was a masterpiece.
When I want to show off the city to friends from out of town, I like to… Lately, I’ve enjoyed taking friends on impromptu adventures around the city, starting with a few drinks. Exploring Melbourne’s hidden gems in its side streets and alleyways always leads to exciting discoveries.
There’s no better value in Melbourne than Marko’s Schnitzel in Moorabbin. Exceptional value. Their range of crumbing options, such as garlic and paprika, combined with freshly made pita and an array of unique fillings, make for an unparalleled schnitzel experience. I highly recommend their Moroccan carrots.
If I could change one thing about eating and drinking here it would be… It may be unrealistic, but having all restaurants and bars open 24/7 would be a game-changer for Melbourne. The city’s vibrant culinary and nightlife scenes are unmatched, and being able to enjoy them at any hour would enhance them even more.
But the one thing I hope never changes in Melbourne is Melbourne’s knack for unforgettable experiences. From the diverse characters you meet on the streets to the spontaneous pop-up events, the city is always brimming with excitement and surprises. It’s a place that constantly delights.
Follow Ben’s adventures at @yungcookgod and @ivan_uzi.