After a year of delays, Grazeland – a dedicated food precinct in Melbourne’s inner west – has finally opened.

The mammoth space stretches over 10,000 square metres (think half of the MCG), and has taken over the location of a decommissioned OCI bottling plant. The demolished site was originally slated for an expansion of the Scienceworks museum next door.

Grazeland is a bit like a food market or festival – but it’s permanent. And its 50-odd food vendors run the gamut from street food and Asian desserts to fusion hybrids and American diner favourites. There are also three bars, a number of retail stalls, two stages, and a huge screen showing sports.

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The stalls are housed in repurposed shipping containers, designed and customised by each business. That means a mix of pastels, bold colours, neon lights, eye-catching prints and cute cartoon characters to walk past.

Among the vendors you’ll find woodfired pizza from 48h Pizza Bar; Polish dumplings from market favourite Pierogi Pierogi; fresh oysters and lobster rolls from Claw & Tail; Sri Lankan street food from Drums; noodles; Scottish haggis; monstrous stacked burgers; Indonesian staples; and more.

Sweet options include crunchy, ricotta-filled cannoli from Cannoleria by That’s Amore; bubble waffles filled with gelato and fresh fruit; cinnamon sugar-dusted churros; loaded doughnuts and thickshakes; Japanese souffle pancakes; ma’amoul, or traditional Middle Eastern semolina cookies; and rainbow fairy floss.

Drinks are available from Grazeland’s three bars, located in themed sections named Boulevarde, Meadow and Metro. There are also non-food stalls selling handmade jewellery, accessories, kids’ clothes, crystals and essential oils.

Expect local musicians, roving performers and entertainment for kids each weekend. Almost the whole area is protected from the weather, which means it’s open rain or shine throughout the year. There’s also a deck dotted with umbrellas along the Yarra River with views of the city skyline to the east.

Entry is $2.50, or free for children under 12. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

Grazeland is at 20 Booker Street, Spotswood. It’s open Friday 5pm–10pm, Saturday 12pm–10pm and Sunday 12pm–9pm.

grazeland.melbourne