A world of flavour at Queen Victoria Market’s Food Hall

The newly-refurbished Food Hall at Queen Victoria Market is more than just a place to eat – it’s a celebration of Melbourne’s multicultural spirit.

Among the many passionate traders are Simon Shao of The Bund, Vijay Sivaraj of Drums – Sri Lankan Streetfood, and Carla Mammone of Ruben’s Grill – each bringing their own unique stories, traditions, and culinary passions to one of the city’s most iconic destinations.

For Simon Shao, food is both a business and a deeply personal journey.

Known affectionately as “Simon Potato” thanks to his hit creation Twistto – the original Korean twist potato – Simon has now launched The Bund, a Shanghai-style eatery.

“I came from a city called Wuxi, where dumplings and noodles are like the coffee here in Melbourne,” he said.

“After many years planning and research, my dream finally came true.”

Simon’s offering is all about freshness and authenticity.

“Thanks to the market, home of the best fresh produce in Melbourne, I can just go shop my meat and vegie all fresh in the morning, and cook straight after I bring it back a few doors away.”

His menu features handmade dumplings, Xiao Long Bao, assorted noodles, and wontons – designed to capture a “home-like” feeling. The Bund is also offering $10 dumplings until 11am on market days.

A few stalls over is Vijay Sivaraj’s business Drums – a QVM institution.

“Drums first opened at Queen Victoria Market in 1996 as a small Sri Lankan cuisine outlet,” Vijay told CBD News.

“Over the years, it has grown into a unique icon of the market, loved by both locals and tourists for nearly three decades.”

Vijay’s commitment to authenticity is matched only by his dedication to the market community.

“Drums is like my fourth child, alongside my three children born in the 1990s,” he said.

The eatery is famous for its signature Kotthu Roti, prepared live to the beat of traditional drums.

“Our chefs are well-known at the Night Market for their live cooking skills,” Vijay said. “It creates a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere.”

With the Food Hall’s recent renovations, Drums is now open for dinner, offering affordable meals to students, workers, and nearby residents.

“We’re proud to serve high-quality food at affordable prices.”

At Ruben’s Grill, Carla Mammone is serving up a different kind of comfort – barbecue platters and homestyle favourites with an Italian twist.

“We wanted to elevate and offer more than previously,” Carla said.

“Things such as smoked BBQ ribs, porchetta made in-house daily, pulled pork and smoked and BBQ chicken platters.”

Carla loves the rich mix of people the market attracts, a diverse and ever-changing crowd that ranges from locals and office workers to curious travellers and food-loving families from all over the world.

“Every day is a new day and a different day – we never know what it will bring,” she said.

“We have met and remained friends with so many people from all over the world who come back to visit over and over.”

With the new Food Hall breathing fresh life into an iconic space, Simon, Vijay, and Carla represent the heart and soul of the Queen Victoria Market – where every dish is a reflection of heritage, every flavour tells a story, and every bite brings people and cultures together. •