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Universal Restaurant

3.8 (39 reviews)
Closed 11:00 am - 11:30 pm

Universal Restaurant Photos

UNIVERSAL RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Good for kids
Dogs allowed
Outdoor seating

Recommended Reviews - Universal Restaurant

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Reviews With Photos

Chicken Parmesan
Lindsey O.

Omg the chicken parmie. Biggest and best I've had in my life. The cheese is just melted so perfectly and the breading and all the flavor!! There's a long wait outside but there are a couple solo seats at the window so if you're by yourself, just go inside and ask if you can have one of them and I got seated immediately since I didn't need a table. The fries and the cole slaw on the side weren't exceptional so usually I'd give this a 4 star but the parmie knocked my socks off so much it's worth the 5. SOOOO GOOD.

Inside
Saeid Z.

I had lunch here twice after work. Both times consistent service. Good food. Huge portion. Tasty. Friendly staff and fast service. I will go again.

Inside
David S.

Well, it certainly seems that when you offer huge $10 parmas then you are going to draw a crowd, particularly when the crowd tends to consist of friends of mine. The problem is that I don't particularly like parma. Well, that's okay because they do have other options available here, which is pretty good, namely your typical pasta dishes that you tend to find on a Lygon street cafe. This place isn't too bad, but not really a favourite, though as I suggested, it certainly does draw the crowds.

Fiona S.

Ohh Yea!! It is a lovely welcoming restaurant. The food is awesome - portions are huge and have the flavour of home cooking and hospitality - did I say the food was awesome!! Service is great - prompt and efficient, great range of drinks. You need to queue to get in and once you taste the food you'll know why - and why you would do it again. I loved it it, my daughter loved it - in fact the whole family loved it - great place for everyone.

My table
Masih S.

It is a well known Italian restaurant and I decided to try it out today. In summary I don't believe it lives up to its hype. I waited in line to be seated at a table. I was seated at a very uncomfortable table in the middle of walking path next to the line which was ver unpleasant. I ordered chicken wings and pork chops. The food was cold and too sweet for my taste. The salad dressing was missing. I had to ask for napkins and plate which to me was obviously needed for this meal. Water was provided for free which was nice.

Interior
Edmund C.

Famous for a reason Rarely are queues justified for food but this place would be one of the few exceptions Known for their $14 schnitzels they have earnt their name for some banging food. These things are pretty freaking big And come with a generous serve of chips. I ordered the pizza which was by my exacting standards quite big as well. Washed down with one of their signature shakes - definitely had a good time. The general dining experience was quite positive overall :)

Arancini balls
Billy E.

Food wise Your spoilt for choice in Melbourne haha, so it's so hard to choose but i got to admit i went to the place where it was the busiest just this once seeing as i had my locations to eat at :)!! It was probably one of the biggest italian eateries in the street. Im a sucker for when i see home made dishes on the menu :)!! I got the brushetta & arancini balls for entrée which both tasted great :). Had the home made lasagna for main & a Mexicana pizza:). Mexicana pizza smelt fantastic and was tasty from the get go! As for the homemade lasagna it was out of this world tasty, perfect creaminess & the flavours got me craving seconds but it was way to filling:). Had panacotta with pink fairy floss with coffee for dessert, perfect finisher for a decentful lunch :D.

Chicken parmigiana
Acoupleoffoodlovers ..

The venue had a nice set up and was quite spacious. As soon as we arrived we were in awe of the sheer size of the chicken parmigiana, as that is what a lot of customers there had ordered. We both decided to try it and also tried their chocolate fudge and vanilla bean shakes. Their shakes are priced at $6.00, which was really amazing value considering they were both big and delicious. They were served in tall glasses and both tasted lovely and creamy. The vanilla bean shake actually had a vanilla bean inside it, and the chocolate fudge shake had shavings of the chocolate. Soon after, our meals arrived - and both our plates basically took up the whole table. The chicken parmigiana was one of the best we have tried. Not only was it really giant and juicy, but it was covered with Napolitana sauce and plenty of cheese. Everything tasted really fresh which is always a positive. Neither of us are really big slaw fans, but the slaw was really pleasant and was a nice side to balance out the chicken and fries. The fries were hot and crispy, and were a great side to a traditional parmigiana. We both still cannot believe the incredible value - as each parmigiana was only $14.00, majority of other competitors averaging around the $20.00 mark. We also liked the fact that a staff member asked us if we wanted a container to take away what we did not finish. All the staff members we dealt with were very friendly which added further to the positive overall experience. Give them a try, you won't regret it!

Snitzel the size of your head.
David T.

I stopped here while walking through Melbourne. It was a busy restaurant but we found a comfortable table. I decided to try the Chicken Parmigiana and the price was fairly reasonable I thought, until I saw the food come out. The snitzel was about the size of my head! The snitzel tasted great and as mentioned the serving size was awesome. It was great they let us take our left overs home as well.

3 cheese ravioli
Lola T.

This is by far my favorite Italian restaurant on Lygon street. The 3 cheese ravioli is the best!!! I have never seen a pasta dish that has green beans in it. The staff can be hit or miss, sometimes really nice other times they are a bit disinterested. The only thing I don't like is that they don't have Diet Coke, only Coke Zero. I highly recommend!!!

The Lot Pizza (6 slices)
Nadia G.

This restaurant was recommended as one of the few restaurants to try out in Melbourne. The presentation of the food was amazing! This places sells the best beer battered fries I've ever tasted. The salad was vibrant with colors and dressed with a nice light mayo. The pizza was delicious with generous amount of toppings and perfectly cooked base. The only downside for me is the portion of the food. Even if the price is affordable, the portion was way too big for me. I thought it would be better to lower the price and decrease the portion.

Lennise N.

To those days when you feel like eating out but you're kinda broke - and you're looking to go to a place where it's money-worthy and delicious as well? Well, you're in luck! Universal is one of the few rare places that actually balances both of criteria. Just a head's up though - not everything in their menu is yummy and money-worthy. There are two dishes that I can safely say it would satisfy your taste buds without burning a hole in your wallet. A little side note before I continue mu review is that if you hate eating chicken, then scroll away. Cause this ain't a review you're gonna find useful. Dish one: Chicken Schnitzel. ($14) It's so huge that even on my hungriest of days, I can only manage to devour 3/4 of it. It's a huge piece of chicken schnitzel that comes along with a side of beer battered chips (it's really yummy) and some coleslaw salad. The best bit of this platter is its sauce. If I'm not mistaken it's mushroom sauce? Pardon my horrible memory. But yes. Delicious. Dish two: Chicken Parma ($14) It's the same size as the chicken schnitzel. The only difference is that this platter does not have the amazing sauce but the chicken is topped with (you can guess) tomato-based neapolitan sauce and cheese. Same amount of chips and coleslaw salad. These two dish will definitely leave you feeling full that you might have to crawl back to your mode of transport and sleep your way back home. They do serve alcohol here as well and their price is super cheap during happy hours. I remember ordering a cider there and it tasted a bit watered down. That's probably why they are able to lower their price. Felt slightly cheated, to be honest. Oh well - business is business. In regards to the service, there are good days and bad days. You probably won't be able to experience great service during peak hours (as expected). So if great service is that important to you, come before the lunch and dinner hours. You'll definitely have the staff's attention.

Bar
Jayne C.

Always love coming here for a quick lunch. Great food, good value for money, quick and friendly service. Those 3 points alone should be enough for anyone to keep coming back. Portions can be massive especially the Parma and schnitzel so you have been warned!

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9 months ago

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11 years ago

Best parmigiana and schnitzel in Melbourne CBD. Simply defining how awesome the food is, is not an option.

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8 years ago

Long wait to get a table. Good pasta and risotto. Can choose outdoor seating.

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10 years ago

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Review Highlights - Universal Restaurant

We came here on Easter Monday not expecting much (don't normally eat on Lygon st) and stopped here on whim.

Mentioned in 4 reviews

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The Backlot Studios - Private mini bar area pre-film

The Backlot Studios

4.8(4 reviews)
2.8 kmSouthbank

Did you know there's a cinema hidden away in Southbank/South Melbourne? It was news to me too, but…read moreI went to The Backlot Studios to check it out as an event venue. Backlot is a private cinema, open to groups - think work functions, parties, hens/bucks (apparently you can play games on the big screen too). The cinema fits about 80 people and the chairs are so comfy. Big black leather seats and big double seats in the back. Unlike some smaller/pop-up movie theatres, this place gives you the proper cinema experience - dark, big screen, big sound, no distractions from the outside world. There is a candy bar at the front that will play videos (and logos if you're a business hiring it out). They have catering options or there's a small surcharge per head to bring in food/drink depending on what kind of catering you're looking at. Looking forward to heading back to catch a movie with a friend or 70.

What an evening. This cinema takes intimate seriously and although I got to experience it as part…read moreof an event I would love to find out what it is like as an everyday screening. With only one screening room they managed to really make watching a movie comfortable. Between the giant leather couches, the free private parking, the movie sound which plays in the bathroom so that you don't get left behind and the decor which makes going to the movies more authentic they really did well. To top it off they even have couple's leather chairs so that you can really get up close when your parter gets a fright. I'll make sure to post more in depth once I've experience it for real!

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The Backlot Studios
The Backlot Studios - Snack bar

Snack bar

The Backlot Studios

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State of Grace

State of Grace

5.0(7 reviews)
1.9 kmMelbourne

State of Grace was one of the highlights of our Melbourne trip -- an incredible dining experience…read morefrom start to finish. The atmosphere is vibrant, stylish, and full of character. From the moment you walk in, there's a buzz that makes the place feel alive without being overwhelming. It strikes a great balance between upscale and relaxed, making it perfect for a date night or a fun evening out. The warm lighting and eclectic design add to the charm and make you want to linger. Service was friendly, attentive, and well-paced throughout the night. The staff were knowledgeable about the menu, checked in on us at the right moments, and made the whole experience feel effortless and welcoming. Every dish we ordered was excellent -- not a single miss. We started with the Cauliflower & Mozzarella Croquettes, which were crispy on the outside and perfectly creamy inside. The Grilled King Prawns were flavorful and cooked just right, while the Kingfish Ceviche was fresh, bright, and beautifully balanced. The Stracciatella & Heirloom Tomatoes was simple yet outstanding, letting the quality of the ingredients shine. For mains, the Duck Breast was cooked perfectly and full of rich flavor, and the Lamb Backstrap was tender and well-seasoned. The Pecorino & Ricotta Ravioli was comforting and delicate, while the Seafood Linguine stood out with generous portions of seafood and a beautifully balanced sauce. The Honey Glaze Carrots were the perfect side -- sweet, savory, and executed flawlessly. Overall, State of Grace delivers on every level -- ambience, service, and food. An exceptional spot that lives up to the hype, and one we'd absolutely return to on our next visit to Melbourne.

State of Grace has a positive vibe. Even before your first drink you will think oh what a cool…read moreplace. It's the decor from extravagant chandeliers to deer heads with pearl necklaces; it's beautifully eclectic. I had an old fashion and it had the right mix of orange and bitters. I also ordered the burger which was decent and the fries were hot and crispy. The night I visited there was a live singer playing tunes. Service was quick and friendly. Even the ordering is eclectic as you order electronically (QR) pasted to a library book. This place is worth a visit.

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State of Grace
State of Grace
State of Grace

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Hardimans Hotel

Hardimans Hotel

3.4(5 reviews)
3.5 kmKensington
$$

I wouldn't necessarily say that this was a random pub that I visited, namely because I knew that it…read morewas here, and I intentionally got off the train to go and check it out. Well, I guess it was a good thing that I did so since I found this place to be quite nice. Actually, they had a pretty large outdoor area as well, though their selection of beers wasn't all that great. Still, it was quite a nice pub.

An inner city pub that hasn't been touched with the wand of gentrification is as rare as hens…read moreteeth. I usually enjoy these dive pubs and can happily sink cheap beer for a few hours. Not so much at Hardimans. I almost immediately screwed up my nose and began to mentally refurbish the decor, which didnt include the ingrained regulars. This place is just a touch too bogan, I get they have their clientele but im just not a fan of footy on the big screen above my mains. Anyway a friend and I were resolute to get the Thursday $12 parma/pot special. The service was fine, cant complain for $12. The parma was massive with a wee side salad and chips, look it was pretty dry but satisfied a baser carnivorous instinct. Theres the front bar/pub/dining space which also has live music occasionally. Out the back is a "fancier" dining space open for lunch and dinner. I cant comment on the other food besides the parma but I would stick to the pub basics. Not rushing back in a hurry.

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Hardimans Hotel - Outdoor Seating

Outdoor Seating

Hardimans Hotel - Inside

Inside

Hardimans Hotel - Lounge

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Lounge

The George on Collins

The George on Collins

3.5(21 reviews)
1.2 kmMelbourne
$$

Club style ambience, which is not what you would expect from an actual restaurant, but the food is…read morevery good. Everything we tried was interesting and tasty. The service was ok. Nothing exceptionally good or bad. Worth trying.

Let me preface this by saying I'm visiting from Adelaide via San Diego, California. Feel free to…read moremove on to the next review . I thought this place was great. My wife and I came for dinner, and decided to return the next day for their "Boozy Brunch". The dinner was so delicious. We ordered too much, but ate as much as we could before literally throwing in the towel. I ordered a Manhattan and it was very good for Australian standards. Not the best I've had, and certainly not the worst. My wife had the Chandon Garden Spritz which she enjoyed. To eat, we shared the Pork Belly, and a cut of steak I don't recall. FYI...if it's two people, only order one of these dishes. It's plenty for two. Oh! We did have the bone marrow and dumplings for an appetizer. Both were equally delicious. Now, let me get into their "Boozy Brunch". Apologies, but brunch shouldn't be the same food items on the dinner menu. Where are the eggs? Sweet and savory items (French toast, bacon, etc)? Yes, you can get people in with bottomless drinks for two hours, but you can get more people in with eggs Benedict and avocado toast! Especially, when you throw in some really great live music and singing! I would hope on my next trip to Melbourne, that I could return to this fantastic place and enjoy a good "brekkie" with a mimosa. A few ideas...Pork Belly Benny (you already have it on your menu), fried rice with a fried egg on top, linguisa or chorizo sausage on the side. Maybe a continental breakfast tray with mini muffins, croissants, fresh fruit, coffee/tea, and don't forget the avocado toast. There isn't a restaurant in Melbourne that can't put that together on the whim. BTW...this info is free of charge. You're welcome!

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The George on Collins
The George on Collins
The George on Collins

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Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre - Sam Altman Open AI

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

3.9(14 reviews)
2.7 kmSouth Wharf

I attended a two day convention here on the second floor…read more The space itself is HUGE! I didn't explore the entire center but from what I did see, it's a huge space. There was also another convention going on on the main floor. I'm not sure how many different rooms/spaces/auditoriums is in the entire center, but I'm guessing a lot! Considering everything going on over the weekend and all the people, the bathrooms remained clean. There is food and drinks available for purchase.

The location of MCEC is convenient, close to Southern Cross station and if you're really too lazy…read moreto walk, the 109 tram stop is right at its doorstep. So every time there is an interesting event, I'm usually way more inclined to make the effort to go there as opposed to say, the Showgrounds. My most recent event here was for the Madman Anime fest. There was more than enough room for all the stalls, stage and video games inside the exhibition hall. They also made use of a huge auditorium in the Plenary section. It was my first time there and whoa it was impressive! Comfortable seats, great audiovisual capabilities and lovely modern design. The ushers were friendly and did a good job of checking everyone's wristbands. MCEC is also right next to the yarra at South Wharf and Polly Woodside, which provided a stunning backdrop for those in cosplay posing for photo shoots. I've been to many events here, both day and night, and it's actually refreshing to step outside and just chill out by the water and admire the views, after a long function inside.

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Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre - Denfair 2016

Denfair 2016

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre - Video game section

Video game section

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre - MyChonny

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MyChonny

Universal Restaurant - venues - Updated May 2026

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