Scrumptious sandwiches a stone’s throw from the CBD.
Olmates’ Southbank store feels like a bit of a hidden gem! It might be the roadworks around Arts Precinct that add to this illusion (you have to walk the long way around) but on this sunny Saturday it feels like a morning in suburbia, not a few streets from a packed CBD.
Most people in Olmates are enjoying a leisurely meal, either with a coffee and a newspaper or over a catch up with friends. I’m sure weekdays are different, but it didn’t give off the typical CBD sandwich bar vibes I was expecting (in a good way).
Sunny seats and lots of variety
We took an outdoor table as it was a pleasant day, and alongside our caffeine fix we went for the Roast Cauliflower toastie, Meatball sub and a side of chips.
We loved how every sandwich is presented differently, and it’s easy to see how you could return regularly and not get bored with the offerings here. I was initially worried as the cauliflower… sounded like it had a lot going on, but it worked perfectly. The chunky cauliflower had a great texture, with just a hint of spice from the chill sauce, and it paired beautifully with the sweet chutney. The overall flavour was much more delicate than I expected and I really enjoyed it.
Juicy meatballs, and make sure you add sides!
The meatballs were very juicy. The flavours here were much more traditional and it easily lived up to expectations. There was a decent serving of the sauce without the bun being drenched and falling apart – a delicate balance!
The crunchy chips were well seasoned and just helped to round out the meal, which left us feeling full well into the afternoon! Olmates feels like it’s just waiting to be discovered, so get there quick before you’re having to queue for your sangas!
Website: https://www.instagram.com/olmates.au/
Address: 20 Kavanagh Street, Southbank
Opening Times:
| Mon | 7am to 2pm |
| Tue | 7am to 2pm |
| Wed | 7am to 2pm |
| Thu | 7am to 2pm |
| Fri | 7am to 2pm |
| Sat | 8am to 2pm |
| Sun | Closed |
Parking: There is a Wilson carpark around the corner, or some limited street parking (check the signs!)
Getting here on PT: The 1 is the closest tram route (Alight Arts precinct/Sturt Street) or the 605 bus goes down Kavanagh Street. It’s about a 10 minute walk from St. Kilda Road trams too.