Smithburg. — Restaurant in Melbourne

My partner and I have been regulars at this venue for a while now. We've always loved their burgers—both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are easily some of the best in the area. They're generously portioned, well-priced, and usually served with great consistency.

Unfortunately, today was a different story.

We walked in knowing exactly what we wanted and placed our order with the waitress. Since we’re regulars, we didn’t need menus—just a simple, familiar order. I also ordered a schooner of beer, which was served promptly.

Then began the 40-minute wait.

What made the experience frustrating was watching three takeaway orders—placed after ours—get picked up, and a couple seated right next to us (who arrived after us) receive their food while we were still sitting there with nothing.

Even more disappointing was the complete lack of acknowledgment from the waitress. She passed by our table multiple times and didn't once check on us or question why we had no food. Having taken our order and the order of the couple beside us, you'd think it’d be obvious something was off.

Eventually, I got up to pay for the beer, and only then did the management realise we hadn’t been served. They kindly offered to cover the beer, but by that point, the damage was done—I didn’t even finish it, and we left the venue.

As someone who has worked in hospitality, I can say with certainty: there was no excuse for this. The venue wasn’t busy, nor did it seem understaffed. This was pure carelessness and a disappointing lack of customer care from someone who should’ve known better.

We’ve always held this place in high regard, so this experience genuinely stung. Hopefully, it was a one-off and not a sign of declining standards. We’d love to continue supporting this venue—but only if the service returns to what...

@smithburg is a friendly all day American-style diner located on Cecil Street, at @southmebournemarket.

They’re serving up some absolutely delicious burgers, lobster rolls and pancakes, but they’re also licenced! 🍔

You can grab $10 Margaritas and $8 Schooners at Golden Hour from 4 until close every Wednesday to Sunday night (the Chilli Marg is really good!!) 🍸

⭐️ The Smithburg (Double Smash Patty) - this is my idea of a perfect burger, it was actually a finalist for this years Australia's Best Burger Awards 2025! ⭐️ Nashville Chicken Burger - EXTRA crunchy, extra spicy. Satisfying. ⭐️ XL Halifax Lobster Roll - you can actually taste the lobster, nice hit of melted butter in each bite. It’s perfect. They also have two other lobster rolls, Classic and Crispy Chilli. ✔️ Sweet Potato Fries - super crispy, maybe even a little over but no limp chips here! ✔️ Chilli Corn Ribs - great, plenty of chilli oil, needed something a little extra rather than just chilli though. ✔️ Key Lime Pie - not made in-house but delicious!

I wish they did their pancakes all day too - could’ve definitely gone some! What an underrated spot, that absolutely needs way more recognition. I’ve been craving these burgers ever since! 🤤

THURS NIGHT: Locals Night - 2 for 1 Burgers from 5pm! Bottomless Coffee for $5 with any sweet treats (including...

Smithburg turns a corner of South Melbourne Market into burger central with the aroma of sizzling smash patties drifting past seafood stalls and fruit vendors. Orders move quickly from the open grill to metal trays lined with checker paper. The classic cheeseburger lands juicy and salty with a crisp edge on the patty, while the lobster roll comes packed with sweet tail meat tossed in lemony mayo and tucked into a butter-glazed bun. Vegans are not forgotten; the plant-based cheeseburger draws regular praise for its smoky char and melty dairy-free cheese. Shoestring fries arrive golden and dusted with house seasoning that begs for a side of tangy pickles.

Drinks keep the mood light. Frozen margaritas pour from slushy machines in seasonal flavours like passionfruit or classic lime, and tall cans of local pale ale sit on ice by the register. Seating spills onto the market aisle so people-watching is effortless, though tables turn fast at peak lunch, especially on weekends. Staff work the counter with genuine energy, calling regulars by name and handing out extra napkins before you realise you need them. Prices run slightly higher than a chain burger but the mix of quality produce, market buzz and friendly service makes Smithburg an easy choice for a quick bite or a casual...