by Ellen Wu
Cheap, solid servings of simple Japanese food in under five minutes? Who would want more?
Located just off Lonsdale Street, Don Don is a Melbourne fast food treasure. Known for it’s lightning-fast service, this unassuming eatery is a favourite among RMIT students and busy corporates alike.
Don’t be disheartened by the line snaking out the door, blink once and you’ll be fumbling at the board of choices. Blink again and one of the friendly, efficient Don Don staff will be calling out your order. The logistics behind this inhumanely fast conjuring is puzzling, but any scepticism you may hold will dissipate at the smell of Don Don’s steaming hot food.
Don Don’s simple menu consists of just 11 choices, all under $10. You’ll find all the Japanese staples: udon, sashimi, bento boxes and curries. Everything is satisfyingly tasty but the Chicken Curry Don is a clear front-runner in popularity. With perfectly smoky grilled chicken and thickly classically spiced Japanese curry, it will only set you back $6.90. When the plastic takeaway container is sadly empty and your stomach is pleasantly full, you won’t regret it.
If you can grab a table in the homely dining area consider yourself blessed. Otherwise soak up the sun and enjoy your takeaway on the grass outside the State Library, or back at RMIT if you’re a workaholic, allergic to light, or if it’s raining I guess.
Where: 198 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
Opening hours: Open 11am-9pm everyday.
Contact: N/A
Rating: 3/5
Price: 2/5
Favourite: Chicken Curry Don
Best for: Speedy filling Japanese meal
Photos by Ellen Wu