A POSTCARD FROM MELBOURNE – JORDAN CLAY, CO-OWNER AND EXECUTIVE CHEF OF PIPIS KIOSK
Greetings from Melbourne, a city where I’m constantly inspired by the way urban life meets coastal charm. There’s something about this place—the way it hums with creativity, the way it can be so laid-back yet bursting with energy all at once. Whether I’m strolling through the Royal Botanic Gardens in the morning or enjoying the bustle of one of our incredible markets, I feel connected to the many layers that make Melbourne what it is.
If you were to spend a day here, I’d suggest starting with a peaceful walk through the Botanic Gardens, especially in the early morning when it’s still quiet. I’m always drawn to the cactus garden—it’s such a unique and vibrant spot that feels like another world. After that, I’d head to the National Gallery of Victoria. Melbourne’s art scene is rich and diverse, and the NGV captures that with its impressive mix of contemporary exhibitions and a permanent collection that showcases Australian artists beautifully.
For lunch, there are so many good spots in the city, depending on your mood. You could go for a comforting bowl of pho at Mekong or indulge in a bit of history with a meal at Grossi Florentino, one of Melbourne’s oldest and most iconic restaurants. From there, I’d try to catch a live show. Melbourne’s theatre scene is electric—there’s always something on, whether it’s avant-garde performances, comedy, or live music. I love The Capitol; the architecture alone makes it worth a visit, but the shows are always top-notch. And of course, you can’t end a day in Melbourne without hitting up one of the late-night cocktail bars for a drink and some relaxed conversation.
At Pipis Kiosk, I like to think we reflect the city’s unique blend of urban and coastal energy. We’re right by the water, with a view of Kerferd Road Pier, and that sense of community—the fishermen, the kids jumping off the pier for a swim—makes this place feel alive. It’s a calmer kind of coastal here, not like the wild, rugged shores you find elsewhere in Australia. The bay is gentle, the beaches are close to the city, and there’s always something happening, but it’s never rushed or frantic. It’s a slower pace, which I think speaks to the true spirit of Melbourne—relaxed but always full of character.
When I’m creating the menu at Pipis, Melbourne’s diversity is always front of mind. Our city is a melting pot of cultures, and that’s reflected in the way we cook. I get to pull from all over the world and mix it in ways that feel fresh and exciting. That’s one of the best things about being a chef here—there’s no rigid culinary tradition holding you back. You can create freely and take inspiration from anywhere. Melbourne’s seasons also have a big impact on what we do in the kitchen. The weather can change on a dime here, and with it, so does the produce. One moment you’re rugged up for winter, the next, you’re getting messages from suppliers about fresh berries and asparagus. It keeps you on your toes, but that’s part of the fun—cooking with the seasons, staying nimble, and making sure you don’t miss out on the best ingredients.
Outside of Pipis, I find myself drawn to the Inner North—areas like Collingwood, Carlton, and Brunswick. They’ve got a cool, creative vibe with new spots constantly popping up. But if I’m in the city, I always make time for a visit to Embla. It’s one of those places that does everything right—the food, the wine, the atmosphere. They’ve always got something interesting on their wine list, and the dishes are the kind that make you stop and think, while also being undeniably delicious.
One of the things I love most about Melbourne is our market culture. We shop at the markets regularly, both for home and for the restaurant. I live in the South East, so Prahran Market is a favourite, but I also make trips to South Melbourne Market when I need something for Pipis. There’s just something about the energy of these markets—everyone’s there, local produce is front and centre, and there’s always something new to discover. Preston Market is another great spot, especially if you’re into Middle Eastern ingredients, and Springvale Market is unbeatable for Asian condiments and products. The variety is endless, and it really highlights how Melbourne’s food scene is so deeply tied to its multicultural roots.
For me, quintessential Melbourne moments are scattered throughout the city. Whether it’s coming into work early on a sunny day, seeing people enjoying the bay, or grabbing a coffee at the market and watching the world go by—it’s these little moments that make Melbourne feel like home. I love wandering through Carlton Gardens after a big night out. It’s calm, the city’s lights twinkling in the background, and you’ve got the possums and bats keeping you company in the trees. That’s Melbourne—a city that knows how to balance calm with excitement.
At Pipis, I think the dish that best embodies Melbourne is our ‘Pipis Pasta.’ It’s a summer staple, featuring clams from South Australia, and it’s got that perfect mix of tradition and innovation. It’s part vongole, part new-wave pasta dish, with a few Asian flavours woven in to keep things interesting. It’s a dish that, like Melbourne, feels familiar yet full of surprises.
Looking to the future, I see Melbourne continuing to grow and evolve, especially in the food scene. The city’s expanding, but that’s only going to add to its rich tapestry. My role, as I see it, is to keep creating exciting, generous dining experiences—offering great food, interesting wine, and a space where people can come together and enjoy what Melbourne has to offer. We’re still a bit of an underdog on the global stage, but I don’t think that’ll be the case for much longer. There’s something special brewing here, and I’m proud to be a part of it.
Until next time,
Jordan
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