Six Delicious Lunch Specials to Brighten Your Workday in Wollongong CBD
If you commute into the Wollongong Central Business District for work, whether daily or occasionally, you are likely already aware of the abundant high-quality lunch options available to city professionals. However, even with such variety, office workers often face those moments when deciding what to eat becomes a challenge. To help spark inspiration, here are six of the best lunch specials in the area, ranging from affordable treats to indulgent delights worth around twenty dollars.
Top Thai at Food Court Prices
Kinn Thai on Keira Street is widely regarded as one of Wollongong's premier Thai restaurants, though it is not typically the cheapest. Fortunately, their lunch specials offer exceptional value. For just $15.90, you can enjoy a top-quality curry or stir-fry served with rice, or opt for the vegetarian version at $14.90. The dishes here are among the finest Thai offerings in the city.
For an authentic experience, try the Thai Street Lunch menu, which features combinations of stir-fried meat and/or vegetables, rice, and a fried egg. Alternatively, the hearty Tom Yum soup with prawn, crispy pork, noodles, and broth is available for approximately $18. Additional value can be found with items like four chicken satay sticks for $4, or a combo of a curry or stir-fry plus an entree and drink for $21.90. This establishment truly delivers premium Thai cuisine at prices reminiscent of a food court.
French Dip Your Sandwich, Judy
Daughter Judy's, the sibling sandwich shop next to His Boy Elroy, offers a playful and delicious menu. The French dip style, where you dip the sandwich into a rich soup-sauce, originated in Los Angeles and has recently gained popularity in Australia. The standout option is the beef brisket sandwich, complete with chimichurri, horseradish, provolone, and fried onions. To elevate the experience, dunk it into the flavorful beef dip, a thick soup with just enough fat to enhance the taste.
Priced at $17 including crisps and the dip, this lunch provides excellent value for a fun and satisfying meal. Be advised that these sandwiches often sell out quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
What Would Nonna Say? Delizioso!
Ain't Nonna's on Market Street has earned praise for its delectable topped focaccia, and office workers frequently rave about it. Enjoying this $10 delight often involves trying to keep olive oil off keyboards while savoring flavors like potato and rosemary, mushroom and burrata, or eggplant and nduja, which change daily.
The unique offering at Ain't Nonna's has become a beloved part of the CBD lunch scene, with many suggesting it has contributed to a noticeable boost in midday happiness among city workers.
Get Him to the Greek
Zeus Street Greek on Lower Crown Street has been a welcome addition for souvlaki enthusiasts since Souva King closed in 2024. They serve authentic souvlaki, featuring hot chips wrapped with charred meat, salad, and sauce. Options include traditional favorites like falafel ($13.50), chicken ($14.90), and lamb ($17.90), as well as innovative creations such as beef brisket, chicken tenders, and haloumi.
For smaller appetites, mini versions are available at $9.90 for chicken and $11.50 for lamb, offering the same ingredients in a more compact size.
Chef Chooses This Soup
Chef's Choice on Market Street is a local favorite, catering to both groups and solo diners. While known for Chinese dishes, the Vietnamese owners and chefs excel at authentic Vietnamese cuisine, particularly their Pho. Priced at $20.90 for chicken or rare beef, with an additional $2 for brisket, tripe, and meatballs, this soup is ideal for any weather.
Vegetarians will appreciate the crispy eggplant with black bean and chilli, which many consider one of the finest meat-free dishes in Wollongong.
Conclusion
These six lunch specials highlight the diverse and high-quality dining options available in Wollongong CBD, ensuring office workers can find something to brighten their day, whether seeking quick bites or leisurely meals.
