The northside vs southside Melbourne rivalry is now on your plate

The friendly rivalry between Melbourne’s north and south has always been a hot topic. From fashion to football, coffee culture to car parks, locals have long debated which side of the Yarra does it better. Now, thanks to new data from Aussie payments platform Zeller, it turns out the divide runs right through our plates, too.

Zeller analysed thousands of real-life transactions from cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars across both sides of Melbourne. What they uncovered is a fascinating look at how we spend, tip, dine, and drink – and the results might surprise you.

Northsiders Are Bigger Tippers

If you’re looking for generosity, head north. People dining in the north tip 73 percent more often than those in the south and give 60 percent more in dollar value. Whether it’s a $4 espresso or a $40 pub meal, northsiders are showing appreciation for good service.

What it means for you: If you’re a hospitality worker, the north might just be your dream shift.

Southsiders Spend Big on Breakfast

When it comes to the first meal of the day, the south isn’t holding back. The average breakfast spend sits at $23.13 in the south compared to $17.79 in the north. That’s a decent gap – and probably includes an oat latte, cold-pressed juice, and a side of hash browns.

What it means for you: Brunch dates in the south might cost a little more, but you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Dinner Splurges Belong to the North

Here’s a twist – while the south does breakfast better, the north goes all-in on dinner. On average, northsiders spend $103 per head at restaurants, compared to $78 in the south. This suggests the north is embracing fancier dining options and longer nights out.

What it means for you: Next date night? Consider booking a table in Fitzroy or Northcote.

Southsiders Rule the Bar

When it comes to drinks, the south is raising the bar. Zeller’s data shows that southsiders spend 20 percent more per round than their northern neighbours. Whether it’s cocktails on a rooftop in South Yarra or pints in Port Melbourne, the south likes to celebrate in style.

What it means for you: If you’re going out for drinks in the south, bring your card – and maybe shout a round.

Premium Takeaway Lives in the South

Takeaway isn’t just a quick bite in the south; it’s an experience. Southside locals spend an average of $24.57 per order, compared to $17.76 in the north. That’s a 38 percent increase, pointing to more upmarket delivery choices and a love for eating well at home.

What it means for you: Friday night takeaway in the south might mean sushi platters instead of burgers and chips.

Lunch Is Losing

Here’s the one area where both sides agree: lunch is not getting the love. It’s the least popular meal of the day for Melburnians. Still, northsiders come out slightly ahead, spending $31.81 on average compared to $28.87 in the south.

What it means for you: Lunch is becoming the quiet achiever. Maybe it’s time we all gave it a little more attention.

So, Who Wins?

There’s no clear winner, but the data definitely highlights some tasty trends. Northsiders are more generous, love a big dinner and keep their takeaways simple. Southsiders go big on breakfast, spend more at the bar, and take their takeaway seriously.

Ultimately, Melbourne’s food scene is thriving on both sides of the river – and that’s something we can all agree on.