Eating Out: Joe's Garage, Fitzroy (Melbourne)

Brunswick Street in Melbourne's funky suburb of Fitzroy is a popular spot for foodies due to the wide array of cuisines available amongst a thick scrum of lively bars and pubs - the makings of a great night out.  To me, a humble local, Joe's Garage would have to be one of the most appealing options for those who aren't sure what they feel like eating.  Why?  Their menu is extensive, covering all the classic options.  They serve breakfast until 3pm daily, salads, pizzas, focaccias, pastas, risottos, along with your average pub type food (chicken parmas, nachos, burgers, etc).  

I have to admit that it is not really a place that I choose to eat in, as I have many other favourites in the area, but on this occasion, my friend had a craving for nachos, and Joe's Garage was the best option for satisfying that craving so off we went.  We went in for a very early dinner so there were only a small handful of tables occupied in what is quite a large restaurant space.  We were served right away, and our food arrived in less than 10 minutes!  My friend's nachos were huge and very tasty.  I ordered the chicken parma and was not disappointed - it was massive, with the added bonus of being real chicken as opposed to those flimsy pieces of faux chicken that some establishments like to get away with.  Maybe a tad too much cheese on top for my tastes but that's the only fault I can give it.  

Nachos

Chicken Parma with chips and salad

I'm not sure if the service would be as good as it was if the place is busy, which I know it does often get, but for us it was great.  We sat outside at the front of the restaurant and had the added bonus of people watching.

My verdict: It's not the most amazing food you will find in the area, but if you want the basics done fairly well at a reasonable price, then Joe's Garage fits that bill.