Piquancy, 123 Auburn Road, Hawthorn, (03) 9813 5160. Thurs-Sat lunch, Wed-Mon dinner

There's a great lunch deal at this obliging Indian eatery: just $20 gets you two curries, rice, and naan.

Tana Cafe, 36 Church Street, Hawthorn, no phone. Wed-Mon breakfast & lunch

This longstanding neighbourhood cafe is small and simple but does everything well. Come for coffee, sandwiches and baked goods with a Japanese twist.

Mother Dough, 86 Burwood Road, Hawthorn, (03) 9819 9000. Fri lunch, Wed-Mon dinner