Lunch at Cookie: Thai Flavours in a Melbourne Icon
Hidden on Level 1 of the Curtin House building on Swanston Street, Cookie restaurant has been a Melbourne institution for years. It’s one of those places that seems to buzz no matter the time of day — equal parts restaurant, beer hall, and cocktail bar — but at lunchtime, the pace slows just enough to enjoy the food and the atmosphere without shouting over it.
We visit midweek to try their $25 lunch specials, which run Monday to Friday from 12–3pm. It’s a good-value way to experience authentic Thai cooking in the heart of the city, without the evening crowds.
Thai Lunch Favourites at Cookie Restaurant Melbourne
The Setting
Cookie sits inside the historic Curtin Building, home to a lively mix of creative offices, bars and restaurants. The building’s art deco bones and slightly worn charm give it that quintessential Melbourne character — you can feel the stories in the walls.
Inside, the dining room is a bit dimly lit but full of personality. There’s laughter echoing through the hall, the smell of basil and chilli wafting from the kitchen, and clinking glasses from the adjoining beer hall. For something quieter, the tiny balcony tables are a real treat — just big enough for two, with a sliver of city view and a touch of fresh air.
Accessibility is pretty good for an older building: there’s a lift to Level 1, and although there’s a small step into the restaurant, staff can provide a ramp on request.
The Food at Cookie
We shared three dishes from the lunch menu and were impressed by how fresh and flavourful everything was.
Vegetarian Red Curry with Tofu and Jasmine Rice – creamy, rich and fragrant, with the right amount of heat.
Crispy Pork Fat Rice Noodles – a standout. Smoky wok flavour, tender noodles and just enough spice to wake up the taste buds.
Stir-Fried Beef with Oyster Sauce – simple, hearty and perfectly cooked.
Three dishes between three of us was quite a feed — generous portions for a weekday lunch. At $25 each, it’s not the cheapest option in town, but given the quality and the setting, it feels fair.
If you like to mix things up, the beer hall to the left of the entrance offers a more relaxed, share-plate experience, while the cocktail bar tucked away in the back is perfect for a cheeky afternoon drink.
For drinks, there’s a very wide selection. Many beers (on tap and bottled), extensive wine list, cocktails including both classics and seasonal or house variations incorporating Thai-influenced flavours (e.g. Thai basil, pandan, etc.).
Terrie’s review
Cookie Restaurant on Swanston Street is just a doorway leading to a lift that takes you to the first floor — and a surprise awaits. This is the Curtin Building, exuding its own old-world charm. There’s plenty of room, comfy seating, and lighting that’s just dim enough to create a calm, inviting ambience.
Three of us each chose a different dish from the lunch menu and shared. Thai-style food is so delicious, and we enjoyed all three options. The service was very attentive. The dining room has several glass doors opening onto tiny balconies with tables for two overlooking the street — next time I’d love to sit out there.
It’s the kind of place you could easily miss if you weren’t looking for it. I can see city workers enjoying a break here over a delicious lunch before heading back to the office. But as a visitor spending the day in the city, it’s just as perfect — a quiet moment to recharge before carrying on.
The restaurant is wheelchair-friendly, though the lift isn’t large, and a ramp can be provided for the small step at the entrance. The lunch specials are $25, with plenty more tempting dishes on the main menu at varying prices. I love how the City of Melbourne hides treasures like this — Cookie is definitely one of them.
Why the name Cookie?
We ask our waiter about the restaurant’s unusual name — Cookie — and get a story that’s pure Melbourne. Apparently, the owner originally planned to call it Kookoo, which, according to our waiter, suited him perfectly.
Everything was ready to go — building plans approved, signage designed, even the wallpaper printed with Kookoo — when a notice arrived saying a South Melbourne business already held the name. Rather than start again, he simply covered a few letters on the wallpaper, and Kookoo became Cookie.
A clever fix, and one that’s become part of the venue’s legend.
Tidbits
Where is Cookie?
Level 1, Curtin House, 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne. The entrance is a bit hidden and the signage not very visible.
Is there a lift?
Yes. Take the lift to Level 1 — there’s a small step at the restaurant entrance, and staff can provide a ramp if needed.
Is the seating comfortable?
Yes. There is plenty of space in the restaurant and the chairs have back support.
Do I need to book?
It’s a good idea to book if you’re planning a sit-down meal in the restaurant. Walk-ins are usually fine for a midweek lunch or if you’re just after drinks or something casual in the beer hall.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, Cookie caters well for different diets. You’ll find vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes on the menu.
Can I book for a group or event?
Yes. Cookie has several spaces — from cosy corners to larger rooms — and can accommodate private or semi-private group bookings with ease.
Do they do takeaway?
Not officially, but they’ll happily give you a container for leftovers. They just ask that you store them properly later — no one likes wasted food!
Do they offer gift vouchers?
Yes. Vouchers last for three years and can be used in the restaurant or bar for food or drinks. You can buy them online via the Cookie website.
What about the Rooftop Bar?
Cookie is on Level 1. The popular Rooftop Bar above is a completely separate venue on Level 7. If you’re after open-air drinks, head to rooftopbar.com.
When is the lunch special available?
Monday to Friday, 12–3pm.
All options cost $25.
Choose from:
Fat Rice Noodles with Crispy Pork, Chinese Broccoli & Green Peppercorns
Laab Moo (Ground Pork with Coriander, Spring Onion & Jasmine Rice)
Stir-Fried Beef with Oyster Sauce, Chinese Broccoli & Jasmine Rice
Stir-Fried Ground Pork with Holy Trinity Sauce, Thai Basil & Jasmine Rice
Vegetable Red Curry with Tofu & Jasmine Rice
Vegan options available.
Final Thoughts
Cookie is one of those rare Melbourne spots that manages to be both timeless and lively. Whether you’re perched at a tiny terrace table for a midweek lunch or tucked into the beer hall with friends, it’s the kind of place that reminds you why eating out in this city is such a pleasure.
Level 1, Curtin House, 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne
03 9663 7660 | hello@cookiemelbourne.com.au
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The Seniors in Melbourne team visited as guests of Cookie. All opinions are the writers’ own.
