Toddy Shop

Yes, the menu includes a strong selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly Kerala dishes and many items are marked GF/V/VG. Vegetables and sides like Cabbage Thoran, Kadala and Matta Rice are great vegan/vegetarian choices, and several wet and dry dishes have gluten-free options. Guests have praised the vegan offering specifically.

Portions are generally generous and designed for sharing. Guests often recommend ordering a mix of starters and mains to share; one tip is to get two mains and one starter for two people. Some guests find items substantial (and a few mentioned individual dish size/price concerns), so sharing plates is the best approach to sample more flavours without over-ordering.

Yes, guests mention a nice outdoor spot on Smith Street where you can watch people go by. Outdoor seating suits casual meals and is popular in good weather, making it a pleasant option for daytime or relaxed evenings.

Yes, the team appears accommodating: guests report the staff arranged a birthday cake free of charge and staff are described as friendly and high-touch. For dietary needs, seating requests or celebrations, call ahead to discuss specifics so the restaurant can best prepare.

Yes, Toddy Shop has a full drinks list including wines, beer, cocktails and toddy. Guests praise the cocktail program and there’s a curated wine list and local and international beers. The menu also highlights house-made low/no-alcohol sodas if you prefer a lighter option.

Guests frequently highlight Kerala-style seafood and regional classics as standouts, think the kingfish/fish specials and prawn dishes. The Fish Fry, Prawn Mappas and Cabbage Thoran are often praised, and many guests call the food intensely flavourful and authentically Malayali. If you want a safe bet, try a seafood wet curry and a couple of vegetable sides to showcase the kitchen’s strengths.

Yes, Toddy Shop is a lovely choice for date night. Guests frequently praise its cozy, intimate laneway vibe and sophisticated Kerala flavours, plus standout cocktails that pair well with shared dishes. The room is small and atmospheric (candles/close seating), so go early for a quieter table or book ahead if you want a prime spot. It’s casual-dress but feels special without being formal.

Toddy Shop offers a small, cozy dining room that recreates a laneway Kerala feel and a pleasant outdoor seating option on Smith Street. There are no private rooms, but the venue accepts larger groups and is set up for shared plates, call ahead if you have a large party to ensure space.

Casual dress is appropriate, the restaurant positions itself as relaxed casual dining, so smart-casual attire works well for date nights or group dinners.

Warm, intimate and slightly quirky, Toddy Shop recreates a small Kerala dining experience in a Fitzroy laneway. Guests describe it as cozy, authentic and lively: expect close seating, spirited conversation, and richly spiced dishes. It’s a relaxed but sophisticated casual-dining spot with a Melbourne-meets-India vibe.

There’s no clear listing of regular discount deals, but Toddy Shop offers unique experiences through its toddy and cocktail program and seasonal Kerala dishes. Guests frequently mention specials (e.g., kingfish special) and a curated drinks list that make dining feel like a special occasion rather than a discount-driven experience.

Yes, the restaurant emphasizes seasonal ingredients and fresh seafood, and guests comment that dishes feel fresh and interesting each visit. Expect specials or rotating seafood plates alongside the core Kerala menu.

Busiest: Friday and Saturday nights are typically the liveliest. Quietest: weekday early evenings and some weekend lunchtimes tend to be calmer, guests noted a rainy weekday was pleasantly empty. If you prefer low-key dining, aim for midweek or an early seating.

For a quieter visit, aim for early evening midweek or an off-peak weekend lunch, guests note that rainy weekdays can be pleasantly empty. Friday and Saturday nights are busier and more lively, so choose those for a buzzy atmosphere. If you prefer intimacy, book an early seating or a weekday slot.

Yes, families and birthday groups dine here, and guests have celebrated with children. The menu is focused on Kerala flavours rather than a kids’ menu, so for younger children consider an early seating and ordering share-style dishes or simpler items. Calling ahead about children’s needs is recommended.

If you want quieter service and easier seating, choose a weekday evening (Tuesday–Thursday). For the full energetic experience, Friday or Saturday night delivers the buzzy laneway atmosphere. Saturday also offers lunch service if you prefer a daytime visit.

Toddy Shop is rated 4.6 stars by 36 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.