GOODdays, Melbourne, Australia

Long heralded for its diverse and experimental food scene, it’s somewhat surprising then, that the Melbourne’s most buzzed about spot is a venue that offers just four dishes. Located in the neighbourhood of Brunswick, GOODdays is a modest all-day Vietnamese restaurant with a menu that truly reflects its surroundings — or is it vice-versa? In any case, the consistencies between GOODdays’ food and fixtures is no doubt a direct result of the collaboration between Matthew Stuckey, director of local design studio of Be Friendly, and owner and head chef Nam Nguyen. 

This has materialised in the form of plain mint green walls with slick polished brass accents. Solid walnut, meanwhile runs throughout, panelling the walls, and forming a wrap-around counter, as well as chairs and tables. Buffering the 24-seat space are long pendant bulbs and monochrome hexagonal mosaic floor tiles, both completing the minimal and contemporary decor. 

And then there’s the food. An uncomplicated and ethically-sourced menu picks up where the décor finishes off, with a literal handful of clean and easy dishes, such as Victorian Black Angus beef pho served with the traditional accompaniments, and vegan options like the four mushroom pho made with shiitake mushroom and kombu broth. Simplicity at its finest.