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Post-Shopping-Binge Eats


There's only so much shopping one can do on their lunch hour, so when late-night shopping night rolls around, the cities' streets resemble Pamplona during fiesta time - only with fewer bulls and more stiletto-clad shopaholics trampling the asphalt.

Finding the perfect place to refuel after an endurance shopping run is sometimes harder than you'd expect. Though even the latest late-night shopping hours don't usually extend past 9pm, no one wants to get booted out before the dessert menu comes round. These eateries have the advantage of being open just a little later, as well as being close to some prime retail strips.

1
 
Cantina Bar + Grill
Darlinghurst
Located just a quick totter down the hill from Paddington's golden shopping mile, Cantina is a convenient stop for Mediterranean-style tapas. Starving shoppers can share plates of spicy meatballs and sizzling prawns, washed down with sangria or top-class margaritas.

2
 
Golden Century
Haymarket
One of Sydney's most famous late-night eateries, Golden Century is most popular with hospitality crowds who trip in for post-midnight congee. Their nocturnal trading hours and easy proximity to the city's shops make this a handy destination for a post-shopping feast of Chinese classics.

3
 
David's
Prahran
Though decent Chinese food isn't exactly rare, David's offers something a bit special with unique Shanghai and Szechuan dishes, health tonics and an amazing range of herbal teas. While all this is very nice, shopaholics will value this restaurant most highly for its location near Chapel and Greville Streets.

4
 
Punch Lane
Melbourne
After a long evening of treading the streets in search of that perfect pair of shoes, there's nothing more inviting than sinking into one of Punch Lane's lipstick-red leather club chairs with a big glass of wine. The wine list is a strong focus here, but there are also plenty of Mediterranean nibbles on the supper menu.

5
 
Fatboy's Cafe
Fortitude Valley
This is a poorly kept secret in Fortitude Valley for late-night nibbles. Open till midnight and 24 hours on Friday and Saturdays, Fatboy's serves a non-stop menu of casual meals. Energetic shoppers can stay on after dinner as the bands start playing at Fatboy's alter-ego, Ric's.

6
 
Wisdom Bar & Cafe
Darwin
While the name hints at something a little more existential than drinks and nibbles, this venue's fount of knowledge only flows with pure, icy cold beer and hearty modern Australian food. The 2am closing time means that even the most dedicated shoppers won't be left without sustenance.

7
 
Gus' Cafe
City
This local's favourite is seriously simple, yet full of character. Thoughtfully placed heaters above the outdoor tables mean shoppers can pile their purchases on the pavement and settle back with a warming coffee or something a little stronger.