As Enter Via Laundry’s Helly Raichura recently told us, “People should be queuing up for Keat Lee’s food at Lagoon Dining … The honesty of the food is genius, the detailed house-made sauces and stocks build perfect bites and make some of the most satisfying eats in Melbourne.” We took five minutes with the chef to find out where (and what) he’s eating in Melbourne these days.

What’s your go-to spot for breakfast?
I don’t usually go out for breakfast, but most days I make a beeline to Assembly in Carlton for my caffeine fix. If not, a chicken tawouk wrap from A1 Bakery always hits the spot.

How about lunch on the go?
Phuoc Thanh Bakery in Richmond. The bread is crisp and fluffy, and the toppings are super generous. My go-to order is a crispy pork banh mi with extra pate and coriander, one – or two, depending on how greedy I am – pate chaud and an iced coffee to top it off.

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Favourite Chinese restaurant?
It would have to be Crystal Jade in Chinatown. I’ve been going for years. They do this amazing winter melon soup which is cooked and served in the melon itself. It’s so comforting. The bonus part is you can eat the melon meat after you’re done with the soup. I also like to order the kung pao chicken which you can get accompanied by a delicious deep-fried taro ring.

Where can you find the best laksa in Melbourne?
Sarawak Kitchen in the CBD. Sarawak laksa hails from East Malaysia, and it differs from your usual bowl of curry laksa as it uses sambal belacan and tamarind and is a little heavier on the spice. You can get a variety of toppings that include yong tau foo (vegetables and tofu stuffed with fish paste), but I normally go for the OG shredded chicken and prawn. The serves here are generous, and I always leave satisfied and full. Get a Milo ais [iced Milo] on the side, and you’re good to go.

Where can you find your favourite dessert in town?
Martabak Pecenongan 78 on Lygon Street. Sweet, dense and chewy pancakes that are slathered in condensed milk and butter. I usually order the sesame, peanut, chocolate and cheese combo. Not for the faint-hearted.

What your favourite bakery?
Iris the Bakery, Brunswick. They have a great selection of sweet and savoury goods, but I particularly love the cardamom buns.

Best place to take a big group?
Old Beijing QV, Melbourne CBD. Excellent spot for dim sum, among other things. They also do a modestly priced Peking duck which is pretty good bang for your buck.

Where did you go for your last birthday?
Alta Trattoria, Fitzroy. Had the absolute best time. Delicious hand-rolled pastas – get the ravioli del plin – attentive service and it’s run by some really genuine people. The vitello tonnato is also a winner.