This is a great groumet food store. I remember it as a child when I lived in Carlton and the atmosphere really hasn't changed since then. You can always find fabulous, wines, oils, cheeses and anything else you are looking for that aren't available at the big supermarkets. Its a fabulous place to shop for small food gifts. The staff are always really pleasant and helpful. You must try it.

This is a lovely gourmet store selling a variety of products eg small goods, liquor, wines, food items etc.

I have called in several times as its close to my work to buy a bottle of wine as a gift (saves me stopping at another store on the way home)

Every time I have been there, its nice to browse at the imported products.

They are a gourmet food & liquor institution, est in the 1800s and have inhabited the Lygon St site for a long time. The place is steeped with history, supplying fine food and wine.
Grand heritage and atmosphere aside, they also sell wonderful produce. Whatever gourmet food/wine you could possibly want, they are most likely to sell it. For example, I was able to get candied chestnuts and glace citron. Specialty items aside, they also sell more everyday gourmet items ie. cheeses, smallgoods etc.
The staff are also very helpful without getting in the way, if you just want to have a look around and browse a little. Very friendly place.
A great alternative to The Essential Ingredient.