Melbourne’s Beloved Toddy Shop Is Closing… But Here’s Where You Can Get Your Kerala Food Fix

Mischa Tropp (left) opened his Kerala-inspired eatery Toddy Shop in Fitzroy in 2023. Photo: Toddy Shop/ Facebook

Melbourne’s beloved Kerala-inspired eatery, Toddy Shop, is closing its doors at the end of this year, marking the end of an era for South Indian cuisine in the city’s vibrant Fitzroy neighbourhood. 

Lauded for its vibrant menu and homey atmosphere, Toddy Shop has been a culinary beacon for lovers of coconut-rich curries, flaky parrota, and moreish Keralan specialties, all served with a generous helping of old movie tunes and Indian hospitality.​

The End of an Icon

Owner and chef Mischa Tropp announced the closure via social media earlier this month, expressing both sadness and excitement as he ushers in a new chapter. 

“It’s a new chapter!! I’ll be a little bit sad but also really excited to close Toddy in its current location at the end of the year. It’s been such a fun brand to create, and the plan is to do it again, bigger and better in the future,” Tropp said.

“I’ll share what’s next when the time comes, but I’ll be working with a group of inspirational hospitality legends in the space opening (in) February.”

Tropp said he will be around at the restaurant to bid goodbyes to his patrons. “In the meantime time I’ll be back on the floor on weekends and would love to see everyone over the next couple of months. You can ask me questions about what’s next and drink a margarita or two.”

Since its opening in December 2023, Toddy Shop has built a cult following with its 20-seat diner, distinctive Kerala-inspired décor, and rotating menu, inspired directly by Tropp’s many journeys through South India. 

Mischa Tropp: Heritage and Culinary Journey

Mischa Tropp. Photo: Toddy Shop/ Facebook

Mischa Tropp’s story is inseparable from his Keralan roots. Born to an Indian mother with heritage in Kerala, Tropp’s culinary awakening came after his return from the UK a decade ago. 

Topp initially experimented with pop-ups across Melbourne, including the much-loved “We Are Kerala” series and a residency at The Rochester Hotel in Fitzroy

He realised the depth of his connection to traditional South Indian cooking after visiting Kerala in 2014. Those travels became an annual pilgrimage, immersing him in the flavour and technique of Kerala’s toddy shops—rustic, communal eateries famous for their punchy home-style cooking and fresh palm toddy. 

Mischa’s Next Moves

Mischa Tropp (left) opened his Kerala-inspired eatery Toddy Shop in Fitzroy in 2023. Photo: Toddy Shop/ Facebook

While fans mourn the loss of Toddy Shop, Tropp is not stepping away from Melbourne’s food scene. His latest venture, Kolkata Cricket Club, has just debuted at Crown Melbourne, expanding his reach with a 150-seat diner and sports bar inspired by Bengal’s cricket club tradition.

Drawing on pan-Indian influences and some of his signature dishes, Tropp aims to blend nostalgic charm with innovative hospitality. 

Melbourne's Love Story With Kerala Food Continues

Babaji is an award-winning Kerala restaurant with locations in Belgrave and Warburton. Photo: Facebook

For Kerala food lovers—Melbourne still has plenty of spots where the bold flavours of beef fry, flaky parotta, and coconut-rich curries live on.

Award-winning Babaji’s Kerala Kitchen, with locations in Belgrave and Warburton, is a go-to for Kerala beef fry, parotta, classic banana leaf Sadya, and even Onam festival feasts. 

Old favourite Coconut Lagoon serves up authentic South Indian classics, with a focus on Kerala specialties, every Tuesday night. From crispy dosa and home-style curries to feasts laden with fresh coconut and spices, these kitchens ensure that the soul of Kerala cuisine stays very much alive in Melbourne’s bustling food scene.

Beyond Babaji’s and Coconut Lagoon, Melbourne boasts several Kerala-inspired eateries. Mukka in Fitzroy occasionally runs “Kerala Nights,” featuring beef fry, parotta, and spicy seafood, while its regular menu highlights Malabar prawn curry and other Kerala favourites. 

Rice N Grills, with outlets in Dandenong and Preston, dishes up authentic Kerala favourites—think Kizhi Parotta, Kerala Beef Meals, Fish Curry, and Kappa Biryani, all prepared with recipes that transport diners straight to Kerala, India. 

Calicut Café in the northern suburbs is well known for its spicy Kerala biryani and beef fry alongside flaky parotta, winning fans for lively flavours and generous portions. 

Royal Peacock Indian Restaurant features a dedicated Kerala menu showcasing beef ularthiyathu, chicken roast, and kappa with fish curry, serving up the nostalgia and comfort food in equal measure.