21 Dec Mason Dixon, Melbourne CBD

I don’t usually go to food courts with many expectations, as the mediocre food there is commonly unexciting. Mason Dixon is a bit of an anomaly, taking its place amongst other the food court vendors in Oaks on Collins. The fit-out is bright and simple, and to be honest, it looks a bit out of place. I’m sure the hoards of office workers visiting during their lunchtime break welcome it wholeheartedly. Grab a seat as soon as you spot one. They’re scarce and valuable during peak hour.

To coincide with the launch of the Star Wars flick, there are some punnily named specials on the board which do sound rather enticing, but we stick to the regular sandwich menu. A large number of different offerings were consumed, all of which are tasty and well-priced.

The Rachel – Free-range Roasted Turkey Breast, Coleslaw, Russian Dressing, Swiss Cheese, Multigrain ($11)

Carolina Pulled Pork – Free-range Yarra Valley Slow-Roasted Pork, Coleslaw, Dill Pickles, Carolina BBQ Sauce, Brioche-style Bun ($10.50)

Carolina Pulled Pork – Free-range Yarra Valley Slow-Roasted Pork, Coleslaw, Dill Pickles, Carolina BBQ Sauce, Brioche Bun ($10.50)

The coleslaw in The Rachel gives it a slightly bitter refreshment different to the others, the Carolina Pulled Pork comprises of some of Melbourne’s favourite things, with its tender, slow-roasted pulled pork and brioche bun. I also loved the cubano, which had slow-roasted pork and ham. The roasted pork was lightly spiced, giving it that little bit extra flavour-wise, but was not overpowering.

The Cubano – Miami Style – Freen Range Yarra Valley Slow Roasted Pork, Smoked Ham, Dill Pickles, Swiss Cheese, Citrus Mojo ($10.50)

My favourite though, would have to be the MD Reuben. The corned beef and sauerkraut were well proportioned, and the moist and juicy filling was lovingly caressed by beautifully toasted slices of rye bread. Mason Dixon was definitely worth trying, particularly for the Reuben. The queues at lunchtime are an indicator that you can’t go too wrong!

MD Reuben – Grass-fed Corned Beef, Sauerkraut, Swiss Cheese, Russian Dressing, Toasted Rye ($10.50)

Mason Dixon
7/480 Collins St
Melbourne, VIC, 3000
(03) 8610 6316
www.masondixon.net.au