There is certainly something about Thai culture and cuisine that just makes you smile – even if the reminder comes in the form of Middle Fish, Carlton’s new authentic Southern Thai eatery. You’ll find it within a converted warehouse on Berkeley St, just beside Seven Seeds.

Responsible for flavour Na Sauw, the aunt of owner Siriporn ‘Pla’ Liamthong, a Thai ex-pat (formerly of Outpost and Sensory Lab). As for the industrial, rustic-style fit out, dues go to Pla’s partner, David Holtum, a chippie. Entering the warehouse, eyes turn quickly from that shining chandelier (made using Thai silver bowls) to a giant fish sculpture by Torlarp Larpjaroensook, a Chiang Mai artist. From there, various other quaint Bangkok-born décor and art delights within exposed brick walls as you choose where to sit – perhaps the wooden communal or one of those booths.

AM, order a herbal tea or Five Senses coffee and anticipate Thai iced coffee (with sweetened condensed milk). But forget avo and feta, brekkie at Middle Fish is done a tad differently. While toast and toasties do make the menu, why not try their Crunchy Omelette of Mussels, which mixes home style Sri Ra Cha sauce with bean sprouts, spring onion and coriander.

PM, order ‘something light’ like chicken or vegetarian spring rolls with homemade chilli sauce. From there, go for an authentic Tom Yum soup or Green Curry or dishes like a Thai North-West beef salad or stir fried crispy pork belly with Chinese broccoli, chilli, garlic and crispy fried egg. The Apple Som Tum is a delightful Thai-style fruit salad of apple, pineapple and strawberries with roasted peanuts, carrots, sun-dried shrimp and Thai-style dressing.

Thoughts of impending Middle Fish lunches will surely keep nearby students motivated to turn up, and endure their long lectures. Though has anyone checked fares to Thailand of late?

Where: 122-128 Berkeley St, Carlton, 3053
When: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm | Sat-Sun 10am-4pm
Details: Facebook