Brother Bon: A Plant-Based Legacy with Soul

For over two decades, Bon Van Pham was a quiet pioneer in Melbourne’s plant-based dining scene. In 1996, he and his wife Long Thi Nguyen opened La Panella, a beloved vegetarian (later fully vegan) bakery in Preston. Years later, they ran the Northcote outpost of Loving Hut. After Bon’s passing in 2016, his sons William and James Pham carried on his legacy by reimagining the restaurant as Brother Bon—an all-day vegan eatery focused on making plant-based food more accessible, creative and delicious.

Flavour-Forward Vegan Food Inspired by Asia

William, now head chef, draws inspiration from across Asia to craft a flavour-forward, plant-based menu. Using ingredients like soybean, seitan (wheat protein), and pea protein, he replicates meaty textures and tastes throughout the dishes. Brunch might include fluffy chilli tofu scramble, miso-glazed “salmon” topped with furikake, or stir-fried udon with kimchi, crispy tofu and pickled daikon. It’s the kind of food that’s both comforting and bold, best enjoyed in the leafy, light-filled dining space overlooking High Street.

Dinner Turns the Mood Down and the Flavour Up

As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts. Lanterns and candles set a cosy tone for dinner service, which includes a mix of share plates and soul-warming mains. Think pan-fried dumplings, char kway teow, gua bao, rich noodle soups like bun bo hue, and the signature katsu “chicken” sando. Many dishes can be customised with tofu, tempeh, mushrooms or vegetables for those preferring less processed options.

Dessert and Drinks Done Differently

Desserts are a highlight, too—don’t miss William’s house-made vegan gelato in flavours like pistachio, black sesame or yuzu lemon, or the silky mango sago pudding.

Brother Bon’s plant-based philosophy also carries through to the drinks list. You’ll find playful cocktails like the Lychee Chillin’ and Bon’s Vietnamese coffee-spiked Espresso Martini, plus a thoughtful beer selection from Aussie brewers like Kaiju, Matso’s and White Rabbit. Wines, umeshu, soju, teas and Syndicate coffee round out the list.

A Welcoming, All-Day Vegan Hangout

The inviting, wheelchair-accessible venue includes a spacious main dining room and a relaxed rear lounge—perfect for lingering over a drink or dessert in one of Melbourne’s most approachable vegan destinations.