147 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
+61 430 549 607
info@crossways.au
Let the whole
world come…
we can feed
them.
— A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada
For decades, Crossways has welcomed guests from all walks of life, serving nourishing plant-based meals inspired by compassion, hospitality and community. What began as a simple vision continues today through every meal prepared and every guest welcomed through our doors.
Discover Our Story
Our Journey
From humble beginnings to becoming a beloved Melbourne institution, our story has always been about nourishing people through food, kindness, and connection.
Where It All Began
On a busy corner of Swanston Street, CROSSWAYS opened with a simple idea: that a wholesome meal could nourish both body and soul. What started as a humble offering of prasadam soon became a place where everyone was welcome.
A Table for the City
As the years passed, students, office workers, travellers, and families found their way through our doors. More than a restaurant, CROSSWAYS grew into a familiar gathering place where affordable vegetarian food and genuine hospitality brought people together.
Ahead of Its Time
Long before mindful eating became a movement, we were serving fresh, plant-based meals prepared with care and gratitude. As the world embraced wellness, a new generation discovered the timeless values that had guided us from the beginning.
More Than Four Decades of Service
Over 40 years later, our purpose remains unchanged. We are still cooking with love, serving prasadam, and creating a welcoming space where good food, community, and conscious living come together every day.
Every meal served at Crossways is supported by a dedicated team united by hospitality, service, and a passion for nourishing the community.
Kurma Prabhu
Kurma Prabhu helped establish Crossways in the early 1980s and shape its all‑you‑can‑eat prasadam tradition in Melbourne. As a pioneering chef and teacher, he set the standard for devotional cooking that continues to inspire Crossways staff and volunteers.
Viracandra Dasa
Vrajavasi Prabhu has cooked at Crossways for about 25 years, becoming a true kitchen stalwart. His steady service and lovingly prepared curries, dhal and halva have nourished generations of regulars and newcomers alike.
Bhaktiman Dasa
Bhaktiman Prabhu has also served as a cook at Crossways for roughly 25 years while simultaneously acting as the temple’s head pujari. His expert, heartfelt cooking helps maintain Crossways’ reputation for prasadam that is both nourishing and spiritually uplifting.
Vrajavasi Dasa
Virendra Prabhu joined the brahmachari ashram in 2015, married in 2018, and returned to temple service in 2021–22. Since 2022 he has managed Crossways, choosing community and devotional service over lucrative external offers and guiding the team that serves hundreds of prasadam meals each week.
Moments At Crossways
From community gatherings to everyday lunches, every table tells a story of connection, kindness and nourishment.
More Than A Restaurant.
A Community.
For over four decades, Crossways has brought people together through nourishing meals, genuine hospitality and meaningful connection. Join us as we continue this journey.
Volunteer With Us
Step forward to serve the community with compassion and purpose. Become part of a movement that spreads kindness, care, and meaningful human connection through service.
- Serve in community food initiatives
- Be part of meaningful social events
- Contribute time, care, and positive impact
Every act of service matters. Join hands, make a difference.