We all have a ‘go to’ place when we’re in need of instant comfort. In the case of the BRITlist editor, it has been this unassuming milk bar in Balaclava for many a year. After all, it is a goldmine of British snack classics.

Likely you’ll have driven past Hotham Milk Bar at some point without even realising it, such is the ‘blink and you’ll miss' it nature of the place. From the outside, there’s no clue towards the rarified foodstuffs that are contained within. It’s one of those places that’s gained cult status through word of mouth.

Run by a Chinese family, Hotham Milk Bar serves up an impressive array of British snack and drink classics. We’re talking Hula Hoops, Monster Munch, Quavers and Scampi Fries. We’re talking Lion Bars, Poppets, Minstrels and Chomps (yes, PROPER Chomps). And we’re talking Tango, Vimto, Irn-Bru and Tizer. Please be assured that this is just a mere sample of the selection on offer.

What’s most impressive about Hotham Milk Bar is that it is open until 9pm every single evening. 9PM. EVERY. SINGLE. EVENING. So when those post-dinner pangs are kicking in for some home comforts, you’ll know that Hotham Milk Bar is on hand with your favourites from good ol’ Blighty.

If you’re good (i.e. you spend enough), they’ll be sure to give you a free lollipop! This snackzilla hasn’t missed out on one yet.

Hotham Milk Bar, 153 Hotham Street, Balaclava, VIC 3183.