Collingwood is historically home to some of Melbourne's best restaurants, bars, shopping, street-art, and well ... just about everything else.
The inner-city (hipster, shh) suburb is truly a cultural melting pot, simmering from the north and south end of the suburb. But if you want a local tip, cut through the main drag on Smith Street and you'll see what's on offer is proper fire.
Best Restaurants In Collingwood At A Glance
- Jump To The Best Fine Dining Restaurants In Collingwood
- Jump To The Best Cheap Eats In Collingwood
- Jump To The Best International Cuisine (French, Italian, Greek & More) In Collingwood
- Jump To The Best Casual Restaurants In Collingwood
It’s not just high-end dining in Collingwood either. That melting pot means there’s plenty of international cuisine, as well as some of that tip-top fare you would expect from any Melbourne destination.
With so much to choose from, however, it can be a task to pinpoint the best restaurants Collingwood. Good thing we’ve made it easy for you with our top 20 picks.
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From old faithfuls to moody and high end all the way to spicy and South American, scroll on for the best restaurants Collingwood has to offer in 2025.
The Best Fine Dining Restaurants In Collingwood
These are the spots for when you’re feeling flush and fancy and looking to have a solid night out while you’re in Collingwood. From the infinitely moody (and reminiscent of a top-tier New York brasserie) IDES, to the rollicking good time inspired by Paris, Smith St Bistrot, there’s plenty on offer in the way of fine dining. Here’s our faves:
Pincho Disco
59 Cambridge Street, Collingwood
Image: Pincho Disco | Supplied
This Latin-American staple has been bringing its own flare and zingy takes on South American cuisine to Collingwood since 2023, making it a relative new-comer. But that doesn’t mean it packs any less of a punch than its compadres around the traps. Head chef Diego Cardenas, who has earned his chops at the two Michelin-starred Casa Marcial, Spain has balanced a menu that’s sweet, spicy, tangy and all around unreal—as well as a complete cook’s tour of the world’s fourth largest continent.
Their tasting menu is the way to go, unless you’ve got a mess of mates and want to order a la carte, Urban List Melbourne Editor Navarone Farrell says. The Disco Tasting Menu starts at $79 and features their rockstar dishes like a whopping steak with chimichurri, a beef empanada that you cannot miss (and will probably have to order more of to be fair) as well as their snapper ceviche, passionfruit and orange tiger’s milk. They’ve even got a little grilled spatchcock that’s basically like a mini and very cheffy Nando’s.
“The drinks menu here is bangin’ as well, they’ve got some spicy marg situations that need to be investigated,” Farrell adds.
IDES
92 Smith Street
Since opening in 2016, Peter Gunn’s IDES has sat in the upper echelon of Melbourne’s fine dining scene, serving up a degustation menu that’s at least several years ahead of its time with every update. Gunn has worked at some of Victoria’s finest restaurants, including Attica and Wickens (at the Royal Mail Hotel, read more about that over here) so you know you’re in good hands. There’s a three, six or a la carte option when you’re there that are a tour de force of the seasons, with some technique heavy cheffing on top. The degustation starts at $108 and bumps up to $175 for the six—worth every penny for one of Melbourne’s finest restaurants.
“My pick is The Six, of course, I’m always hungry and Pete’s menu is unreal. Make sure you match your meal with the bevvie pairing for an extra $155, it really seals the deal. If you’re living on the wild side, you can also check out their One Day Sunday where you get to taste some of the kitchen’s dishes that are still in R&D, I highly recommend,” Urban List Melbourne Editor Navarone Farrell says.
Maha North
86 Smith Street
Shane Delia knows a thing or two about feeding the people. The legendary chef and restaurateur is on to his third iteration of Maha now (there’s the OG, East and North by the way) and the Collingwood outpost stands up as easily one of the neighbourhood’s best restaurants. If you’ve been to the original you know the drill, if not, listen up: The focus is on a Middle Eastern, meze-style menu and cocktails, along with a considered wine list complementing what's on the table in front of you. That means you can be globe-trotting while enjoying that very earthy and warming Lebanese-influenced cooking. The Harissa grilled octopus is truly something to behold, as are the cumin lamb roast ribs; vegans are also catered to with plenty of hero dishes that size up against those protein-heavy numbers.
Urban List Melbourne Editor Navarone Farrell says, “If you’re after that same bangin’ feed you can get at the original, but in a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, this is the ticket.” Oh yeah, did we mention the OG Maha is one of the best CBD restaurants? 'Cos it is.
Smith St Bistrot
300 Smith Street
One of the best restaurants Collingwood has to offer, Scott Pickett’s dedicated-French diner, Smith St Bistrot harkens back to the 20th-century brasseries and speakeasies of Paris. Perched right in the thick of it of Collingwood, the 70-seat space is adorned with rich marble tables, chandelier lighting, a mezzanine level, and a private dining area, aptly named ‘La Vie En Rose’.
The menu unsurprisingly is a celebration of French cuisine, with several contemporary twists straight from the mind of Pickett, start with a selection of different origin caviar, then move onto the Vol-au-vent D’Escargot, and tackle the timeless, dry-aged eye fillet with a rich peppercorn jus. Dessert is suitably decadent and includes several staples of the cuisine, including a raspberry souffle and a timeless creme caramel.
This bad boy is one of Melbourne's best restaurants, and hands down one of Collingwood's best as well.
Orlo
44 Oxford Street, Collingwood
Image: Orlo | Supplied
Orlo is the new kid on the block in Collingwood and we’re into it. Part Mediterranean diner, part underground cocktail bar (that’s The Cordial Club) the restaurant is housed in the former Dyson Cordial factory. Or what’s left of it. The historic building has had a pretty clever reno giving it a huge outdoor terrace with some gorgeous Greek-feeling stonework, while inside there’s plenty of moody nooks, perfect for enjoying a bangin’ selection of small plates.
Yep, it’s all about the snacks here at Orlo, leaning into that Med vibe there’s a lot of very Spanish feeling cured meats, pickled bits and then bigger plates which take their queues from Italy, like milk-fed capretto (that’s goat, yum) or a half-porchetta. Urban List Melbourne Editor Navarone Farrell recommends doing a full-service evening out here. “Start downstairs at The Cordial Club before it gets a bit boisterous, enjoy an Estrella or two—or a bangin’ negroni, then head upstairs and work your way through that menu. Take mates, so much is meant for sharing and it’s a gorgeous venue,” he says. The wine list is no slacker as well with a stack of European varietals that make the menu sing.
Cheap & Cheerful Restaurants In Collingwood
Sometimes the wallet and the belly don't necessarily agree, it's something we've all had to deal with, right? Good thing Collingwood has plenty of options when it comes to affordable restaurants that aren't just limited to a bangin' banh mi (more of Melbourne's best banh mis over here). If you're after cheap eats city-wide, check out our piece here, otherwise read on for our picks for Collingwood:
Hotel Jesus
174 Smith Street, Collingwood
Just a few clicks down the road from its sister venue Mamasita in the CBD, Hotel Jesus is the more down-tempo counterpart on Smith Street in Collingwood. Imbued with the same artful craft of Mexican-influenced dining, the gorgeous shopfront facade of the heritage post office leads you into a light-filled space with a real laid-back communal vibe.
The self-described 'No Frills' approach to Mexcian cuisine takes shape in small plates of tostadas and tacos with a variety of more experimental options be it the snapper ceviche tostada to the fried jalapeno to the spicy chicken skin tacos. This one lands in our value eats because they have some absolutely bangin' specials like a daily taco happy hour (for just $6 mind you). There's also a bottomless lunch option and a huge range of whistle-wetters, including tequila, mezcal, cocktails and sangria on tap. More on Melbourne's best Mexican over here.
Carlitos
32 Stanley Street, Collingwood
This new Collingwood sandwich store, Carlitos, is an absolute spot. Opened by four Sicilian brothers - including Carlito himself from Stan’s Deli in Malvern (IYKYK) - the sandwiches are soft, fluffy, flavourful and best of all, they won’t break the bank. The Mortadella sandwich is a fave, made of freshly baked focaccia with delicate mortadella, marinated peppers, stracciatella, and a herb salad with subtle notes of mint and aromatic greens. Crack a cold one in the beer garden out the back and you’ve got yourself one cheap and cheerful meal in Collingwood.
Falafel Place
264 Smith Street, Collingwood
Pull up on Smith Street to sample the bounty that is Falafel Place. This place has quite a name to live up to, but it doesn’t disappoint. Our go-to order? Their straight falafel wrap with a bit of chilli. Or if you’re after a heartier option then we’d recommend the falafel and veggie wrap which comes complete with cauliflower and tabbouleh. Still not enough? Try the indulgent halloumi falafel wrap.
These handmade falafels are perfect for any vegetarian or vegan revellers, but best of all they’re great any time of day (and that’s how you know it’s good falafel). They’re all $13 or under so eat up friends, these just might be the cheapest and best falafel you’ll find in Collingwood.
Thin Slizzy
115 Johnston Street, Collingwood
This very Collingwood late-night pizza joint, Thin Slizzy, is courtesy of Scott Penberthy, a veteran of the Melbourne pizza scene who spent years slinging slices at northside institute Rita’s. It’s a casual affair at Thin Slizzy that’s primed for the area’s demographic. The pizza house is tucked just by live music venue The Tote, it’s open until late and it serves beer—perfect for that post-gig feed and wind-down beverage.
There are over 20 pizzas on the menu, each reinforcing the locale’s theme. Highlights include, but certainly aren’t limited to, the meat-laden Meatallica, a pumpkin number called the Smashing Pumpkin and a potato pizza titled The Ace of Spuds. Very good. The quality of the names extends to the quality of the pizza, too. Penberthy has drawn from his learnings at Rita’s, and before that +39 Pizzeria, to create a thin Neopolitan style base which is first fermented for 48 hours. Coming in at $30 or less for a pizza, this a great budget-friendly Collingwood feed.
The Horn
20 Johnston Street, Collingwood
The Horn is a laid-back family-run Ethiopian restaurant with banging food and an incredible atmosphere. There's a lot going on here: live music performances ranging from Ethio-jazz, to hip hop and funk; delicious dishes like fried ribs with green chillies and spicy beef jerky; an open courtyard; and a huge range of African beers available for swilling.
If you’re new to Ethiopian cuisine, the food is traditionally shared among your crew. Tear off some Ethiopian flatbread known as injera, scoop up some delicious stew, dhaal or whatever happens to be in your vicinity, and enjoy. There’s plenty on the menu for vegans, vegos and meat eaters alike. The set menu starts at $38pp and it isn't light on. If you’ve got a celebration on the cards, this spot will not disappoint - make sure you request the special Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
Miznon
45 Derby Street, Collingwood
While the original Miznon can be found on Hardware Lane, this popular Mediterranean street food spot has now made itself home in Collingwood. These restaurants belong to Celebrity Chef Eyal Shani who has no doubt brought “pita to the land without pita”. The new Miznon is the tenth branch of the award-winning restaurant originating in Tel Aviv, so you know it’s gonna taste damn good.
At Miznon, pita is life, and for its specially tailored Melbourne stores you can expect pitas stuffed with chicken salad, falafel burgers, and roasted cauliflower drizzled in fresh tahini (one of Shani's signature dishes). Vegetarians can rejoice too, because many of Miznon’s dishes are vegetable-based. You can snag a pita for under $20 here too.
The Best International Cuisine In Collingwood
Fancy a trip around the world but can't get to the airport? Collingwood has got you. We can go to Japan, France, Italy, Africa, Vietnam, just about anywhere you actually want to go on holiday, you can get a bite from in the inner-north. Here's some of our fave spots that are dealing out some dope international cuisine in Collingwood:
Chotto Motto
287 Wellington Street, Collingwood
It’s no surprise Chotto Motto has blown up the way it has since opening several years back. Not only does it have enough quirk and personality that would put a Fitzroy vintage store to shame, but it also is in the very capable culinary hands of Tomoya Kawasaki (Neko Neko, Wabi Sabi) and designer Dylan Jones. So while you might pop into Chotto Motto for the funky atmosphere or to see what all the fuss is about, you’ll stay for the Hamamatsu gyozas.
There’s classic pork, spicy kimchi miso pork, chicken and coriander, prawn and ginger, and for those meat-impaired of us out there, chickpea and quinoa or eggplant with red miso. And while Chotto Motto’s gyozas are not life-changing by any means, they totally hit the spot and pair very nicely with a good beer. More Japanese restaurants this-a-way.
Jim’s Greek Tavern
32 Johnston Street, Collingwood
Generations of Melbourne diners have spent a night at Jim’s Greek Tavern—it’s like a rite of passage we all must go through when exploring the best restaurants Collingwood has to offer. But once you’ve been, you’ll understand why.
Jim’s is one of the most authentic Greek taverns in Melbourne, known for their traditional service with no menu, no prices, and generous serves. It’s bustling and noisy and a bit confusing at times, but the food has kept people coming back for decades. Add it to your to-do list if you haven’t already made the trip.
The Best Casual Restaurants In Collingwood
Sometimes you need somewhere chill, but still cool. Good thing that's basically the whole vibe in Collingwood. Swing a cat and you'll find a venue like that, but these ones are just that little bit extra, whether it's the cheffiness in the cooking or that the vibe is just right. These are our picks for casj joints in Collingwood:
Shop Ramen
329 Smith Street, Collingwood
The ramen Melbournians often favours in the inner-north can be found at Shop Ramen. While the chicken miso ramen is a favourite, and it's hard to go past the gooey soft-boiled egg and luscious pork in the classic ramen, it's the clever vegetarian version that's become a cult favourite.
The cashew milk broth is as tasty as its porky counterpart; broccoli and zucchini add crunch and flavour, along with the handful of nuts and seeds adding textural interest. Whether it be Fitzroy or Preston, Shop Ramen is a red hot contender for the best ramen in Melbourne.
Easey’s
3/48 Easey Street, Collingwood
Everyone knows Easey's, it's the burger joint in Collingwood with three retired Melbourne trains on the roof, pretty iconic really. Their inventive and testing nature has led to some of the best burgers Melbourne has seen, whilst their main menu features a line of burgers, sides, hot dogs, and desserts.
On the meat and bun front you'll find American burgers Melbourne style, and you’re going to want to order something along the lines of the Double Bacon BBQ Cheeseburger.
Smith & Deli
107 Cambridge Street, Collingwood
This one’s for the vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who loves a good plant-based meal. From the duo behind Smith & Daughters—one of Melbourne's best vegan restaurants—Smith & Deli is Melbourne’s one and only vegan deli. Dedicated to sourcing and producing the best vegan food in Melbourne, Smith & Deli is a Collingwood standout.
A vegan reuben sandwich?! That's right, it does exist and it's goooood. Taking inspiration from traditional Jewish delis, Smith & Deli sells a whole range of vegan produce designed for take-away and home eating. You’ll find an array of delicious cafeteria-style goods like pies and meat-inspired salads as well as antipasto classics like olives, artichokes, vegan cheeses and other goodies.
And in true Collingwood-style, you can get a damn good coffee alongside your sandwich and deli goods. There are a few outdoor tables or you can enjoy the modern indoor area with floor to ceiling glass windows.
Red Sparrow
406 Smith Street, Collingwood
This vegan restaurant might just change your mind on where to get the best pizza in Collingwood. Red Sparrow is Melbourne’s wholly plant-based pizzeria. Whether you subscribe to veganism or not you can enjoy a delicious slice of Mushroom or Pepperoni pizza. Don’t be fooled by the ‘meat’ options either; everything is vegan from the pepperoni to the bratwurst and all the cheeses are dairy-free.
They serve up a rotating selection of vegan desserts as well so you can still finish off the perfect Italian meal with a stellar tiramisu. Gluten, soy and nut-free diets are able to be accommodated which is great news for those with dietary requirements.
Le Bon Ton
51 Gipps Street, Collingwood
Le Bon Ton is a late-night speakeasy style bar and restaurant, bringing the best of New Orleans to Collingwood. With the brothers behind Chingón at the helm, you know you're in for good ol' southern hospitality with a smile. Dine on oysters, sip on some of the best cocktails in Collingwood and get a little absinthe-minded into the wee hours at this cosy drinking den cum southern smokehouse.
For the carnivores, the Texan BBQ smoked offerings are not to be missed, especially the 14-hour mesquite-smoked Riverina grain fed Angus beef brisket. There's a charming fairy light and astro turf outdoor area, and a super selection of craft beers.
Tonkin
346 Smith Street, Collingwood
You really can’t go wrong with this cheerful Vietnamese restaurant on Smith Street. Tonkin offers up all the classics and none of the fluff: pho, bún, rice dishes, bao buns, and a range of other starters. There are plenty of vegan options including lemongrass tofu and vegan duck, as well as a vegan pho. Hit up this cosy joint from 11:30am - 4pm for the lunch specials that will have you leaving with both your belly and wallet full. Or it's also a winner for a casual dinner. Finish off your fresh meal with a Vietnamese iced coffee and you’re ready to take on the world.
Main image credit: Collingwood | Visit Victoria
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