It’s no secret that our city is known for its endless string of new fabulous openings around the city, so sometimes it’s hard to keep up with all of the best places around town. To make it easy, we’ve teamed up with the great people at Now Book It, Australia’s largest online reservation platform, to round up some of the most divine Melbourne restaurants you need to book pronto.
San Telmo
This moody, proudly Argentinean restaurant harnesses fire, flame and searing heat in order to bring you some seriously delicious smokey dishes that will keep you coming back for more. At San Telmo, it’s all about parrilla charcoal cooking; an ancient South American practice that enhances the flavour of each dish, particularly their banging steaks. If you’re not a big carnivore, fear not for they also have some stunning seafood and vegetarian dishes to tantalise your palettes.
L'Hotel Gitan
In the heart of leafy Prahan lies L’Hotel Gitan which oozes luxury classical French fare that will rival even the most fabulous of restaurants in picture-perfect Paris. The menu is simple but executed to perfection - think crab brioche, cheese souffle, some mean beef cuts and of course plenty of freshly shucked oysters that are sure to delight. And with a rotating Rotisserie Du Jour (rotisserie of the day), you’re always in for a new treat when you visit.
Pure South
Pure South has two unique connected restaurants ready to suit whatever your vibe. If you’re heading out for a celebration, Pure South Dining is a modern ‘special occasion’ destination with sweeping CBD views that focuses on ethically sustainable ingredients. And if you’re after a more cruisy relaxed atmosphere, you can head down to Pure South Kitchen right on the Southbank waterfront ideal for a more casual catch-up with friends. Either way, you can’t go wrong.
Tipo 00
This Little Bourke Street gem has become legendary with the locals, and it only takes one fork full of their sensational pasta to see why. Not only does Tipo 00 serve up some of the most divine pasta, risottos and contemporary Italian plates in town, but it also has some seriously groovy modern takes on the Mediterranean classics. From their mouth-watering Mandarin Panna Cotta to their drool-worthy Tartufomisù (yes, this is tiramisu with shaved truffle on top - you’re welcome) you’ll be rolling out of here at the end of the evening.
Coda
Executive Chef Adam D’Sylva refuses to be defined by just one particular cuisine at Coda, instead taking inspiration from his extensive travels around the globe to create a zesty modern menu that’s constantly changing and evolving with the seasons. There’s a strong French flavour to the extensive wine list, with the friendly team extremely knowledgeable on how to perfectly pair your meal, and if you struggle with ordering paralysis, why not make things easy and grab one of their set menus so you can taste a little of everything?!
Tarrawarra Estate
For those who love to occasionally escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Tarrawarra Estate in Yarra Valley is the perfect little oasis. Nestled in the rolling vineyards, you’ll be treated to a stellar seasonal menu care of Head Chef Joel Alderdice at this legendary one-hatted restaurant. Better still, you’ll be able to pair your meal with some gorgeous vinos grown right on your doorstep. The hard part will be leaving this luscious landscape to head back home.
Bar Margaux
From the geniuses behind The Eveleigh comes Bar Margaux, a sleek late-night cocktail bar and brasserie ready to feed those late-night cravings and keep conversations going way past bedtime. This watering hole features a neverending wine and spirit list to tantalise those taste buds, with a focus on French comfort food. We recommend the indulgent MGX burger, stacked with double patty, cheddar, bacon, their famous sauce and bordelaise—it's a seriously good time.
Elchi
Elchi promises to transport you to the heart of India whilst being right in the bustling center of the CBD with its refined and elegant Indian menu. This place isn’t your typical takeaway spot, but instead takes you on a culinary adventure through all of the spices, sweetness and scents the vastly unique regions each have to offer. Make sure to leave plenty of room for their decadent zesty desserts too. Trust us.
Philippe
From the moment you enter the doors of Philippe, you know you’re in for something magic. With arguably Melbourne’s greatest French chef Philippe Mouchel at the helm, each dish dazzles and delights each diner with his priority to find new ways to challenge your palette paying homage to both his French heritage as well as his time in Japan and Australia where he now calls home. Ideal for a special date night or anniversary celebration, you’re set to impress any unsuspecting visitor at this glorious spot. Buon appétit!
Amping to get a taste of the above for yourself? We hear you. From sensational pasta to an oasis out of the city, it's never been easier to reserve your spot thanks to Now Book It.
Editor's note: this article was produced in partnership with Now Book It. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Image credit: Coda Melbourne via Instagram, San Telmo via Instagram, Pure South via Instagram, Tipo 00 via Instagram, Elchi via Instagram, Bar Margaux via Instagram