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What is the best restaurant in Melbourne? Our fair city has hundreds of spots that could be considered the best. Good thing I've got my 20 favourite spots for you right here, with something for everyone.

Sip on prosecco and unwind as this bougie spa institution hailing from the Gold Coast opens its first Melbourne franchise.

This year is a real biggie for Formula One. Melbourne has returned as the coveted season opener, host to the world’s first look at seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton debuting his new Ferrari red get up while Spain-born Carlos Sainz embraces a fresh Williams blue. And arguably one of the best parts of the AusGP weekend—the end of race track walk—is also back on the cards. Winning.

Melbourne’s turning it on this weekend with more events than you can poke a stick at, we're telling ya, this endless summer is going to end sometime soon. But good thing there's heaps of killer eats, events and fun stuff on. 

The long weekend is just around the corner so it’s time to start planning your social movements for the mini-break. Whether you celebrate Easter or not, we can all agree it’s pretty nice to have a four-day weekend to catch up with friends and family while letting someone else do all the cooking and cleaning—surcharges are totally worth it. Here’s your list of what’s open over the Easter weekend in Melbourne. 

Ahhh, Italian. The language of love. It’s got to be the most popular kind of restaurant for everything—romantic dates, milestone anniversaries, casual catch-ups, or belt-loosening feasts that leave you in a carb-induced bliss. We’ve rounded up the best Italian restaurants in Melbourne to satisfy your cravings.

On the hunt for the best cafe in Melbourne? It's a tough one, simply due to the sheer volume of options. The standard the city has set has been replicated all over the world, and it's no surprise as the quality of our coffee is world-class and our brunch is unbeatable.

From mind-bending installations to boundary-pushing performances, here’s your guide to the standout events you won’t want to miss.

It's 2025, and Melbourne's cultural grounds are firing on all burners with plenty of things to do. Festivals, Theatre, food and more are all ripe for the filling of that social calendar, and your stomach. The real question is how many of these can you fit into one week? Here's what's on.

The heart of Melbourne, the CBD. We've got heaps of good restaurants here in Melbourne and Victoria as a whole. Whether you're looking for Flinders Lane restaurants or you're just looking to tuck into some affordable fare, we've nailed down the best.

Best bars, best bars, best bars... Unlike the bartender we're not going to ask, "what do you usually like?", we're just going to hit you with some straight fire. That's right, 29 of our editor-approved watering holes.

When the clock hits cocktail hour you don't want to be messing around, it's time for a crisp martini or meaty negroni. Thanks to Melbourne's stellar culinary and bar scene there are some seriously good spots around the city to get a glass in hand. From hidden watering holes to some serious first-class swank here are Urban List's picks for the best cocktail bars Melbourne has to offer in 2025.

There was a time when the best burgers in Melbourne came from your local fish and chip place, usually with a slice of beetroot and a couple of extra dim sims. Actually, now we think about it, those are still pretty bloody good, but we've pulled together our top picks so you can eat easy.

Late-night dining in Melbourne is a sacred practice. Rolling in a few drinks deep and ordering half the menu has become the new standard. If you're looking to dine outside of the conventional dinner sittings, you're in luck because there are a slew of options on offer for a nighttime fix. 

The Melbourne CBD is a labyrinth for hidden bars, whether they be upstairs, underground or tucked away at the end of a laneway. You don’t need to be Sherlock Holmes to suss them all out though—we’ve done the detective work for you. We’ve scoured all the nooks and crannies and come up with some of the best hidden bars Melbourne has to offer. All you need to do is turn up and find the door. 

The Melbourne edition of il Mercato Centrale, originally launched in Florence in 2014, offers a dynamic day-to-night dining experience, from light snacks to full restaurant meals. Located in the iconic McPherson building on Collins Street, this 2,500 sqm space has been transformed into a vibrant retail and culinary hub.

Consignment, vintage, flea, thrift–Melbourne’s packed with all the secondhand stores you could ever dream of.

Want to relive that Japanese holiday, or get your eye in before you head overseas? You're in luck, because Melbourne is full of top-tier Japanese restaurants. Whether you’re craving sushi, ramen, sashimi, or donburi, there’s no shortage of authentic Japanese eateries to dive into. From cozy ramen joints like Little Ramen Bar to upscale sushi experiences at Kisumé, Melbourne’s Japanese food scene is unmatched... except for, you know, Japan.

Although we may be stuck here for a Monday to Friday grind, don’t let that stop you from venturing back on the weekend for some of the best-kept brunch secrets that are right under our noses. Skip the south side/north side arguments this weekend, here are the best (neutral ground) spots for city brunchin'.

Korean BBQ restaurants have made quite the splash, a cuisine dear to many Melburnian's hearts and for very good reasons. The flavour-packed dining experience of K-BBQ is a sight to behold; with sizzling plates of chargrilled meats accompanied with sauces, salads, and sides. 

Melbourne is Australia's breakfast (or brunch, depending on how late you stay up) queen. The city basically invented modern cafe culture, with our easy-going, wake-up late for a bite culture emulated all over the world. But with so many options, where do you start? Don't worry, we gotchu with Melbourne's best cafes and breakfasts for 2025.

Stuck for unique date ideas in Melbourne? The sheer number of options is overwhelming, but don't worry we've got you. If you're looking for the best, fun, cute, cheap, cool, free or first date ideas we have something good for everyone.

Melbourne has one of the most culturally diverse culinary scenes in the world, but you already know that and so do we. What you may not know though, is where to find the cream of the crop when it comes to Indian food—enter Urban List.

Geelong’s restaurant scene is thriving, offering a vibrant mix of culinary experiences that firmly establish it as a must-visit destination for food lovers. Once living in Melbourne’s shadow, this seaside gem has emerged with its own bold personality, leaning heavily into its love for fresh, local seafood.

Matcha, what's not to like? It's the drink of the year and if you've been to Japan and you're chasing those memories from the trip, or want to live vicariously, we've got the nine best spots in Melbourne for you to check out.

Returning to where it all started Jurassic World: The Exhibition is pipelining for Melbourne with some raving reviews following its massive season in Sydney. 

As the popularity of running has grown exponentially, getting your own slice of pavement has become a prized commodity. Across Melbourne, the ritual of putting one foot in front of another has hit new heights with Park Run, Run Clubs and regular punters shaving down their splits on Strava.

It's the earmarked sports event of the summer, the Australian Open 2025 is the iconic stretch of January where Melbourne suddenly transforms into tennis-arm-chair experts. 

In Melbourne, coffee isn't just a drink; it's a daily ritual and a passionate debate. Whether you’re en route to work, waiting in line at your favorite cafe, or clutching your morning brew, conversations about Melbourne’s best coffee are always brewing. 

If you’re craving a nature escape with a side of serious relaxation, Victoria’s hot springs are just what you need. These natural oases are designed for you to unplug, unwind, and soak away your worries in mineral-rich waters. From stunning coastal retreats to hidden mountain gems, we’ve rounded up the best hot springs in Melbourne and Victoria that are perfect for a rejuvenating day trip or a luxurious weekend getaway.

What's Melbourne's best new restaurant is something we're forever being asked here at Urban List. The thing is, what's best and what's new is always changing because the restaurant, bar and cafe scene is ever-evolving. Good thing we've made it easy for you, we've pulled together all Melbourne's newest openings right here.

Good things come in small packages, and so do great things, such as Xiao Long Bao. Our city is spoilt for choice when it comes to these often-steamed, sometimes-fried pockets of flavour, so much so that you’ll be left doing laps of Chinatown until everything shuts up shop for the night.

The heat is beaming down, the beach is calling, and you've got a thirst that only the iciest drink is going to quench. But there's something else calling your name, something that is going to instantly cool that core temp down, something that is totally worth forgoing the summer bod for—ice cream.

Nothing beats ditching the big smoke in the summertime for a stint down the coast. Packing up the car and heading south is an integral part of the culture; recharging the batteries and getting some much-needed sun and rest. Victoria has a rich coastline with some of the most unique beaches and bays in the world; from the long-stretching Great Ocean Road to the crystal blue waters of Mornington Peninsula, and the remote stretches of Shipwreck Coast. To experience the ocean to the fullest there’s no better way than pulling up stumps at a beachside shack and taking all in that sea air. 

We live in spa country. There’s really no excuse to drown in stress with these tranquil, blissful oases all around us. We’ve got some of the best spas in Melbourne and beyond with Daylesford and Sorrento bringing the goods. Breathe out, relax your shoulders and get booking. Here is Urban List's guide to the best spas in Melbourne and Victoria for 2025.

It’s hard to name a more iconic pub feed than the chicken parma. These slabs of perfection have found their way into the hearts of Melburnians, and it doesn’t look like the love affair is slowing down anytime soon. Here is Urban List's guide to the best parmas in Melbourne for 2024:

Following waves of immigration in the sixties and seventies, Greek food and culture has become a huge part of Melbourne’s culinary identity. We’ve got the largest Greek population outside of Athens, so it’s no surprise the city is brimming with Greek taverns and family-owned restaurants to suit all occasions and budgets. It’s a tough task, but we’ve pulled together the best Greek restaurants in Melbourne, with plenty of options for the souv-fans, seafood lovers, dairy queens and vegetarians out there. 

You know those scenes in the movies when someone gets a huge bouquet delivered to their office? And all the co-workers gather and gush about what a sweetie the sender must be? Well, you can be that sender in 2025, thanks to Urban List finding the best flower delivery Melbourne has to offer.

There's nothing quite like the music scene in Melbourne. Any night of the week in pretty much any stretch of the town, you can catch live tunes—be it howling, foot-stomping rock 'n roll in sticky-floored pubs, sultry jazz in booth-seated lounges, or dirty techno at one of the many dens and d-floors in town.

It's been a long, cold, winter, and not to mention a solid eight months or so since Melburnians were boozing around in some of Melbourne's best beer gardens. But like the sun will rise each morning, Melbourne's best beer gardens will be waiting for you as the warmer months return.

It's something that Melburnians can take deep pride in, other states might have the weather but our bustling late-night music culture and good-time mentality is second to none in this country. 

The sight of the blossoming purple flowers of the Jacaranda trees is a friendly reminder that the true frosty season is over and there are warmer climates ahead. The Jacaranda is typically earmarked with the coming of summer and Christmas (according to the jingle). The floral tree is an Australian icon in the plant community and a welcome beacon to the tail end of the year. 

Dogs love water just as much as we do, from chasing garden hose streams to splashing in shallow pools. Watching your pup frolic in the waves at Melbourne’s best dog-friendly beaches is pure joy. However, not all beaches welcome furry friends. We've curated the top dog beaches in Victoria for 2025 so you and your best mate can enjoy the coast together. Here are Urban List's picks for the best dog-friendly beaches in Victoria.

Finding the best oyster bar in Melbourne is no easy task, that’s why we're shelling out the details on the city’s best.

Is Melbourne having a cinnamon scroll redux right now? If we look at the facts, it might appear that the answer to that question is yes.

There’s nothing quite like parking it up by the pool. To ensure you maximise the sun and the good times this summer get your eyes across these incredible pool stays across Victoria.

Our guide to the best tattoo studios in Melbourne will help you find the perfect spot to bring your tattoo vision to life, from renowned parlours specializing in custom designs to cult-favourite studios known for their laid-back vibe. Whether you’re after a quick walk-in or looking to book in with a tattooing legend, we’ve got all the top picks to make your next tattoo experience a memorable one.

This one’s dedicated to all the gluten-intolerant bread and pastry lovers. Let’s be honest, the supermarket selection of gluten-free baked goods can be, well, uninspiring. Thankfully, we have a good handful of specialty gluten-free bakeries in Melbourne/Naarm that are reducing celiac’s FOMO when it comes to being able to get their hands on fresh bread, pastries and desserts. 

Navigating Melbourne’s vibrant dining scene while sticking to gluten-free options has never been easier. Think gluten-free pasta dishes, pizzas, and even indulgent desserts—all made with care and quality ingredients. If you’re seeking the best gluten-free restaurants in Melbourne, these spots have you covered.

Sandwiches are the new sexy. There are no two ways about it. Melbourne burgers had their time in the sun, but there’s only so much magic you can make with beef, cheese and brioche. Sandwiches are much more interesting. 

Ramen—a timeless pairing of noodles, broth and various accoutrements. Chewy noodles that have been cooked to the exact level of firmness, broths varying from a light and salty to one made by slow-cooking pork bones. Toppings that vary from pork that's been braised in soy sauce, sake and sugar, to soft-boiled eggs marinated in a mix of ingredients that are often a closely guarded secret. Better still, you can find some of the best ramen in Melbourne/Naarm. 

Charcoal chicken is a time-honoured practice, a craft that you'll find in almost every corner of the world. While flavours may vary from region to region, the smoky golden crisped exterior and succulent meat inside that results from spinning across the coals and flamed has established the roast chook as a pinnacle of dining. 

Strap on some comfy shoes and grab the trail mix. These are the best walks near Melbourne.

There’s nothing quite like the culinary offering of Mexican cuisine, its regional specialities and diverse dishes have captured the hearts and stomachs of us all. From the subtle addition of crisp and balanced pico de gallo in slow-cooked beef tacos, the romance of Mexican food is second to none.

One of the most important food groups to Melburnians, pizza, is held in a treasured category of its own. Boasting some of the finest pizzerias outside of Italy, the level of craft here is world-class from classic leopard spotted Neapolitan-style to thick-cut deep dish. 

Want to know where to pitch your tent? We’ve rounded up the best campsites in Victoria. Most are a pretty easy drive from Melbourne and for the rest... just tell your boss you’ll be coming in sick on Monday.

If you're a hungry herbivore, look no further than our guide to Melbourne's best spots for vegan eats, from burgs to fine dining, it's all here.

This one's probably going to be controversial given we can't cover every single amazing example of dim sims around Melbourne. But, we've called upon the heavy dim sim hitters at Dim Sims 4 Lyf to help us out here.

Carlton restaurants extend far beyond cherished Lygon Street—although the historic strip is still home to a massive concentration of Italian joints. With that being said, over the years Carlton has grown to become one of the most vibrant culinary hotspots in town. Here are Urban List’s recommendations on the best restaurants Carlton has to offer in 2025:

Whether you're a self-proclaimed bread enthusiast or a total croissant fiend after a fix you'll find something that’ll have your tastebuds doing a happy dance at Melbourne's best bakeries for 2025.

A pillar of dining, steak is a timeless dish and although simple or rudimentary in its preparation when done well it's one of the finest things to order. Now, there's a slew of Melbourne venues throwing cuts on the grill but a select few reign supreme. 

It could be a quick refuel, a boozy business meeting, or perhaps sharing a meal to catch up—lunch is a sacred part of the day for many Melburnians. We love lunch here. We're starting to steer clear from the grab and go, a hangover from (we won't say it) the past few years, and taking the time to sit and dine now. These are some of our top picks for Melbourne's best lunch spots for 2025, that are sure to impress your mates, visitors or colleagues. 

Looking for the best cheap eats in Melbourne? We've got you covered with a curated list of delicious, budget-friendly spots around the city. Dive into our picks for the top cheap eats Melbourne has to offer and discover how to satisfy your cravings without splurging.

When it comes to St Kilda restaurants, you’ll find a mix of legendary dining spots and hot new places serving up some of the freshest seafood around. But if you’re not into fish, don’t stress—there’s an array of cuisines on offer, from Italian and Mexican to Indian, Japanese, and classic pub fare. Without further ado, here's your guide to the best St Kilda restaurants in 2025.

With so much to choose from it can be a task to pinpoint the best restaurants Collingwood—and the Fitzroy side of Smith Street—has to offer. From old faithfuls to flame-driven cult-favourites, read on for the best restaurants Collingwood has to offer in 2025.

Cost of living keeps creeping upwards and onwards, and most of us practically have the words “value for money” tattooed on wallets to stop unnecessary spending. Of course, that’s where the humble buffet comes in, with endless plates and infinite options to make you feel like life isn’t so bad.

Now that warmer weather is upon us, craft beer is the best excuse to wet your beak while the sun’s out (or below the horizon, we’re not fussy). That's why we’ve rounded up the best craft beer breweries in metro Melbourne to save you a hot second on Google this Friday afternoon.

Melbourne’s CBD is a treasure trove for bar lovers, home to some of the best in the country. Whether you’re chasing a hidden laneway bar, soaking up the sunset at a rooftop, or settling into a cozy wine bar, there’s something for every vibe. From classic cocktails to cutting-edge creations, Melbourne’s CBD bars have you covered for any occasion—be it a casual knock-off drink, an afternoon aperitivo, or a full-on night out. 

These are the best vegetarian restaurants Melbourne has to offer. Even your meat lover mates will want a bite. 

Sushi no doubt holds a special spot in Melbourne’s heart, which is why eating via train makes it all the better. With plenty of spots that specialise in the much slower-paced ritual of 'Kaiten-sushi', sit back, relax and let the food come to you. 

Looking to unleash your inner creative and get your hands a little dirty? Us too—we haven’t done pottery since Year 8 art class. Thankfully, Melbourne's thriving pottery scene is the perfect place to reconnect with those earthy roots.

Yum Cha, it's the culinary experience that's greater than the sum of its parts, and each part is already pretty delicious. You’ll find dim sum galore, from pan-fried to steamed to boiled, all designed to be washed down with piping-hot tea. Melbourne has got some amazing for all your yum cha needs. So needless to say, we’ve curated a list of the best yum cha in Melbourne for 2025. 

The pub, it does exactly what it says on the label. It's a place to get together with mates, sink a few pints, and of course, order up on a parma. But with so many options, it can be hard to narrow down a solid watering hole.

Some mornings are meant for sleep-ins and some are meant for indulging in the best bottomless brunch in Melbourne. Are you after endless mimosas, too many proseccos, more margaritas than you can poke a stick at? Well, if you've woken up on that side of the bed, get your Sunday (or Saturday) best on, and get ready to party. Check out our list of the best bottomless brunches in Melbourne in 2025.

Beaches in Victoria are a coveted commodity, often guarded and kept hush-hush. From Hampton Beach and the hidden gems of Melbourne to the stunning coasts of the Mornington Peninsula, the Great Ocean Road, Wilson's Prom, Phillip Island, and more, there are spectacular stretches of sand and ocean waiting to be explored.

In 2025, Melbourne’s high tea game is stronger than ever, bringing together the best of old-world charm and modern-day fun. Whether you're in the mood to channel some classic 19th-century vibes, complete with dainty finger sandwiches and scones stacked high, or you're looking for something a bit more daring—think themed high teas, live music, and a splash of burlesque—Melbourne’s got you covered.

Go karting is a timeless activity. The almost child-like pursuit of speed and reckless endangerment is a thrill that you can’t (and shouldn’t) get driving to coles. With many tracks and karts around town, all with their own different bends and different levels of engine CC’s, it can be a little difficult to know where exactly you should burn rubber. 

Sunsets and pizza, or cocktails and catch-ups, Melbourne's rooftop bars are the perfect spot for both coming into the warmer months. From secret spots hidden down alleyways to iconic venues serving up the city's best views Urban List has done the hard yards and found the best rooftop bars in 2025.

Resting on the edge of the CBD, Richmond is a bustling metropolis of Melbourne. The bar and restaurant rich suburb is easily one of the busiest precincts for drinking and dining, whether it be a pre-match pint and parma before sauntering to the holy grounds of the MCG or a full six-course set menu.

Like the precinct’s spruikers, the choice really is overwhelming when it comes to Lygon Street restaurants. One will tell you they have the freshest carbonara in the southern hemisphere while the other will stake claim to a 400 cheese pizza. Both worthy options, but dig deeper and you’ll find a diverse culinary offering ranging from fiery ramen at one end and modern Australian at the other.

The Lunar New Year is fast approaching and 2025 is the year of the Wood Snake, which symbolises wisdom, transformation, stability and creativity and we're here to learn and grow, and celebrate.

Let’s be honest, when you roll out of bed on New Year’s Day you’re going to want a rather large coffee–preferably made by someone else. Luckily, there are plenty of cafes open New Year’s Day in Melbourne for all your hangover needs. You won’t want to cook your own food either, right? Don’t stress, we’ve got you covered for that too.

Whether you don't celebrate the holiday or you're looking to ditch the kitchen responsibilities, you'll find several top spots still doing their thing this Wednesday, 25 December 2024

Finding the perfect venue for your Christmas soiree isn’t the easiest job (I mean, no one wants to have drinks at the office…) Luckily, we’re here to help speed you along your way and make sure you pick the perfect place.

Melbourne’s favourite floating bar, Afloat, is reminding you summer season is about to hit with the annual unveiling of its pool, and this year, it’s an absolute belter. 

In a monumental celebration of contemporary art, NGV International is hosting the largest-ever retrospective of iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Featuring over 180 works, this expansive exhibition spans Kusama’s extraordinary eight-decade career, making it a global first and an unmissable event.

It’s that special time of year, the time when you eat as much ham/seafood/turkey/pork/scones as your body can handle. When you pour copious amounts of alcohol into your mouth to help you forget about all the terrible things you said at the Christmas party.

The silly season brings with it many things: Kris Kringle pressies that’ll likely be regifted next year, boozed-up relatives and that awkward, annual decision of which side of the family you’ll be spending Christmas day with. It’s not all festive faux pas, though—one such thing that’s universally loved this time of the year is Christmas markets.

The quintessential summer tradition in Melbourne’s cultural calendar, the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (MFWF) is set to make a highly anticipated return in March 2025 for another round of one-off dinners, chef residencies, pop-ups and long lunches. Spanning across 10 days, from March 21 to 30, the MFWF program is jam-packed, featuring over 200 events across the city and surrounding suburbs. 

This is our locals, and not-locals guide to everything to eat, drink, see, do and stay on the Mornington Peninsula.