Bars & Pubs

When midnight cravings hit, Melbourne’s late-night dining scene delivers. From steaming bowls of Cantonese noodles to New York-style pizza slices, these late-night restaurants in Melbourne keep the city fed long after dark.

Move over, Sydney—Melbourne’s about to get a dose of the Merivale magic and we've got our fingers and toes crossed for a certain famous woodfired bread.

Ever been at the kids’ play centre and thought, ‘I wish there was a little more here for me?’ Well, you’re not the only one. Hoopla has opened as Australia’s first ‘parent’ focused kids indoor play centre and family outing spot (read: there’s a grown-ups menu). 

A good pub does exactly what it promises on the tin: a spot to catch up with mates, knock back a few pints and naturally, tuck into a parma.

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.

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.

Sandy McIntyre is the actor, writer, producer and model making waves across Australia’s creative scene. We picked their brains on the best of what to do in Sydney this winter season. 

If there’s one person who knows how to make the most of a weekend in Sydney, it’s the powerhouse NRLW player, sharp-witted commentator, and podcast co-host Millie Elliott. 

If New York is the city that never sleeps, Melbourne’s the city that never stops eating, and there are a myriad of excellent spots waiting to welcome you for a Monday wine-and-dine.

Once again May has crept up on us out of nowhere, bringing with it one very important day. It’s that one thing you should be prepared for, yet every year it comes as another suprise. That’s right, it’s Mother’s Day. 

Here's your ultimate Eat, Play, Stay guide to the Barossa Valley with Andy Allen.

How far would you drive for some Sizzler-style cheese toast? 'Cos we're happy to spend an hour heading up to the Blackwood Hotel for a little slice of nostalgia and a frosty pint to match.

Whether you’re planning a first date, an anniversary, or a sweet surprise for your special someone, organising a date that makes them swoon (and scores you some serious brownie points) is always a win.

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 on over the Easter weekend in Melbourne. 

Searching for the best Italian restaurants in Melbourne? From hidden trattorias to fine dining, here are Melbourne’s top 25 Italian spots for pasta, pizza and more in 2025.

For those on the hunt for a cultural experience rich with all things history, people, stories, and nature, Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) should be top of the list. 

Between some seriously breathtaking natural gems, uber-exciting eats, and a range of stays to satisfy all kinds, Townsville has quickly become one of the country's best places to explore this year. 

Go behind the scenes of LA's biggest icons to explore the other side of the city of angels.

Forget ordering pizza to your neighbourhood bar/bottleshop combo. Benchwarmer has completely smashed the mould on what to expect by installing an izakaya inside their craft beer haven.

You've probably heard of it. It's Collingwood's hottest new rooftop with almost 360-degree views of the city, mixing a touch of glamour, a little bit of edge and most importantly, some bangin' cocktails.

Tucked away on Tasmania's picturesque East Coast is Devil's Corner winery. This is the kind of place you drive past wistfully, wondering if you have time to stop in. We're telling you, you need to make the time.

As the action revs up on the track, we'll show you how to ace the off-track scene

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.

Where’s the best spot to get a good glass of vino in Melbourne? Here’s your handy cheat sheet.

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.

Melbourne’s bustling dining scene owes a very honest tip of the hat to France. Every suburb has its own cache of bakeries, bistros and patisseries reminiscent of the City of Lights, and if you're like us wondering why you're here rather than there, well, this list might just save you the trip.

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.

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. 

Today’s diners are more intentional, discerning, and value-driven than ever. They’re eating out more frequently, but scrutinising every dollar, expecting premium experiences without the premium price tag.

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.

There’s a reason Jackalope on the Mornington Peninsula is on everyone’s bucket list: from its stunning grounds to unique architectural design, moody black colour palette or funky bar and restaurant, the hotel is the very definition of a luxury stay.

Housed within the former St Kilda Ichi Ni site, The Espy has dropped a fresh open-air bar, right in the peak of summer. 

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.

Summer might be coming to a close, but there’s no need to go thirsty.

The Prince Hotel's snuck in another cheeky refresh, just in time for summer. 

Whether you're a self-proclaimed shower superstar or a fearless performer who can hit every note of Alicia Keys' "Girl on Fire," we all have that one go-to karaoke song that turns an ordinary night into an extraordinary experience. So, step out to a Melbourne Karaoke bar and belt out every lyric of Britney Spears' "Toxic" or Eminem's "Without Me" while the crowd cheers you on

The Super Bowl is a big deal, and whether or not you're into American sport you can't help but get caught up in the fever, the chicken wings and of course the drama.

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:

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

Home to six diverse dining havens, the slick new entertainment hub has cosy spots for date night, slick breweries, and lantern-laiden restaurants. 

Melbourne’s latest drink of choice is certainly making a splash amongst those who aren’t afraid to mix it up (literally). For those yet to be acquainted with the beer cocktail, a boilermaker consists of a shot of whisky with a beer chaser. The two are paired together so you can experience flavours you might not have enjoyed when only drinking one, and it’s recommended that you sip, rather than slam this drink.

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.

Stuck in the Christmas Day food coma? How about washing it down with an ice-cold beer? Or pile on some more food to keep the Christmas spirit alive into the new year. Either way, we don’t want you sulking on Boxing Day, so get out, check out the lucrative shopping deals and keep celebrating with delicious drinks and eats. Here’s what’s open in Melourne on Boxing Day 2024.

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

Pick plates, rooftops and gluten-free, moody retro venues and lots of small plates: there were some definite themes to new openings this year, and we were there for all of them. This is your 2024 restaurant guide wrapped. 

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. 

Brunswick has long been home to some of Melbourne's best spots for good eats and cold pints, and the newly opened Keeper Brewing is the latest to join the ranks.

There are plenty of ways to make the most of the Melbourne Cup public holiday. It starts with a coffee at your local, then the day could likely mosey into a meal at the pub, followed by a cocktail and bite at one of the many watering holes open on Tuesday 5 November.

While Melbourne might be best known for its laneway bar culture, in Los Angeles some of the coolest hangouts are hidden sky high.

From tacos and margaritas to gnocchi and jazz, we've rounded up some of the best value-for-money dining options across the city to get through the week in style.

We love Melbourne, but you know ... living in one of the world's best cities comes with a price tag, good thing Urban List has you you covered with a stack of things to eat, drink, do and see all on a shoestring as part of our series Budget Ballin'. This time we've teed up 20 of the best cheap and free things to do in Melbourne to keep both you and your hip pocket happy.

Just in: Melbourne’s favourite floating bar and restaurant Arbory Afloat is officially out of hibernation and has returned for its ninth season on the Yarra. This year's theme? An Italian beach club—specifically Capri.

Thirsty Thursdays just got a whole lot tastier with a slew of freaking delicious cocktails on offer this month—even better, we’ve got the inside scoop on how you can score a tipple on the house.

From all-day casual dining and a coffee window on the ground floor, through to the hatted Restaurant offering a degustation menu on the first floor and finishing with a Rooftop oasis celebrating Gippsland wines, Farmer’s Daughters works collaboratively with artisans and food and wine producers from the region to bring Gippsland to the heart of the Melbourne CBD.

We know that money is tight right now for a lot of us, but that doesn’t have to impact your social life or love of dining out.

After a stint cheffing on luxe yachts in Europe, five years in the catering scene, and time in Melbourne’s San Telmo kitchen, Nicki Morrison has gone all-in on her own establishment, the flame-driven Flint. 

We've all experienced the inundation of Instagram content from Melburnians at Totti's when visiting Sydney, the table filled with plates of antipasti with negronis and spritz scattered throughout and of course, that show-stopping wood-fired flatbread front and center. 

Clear your calendars for a night of daringly dark jokes from the depths of humour as The Kraken Black Spiced Rum's Darkest Show returns for a second year. This time with Rhys Nicholson, Anne Edmonds, Greg Larsen, and Daniel Muggleton at the helm. 

Winter is coming so Melbourne’s finest pubs are turning up the heat. Nothing defrosts the hands quite like a glass of house red by the fire. We've compiled a list of the warmest drinking dens from all city corners so you’ll know where to go for your next knock-off drink on a frigid winter's day. So head down to your local, or someone else’s local, to counteract the colder season blues with a bev beside a built-in fireplace. 

It's not easy to land on a single choice for the best restaurants in Fitzroy, and that's because there are simply too many. The previously working-class inner-city suburb has blossomed through the renaissance of Melbourne’s cultural boom and is now home to some of the highest-rated diners in the entire city. So, read on, and tick off the best Fitzroy restaurants for 2024.

Everyone knows how the saying goes, dogs are a girl’s best friend. Another heartbeat in the house, a wagging tail that greets you every time you come home, and someone that will literally never judge you or your poor decisions. But our hearts just break when every day we have to pack up, go to work and we have to shut the door on those big puppy eyes that stare into our souls. 

Arriving at the local watering hole with your best mate by your side is unmatched. You’ll take a swig of a pint and your furry companion dives into the communal watering bowl. You both look up at each other—it doesn't get much better than this. For those seeking dog-friendly pubs in Melbourne, here are the top recommendations for 2024:

Coming soon to Footscray is a three-storey beer haven from the gang behind Moon Dog. Not shy of a theme, Moon Dog this time are opting for a wild west aesthetic with the saloon doors swinging open in March—and it’s going to be twice the size of Preston’s Moon Dog World (AKA massive).

Situated past the windy bends of the Great Ocean Road is Lorne, a tree-clad enclave and coastal town characterised by its thriving surf culture, shopping prospects, multicultural culinary scene and parks that edge onto the white-sand beach. With its easy access to the Otways and close proximity to the adored Erskine Falls, Lorne attracts a throng of Great Ocean Road locals as well as Melbourne city dwellers.

Just below the streets of South Melbourne, lies a little den of grandeur, lush food and sharp drinks. Castlerose, the latest venture from hospitality mogul Glen Bagnara, bleeds with a certain elegance, heavily inspired by Winston Churchill’s infamous yet covert subterranean parties. 

These are the best things to eat, drink and do in St Kilda this summer.

While some may argue Valentine’s Day is a sham—we are in the camp that backs everyday displays of affection—you probably landed here to find something sweet for your partner/situationship/friend/relo. From giant dumplings and fancy tangy cheese, to rooftop flicks and underground bars, we’ve wrapped up your guide to all things eat, drink, do Valentine’s Day in Melbourne for 2024 into three bite sized servings.

As much as we love a public holiday, 26 January (what is currently officially known as Australia Day) is a complex day for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and here at Urban List, we believe it is not a date to celebrate.

Sangas, bagels and everything that falls under the category of bread-filled-with-deliciousness have well and truly had their moment in Melbourne last year. No shade, we love it, and with plenty of newcomers and sibling venues on the cards for 2024, we’re tipping that moment ain’t over yet. And the latest? JollyGood Diner. 

Darling Group may ring a bell to you—the hospitality crew behind some of Melbourne’s best cafes including Top Paddock, Higher Ground and more recently The Terrace in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens. Now, the team have jumped into Melbourne’s vibrant world of restaurants with the arrival of Token.

If you’re after for a stay that’s as eclectic and exciting as the city you’re in, Hotel Indigo’s latest instalment in Brisbane’s North Quay is the perfect basecamp for exploring the best of the city. 

Beachside bars, rooftop restaurants and chic shopping are just the start of a great Sydney stay—and this is the ultimate cheat sheet for the savvy traveler, who knows where to stay, what to do, and how to live it up like a local. 

The sides menu mainstay is about to get the superstar treatment at UGO Burrata Bar, propping up the dish—which has had a lot of attention in the media of late—to centre stage at South Melbourne Market.

Pristine immaculate coastline, endless lingering sunshine and bountiful local produce—Townsville has become a marvel of North Queensland for good reason, with a string of decadent new openings around the charming town awaiting exploration.

In a city that’s buzzing with bars, boutiques, galleries, theatres and high-end restaurants, you need a high-end hotel to match. Enter Hotel Indigo, Melbourne’s new laneway hotel smack bang in the middle of the action on the iconic Flinders Lane. 

The Exec Chef shares his Yarra Valley food faves—from cheap feeds to gourmet picnic staples and top-notch wineries for date night.

The culinary legend shares where to go for a no-fuss feed, the spots his kids would love to visit, and hidden gems for flaky pastries and cardamon buns.

If you’re craving la dolce vita but couldn’t afford Euro summer this year, we’re bringing the sunshine your way instead. We’ve teamed up with Peroni to bring you a slice of the good life from the best Amalfi-inspired spots all over the Mornington Peninsula.

The Lucas Group’s silly season has well and truly begun, with a stack of dining and drink options to ease the pressure off your social calendar planning. 

Melbourne’s restaurant scene is about to score a vibrant, fresh and downright packed-to-the-brim-with-flavour diner. Pincho Disco–it’s not just a restaurant, but a bar of celebration, nodding to the big and bold flavours of South America.

Taking place across four days in early November, Palooza’s lineup includes everyone from Jax Jones (UK) to old faves Sneaky Sound System and former Spice Girl Melanie C (DJ set) on the decks.

Tuck into canapes, sip Basil Hayden cocktails and watch the sunset across the city.

Melbourne’s love affair with Mexican cuisine is no secret. We’ve frothed over new openings, been loyal to our favourite places, and embraced fusion. That love, of course, extends to the spirits of the country, specifically tequila and mezcal. Both the spirits originate from the agave plant, but we know where they truly belong is in our hands and stomachs. Luckily for us, Mejico, a happening restaurant located in Pink Alley, is opening up its own Tequila Bar right above it, a boozy joint that will have one of the largest selections of tequila and mezcal in the whole country. Launching on the 28th of October and with over 250 options, you’ll no doubt be spoilt for choice. 

To celebrate the release of the BMW iX1, we’ve teamed up with BMW to bring you the best (and tastiest) sustainable restaurants worth jumping in the car for. 

Dig into delicious dishes all over the state to find your perfect plate in regional Victoria.

Don’t wait for the weekend and enjoy a not so casual, casual week night, only at Crown.

Want to add a little fire to your wedding? Fireball Whisky is ready to level up your special day with $1.5K worth of Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey to get the party started.

To ensure you don’t miss even a second of bartender Christmas, this is your go-to roundup of venues to hit during Negroni Week.

Crown Melbourne is great for many things, but spending money at their restaurants is one of the best...and most worthwhile. From world-renowned omakase experiences to the finest French-leaning offerings, there's something for every palate preference. 

This September, the Melbourne Cocktail Festival is making a triumphant return and this time, is introducing an exciting addition—a dedicated festival hub in the CBD. During this week-long event spanning from September 18 to 24, over 40 of Melbourne’s esteemed and cherished bars will participate, offering enticing night-time experiences, $15 bespoke cocktails, sip and snack pairings as well as the chance to explore uncharted waters (or cocktails) with the Bar Safari adventure. 

Thick cream cheese frosting meets a perfectly dense cinnamon-spiced bun in symbiotic perfection—this is the simple yet revolutionary premise of the all-star baked good operation of Sebby's Scrolls. 

It's been an interesting journey for the Commune Group, the restaurant collective has been responsible for some of the most successful and popular restaurant openings over the past few years. 

We get it, you wanna be the most unforgettable person you're date has ever gone out with, but damn if inflation isn't hitting real hard right about now. Check out some of the best cheap dates you can serenade your future sweetheart with, and a few don't even cost a dime. 

We want to help you live the dream in WA, so we asked the passionate locals who call it home to share all their must-visit experiences across this stunning state. Dive into our guides to the best places to play, eat and stay, steeped with local knowledge and all the tools you need to plan the trip of a lifetime.

The humble town of Healesville is becoming quite the drawcard for many a city slicker come Saturday mornings, and thanks to a hefty refurb that’s just taken place at the Healesville Hotel, there’s yet another reason to take off north-east out of the CBD and into the rolling, bucolic hills of the Yarra Ranges.

Alright people, it’s time to don your green and gold for one of the biggest games in Australia’s sporting history.

It’s heating up down here in Melbourne, the festive season is upon us and that means seafood is on the menu. But not just any seafood, we’re talking all kinds of lobster goodness.

Those in the western burbs of Melbourne will be excited to hear the renowned Holey-Moley and Strike Bowling are joining forces to create the ultimate entertainment duo in a new venue opening this month in Point Cook. 

Make your way through the list of Richmond’s best bars for 2024.

While Essendon’s best food and drink may be less discovered, locals take cafe culture very seriously, so for those who know where to look,  it is home to an eclectic mix of hidden gems, either tucked away in the area’s nooks and crannies or perched on the busy traffic-ridden stretch of Buckley Street. 

Constructed back in 1924, the Morris House building has seen a lot in its almost century-long residency on the corner of Little Collins and Exhibition Street. 

If you're a big fan of food (like us) you'll be happy to know there are towns filled with farm-fresh food and local brews along this winding water source. From hatted restaurants to local wineries, consider this your gateway to the best things to eat and drink up and down the river. 

Hidden in the depths of The Espy, the entrance to Louey’s might lowkey, though entering into this buzzing Italian-American diner and it’s anything but. From the menu, right across to the venue’s neon-clad finishings, the beachside locale has been unapologetically curated with good-times in mind. 

It’s well and truly roast season. When it’s woolly outside the comfort of a hearty slow-cooked roast lamb or chicken alongside golden crunchy potatoes (gravy optional but recommended) quells just about everything. We went on the hunt for the best roasts in Melbourne, locking down the favoured spots across the city that are prime for the winter staple. 

The best time to share an aperitivo and a plate of food with the ones you love is actually right now.

For the last six months or so, a groundswell has been building around Andrew McConnell and Jo McGann’s sibling bar to Gimlet. Until now, however, details have been scarce, and outside of a location and the fact the space will be cocktail-forward, the powerhouse duo has kept tightlipped. 

Roughly a 75-minute drive west of Melbourne, your next culinary adventure awaits. Steeped in art and culture, the heritage-filled town of Ballarat is the perfect place to indulge in a foodie getaway.

Just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, Bendigo is a place where you can step back in time to get a fix of the state's history. Here, you’ll uncover a vibrant arts scene, old-world architecture and some of Victoria’s most delicious eats. 

With the temperature dropping into snuggle season, it's an ideal time to get away with your number one for a loved-up retreat

Situated in the northwest region of Melbourne on Wurundjeri land, Moonee Ponds is an inner-city suburban oasis just seven kilometres from the CBD. Awash with statuesque Victorian houses and red-brick cottages the area’s leafy and tidy aesthetic has become a bedrock for dining and coffee culture. 

Consider this your shortcut to some of the best plates to taste in the Grampians and surrounds.

Not sure where to start the tastebud tour? We’ve rounded up the top nine eats you can’t miss on your next visit to Geelong and The Bellarine.