Restaurants

Midnight spaghetti and a martini club? Say less. From the team behind Etta, Daphne is the newest addition to Brunswick East’s buzzing scene.

With a new chef at the helm and girl dinners to boot, Molli is back baby. The funky diner, heavy on the smoky grill and local produce has flipped their own script after feedback from locals that it wasn’t quite what they were after.

Step into the heart of warm Mexican food culture at La Tortillería, a traditional yet casual eatery where soulful, bona fide flavours take centre stage. From hand-pressed tortillas to housemade salsas, every dish is a humble homage to Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.

South Melbourne institution O’Connell’s—slinging pints since 1873, has scored the esteemed head chef Aaron Brodie (ex-Oakridge) and his signature woodfire cooking, produce-first approach.

Quirky cocktails, confit duck cigars and a roaming vintage cheese trolley are all on the cards at this intimate, subterranean art deco supper club. 

Inspired by Lan Kwai Fong in Hong Kong, LKF Bar radiates everything the world-famous nightlife district is known for: food, booze, music and a big, big energy. Think private karaoke bar meets delicious dining experience.

Adorable fish-shaped waffles, Matilda-inspired chocolate cake, and an Oriental Bloody Mary... If the perfect Asian-inspired brunch exists, it's got to be this. 

Chapati's new Crossley Street home continues its reign as one of the city's most vibrant modern Indian kitchens, but it's the daring upstairs addition—Daaru cocktail bar—that's really setting tongues wagging (and burning). This dynamic duo delivers a complete spice experience, from street food to cocktails, under one roof.

Nestled in the heart of Geelong's Newtown, Woolstore offers a unique and inviting dining experience within a century-old woolstore building. This exciting venue brings together the talents of the team behind the Federal Mills precinct and the culinary brilliance of award-winning head chef Eli Grubb.

Bang Bang is a certified banger. The bustling hawker-style Pan Asian restaurant is bold, fun, and not pretentious in any sense of the world. The crew have done such a good job with their vibrant dishes that they've gone and done it again, opening a third location. 

Suupaa is where convenience meets culinary creativity—consider Japanese konbini vibes with a Melbournian twist. The latest venture from the visionaries behind Future Future, this quirky little spot is redefining the “grab-and-go” experience.

This farm to table restaurant set in the rugged, wild beauty of Cape Schanck on the Mornington Peninsula is bringing a whole new dimension to destination dining.

This new everything venue on the Crown River Walk is the perfect spot for just that: everything. Marmont, heavily inspired by Los Angeles in both decor and menu is a little slice of SoCal on Southbank.

The latest venue by Toddy Shop’s Mischa Tropp is modelled after old school Bengali cricket clubs and members bars in India and is serving up up astutely spiced curries and a moody atmosphere that’s perfect for everything from dates to catch-ups or family feasts.

This little New York-coded diner on Toorak Road giving big Great Gatsby vibes is the spot for a cheeky mid-week meal out or a terrace cocktail.

Melbourne’s finest Japanese diner, Ishizuka is an intimate spectacle, serving up elaborate, thoughtful and tantalising banquets, tucked away on a basement level down a lane off Bourke Street.

Whip out your notes app, because you’ll want to try the slurp-worthy noodles and mouth-watering curries at your new go-to Thai-slinging eating house, Plern.

Crumbed and deep-fried. Need we say more? Tucked away downstairs off Queen Street is Katsuhon is serving up six different kinds of mouthwatering and traditional Japanese katsu.

Trading the desk for the dough, the Mornington Peninsula local and ex-Urban List ed turned pizza devotee Simon Cassar, has parked his pop-up venture, Pizza Luna, at Quealy Winemakers for a summer residency takeover.

Mr Charlie's is a tongue-in-cheek homage to the world’s most famous burger chain but with a completely plant-based menu.

Fire and spice and all things nice are the name of the game at Juni, the moody, neon clad pan-Asian diner on Exhibition Street.

Rising to institution status after garnering attention for its unorthodox location in a parking garage, Soi 38 has moved to yet another inconspicuous spot—but now accommodating five times the capacity of its former 60-seat venue.

What's there not to like about Greek food? Especially when it's as good as it gets at Astoria Bar Ke Grill. 

Iconic CBD restaurant Red Spice Road has new digs, but you'll be happy to know it's just a short stroll from their former location.

Lacey-edged smash burgers, loaded subs and tacos, is there anything we don't want to eat at BAM Street Food, who have moved from their food truck into a bricks and mortar home in Altona.

Yes, it is in Mid-Air. This open-air architecturally designed rooftop is a stunning addition to Melbourne's skyline and your must-do list.

Who else would dare serve up a Royale with Cheese inspired by Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 masterpiece Pulp Fiction? Naturally, it’s Brighton’s own burger institution, Royale.

Sitting pretty atop a Cremorne tenth floor is none other than Amatrice, a swish Italian joint that’s changing the rooftop bar game.

Self-proclaimed G.O.A.T of Mexican restaurants, La Cabra are set to take their chill vibe and tangy flavours to Melbourne’s Bayside, heading for Main Street in Mordialloc.

Cheri, the latest everything venue by the Darling Group (that’s the Top Paddock and Higher Ground crew, for the uninitiated) in South Melbourne and it bumps.

Marmelo and Mr Mills promise to bring bold flavors and unmatched vibes to the Paris end of Russell Street, next to boutique hotel Melbourne Place.

Mondo di Pasta is living up to its name (world of pasta, for those of us who can’t speak Italian) with genre-bending flavours like a sizzling harissa carbonara or gochujang vodka sauce, and even a jamun–black plum—tiramisu for dessert.

There’s a lovely no-nonsense feel to Lorenzo Tron and Roberto Davoli's Pizzeria in Pascoe Vale South. Bubbling thin-crust pizzas issue forth from the glowing mouth of a giant wood-fired oven, and it’s clear they’re the star attraction. The restaurant didn’t even offer salads and pasta when it opened (the theory being they took up valuable stomach space that could be better filled with dough, salami and cheese).

San Sebastian is a desired travel destination known for its top-notch cuisine and sandy  village energy—and definitely not something you would expect to find on the shores of Williamstown Beach. Yet here we are, a restaurant that will have you feeling like you’re holidaying in the Basque region.

Amongst the bustling food scene of Swan Street, family-owned Casa Mariotti Bar and Cucina is the newest kid on the block. 

Melbourne has a stack of bars, but none are quite like this, blending Filipino culture and contemporary cocktails into a delicious drinkable treat—say hello to Inuman. The name is a nod to tradition, derived from the Tagalog word ‘to drink.’ 

Zero95 is a go-to spot for pizza lovers in Melbourne, and it's easy to see why this pizzeria is so well-loved. Known for their authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, Zero95 has perfected the art of creating the ideal wood-fired crust.

It’s no secret that Italy’s cafe culture is top-notch. The melange of European charm, elegant aesthetics and community all bundled into your morning espresso is irresistible. Luckily for us, Melbourne has scored a(nother) taste of this prestige in the heart of Cremorne—Caffé Amatrice.

Think pizza couldn't get any better? Think again.

Rossi is the place to be on Greville Street. A stylish, yet industrial diner, Rossi Bar is the Italian osteria from Nick Young of Good Company Bar Group (Riviera Beach Club, Electric, The Emerson). 

Who’s the fairest of them all? That title would have to go to Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge, a Snow White-inspired rooftop bar serving up fairytale cocktails and tasty nibbles.

Auterra, Clinton McIver’s second Armadale restaurant has comfortably carved out a niche of its own despite its sibling (just over the road) Amaru’s sublime reputation.

The world of wine can seem daunting and distant to your typical Melburnian grub and pub type. But Punch Lane's new wine-centric restaurant with accessibility at its core is about to make it a whole lot easier for all of us—Circl. 

Elio’s Place is where heart and hospitality meet; two siblings working hand in hand to open a European-style bistro—a nod to their late father—painting a deep affection for their Italian heritage.

Dessous. If you don’t speak French you won’t get the joke: it means under. And under Dessous is, under its stunning sister venue Hazel on Flinders Lane. But that’s the only thing it’s under.

Winter is looking fresh for new openings in Melbourne, and our sights are set on Yaki Nau. We don’t know a ton yet but we do know it’s a Japanese diner with BBQ taking centre stage, and food is by Chef Hugo Mai who’s dipping into his wealth of experience from Nobu to bring Yaki Nau to life.

Moorabbin-based brewery, 2 Brothers, has been brewing and bottling some of the best beer in Melbourne for yonks now. And as good things would have it, the kitchen just got a serious upgrade.

***TEMPORARILY CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS***

The Prince is a real old charmer and a true Melbourne icon. However, we’re here to tell you all about Prince Dining Room as it ushers in a new era with Sydney’s rising star Mitch Orr at the helm as Creative Director, already making as one of our city's best restaurants. 

It’s big, it’s bold, and after a martini or two, you might feel like you’re in one of NYC’s top-tier bistros. Society is from powerhouse restaurateur Chris Lucas of Lucas Restaurants, flaunting crystal chandeliers, a wine cellar with more than 10,000 bottles, and a menu decked out with first-class Australian produce. 

One of Melbourne's best restaurants in the CBD, Shane Delia's Maha Restaurant—named after Delia's wife—has been kicking around for a good 15 years. The city's premier Middle Eastern restaurant underwent a tasteful, moody little renno a few years back, bringing it more in-line with modern Melbourne sensibilities.

Carlton North’s La Luna Bistro has held down the fort as a Melbourne institution for 25 years, and with full-hearts and full-bellies they plan to close their doors, dishing-up their final meals on 3 August. 

The crown jewel of Andrew McConnell's Trader House empire (Cumulus Inc., Cutler & Co, Supernormal), Gimlet At Cavendish House is an absolute culinary marvel. 

Resting right above the now infamous speciality tea destination Yugen Tea Bar, the South Yarra venue is now welcoming Yūgen, a  two-level eatery with three unique spaces, each one evoking a sense of intimacy mixed with innovation and newness. 

Poodle Bar & Bistro stepped into Melbourne’s dining scene in all its swanky art-deco glory and hasn't loked back since.

With sweeping views of Melbourne CBD from level 55 of the Rialto Tower, Vue de Monde is the ultimate fine dining experience in Melbourne. The word experience is key, and this is the ideal place for a special occasion. Acclaimed young chef, Hugh Allen has left his mark on the restaurant already with an incredible degustation that will not soon be forgotten. With too many Chefs Hats to count, save your pennies and pounds because Vue de Monde is a must-do, at least once in your lifetime.

On the former site of the Lygon Food Store now lies Lagoon Dining, the creation of young hospitality trio Chris Lerch, Keat Lee and Ned Trumble, who met while working at Ezard in 2013.

Chris Lucas is at it again with the big and bold Grill Americano, sitting alongside the culinary elite of Flinders Lane. Adding yet another venue to the hospitality group's quiver, Grill Americano will take its cues from Venetian architecture while serving up a menu that’s rich in handmade pasta and Italian classics cooked in a wood oven that'll take centre stage in the restaurant.

It was a wise person who once commented that good taste never goes out of style and so it is with Il Bacaro, a modern Italian restaurant and bar located in Little Collins Street, Melbourne.

Scott Pickett, Melbourne chef and restaurateur can do no wrong and his aptly named, Smith Street Bistrot on Smith Street, Collingwood is no exception. 

The St Kilda seaside dining institution, Stokehouse opened back in the 80s has long stood as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, and still does today. 

Regularly ranking in the world's top restaurants, Ripponlea's Attica sits at the pointy end of Melbourne's fine dining scene. The three hatted restaurant offers five to eight course dinners during the week, and a special Tuesday night Chef's Table where diners can critique Head Chef, Ben Shewry's, latest culinary experiments.

Without doubt one of Melbourne's best French restaurants, Toorak Road's France-Soir in South Yarra has been ticking along since the 80s and shows no signs of slowing down.

Lee Ho Fook is an institution. Expect contemporary Asian flare in the restaurant's pristinely industrial space with its cluster of globe lights standing in for paper lanterns.

High Street Armadale introduces its latest restaurant to its eclectic dining scene, Banshō—a unique fusion of French bistro and Japanese cuisine. Enlisted chefs Tomotaka Ishizuka (Kisumé) and Yoonho Chang (Lume), blend the timeless sophistication of French gastronomy with the artful mastery of Japanese flavours, evidenced in the choux au craquelin—a matcha cream puff, among other dishes on the menu.

Situated at the foot of Eastern Road in South Melbourne, Lucia is a quaint Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar exuding Renaissance charm. From the team behind Riserva, Baia Di Vino and San Lorenzo, this neighbourhood gem promises the same warm hospitality and authentic food.  

Collingwood fine diner IDES has reached cult status in Melbourne, attracting guest chefs from all over the country (usually IDES alum) and you need to be patient to secure a booking which are released two months in advance. 

While there's certainly no shortage of wine bars in Melbourne CBD, finding one that balances culinary know-how with a perfectly curated wine list (one that doesn't take an hour to read...) can be tricky.

We’re not ones to boast, but Melbourne simply *has* to be home to the most incredible restaurants in the country—and this CBD eatery is the jewel in our burger-loving, martini-drinking crown.

Oh Suzie Q, I love you and I can’t stop thinking about your barbeque pork buns. Suzie Q is going to be a thing. Before you know it every event you’re going to will be there. 

Melbourne’s hot on fusion cuisine and the latest mash-up is Nikkei: Peruvian and Japanese, taking over a long-standing Chapel Street venue. 

We all know Andrew McConnell can do no wrong, but his star venue Cumulus Inc. is a must visit for any Melburnian after a proper fine dining experience. 

Gertrude Street has fast become Melbourne's trendiest strip. Fancier than Brunswick Street, more artsy than Chapel Street, Windsor. And if there's one restaurant that sums up that whole effortlessly chic vibe, it’s Cutler & Co.

Named after the ultra-fine "double zero flour" that’s a pasta-maker's secret weapon, tipo 00 has firmly cemented itself as one of the most coveted dining experiences in Melbourne’s CBD. And when we say coveted, we mean reservations are a competitive sport—so be ready to snag that spot.

Chin Chin is Chin Chin, there's no doubt abot it. You can’t talk about Melbourne’s culinary scene without mentioning the neon-lit institution. Over a decade in the game and you’ll still see punters lining up for those signature cocktails, punchy South-East Asian flavours and upbeat vibes. 

If you are seeking an authentic, fine dining Italian experience in the CBD, you simply cannot go past Bourke Street stalwart, Grossi Florentino Upstairs.

Two years after opening their second location in Malvern, the cult-followed charcoal chicken shop continues to expand its dynasty with their third location opening soon along Glen Huntly Road.

Ruby Dining is an understatedly elegant diner in Melbourne’s mid-town, serving up a cornucopia of tasty snacks, clever entrees and larger plates, a la New York bistros.

Drawing from their wealth of culinary expertise, Mamas Dining Group has just unveiled their latest venture on Chapel Street, Windsor Wine Room. Departing from the Asian-inspired approach of their renowned restaurants like Hochi Mama, Straight Outta Saigon, and Kiss & Tell, this wine bar embraces a European-influenced dining experience.

Indian diner Bibi Ji is bringing the spices of India to Carlton’s Lygon Street, Melbourne’s Italian dining epicenter, with an 80-seat restaurant specialising in dishes inspired by Indian street food. From the team behind the acclaimed Australian-Indian restaurant Daughter-in-Law, Bibi Ji, which translates to ‘mother’ in Punjab, is the brainchild of chef and co-owner, Amar Singh (Horn Please and Dhaba at the Mill).

Celiacs, rejoice. Newcomer Hotel Nacional's main schtick is an entirely gluten-free offering. It’s from the many brains behind Repeat Offender and Rufio, two Latin American-leaning restaurants known for ridding gluten from the kitchen. But with both those out in Elwood and St Kilda respectively, it was only a matter of time before the crew brought their signature flair to the CBD. And after having their eye on the former Campari House place for well over a year, the doors for Hotel Nacional are now open.

In 2024, Pinchy’s is lookin’ extra fresh. After four years residing on Bourke Street, the seafood restaurant and bar is ushering in a renewed era, assigning a new chef in the kitchen and rewriting the entire menu.

Straight off the bat, the fit-out at Casa Chino already tops as one of the most beautiful restaurants in Melbourne. The undercover alfresco dining space is adorned with vibrant greenery running overhead along exposed wooden beams, and the centre-piece tree lights up with fairy lights, emitting a soft, warm hue. Inside, the pastel colours and contemporary Latin flair sets the tone for Casa Chino among the suede booth seating, poppy floor tiles, and curved archways.

Tableside amaro, rare home-grown Italian veggies, and a head chef with impressive creds—Bau Bau is opening in Mount Eliza.

If you dare climb Swanston Street’s Curtin House stairs or simply take the lift, you'll find Mexican tequila bar and kitchen Mesa Verde sitting high on the sixth floor, just underneath Rooftop Bar.

Niku Shiki has graced The Glen for two years, cementing itself as the epicenter for premium wagyu in Melbourne. Now, the three-in-one Wagyu specialist has landed in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling CBD.

Shopping centres are picking up their dining game as of late. Last year, Chadstone poured $70 million big ones into the culinary precinct The Social Quarter that boasts chic restaurants like Cinque Terre and Cityfields. Now, the sustainable shopping centre in Melbourne’s east is following in similar footsteps by introducing a slick new all-day dining rooftop, Rombe.

Figlia made a splash in the Brunswick East dining scene a couple of years back now, and has had its praises sung far and wide ever since. It’s from the crew behind the Tipo 00 and Osteria Illaria Famiglia and, like its sibling venues, there’s one star of the show at Figlia—pizza.

Restaurateur Jason Jones and designer Brahman Perera—the minds behind Entrecote—are partnering up for Hopper Joint, an 80-seater Sri Lankan eatery.

Joining a growing line up of Korean restaurants across Melbourne, Doju is a sultry fine diner on Little Collins Street that's perfect for a lunch date or post-work snack. 

The Wagyu Ya Group are a seemingly unstoppable force, with three locations operating and now a fourth one just over the horizon. With the success of Wagyu Ya, Yakikami, and Niku Ou, another venture was almost to be expected, and they haven’t disappointed. Introducing Wagyu Ya Teppanyaki, a brand new teppanyaki experience for those who are hungry for all things wagyu. 

Still rocking the Auckland Italian food scene, Otto (formerly Cotto) is one of the top Italian restaurants in the city. This spot showcases that Italian food doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag, with their menu ranging from $8-$28 and every single dish tasting like a million bucks.