Melbourne
20 Best Casual Restaurants in Melbourne
Discover the best casual restaurants in Melbourne, based on recommendations from top chefs, food writers and sommeliers.
This article offers you a curated list of Melbourne's best casual restaurants that are perfect for a relaxed dinner. Featuring options from various neighborhoods, these spots offer a good mix that is sure to satisfy any foodie's needs. Featuring local favorites like Embla, Tonka, and Capitano Carlton, this guide highlights the best casual food in Melbourne. These picks are based on recommendations from World of Mouth experts, including the likes of Pat Nourse, Ben Shewry, and Jess Ho, to make sure they are always on point. Read on to discover the best spots for a dinner in a casual setting with friends.
Embla is a sophisticated wine bar known for its simple yet warm approach. The place boasts of an impressive wood-fired oven, producing ambitious dishes like crispy chicken skin with whipped anchovies, wood-roasted scallops, and spatchcock poussin with lemon and capers. It offers an upbeat and inspiring atmosphere, complemented by an extensive wine list and consistently delicious food, making it a favorite spot for both locals and notable personalities.
Recommended by
They call Embla a wine bar, but it is so much more. Yes, this loud and dark Melbourne favorite has a buzzing bar and great (mostly natural, but not too extreme) wines. However, it also offers ambitious dishes, many of them cooked in an impressive wood-fired oven. I tried crispy chicken skin with whipped anchovies, wood-roasted scallops, snapper carpaccio, spatchcock poussin with lemon and capers, and Barley koji crème caramel – all of which were great and they also offer plenty of interesting plant-based options. The atmosphere is upbeat and inspiring with informal but professional service, good playlist as a nice bonus. No wonder it was also the choice of The Obamas.
Tonka is a modern Indian restaurant that offers a blend of traditional and experimental cuisine. Known for its flavorful dishes, the restaurant is particularly praised for its exceptional desserts and its warm, pillowy naan bread. The trout cooked in the tandoori oven is also a must-try, promising a memorable dining experience.
Recommended by
Tonka will alter the way you view Indian cuisine. Modern yet traditional, experimental and considered, flavourful and always memorable. The desserts here are exceptional. One of my favourites from the Flinders Lane precinct.
Capitano Carlton is a restaurant recognized for its Italian cuisine, notably its focaccia-style pizzas and unconventional pasta. The rigatoni in vodka sauce is a popular choice among patrons, and the sourdough pizzas, especially the tomato pie with added anchovies, are highly recommended. Don't forget to round off your meal with their much-loved tiramisu.
Recommended by
Carlton is known for its Italian cuisine but if you've only got time to indulge in one carb-laden feast while here, please make it Capitano. Their pizzas are more of a focaccia style base (sensational in my opinion) and their rigatoni in vodka sauce is a go-to. And yes, you're obviously going to order the tiramisu. What do you think this is? Amateur hour! X
Jinda Thai Restaurant is a bustling spot housed in a simple warehouse setting, known for its extensive range of delicious Thai dishes. They offer a notable vegan menu, catering to diverse dietary needs. Inspired by the famous crab omelette from Jay Fai, Jinda's version is equally impressive and a must-try for all food enthusiasts.
Recommended by
Have you been obsessing over that crab omelette at Jay Fai you saw on Netflix? This version, made at the mighty Jinda, might well be the closest you'll get in Melbourne this winter. It's not rolled, and not nearly so crabby, but it’s pretty damned great nonetheless. The best Thai restaurant in Melbourne? Quite probably. And a real leader in vegan Thai options.
Kalimera Souvlaki Art is a reliable destination for authentic Greek souvlaki. They are highly recommended for their pork gyros platter, dakos salad, and various dips. A common suggestion from visitors is to order an extra pita bread to fully enjoy the meal.
Recommended by
The best souvlaki in Australia! Or the pork gyros platter, the dakos salad, and the dips. Pro-tip: you'll want to order a second pita bread.
Pho Thin Melbourne, originally from Hanoi, offers a distinctive take on pho that stood out for 40 years in Vietnam before coming to Melbourne. The signature dish is their "stir-fried up" pho bo, where the beef is tossed in a wok before being added to the soup, and green onions replace the usual white. They also offer Vietnamese doughnuts, also known as youtiao, perfect for dipping.
Recommended by
The signature “stir-fried up” pho bo from famed Hanoi noodle shop Pho Thin. They’ve just arrived in Melbourne having rocked it back in Vietnam for 40 years with their idiosyncratic take on pho. The beef is tossed in a wok before it goes in the soup, the onion is green rather than white, and bean sprouts are verboten. Liked it. I think it’s different to anything else in town, and definitely worth a look. What I really like is that unlike most pho shops in Australia they offer what they call Vietnamese doughnuts (and what I’d call youtiao) on the side for the dippins.
Stokehouse St Kilda is an upscale oceanfront eatery in Port Phillip Bay, renowned for its emphasis on seafood and an extensive wine list. The restaurant offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a long lunch while appreciating the impressive views. The desserts are particularly noteworthy, adding a sweet touch to the overall dining experience.
Recommended by
If the views over Port Phillip Bay aren’t enough to tempt you into this glorious, light-filled space - the food certainly will be. Atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, desserts are a standout. Perfect for a long lunch to enjoy the impressive views the restaurant boats.
Tina's Noodle Kitchen is a noted destination for Sichuan cuisine, known for its marinated cold chicken and off-menu meatball with pickled chilli broth. This restaurant, part of the renowned Dainty crew, is recognized as one of the top spots for authentic Sichuan dishes. Visitors to Tina's Noodle Kitchen can expect an outstanding culinary experience with a focus on traditional recipes.
Recommended by
Legit one of the best Sichuan restaurants in Melbourne. By the Dainty crew. The marinated cold chicken and the off menu meatball and pickled chilli broth is outstanding.
Fitzroy Town Hall Hotel is a classic public house that has been rejuvenated with fresh, vibrant dining spaces, textured wallpapers, and rich tartans. The restaurant offers quality-driven dining experiences featuring artisan ingredients and a rustic yet polished cooking style, courtesy of Chef Sean Donovan. It also boasts a traditional yet stylish public bar with vintage tiling, wood paneling, and a snug with an open fire, providing an ideal space for casual dining and premium craft beverages.
Recommended by
This place is an absolute cracker! Think elevated pub food, an ever-evolving seasonal menu, a solid wine list and a whole lot of ‘old world charm’ meets new world gentrification. This place is absolutely worth your time.
Marion Wine Bar is an intimate neighborhood spot known for its extensive wine list and a mix of local and European fare. The place offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it a great choice for both dining and drinks. It's recommended to make a reservation, but walk-in guests are also welcome to enjoy everything the bar has to offer.
Recommended by
Sister to one of my favourite restaurants, Cutler & Co, this place is chilled, more casual, has a fabulous wine list and is far more affordable. Not to be missed x.
France-Soir is a lively French brasserie that captures the essence of a Parisian bistro. The restaurant offers a rich, traditional, and flavorful French menu, served by French-speaking waitstaff, adding to the authentic ambiance. Open seven days a week from noon to midnight, France-Soir is a bustling spot that is often full, so booking ahead is advised.
Recommended by
Now look - anywhere that allows you to BYO champagne (nb. only on certain days) has got to be the crème de la crème of restaurants, right?! I mean have you ever heard of anything more magnificent? No, I didn’t think so. But that aside - the waiters and their accents are gorgeous (they’re French so that shouldn’t come as a surprise) and the food is, well, French. So it’s rich, traditional and flavourful. Basically, the place is divine. It’s a Melbourne institution. Book ahead, it tends to fill up x
Chin Chin is a beloved Melbourne institution known for its delicious takeaway menu. This restaurant offers a selection of their most loved dishes, with the Rendang being a standout favorite among patrons. While most of their dishes reheat well and the curries are said to taste even better the next day, it's suggested to skip the roti as it doesn't travel well.
Recommended by
Let’s talk about another Melbourne institution offering an efficient (and delicious) take-away menu during the crisis we know (and loathe) as COVID-19. Chin Chin is offering a small selection of their most loved dishes to soften the blow and accompany our mid week #Netflix binges. Their standout dish for me is their RENDANG - it’s bloody sensational. Avoid the roti - it doesn’t travel well. I’ve found most things to be easily reheated and the curries, of course, taste even better the following day. So, order up and support local!
Mumchan is a Korean restaurant that brings traditional family flavors to your table, either in-store or online. They offer a variety of dishes including Banchan, Kimbap, and traditional Bibimbap, as well as house-made kimchis and other side dishes. For those who prefer home-cooked meals, Mumchan also provides pre-cooked, homestyle dishes that you can easily heat at home.
Recommended by
Pick up a quick and easy kimbap, punch up your meal with house-made kimchis, annul and other side dishes. Hit the fridges for cooked, transitional, home style dishes to heat at home.
Top Paddock Cafe is a renowned spot in Richmond, known for its mantra of 'paddock to plate' that emphasizes the use of fresh local Australian produce. The all-day menu changes with the seasons, featuring vibrant dishes such as Eggs Benedict with crisp bacon, a slow-cooked 16 Hour Beef Brisket Roll, and decadent Buttermilk Waffles. The cafe also offers a range of gourmet sandwiches, pastries, and cakes for takeaway, as well as a selection of signature cocktails and a custom Darling Blend coffee.
Recommended by
Best brunch place in Melbourne!I am still dreaming of the ricotta pancakes to this day, they were the best I’ve ever had!
Mr. Miyagi offers a playful take on Japanese cuisine in a casual but fancy setting. Known for its amazing bao buns and a vibrant atmosphere, this restaurant in Windsor is perfect for groups of friends. Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, but walk-ins are also welcome.
Recommended by
Really fun Japanese restaurant in MelbourneAmazing bao bunsGreat atmosphere Funky decorations Groups of friends vibes
Dainty Sichuan Hot Pot - CBD is renowned for its la zi ji, a spicy chicken dish from Chongqing, China, often considered the best in Australia. The restaurant is beloved by locals who appreciate its authentic Sichuan hot pot offerings. If you're a fan of spicy food, Dainty Sichuan Hot Pot - CBD is a must-visit.
Recommended by
I have to stop and remind myself occasionally that I live in the same city as the best la zi ji in Australia. I love you, Dainty; I love you, Chongqing chicken.
Girls & Boys is a popular spot for vegan ice cream, with a menu that includes a variety of plant-based desserts and smoothies. The establishment is known for its in-house made flavors, which change regularly, and additional offerings like fudge sauce and brownies. Aiming to serve the best plant-based gelato in Melbourne, Girls & Boys also offers a selection of smoothies, nourish bowls, and take-home tubs.
Recommended by
You head to this place for one thing and one thing only...their vegan ice cream. It’s bloody delicious. All plant based, ever changing flavours, kick-ass additions such as fudge sauce and brownies. You feel healthier ordering it....the pleasure without the guilt x
Embla is a sophisticated wine bar known for its simple yet warm approach. The place boasts of an impressive wood-fired oven, producing ambitious dishes like crispy chicken skin with whipped anchovies, wood-roasted scallops, and spatchcock poussin with lemon and capers. It offers an upbeat and inspiring atmosphere, complemented by an extensive wine list and consistently delicious food, making it a favorite spot for both locals and notable personalities.
Recommended by
They call Embla a wine bar, but it is so much more. Yes, this loud and dark Melbourne favorite has a buzzing bar and great (mostly natural, but not too extreme) wines. However, it also offers ambitious dishes, many of them cooked in an impressive wood-fired oven. I tried crispy chicken skin with whipped anchovies, wood-roasted scallops, snapper carpaccio, spatchcock poussin with lemon and capers, and Barley koji crème caramel – all of which were great and they also offer plenty of interesting plant-based options. The atmosphere is upbeat and inspiring with informal but professional service, good playlist as a nice bonus. No wonder it was also the choice of The Obamas.
Tonka is a modern Indian restaurant that offers a blend of traditional and experimental cuisine. Known for its flavorful dishes, the restaurant is particularly praised for its exceptional desserts and its warm, pillowy naan bread. The trout cooked in the tandoori oven is also a must-try, promising a memorable dining experience.
Recommended by
Tonka will alter the way you view Indian cuisine. Modern yet traditional, experimental and considered, flavourful and always memorable. The desserts here are exceptional. One of my favourites from the Flinders Lane precinct.
Capitano Carlton is a restaurant recognized for its Italian cuisine, notably its focaccia-style pizzas and unconventional pasta. The rigatoni in vodka sauce is a popular choice among patrons, and the sourdough pizzas, especially the tomato pie with added anchovies, are highly recommended. Don't forget to round off your meal with their much-loved tiramisu.
Recommended by
Carlton is known for its Italian cuisine but if you've only got time to indulge in one carb-laden feast while here, please make it Capitano. Their pizzas are more of a focaccia style base (sensational in my opinion) and their rigatoni in vodka sauce is a go-to. And yes, you're obviously going to order the tiramisu. What do you think this is? Amateur hour! X
Jinda Thai Restaurant is a bustling spot housed in a simple warehouse setting, known for its extensive range of delicious Thai dishes. They offer a notable vegan menu, catering to diverse dietary needs. Inspired by the famous crab omelette from Jay Fai, Jinda's version is equally impressive and a must-try for all food enthusiasts.
Recommended by
Have you been obsessing over that crab omelette at Jay Fai you saw on Netflix? This version, made at the mighty Jinda, might well be the closest you'll get in Melbourne this winter. It's not rolled, and not nearly so crabby, but it’s pretty damned great nonetheless. The best Thai restaurant in Melbourne? Quite probably. And a real leader in vegan Thai options.
Kalimera Souvlaki Art is a reliable destination for authentic Greek souvlaki. They are highly recommended for their pork gyros platter, dakos salad, and various dips. A common suggestion from visitors is to order an extra pita bread to fully enjoy the meal.
Recommended by
The best souvlaki in Australia! Or the pork gyros platter, the dakos salad, and the dips. Pro-tip: you'll want to order a second pita bread.
Pho Thin Melbourne, originally from Hanoi, offers a distinctive take on pho that stood out for 40 years in Vietnam before coming to Melbourne. The signature dish is their "stir-fried up" pho bo, where the beef is tossed in a wok before being added to the soup, and green onions replace the usual white. They also offer Vietnamese doughnuts, also known as youtiao, perfect for dipping.
Recommended by
The signature “stir-fried up” pho bo from famed Hanoi noodle shop Pho Thin. They’ve just arrived in Melbourne having rocked it back in Vietnam for 40 years with their idiosyncratic take on pho. The beef is tossed in a wok before it goes in the soup, the onion is green rather than white, and bean sprouts are verboten. Liked it. I think it’s different to anything else in town, and definitely worth a look. What I really like is that unlike most pho shops in Australia they offer what they call Vietnamese doughnuts (and what I’d call youtiao) on the side for the dippins.
Stokehouse St Kilda is an upscale oceanfront eatery in Port Phillip Bay, renowned for its emphasis on seafood and an extensive wine list. The restaurant offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a long lunch while appreciating the impressive views. The desserts are particularly noteworthy, adding a sweet touch to the overall dining experience.
Recommended by
If the views over Port Phillip Bay aren’t enough to tempt you into this glorious, light-filled space - the food certainly will be. Atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, desserts are a standout. Perfect for a long lunch to enjoy the impressive views the restaurant boats.
Tina's Noodle Kitchen is a noted destination for Sichuan cuisine, known for its marinated cold chicken and off-menu meatball with pickled chilli broth. This restaurant, part of the renowned Dainty crew, is recognized as one of the top spots for authentic Sichuan dishes. Visitors to Tina's Noodle Kitchen can expect an outstanding culinary experience with a focus on traditional recipes.
Recommended by
Legit one of the best Sichuan restaurants in Melbourne. By the Dainty crew. The marinated cold chicken and the off menu meatball and pickled chilli broth is outstanding.
Fitzroy Town Hall Hotel is a classic public house that has been rejuvenated with fresh, vibrant dining spaces, textured wallpapers, and rich tartans. The restaurant offers quality-driven dining experiences featuring artisan ingredients and a rustic yet polished cooking style, courtesy of Chef Sean Donovan. It also boasts a traditional yet stylish public bar with vintage tiling, wood paneling, and a snug with an open fire, providing an ideal space for casual dining and premium craft beverages.
Recommended by
This place is an absolute cracker! Think elevated pub food, an ever-evolving seasonal menu, a solid wine list and a whole lot of ‘old world charm’ meets new world gentrification. This place is absolutely worth your time.
Marion Wine Bar is an intimate neighborhood spot known for its extensive wine list and a mix of local and European fare. The place offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it a great choice for both dining and drinks. It's recommended to make a reservation, but walk-in guests are also welcome to enjoy everything the bar has to offer.
Recommended by
Sister to one of my favourite restaurants, Cutler & Co, this place is chilled, more casual, has a fabulous wine list and is far more affordable. Not to be missed x.
France-Soir is a lively French brasserie that captures the essence of a Parisian bistro. The restaurant offers a rich, traditional, and flavorful French menu, served by French-speaking waitstaff, adding to the authentic ambiance. Open seven days a week from noon to midnight, France-Soir is a bustling spot that is often full, so booking ahead is advised.
Recommended by
Now look - anywhere that allows you to BYO champagne (nb. only on certain days) has got to be the crème de la crème of restaurants, right?! I mean have you ever heard of anything more magnificent? No, I didn’t think so. But that aside - the waiters and their accents are gorgeous (they’re French so that shouldn’t come as a surprise) and the food is, well, French. So it’s rich, traditional and flavourful. Basically, the place is divine. It’s a Melbourne institution. Book ahead, it tends to fill up x
Chin Chin is a beloved Melbourne institution known for its delicious takeaway menu. This restaurant offers a selection of their most loved dishes, with the Rendang being a standout favorite among patrons. While most of their dishes reheat well and the curries are said to taste even better the next day, it's suggested to skip the roti as it doesn't travel well.
Recommended by
Let’s talk about another Melbourne institution offering an efficient (and delicious) take-away menu during the crisis we know (and loathe) as COVID-19. Chin Chin is offering a small selection of their most loved dishes to soften the blow and accompany our mid week #Netflix binges. Their standout dish for me is their RENDANG - it’s bloody sensational. Avoid the roti - it doesn’t travel well. I’ve found most things to be easily reheated and the curries, of course, taste even better the following day. So, order up and support local!
Mumchan is a Korean restaurant that brings traditional family flavors to your table, either in-store or online. They offer a variety of dishes including Banchan, Kimbap, and traditional Bibimbap, as well as house-made kimchis and other side dishes. For those who prefer home-cooked meals, Mumchan also provides pre-cooked, homestyle dishes that you can easily heat at home.
Recommended by
Pick up a quick and easy kimbap, punch up your meal with house-made kimchis, annul and other side dishes. Hit the fridges for cooked, transitional, home style dishes to heat at home.
Top Paddock Cafe is a renowned spot in Richmond, known for its mantra of 'paddock to plate' that emphasizes the use of fresh local Australian produce. The all-day menu changes with the seasons, featuring vibrant dishes such as Eggs Benedict with crisp bacon, a slow-cooked 16 Hour Beef Brisket Roll, and decadent Buttermilk Waffles. The cafe also offers a range of gourmet sandwiches, pastries, and cakes for takeaway, as well as a selection of signature cocktails and a custom Darling Blend coffee.
Recommended by
Best brunch place in Melbourne!I am still dreaming of the ricotta pancakes to this day, they were the best I’ve ever had!
Mr. Miyagi offers a playful take on Japanese cuisine in a casual but fancy setting. Known for its amazing bao buns and a vibrant atmosphere, this restaurant in Windsor is perfect for groups of friends. Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, but walk-ins are also welcome.
Recommended by
Really fun Japanese restaurant in MelbourneAmazing bao bunsGreat atmosphere Funky decorations Groups of friends vibes
Dainty Sichuan Hot Pot - CBD is renowned for its la zi ji, a spicy chicken dish from Chongqing, China, often considered the best in Australia. The restaurant is beloved by locals who appreciate its authentic Sichuan hot pot offerings. If you're a fan of spicy food, Dainty Sichuan Hot Pot - CBD is a must-visit.
Recommended by
I have to stop and remind myself occasionally that I live in the same city as the best la zi ji in Australia. I love you, Dainty; I love you, Chongqing chicken.
Girls & Boys is a popular spot for vegan ice cream, with a menu that includes a variety of plant-based desserts and smoothies. The establishment is known for its in-house made flavors, which change regularly, and additional offerings like fudge sauce and brownies. Aiming to serve the best plant-based gelato in Melbourne, Girls & Boys also offers a selection of smoothies, nourish bowls, and take-home tubs.
Recommended by
You head to this place for one thing and one thing only...their vegan ice cream. It’s bloody delicious. All plant based, ever changing flavours, kick-ass additions such as fudge sauce and brownies. You feel healthier ordering it....the pleasure without the guilt x
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Parker Milner
Parker Milner is a Food Writer based in Charleston, South Carolina. He’s the Food Editor of The Post and Courier, South Carolina’s oldest daily newspaper and has also contributed to publications like Eater and Charleston Magazine.