The Best Restaurants in Melbourne

Flower Drum Restaurant Melbourne has been a cornerstone of Cantonese dining in the city since 1975. Known for its attentive service and carefully prepared dishes, it has earned a longstanding reputation that continues to draw both locals and visitors. Its welcoming atmosphere and focus on quality make it a notable destination for anyone seeking classic Chinese flavors in Melbourne.

Recommended by

Saku Tuominen

CEO & Restaurateur

Delicious Cantonese cooking with a touch of luxury and a hint of Twin Peaks. Flower Drum is a Melbourne institution, celebrating its 50th birthday in just two years. Dining here is an experience, an almost surreal combination of opulence, well-prepared dishes, and tongue-in-cheek performance - their classic Peking duck is a prime example. Their legendary front-of-house team is composed of real characters, and the wine list is extensive. If you're unable to secure a table (which is not easy), you also have the option to dine in the bar. While you might miss out on some of the action, it's a fun option as well.

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Attica in Melbourne is led by chef Ben Shewry, who focuses on thoughtful cooking that honors Australia’s unique ingredients and cultural heritage. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a strong respect for the land and a spirit of creativity. It’s a place where ambition, flavor, and local traditions come together in every meal.

Recommended by

James Hird

Sommelier

Ben Shewry and the Attica team are quite simply making some of the most unique, soulful and delicious food on the planet. On a visit early May 2021 I was reminded how special this restaurant is I’m the Australian and global food landscape. Cooking that is heartfelt, thoughtful and that respectfully acknowledges the land and country the restaurant is located. As I left Attica my only thought was how soon I could return. Always been stellar never been as good as it now is. Book now!!

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Set high above the city, Vue de monde highlights native Australian ingredients through an ever-changing chef’s menu. The setting is refined yet comfortable, with sweeping views of Melbourne that make the experience feel extra special.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

From French bistro to fine dining powerhouse, few restaurants have managed to reinvent themselves like Vue. It's remarkable to see such a young, creative mind at the helm of such an institution. Hugh Allen is under 30 and spent three years at Noma in Copenhagen, before being fast tracked from sous to executive chef at Vue de Monde. His obsession with modern, native Australian ingredients is palpable, and his creations integrate seamlessly alongside menu mainstays. For those not from Melbourne, Vue is located at the top of one of our tallest buildings, and sports the most beautiful views across the bay and city skyline. The venue is detailed, chic, relaxed and intimate, and the perfect place to watch the sun go down. Wine pairing is a must, while the set menu is an ever-evolving door for the seasons, showcasing some of Australia's most obscure, and celebrated, native ingredients. And don't worry, the OG chocolate soufflé still has its moment x

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Embla in Melbourne is a relaxed wine bar with a simple, welcoming vibe and a focus on interesting wines. People appreciate its warm, easygoing atmosphere and thoughtful cooking, which keeps things down-to-earth and enjoyable. It’s a dependable spot if you’re looking for a comfortable place to unwind in the city.

Recommended by

Saku Tuominen

CEO & Restaurateur

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.

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Marion Wine Bar is a cozy neighborhood spot in Melbourne’s Fitzroy area, offering a fresh and simple take on local and European fare. Part of chef Andrew McConnell’s Trader House group, it shares an extensive wine list with its next-door sister restaurant, making it a welcoming choice for anything from a quick lunch to a relaxed evening.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

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.

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Navi is a small, contemporary Australian restaurant in Yarraville, Melbourne, that highlights locally sourced, seasonal produce. Its intimate 32-seat setting offers a close-up view of the care and creativity that go into every dish. The focus on nearby farms and thoughtful techniques creates a welcoming atmosphere for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed dining experience.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

All the reports you’ve seen of some very clever things going on at Navi appear to be well founded. Get a load of this Golden Plains pork: meat from the cheek, jowl and the rest of the head cooked separately then draped together under a veil of caramelised radicchio, sauced with a sour-sweet ragoût of native fruits and garnished with crisp slivers of pig’s ear. Fuck yeah, Yarraville.

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Lee Ho Fook in Melbourne offers a fresh take on Chinese cuisine, featuring top Australian producers, growers, and winemakers. Their approach blends time-honored techniques with a modern touch, letting locally sourced ingredients shine. The welcoming atmosphere and careful attention to quality make it a standout spot in the city.

Recommended by

Kay-Lene Tan

Head Pastry Chef

Victor is a genius when it comes to creating deceivingly simple dishes that have a complexity of flavour. Lee Ho Fook is definitely one of my go-to restaurants in Melbourne.

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Tonka is a Melbourne restaurant that reimagines Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. The dining space feels relaxed yet lively, and the menu showcases creative takes on familiar flavors. It’s a welcoming spot for those looking to explore something new while still appreciating classic influences.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

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.

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Dainty Hotpot & BBQ Buffet in Melbourne is known for its generous servings and bold flavors, making it a great spot to share a meal with friends. The casual vibe and plentiful options create an inviting atmosphere for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying, communal dining experience.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

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.

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Capitano Carlton is an Italian restaurant in Melbourne known for its red-sauce dishes and creative takes on classic recipes. This casual spot offers a laid-back setting for anyone looking to enjoy Italian fare in Carlton.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

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

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France-Soir is a lively French brasserie in Melbourne known for its buzzing energy and Parisian feel. The close-set tables and theatrical French-speaking waiters add to the warm, welcoming vibe. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors looking for an authentic slice of France in the city.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

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

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Amaru is a small, intimate restaurant offering a tasting menu made with fresh local produce. The dining room feels cozy and relaxed, making it an inviting place to explore thoughtful flavors. It’s a warm setting for anyone seeking a memorable meal in a comfortable atmosphere.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

Amaru: wow. And all the more wow for this curve-ball of a dessertThe gold brick is salted Woodside goat’s curd, and it shares plate with honeycomb, lemon myrtle and sorrel. Of particular note this the drink pairing, just out of frame: mango kombucha. This is richly deserving of a double fuck-yeah.

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To Be Frank Bakery is a cozy spot in Melbourne that focuses on sustainability and community. Their handcrafted approach and carefully chosen ingredients keep locals coming back for fresh, high-quality breads and other baked treats. The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to settle in and enjoy something truly satisfying.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

My local bakery - and what a lucky local I am.There's really no wrong answer here, and you could close your eyes, point at anything and pick a winner, but I particularly love Franco's fougasse, and the panettone is a banger.

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Gimlet is a glamorous spot in Melbourne set inside a beautifully restored dining room that pairs old-world charm with a lively atmosphere. The service feels thoughtful without being stuffy, and the menu stays balanced so there’s always something inviting to try. It’s the kind of place people often return to for a blend of warmth and elegance in every visit.

Recommended by

Tony Schifilliti

Chef

A beautiful grand dining room with elegant food to matchI feel it would be hard to eat at gimlet and not leave feeling satisfied. I highly recommended starting your meal with a house cocktail, they have a great selection and are all delicious, particularly the yuzu Alberto. The menu is a well balanced mix of modern bistro dishes with a few items from the wood grill (the lobster with saffron rice is a must)A restaurant I’ll definitely be revisiting next timeI’m in Melbourne.

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O.MY Restaurant is a farm-to-table place in Melbourne, set inside the old Beaconsfield post office. Run by the Bertoncello brothers, they grow most of their ingredients on a nearby farm and change the menu with the seasons. They also focus on minimal waste and feature local wines in a welcoming, down-to-earth setting.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

Paddock to plate, humble yet sophisticated. Brothers Blayne and Chayse are at the core of this joint. They live and breathe it. In fact, I don't think they've missed a service since opening. They source the majority of their ingredients from a nearby farm that they themselves take care of, and all of their wines are local. The menu is forever evolving with the seasons, with the boys taking great pride in their minimal waste philosophy. Loved every moment of our time here. We felt welcomed, well-fed and in awe as to how extraordinary their freshly baked bread is. Please go x

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Zelda Bakery is a small kosher bakery in Ripponlea that began in a garage in 2018. They focus on small-batch sourdough breads and other baked goods made with local ingredients and a natural leaven. With limited opening days, everything is freshly baked in a stone oven before it’s sold.

Recommended by

Dani Valent

Writer

Prepare to queue for sourdough bread and pastries at this kosher shop window. Recommended: the olive twist, savoury handpies, babka, chocolate rye cookies and the special weekly knish. Open Wed and Fri only. Get a coffee from Spout and take your bounty to the railway station park nearby.

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Lune Croissanterie Fitzroy is a relaxed spot in Melbourne known for its carefully crafted pastries. The team’s science-driven approach and dedication to quality have helped raise the bar for baked goods across the city. Its calm atmosphere makes it an inviting place to enjoy something special without feeling rushed.

Recommended by

Saku Tuominen

CEO & Restaurateur

Pilgrimage for croissant lovers   The legendary croissant laboratory Lune in Melbourne might not be a hidden gem anymore, but don't let that disturb you too much. It is a culinary destination for a reason, with a cult-like following. Kate Reid (who used to be an F1 aerodynamicist!) creates croissants that are exactly what superb croissants should be - flaky, soft, and full of taste. Lune has a downtown branch as well, but the Fitzroy flaghip is the place to go.

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VEX is an independently owned spot in Westgarth, run by a front-of-house expert and a chef who focus on quality ingredients and an interesting selection of drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed, and many visitors appreciate the way the menu brings out fresh flavors. It’s a low-key place that some feel deserves more attention for its thoughtful approach to food.

Recommended by

Ben Shewry

Chef

I think Vex Dining is underrated and deserves a bit more love because it's excellent. It's owned by a front of house person and a chef so it's independently owned and that's always going to be my recommendation. The drinks are very good, there’s a very good dry martini, there's excellent wine, of course, and the food is interesting. I think even the chef might have worked in Scandinavia. It's delicious. Lots of vegetables. I've been there twice recently and I thought it was great.

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Lagoon Dining is a relaxed restaurant and bar in Melbourne that draws on Chinese culinary traditions for its flavorful menu. The cozy, intimate space and carefully chosen drinks list create an inviting atmosphere for sharing good food and conversation. It’s a welcoming spot to enjoy bold tastes without the fuss.

Recommended by

Moira Tirtha

Food and wine writer

A modern-asian wine bar where everything is packed full of flavour. A nice change in pace from the other Lygon street venues and a tight wine list.

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Caretaker's Cottage in Melbourne is a public bar set in a charming historic cottage, offering modern hospitality in a relaxed, intimate space. It’s all about good drinks, welcoming vibes, and walk-in ease for anyone seeking a friendly spot to unwind.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

Australia's coldest, crispest Martini poured from the same bar that pulls the best Guinness in Melbourne? Caretaker's is a truly singular beast, and one you'll want to see for yourself. If you're sick of cocktail bars that forget to make it fun, this is your remedy.

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Kalimera Souvlaki Art is a laid-back spot in Melbourne known for its authentic Greek souvlaki. It offers a warm, casual setting that’s easy to enjoy whether you’re stopping by for a quick meal or a relaxed dinner. Visitors appreciate the simple, genuine flavors that bring a taste of Greece to the city.

Recommended by

Ben Shewry

Chef, Attica

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.

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Di Stasio Citta is a Melbourne restaurant that highlights Italo-Australian culture in a modern space, blending old and new hospitality. Many view it as a culturally significant spot that values both tradition and fresh ideas. This approach creates a distinctive, comfortable dining experience without feeling stuffy.

Recommended by

Ben Shewry

Chef, Attica

The most punk, avant guard, culturally important restaurant to open in Melbourne in decades combining the best of the new and old world hospitality. And damn the greatest Bolognese I've eaten my entire life.

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Jinda Thai Restaurant is a busy spot tucked away in a simple warehouse in Melbourne. Locals appreciate its friendly atmosphere and rave about the excellent vegan options. It’s known for serving flavorful Thai dishes that keep people coming back.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

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.

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Tivoli Road Bakery is a relaxed spot in Melbourne known for its fresh baked goods, which change daily to keep things interesting. Locals often stop by for a bite during the day, whether they’re craving something savory or sweet. It’s a welcoming place that focuses on simple, good food and a friendly atmosphere.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

Adore this place! Visit on​ most days. Their cakes are so delicious are different every day of the week! So it’s always a lovely surprise. Their sandwiches are my go-to, always a vegetarian option as well as a chicken and ham/pork. All made fresh on their delicious sourdough. Highly recommend for a lunch break if you’re ever in the area.

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Hakata Gensuke QV – Chicken Ramen is said to be the first chicken ramen spot in Melbourne, opened by Japanese chef Kousuke Yoshimura. It has a modern interior and a see-through kitchen that makes the cooking process easy to watch. With seating for about 30 people, it’s a simple and welcoming place to enjoy a meal in the heart of the city.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

You don’t tend to think of Japanese as a spicy cuisine. And then you order a level-three god-fire from the all-chicken Hakata Gensuke at QV. That red is all chilli, like liquefied Nashville hot chicken poured over ramen. And I love it.

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Stokehouse St Kilda sits on the waterfront of Port Phillip Bay and offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The bright, airy space centers on seafood and features a notable wine list. With sweeping bay views, it’s an inviting place to settle in for a leisurely meal.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

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.

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Pho Thin Melbourne brings over 40 years of Hanoi noodle shop heritage into the city. Their laid-back setting and fresh approach to Vietnamese cooking offer a welcoming way to experience a well-known tradition.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

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.

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Tina’s Noodle Kitchen is recognized as one of Melbourne’s top spots for Sichuan-style food and is run by the Dainty team. Diners appreciate its bold flavors and relaxed atmosphere, making it an inviting choice any day of the week. It’s often mentioned among locals as a standout for those who enjoy this style of cuisine.

Recommended by

Duncan Welgemoed

Chef

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.

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Scopri Italian Food and Wine is recognized as a Melbourne icon for its farm-fresh, seasonally inspired approach to Italian cooking. Their own farm supplies daily harvests that guide the menu, creating a genuine “paddock-to-plate” experience. It’s a welcoming spot where people return for relaxed, high-quality dining in the heart of the city.

Recommended by

Thomas Carr

Journalist

A Melbourne icon. 10 years on and this place is still kicking goals. Very few restaurants command an audience like Scopri, even on a weeknight they’ll have a full house. The food (think paddock to plate) is exceptional and some of the best Italian in Melbourne. This joint never disappoints.

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KOMEYUI Melbourne offers authentic Japanese cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients in a relaxed setting. The restaurant highlights the balance and artistry of each dish while keeping the experience approachable. Once a month, they host an all-you-can-drink sake night on Tuesdays for those who want to explore different flavors in a fun way.

Recommended by

Jess Ho

Author & freelance writer

Excellent quality sushi and traditional Japanese dishes at affordable prices. Once a month, on tuesdays, there is an all-you-can-drink sake night that can get dangerous.

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