30 Best Restaurants in Melbourne

As a lifelong Melbourne resident, I’ve spent years exploring the city’s dynamic food scene. Whether it’s fine dining with stunning views, hidden laneway gems, or cosy cafés perfect for brunch, there’s always something exciting to discover.

As a local foodie and explorer, I’m excited to share my personal experiences and recommendations on the best restaurants in Melbourne for 2025.

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Melbourne

1. Attica

Dining at Attica is like stepping into a storytelling experience where each dish represents a part of Australia’s rich culinary heritage.

When I visited, I was greeted by Ben Shewry’s team, who explained the philosophy behind each dish. The most memorable part? The potato is cooked in the earth it was grown in. It may sound simple, but the smoky, earthy aroma and silky texture were unlike anything I’ve ever tasted.

Another standout moment was the emu liver parfait—rich, delicate, and paired with a native Davidson plum sauce that cut through the richness perfectly.

📍 Location: Ripponlea
💰 Price Range: $$$$
🌟 Best For: Experimental fine dining with native Australian ingredients
⭐ Signature Dish: Potato cooked in the earth it was grown in

2. Vue de Monde

I wanted something extraordinary for our anniversary dinner, so I booked a table at Vue de Monde. As we stepped into the 55th-floor dining space, the glittering Melbourne skyline took our breaths away.

The night started with a smoked eel doughnut, a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. But the real highlight? The kangaroo tartare—delicate, slightly gamey, and paired with native herbs that enhanced its depth.

Throughout the evening, the service was impeccable. Our waiter even suggested a wine pairing from a boutique Victorian winery, which elevated each dish.

📍 Location: Collins Street, 55th Floor of Rialto Towers
💰 Price Range: $$$$
🌟 Best For: Luxury dining with breathtaking views
⭐ Signature Dish: Kangaroo tartare & smoked eel doughnuts

3. Gimlet at Cavendish House

Stepping into Gimlet at Cavendish House feels like traveling back to 1920s Europe—the art deco interiors, dim lighting, and vintage glassware create a magical ambiance.

My go-to order? A Negroni cocktail to start, followed by their wood-grilled rock lobster. The smoky aroma and buttery saffron sauce made this one of the best seafood dishes ever.

Another standout was the beef tartare—expertly seasoned and served with crispy potato rösti, offering the perfect crunch. The whole experience felt effortless yet indulgent.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$$
🌟 Best For: Vintage European-style dining & cocktails
⭐ Signature Dish: Wood-grilled rock lobster with saffron butter

4. Matilda 159

I ordered the Murray cod with smoked butter sauce, which was perfect. The charred skin had a delicate crispness, while the smoked butter sauce added a rich, velvety texture that made each bite unforgettable.

The sides? Potato cooked in beef fat—crispy, golden, and addictively sound. I could eat them every day!

📍 Location: South Yarra
💰 Price Range: $$$
🌟 Best For: Woodfire-grilled meats & smoky flavors
⭐ Signature Dish: Murray cod with smoked butter sauce. As soon as you enter Matilda 159, the aroma of woodfire-grilled meats fills the air, setting the stage for a soul-warming meal.

5. O.MY

I had heard excellent things about O.MY, so I made the 40-minute drive from Melbourne to experience it firsthand.

From the moment I walked in, the passion and dedication of the chefs were evident. Their menu is entirely seasonal, meaning every dish is created from what’s harvested that week.

One of my favorite dishes was a roasted heirloom carrot with house-made ricotta and herb oil—simple yet flavorful. The dessert? A fermented plum sorbet that was tangy, refreshing, and beautifully plated.

📍 Location: Beaconsfield (40 mins from Melbourne)
💰 Price Range: $$$$
🌟 Best For: Hyper-local, sustainable dining
⭐ Signature Dish: Seasonal tasting menu using farm-grown produce

Best Casual Dining Restaurants in Melbourne

6. Chin Chin

Chin Chin is always packed, and for a good reason. The first time I went, I waited nearly an hour for a table, but the moment I took my first bite of the Kingfish Sashimi with coconut & chili, I knew it was worth it. The flavors were fresh, zesty, and perfectly balanced.

The Caramelised Pork Belly was another standout—crispy, sticky, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. Pair it with a spicy Thai cocktail, and you’re in for a fantastic meal.

📍 Location: Flinders Lane, CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Vibrant Thai flavors & buzzy atmosphere
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Kingfish Sashimi & Caramelised Pork Belly

7. Supernormal

Supernormal is one of my go-to spots for date nights. The minimalist interior, open kitchen, and relaxed vibe make it extraordinary.

I still remember my first bite of their Lobster Roll—buttery, rich, and flavorful. It’s one of those dishes that keeps you coming back. My partner swears by their BBQ Duck Bao, which has crispy skin, juicy meat, and a perfectly steamed bun.

📍 Location: Flinders Lane, CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Japanese-Korean fusion & cool minimalist vibes
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Lobster Roll & BBQ Duck Bao

8. Tipo 00

If you love pasta, Tipo 00 is heaven. I stumbled upon it on a rainy afternoon, and walking into its warm, intimate space felt like stepping into a cosy Italian trattoria.

I ordered the Pappardelle with Duck Ragu, and it was hands down the best pasta I’ve ever had—silky smooth noodles, rich, slow-cooked duck, and a perfectly balanced sauce.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Authentic Italian pasta lovers
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Pappardelle with Duck Ragu

Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Melbourne

9. Embla

I found Embla while looking for a quiet place to unwind after a long day. The cosy, dimly lit space felt like a secret hideaway.

I started with a glass of Victorian Pinot Noir, and the Charred Octopus with smoked potatoes completely blew me away. It had that perfect balance of smokiness, crispiness, and tenderness.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Natural wines & wood-fired dishes
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Charred Octopus & Smoked Potatoes

10. Poodle Bar & Bistro

Walking into Poodle Bar feels like stepping into a retro-chic Parisian bistro. My friend and I ordered Steak Frites, and it was perfection—juicy, well-seasoned steak with crispy golden fries.

The Prawn Cocktail was a fun, nostalgic touch but elevated with fresh Australian seafood. The cocktails were just as impressive—try their signature Negroni.

📍 Location: Fitzroy
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Parisian-style dining with a fun twist
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Steak Frites & Prawn Cocktail

11. Kazuki’s

Kazuki’s is one of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets. It’s fine dining without the pretentiousness, blending Japanese precision with French flair.

The Tuna Tartare was fresh and delicately seasoned, and the Miso Eggplant was rich, smoky, and utterly satisfying. If you love Japanese flavors with a refined touch, this is the place to be.

📍 Location: Carlton
💰 Price Range: $$$
⭐ Best For: Elegant yet relaxed fine dining
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Tuna Tartare & Miso Eggplant

Best Brunch & Café Spots in Melbourne

12. Higher Ground

The first time I walked into Higher Ground, the high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and warm natural light made it feel more like a chic New York loft than a café.

I ordered their famous Ricotta Hotcakes, and let me tell you—they live up to the hype. Fluffy, slightly crispy on the outside, and topped with fresh berries and honeycomb, it was pure brunch perfection.

Pair it with a smooth, flat white (they take their coffee seriously here), and you’ve got a 10/10 brunch experience.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: A stunning café experience with creative brunch dishes
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Ricotta Hotcakes with Honeycomb & Seasonal Berries

13. Hardware Société

If you’re after a cosy yet sophisticated brunch spot, Hardware Société is a must. This Parisian-style café specializes in baked eggs, and let me tell you—their Chorizo Baked Eggs are a game-changer.

I remember my first visit—I was freezing on a Melbourne winter morning, and the moment I took my first spoonful of those rich, cheesy, oven-baked eggs, I instantly warmed up. The tomato-based sauce was perfectly spiced, and the sourdough bread was ideal for dipping.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: French-inspired brunch with rich, comforting dishes
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Chorizo Baked Eggs

14. Industry Beans

I first discovered Industry Beans when searching for Melbourne’s best coffee roasters—and it did not disappoint. Their brew bubble cup (think cold brew coffee meets boba pearls) was refreshing, unique, and ridiculously good.

I went with the Avocado Smash for food, but they do it differently here—it comes with compressed cucumbers, whipped feta, and a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts for extra crunch. A must-try for avo toast lovers!

📍 Location: Fitzroy
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Coffee enthusiasts & experimental brunch dishes
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Cold Brew Bubble Cup & Avocado Smash

15. Archie’s All Day

Archie’s is one of those places you can roll into at 3 PM on a Sunday and still get fantastic brunch. I went with a group of friends, and the Breakfast Burrito with crispy hash browns inside was the highlight—it’s cheesy, spicy, and incredibly satisfying.

If you need something substantial to wake up, their Bloody Mary is one of the best in Melbourne—spicy, tangy, and served with a perfectly crisp celery stick.

📍 Location: Fitzroy
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Brunch any time of the day (or hangover food!)
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Breakfast Burrito with Crispy Hash Browns

16. Lune Croissanterie

Lune is not your average bakery—it’s a croissant laboratory where they perfectly engineer pastries. I first tried Lune’s Kouign-Amann, and I swear it was one of the best things I’ve ever eaten—flaky, caramelized, and buttery in all the right ways.

The Almond Croissant is another must-try—crunchy on the outside, soft and almond-filled on the inside. There’s often a queue out the door, but trust me, it’s 100% worth the wait.

📍 Location: Fitzroy & CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Croissant lovers & pastry perfectionists
🍽 Must-Try Dish: Kouign-Amann & Almond Croissant

Best Steak & Grill Restaurants in Melbourne

17. Grill Americano

When you step into Grill Americano, you feel like you’re in an upscale Italian steakhouse in Milan—dark wood interiors, plush seating, and an open-fire grill at the kitchen’s heart.

I ordered the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a massive, dry-aged T-bone steak grilled perfectly. Charred on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of rich, buttery flavor, it’s one of the best steaks I’ve had in Melbourne.

Pair it with their Tiramisu and a glass of Barolo wine, and you’ve got an unforgettable dining experience.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$$$
⭐ Best For: Classic Italian-style steak with a touch of luxury
🥩 Must-Try Dish: Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine T-Bone Steak)

18. Entrecôte

Entrecôte is as close as you’ll get to a classic Parisian steakhouse in Melbourne. I first visited for a date night, and the dim lighting, red velvet seating, and soft French music created the perfect romantic setting.

The Steak Frites is legendary—a perfectly cooked, juicy steak with their signature herb butter sauce and unlimited crispy fries. Yes, unlimited fries!

For dessert, the Crème Brûlée is a must—silky, rich, and with the perfect caramelized top.

📍 Location: Prahran
💰 Price Range: $$$
⭐ Best For: French-style steak frites with a romantic vibe
🥩 Must-Try Dish: Steak Frites with Herb Butter Sauce

19. Meatmaiden

Meatmaiden is not just a steakhouse—it’s a temple of smoky, slow-cooked meats. You’re hit with the smoky aroma of brisket and ribs cooking over a wood-fired grill when you step inside.

I ordered the 300g Wagyu Scotch Fillet, which was incredibly marbled, juicy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. But the real surprise? Their 12-hour smoked beef brisket—rich, smoky, and ridiculously flavorful.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$$
⭐ Best For: Smoked meats & Wagyu steaks
🥩 Must-Try Dish: Wagyu Scotch Fillet & Smoked Brisket

20. Steer Dining Room

If you’re serious about Wagyu steak, Steer Dining Room is the place to go. This modern steakhouse specializes in high-grade Australian Wagyu, offering a selection of the best cuts from top farms.

I tried the Full-Blood Wagyu Sirloin, and I could cut it with a fork. The marbling was insane, and the flavors were buttery, rich, and umami-packed.

📍 Location: South Yarra
💰 Price Range: $$$$
⭐ Best For: Premium Wagyu steak & a refined dining experience
🥩 Must-Try Dish: Full-Blood Wagyu Sirloin

21. San Telmo

San Telmo brings the bold flavors of Argentina to Melbourne, with succulent, flame-grilled steaks cooked over a traditional wood-fire parrilla (grill).

I went with their Ojo de Bife (300g Ribeye), and it was seared beautifully over open flames, locking in a deep, smoky flavor. Paired with their house-made chimichurri sauce, it was next-level delicious.

Their crispy polenta chips and provoleta (grilled provolone cheese) are a must for sides.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$-$$$
⭐ Best For: South American-style grilled meats
🥩 Must-Try Dish: Ojo de Bife (300g Ribeye)

Best Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Melbourne

22. Smith & Daughters

Smith & Daughters is a game-changer for plant-based dining, proving that vegan food can be just as hearty, rich, and satisfying. The vegan fried chicken has the perfect crispy coating, and the smoky mac n’ cheese is just as creamy as the real.

The vibe is energetic, edgy, and fun, with bold flavors to match. Perfect for those who want significant portions and profound flavor.

📍 Location: Collingwood
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Hearty, indulgent vegan comfort food
🍔 Must-Try Dish: Vegan ‘Fried Chicken’ & Smoky Mac ‘n’ Cheese

23. Red Sparrow Pizza

Red Sparrow proves that vegan pizza can be just as good (if not better) than traditional versions. The wood-fired crust is crisp yet chewy, and the cashew-based cheeses melt beautifully. The truffle mushroom pizza delivers a rich, earthy flavor, while the pepperoni pizza with plant-based meat has that perfect spicy kick.

A great spot for casual dining, takeaway, or group pizza nights.

📍 Location: Collingwood
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Wood-fired vegan pizzas with premium ingredients
🍕 Must-Try Dish: Truffle Mushroom Pizza with Cashew Cheese

24. Vegie Bar

Vegie Bar is a Melbourne institution known for its hearty, globally inspired vegetarian dishes. The satay tofu stir-fry is flavorful, featuring crispy, fresh vegetables and a rich peanut sauce. The lentil burger and Buddha bowls are also crowd favorites.

The space is casual, vibrant, and always buzzing, making it an excellent spot for weekend brunch or casual dinners.

📍 Location: Fitzroy
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Global vegetarian flavors in a lively setting
🥙 Must-Try Dish: Satay Tofu Stir-Fry

25. Lona Misa

Lona Misa brings bold Latin flavors to the plant-based scene with jackfruit birria tacos, smoked eggplant empanadas, and vegan ceviche.

The spicy, smoky, and vibrant flavours offer a unique take on vegan cuisine.

The restaurant’s artistic, moody interior and inventive cocktail list make it an excellent spot for a stylish dinner or a special occasion.

📍 Location: South Yarra
💰 Price Range: $$$
⭐ Best For: Latin-inspired plant-based dining
🌮 Must-Try Dish: Jackfruit Birria Tacos

Best Italian Restaurants in Melbourne

26. D.O.C Pizza & Mozzarella Bar

D.O.C captures the essence of an Italian pizzeria—simple, high-quality ingredients and wood-fired perfection. The Buffalo Margherita stands out with creamy buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, and a perfectly blistered crust.

The place is always buzzing with Italian conversations, and the service is quick and friendly. An excellent spot for casual dining that feels like a trip to Naples.

📍 Location: Carlton
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Classic Neapolitan-style pizza
🍕 Must-Try Dish: Buffalo Margherita Pizza

27. Mamasita

Mamasita changed Melbourne’s Mexican food game, proving that authentic tacos don’t need cheese and sour cream.

The Al Pastor Tacos, with slow-roasted pork, pineapple, and coriander, have a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

The house-made margaritas are strong, zesty, and perfectly balanced.

📍 Location: CBD
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Fresh tacos & tequila cocktails
🌮 Must-Try Dish: Al Pastor Tacos

28. Hotel Jesus

Hotel Jesus nails Mexico City-style street food with vibrant flavors and bright decor.

The tuna tostadas with avocado and jalapeño are fresh and fiery, while the queso fundido (melted cheese with chorizo) is pure comfort food.

The staff keeps the energy high, making it an excellent place for group dining.

📍 Location: Collingwood
💰 Price Range: $$
⭐ Best For: Casual, vibrant dining
🌯 Must-Try Dish: Tostadas with Tuna & Jalapeño

Best Japanese Restaurants in Melbourne

29. Minamishima

Minamishima is on another level when it comes to sushi. The omakase experience here is well crafted, with each piece of fish sliced and seasoned to perfection.

The sea urchin and toro (fatty tuna) nigiri melt in your mouth. The quiet, elegant setting enhances the focus on the food.

📍 Location: Richmond
💰 Price Range: $$$$
⭐ Best For: High-end sushi & omakase dining
🍣 Must-Try Dish: Chef’s Omakase Selection

30. Kisumé

Kisumé blends traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary Melbourne flair. The kingfish sashimi with yuzu dressing is zesty, delicate, and refreshing, and the wagyu tataki has an incredible umami depth.

The sleek and modern interior design makes it an elevated dining experience.

📍 Location: Flinders Lane, CBD
💰 Price Range: $$$
⭐ Best For: Sushi & Japanese fusion
🥢 Must-Try Dish: Kingfish Sashimi with Yuzu Dressing

Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne

Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene offers a variety of bottomless brunch options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving Indian-inspired dishes at Horn Please, creative fusion cuisine at Zero Mode, or a fun retro-themed experience at Evie’s Disco Diner, there’s something for everyone.

These spots offer unlimited drinks and exceptional brunch dishes, making them a must-try for food lovers. For a complete guide, check out the best bottomless brunches in Melbourne and discover top places to enjoy a relaxed, indulgent weekend brunch.

Takeaway

Melbourne’s food scene is unmatched, from high-end dining and hidden gems to casual eats and world-class brunch spots. Whether you’re craving fine dining at Attica, handmade pasta at Tipo 00, smoky Argentinian steak at San Telmo, or authentic Japanese omakase at Minamishima, there’s something for every palate.

With a mix of global flavors, innovative chefs, and top-tier local ingredients, Melbourne remains a must-visit destination for food lovers.