Quick answers — eating in Melbourne
- Best restaurant overall
- Attica
- Best value
- Cumulus Inc. (AUD $70-150 / USD $45-100 (a la carte))
- Strongest cuisines
- Modern European, Chinese, Italian, Japanese, Asian fusion
- Dishes to try
- Flat White, Bánh Mì, Meat Pie, Smashed Avocado on Toast
- Booking window
- For top-tier restaurants like Attica or Brae, book 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend slots. Set calendar reminders for booking releases.
Bookings for top restaurants are essential, often weeks or months in advance. Dress codes generally range from smart casual to elegant, though rarely strictly formal. Tipping is not customary in Australia, though leaving a small amount for exceptional service is appreciated. Dinner service typically begins around 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM, with later sittings available.
Modern European
Best modern European restaurants in Melbourne
Modern European is the catch-all for kitchens that borrow technique from France, produce from their own region and ideas from everywhere — usually tasting-menu only.
Attica
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Australian · Ripponlea · AUD $360 / USD $240 (tasting menu)
Ben Shewry
Chef Ben Shewry's Attica offers a deeply personal and uniquely Australian dining experience, showcasing indigenous ingredients and inventive techniques. The intimate setting complements the narrative-driven degustation, where every dish tells a story. It remains a pinnacle of Australian gastronomy, focusing on sustainability and creative expression.
Order: Plight of the Bees, Potato Cooked in the Earth it Was Grown In
Brae
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Australian · Birregurra (regional Victoria, near Melbourne) · AUD $360 / USD $240 (tasting menu)
Dan Hunter
Located on a working organic farm an hour and a half from Melbourne, Brae delivers an immersive, farm-to-table experience. Chef Dan Hunter's menu evolves with the seasons, presenting refined dishes crafted from ingredients grown on-site or sourced locally. It's a serene, sophisticated culinary journey deeply connected to nature.
Order: King George Whiting, Nasturtium; Waffle, Carrot, Sea Parsley
Gimlet at Cavendish House
Acclaimed local fine diningModern European · CBD · AUD $150-250 / USD $100-170 (a la carte)
Andrew McConnell
Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s building, Gimlet exudes timeless elegance with its sophisticated fit-out and classic European brasserie feel. Chef Andrew McConnell's menu is refined yet approachable, featuring expertly prepared seafood, steaks, and a superb wine list. It's a glamorous destination for a special occasion or a luxurious meal.
Order: Wood-roasted rock lobster with saffron butter, Dry-aged duck with cherries
Vue de Monde
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Australian · CBD · AUD $350-450 / USD $235-300 (tasting menu)
Shannon Bennett (Executive Chef), Hugh Allen (Head Chef)
Perched on the 55th floor of the Rialto building, Vue de Monde offers breathtaking panoramic views of Melbourne. The dining experience is theatrical and ambitious, with a focus on native ingredients and avant-garde techniques. It's a high-concept restaurant delivering a truly memorable occasion, often involving interactive elements and impeccable service.
Order: The Black Box, Marron with Desert Lime
Cumulus Inc.
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Australian · Fitzroy · AUD $70-150 / USD $45-100 (a la carte)
Andrew McConnell
A bustling, all-day eating house in a striking industrial-chic space, Cumulus Inc. offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience. Chef Andrew McConnell's menu focuses on high-quality, seasonal ingredients prepared with skill and simplicity. It's a vibrant spot popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, embodying Melbourne's casual sophistication.
Order: Whole roasted lamb shoulder, Tuna tartare with Gremolata
Chinese
Best Chinese restaurants in Melbourne
Chinese fine dining is regional: Cantonese seafood and dim sum, the chilli and numbing pepper of Sichuan, the delicate soups of Shanghai. Larger tables see more of the menu.
Flower Drum
Acclaimed local fine diningCantonese · CBD · AUD $150-300 / USD $100-200 (a la carte)
Anthony Lui
An enduring institution, Flower Drum has set the benchmark for Cantonese fine dining in Melbourne for decades. The service is impeccably classic, and the menu features exquisitely prepared traditional dishes with premium ingredients. It's renowned for its consistency, refined flavours, and a timeless elegance that transcends trends, attracting discerning diners.
Order: Peking Duck, Pearl Meat with Ginger and Shallots
Italian
Best Italian restaurants in Melbourne
Italian kitchens abroad split into two camps: the classic trattoria doing pasta, fish and a short wine list, and the modern dining rooms treating Italian produce with tasting-menu precision.
Di Stasio Città
Acclaimed local fine diningItalian · CBD · AUD $100-200 / USD $65-135 (a la carte)
Di Stasio Città, a sophisticated evolution of the iconic Café Di Stasio, marries contemporary art with classic Italian dining in a stark, minimalist space. The menu celebrates authentic Italian flavours with a focus on fresh pasta, seafood, and robust meat dishes, all paired with an exceptional wine list. It's an experience that’s as much about the ambience as the exquisite food.
Order: Spaghetti Bottarga, Veal Cotoletta
Japanese
Best Japanese restaurants in Melbourne
Japanese rooms range from counter omakase, where you eat whatever the chef cut that morning, to kaiseki menus built around the season. Counters are small — book early and arrive on time.
Ishizuka
Acclaimed local fine diningJapanese Kaiseki · CBD · AUD $300-350 / USD $200-235 (tasting menu)
Tomotaka Ishizuka
Ishizuka offers an exclusive, intimate Kaiseki dining experience for just 16 guests, tucked away in a basement. Chef Ishizuka meticulously crafts an exquisite multi-course degustation that showcases seasonality, precision, and artistry. Each dish is a miniature work of art, reflecting the pinnacle of Japanese culinary tradition and refined aesthetics, providing a serene escape.
Order: Seasonal Kaiseki degustation
Asian fusion
Best Asian fusion restaurants in Melbourne
Fusion kitchens work across Asian traditions rather than inside one — best judged on whether the combinations actually taste deliberate.
Supernormal
Acclaimed local fine diningAsian-inspired · CBD · AUD $70-130 / USD $45-90 (a la carte)
Andrew McConnell
Supernormal brings an energetic, contemporary twist to Asian-inspired cuisine, drawing influences from Tokyo, Seoul, and Hong Kong. The open kitchen and stylish, modern interior create a lively atmosphere. Chef Andrew McConnell's menu is designed for sharing, featuring vibrant, flavour-packed dishes and a popular karaoke room downstairs for after-dinner entertainment.
Order: New England lobster roll, Szechuan lamb, Peanut butter parfait
Budget
Where to eat cheaply in Melbourne
Shanghai Street Dumpling
Known for its incredibly affordable and authentic Shanghainese dumplings, particularly the Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) and pan-fried pork dumplings. Expect casual, bustling atmosphere and quick service. A substantial meal for under AUD $20.
Queen Victoria Market Food Stalls
Explore a vast array of street food from around the world at this iconic market. From borek and gozleme to paella and dim sims, there's something for every taste and budget. Most dishes are under AUD $15, offering great value.
Pho Nom
A popular spot for fresh, flavourful Vietnamese pho. Their beef pho is a standout, made with quality ingredients and a rich broth. It's a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal, often around AUD $15-20 per bowl.
Lentil As Anything
A unique, pay-as-you-feel vegetarian restaurant with a focus on community and delicious, wholesome food. Offering a diverse menu that changes daily, it's an opportunity to enjoy a nourishing meal while contributing what you can afford. Expect a warm, bohemian atmosphere.
A Plus Katsu
Specializing in crispy, tender Japanese katsu (panko-fried cutlets) served with rice and salad. Choose from pork, chicken, or cheese katsu. Portions are generous and excellent value, with most katsu sets priced around AUD $15-25.
Local dishes
What to eat in Melbourne
Flat White
A quintessential Australian coffee, the flat white features steamed milk with a thin layer of microfoam over a shot of espresso. It's creamier than a latte, with a stronger coffee flavour. Seek out any specialty coffee shop in Melbourne's CBD laneways, such as Padre Coffee or Patricia Coffee Brewers, for an authentic experience.
Bánh Mì
Melbourne boasts a vibrant Vietnamese community, and their bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette sandwich) is legendary. Filled with grilled pork, pâté, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and chilli, it's a flavour explosion. Head to places like Phở Chú Thới or N Lee Bakery in Richmond or Footscray for an incredibly fresh and affordable option.
Meat Pie
The Aussie meat pie is a classic comfort food: a handheld pastry crust filled with minced meat and gravy. Enjoy it 'with sauce' (ketchup) at any football game or bakery. Lord of the Pies at Queen Victoria Market or Ferguson Plarre Bakehouses offer traditional versions, perfect for a quick, savoury snack on the go.
Smashed Avocado on Toast
A brunch staple, smashed avocado on toast often comes with feta, cherry tomatoes, and poached eggs, reflecting Melbourne's cafe culture. Practically every cafe serves an excellent version. Try it at Higher Ground or Hardware Societe for a sophisticated take, embodying the city's fresh, produce-driven approach to breakfast and brunch.
Aussie Burger with The Lot
More than just a patty and bun, an 'Aussie burger with the lot' typically includes beetroot, fried egg, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion. It's a hearty, flavourful meal. Found at many pubs and burger joints across the city. Try a classic rendition at Andrew's Hamburgers in Albert Park for a truly authentic taste.
Dim Sum/Dumplings
Melbourne's Chinatown is vibrant, offering exceptional Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine. Dim sum and dumplings are a must-try, from delicate prawn dumplings to crispy pan-fried pork dumplings. HuTong Dumpling Bar on Market Lane is renowned for its xiao long bao (soup dumplings), providing a memorable culinary experience in a bustling setting.
Lamington
This iconic Australian dessert is a square of sponge cake coated in chocolate sauce and rolled in desiccated coconut. Often served with coffee, it's a simple yet delicious treat. Find excellent versions at traditional bakeries like Rustica Sourdough or Phillippa's Bakery, representing a sweet slice of Australian culinary heritage.
Gelato on Lygon Street
Lygon Street in Carlton, Melbourne's 'Little Italy,' is famous for its authentic Italian gelato. With a multitude of flavours ranging from classic pistachios to exotic fruit sorbets, it's the perfect treat after an Italian meal or a stroll. Gelatissimo or Brunetti Classico offer excellent selections for a delightful, refreshing indulgence.
How to book a table in Melbourne
- · For top-tier restaurants like Attica or Brae, book 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend slots. Set calendar reminders for booking releases.
- · Many fine-dining establishments require a credit card pre-authorisation or a non-refundable deposit. Carefully review cancellation policies to avoid charges.
- · Consider lunch for a more accessible fine-dining experience. Menus are often a simplified version of dinner offerings, typically at a lower price point and easier to book.
- · Melbourne restaurants enforce strict no-show policies due to high demand. Confirm your booking a day or two prior, and notify the restaurant immediately if plans change.
FAQ
Melbourne restaurant questions travellers ask
What is the best restaurant in Melbourne?
Attica in Ripponlea is the benchmark table — Modern Australian, led by Ben Shewry, acclaimed local fine dining, around AUD $360 / USD $240 (tasting menu) per person. Order the Plight of the Bees, Potato Cooked in the Earth it Was Grown In
Where is the best modern European restaurant in Melbourne?
Attica in Ripponlea is the modern European table to book in Melbourne (AUD $360 / USD $240 (tasting menu) per person). Other strong options: Brae, Gimlet at Cavendish House, Vue de Monde.
Where is the best Chinese restaurant in Melbourne?
Flower Drum in CBD is the Chinese table to book in Melbourne (AUD $150-300 / USD $100-200 (a la carte) per person).
Where is the best Italian restaurant in Melbourne?
Di Stasio Città in CBD is the Italian table to book in Melbourne (AUD $100-200 / USD $65-135 (a la carte) per person).
Where is the best Japanese restaurant in Melbourne?
Ishizuka in CBD is the Japanese table to book in Melbourne (AUD $300-350 / USD $200-235 (tasting menu) per person).
Where is the best Asian fusion restaurant in Melbourne?
Supernormal in CBD is the Asian fusion table to book in Melbourne (AUD $70-130 / USD $45-90 (a la carte) per person).
Where can I eat well in Melbourne without spending a fortune?
Cumulus Inc. is the best-value table on this list at roughly AUD $70-150 / USD $45-100 (a la carte) per person. Beyond fine dining, locals point to Shanghai Street Dumpling, Queen Victoria Market Food Stalls, Pho Nom.
How far in advance should I book restaurants in Melbourne?
For top-tier restaurants like Attica or Brae, book 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend slots. Set calendar reminders for booking releases. Many fine-dining establishments require a credit card pre-authorisation or a non-refundable deposit. Carefully review cancellation policies to avoid charges.
What food is Melbourne famous for?
Flat White, Bánh Mì, Meat Pie, Smashed Avocado on Toast, Aussie Burger with The Lot — the dishes most worth eating where they come from. A quintessential Australian coffee, the flat white features steamed milk with a thin layer of microfoam over a shot of espresso. It's creamier than a latte, with a stronger coffee flavour. Seek out any specialty coffee shop in Melbourne's CBD laneways, such as Padre Coffee or Patricia Coffee Brewers, for an authentic experience.
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