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.
In Melbourne the modern European list is led by Attica in Ripponlea (Acclaimed local fine dining, AUD $360 / USD $240 (tasting menu) per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Cumulus Inc. at AUD $70-150 / USD $45-100 (a la carte) is the value pick.
- 1.
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
- 2.
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
- 3.
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
- 4.
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
- 5.
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
Booking a modern European 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.
And the local dishes 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.
Seven days in Melbourne
Pair these modern European tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Melbourne travel guide