Best Restaurants In Melbourne

An Irish bar and restaurant in Melbourne CBD, The Last Jar is serving up a seasonal menu of comfort food classics. Grab yourself a freshly-poured Guinness and tuck into the likes of kangaroo bolognese, harissa chicken, kedgeree arancini and goats cheese tart.

Dating back to the 1870s, The Hardimans Hotel has gained quite the reputation for its gorgeous terrace and tasty grub. Whether you fancy munching on steak or some plant-based options while quaffing bespoke concoctions in the sunshine, this Kensington haunt has got you covered.

If you're looking for the Italian grub in the city, then head to Royal Saxon on Church Street. This laidback venue is home to a crackin' menu of pizzas and grilled calamari, all found in a casual dining setting, which is complete with a fairy light-littered courtyard.

Thai cuisine makes up the menu at Longrain as Scott Pickett (known for his work at Matilda 159, Estelle, Lupo) has filled a booming industrial space with gorgeous garnishes. As for the menu? Expect elegant cocktails and twice-cooked duck legs. 

Fronting dimly lit interiors and Middle Eastern plates from MasterChef regular Shane Delia, it's no wonder why MAHA is a popular CBD eatery. Enjoy grub from kingfish with burnt squash and green olives to slow-cooked lamb shoulder in its sleek dining space.

Smith St Bistrot doesn't get its reputation as the best French restaurant in Melbourne for nothing. From the sexy interiors, including two private dining spaces, to the drool-worthy menu filled with classic bites inspired by dishes from all over Europe, this stunning eatery is bound to impress.

If you and your beau are on the hunt for romantic restaurants in Melbourne, Smith & Daughters is a safe bet. Housed in a venue where the legendary Bob Marley was once known to visit, this stunning eatery offers sultry interiors, alongside a menu of elegant meat-free plates.

With a solid place on our list of cool restaurants in Melbourne, Lume has earned its place for its trendy (and oh-so-tasty) eats. Delve into its delightful menu curated by Elijah Holland, which celebrates foraged ingredients, including sea urchins and coastal greens.

If exploring cool restaurants has been a lifelong dream of yours, don't miss the chance for a one-off experience in the city. Set in a repurposed train carriage which stands three storeys up, Easey's is bringing you a unique dining setting, alongside a menu of burgers or mac 'n' cheese bites.

With a focus on small-scale producers, Transformer knows a thing or two about putting together plates that represent local flavours. Up on our list of the best restaurants in Melbourne for 2022, this haunt has hidden corners for those cosy date nights, as well as larger tables.

Setting the mood with retro interiors and a laidback feel, Butchers Diner is a great stop-off for food. Not only is this hotspot rustling up well-loved American classics alongside lip-smacking drinks, but it's also open 'til late. Did somebody say burgers or fries in the AM?

When it comes to Melbourne restaurants, Andrew McConnell's Supernormal is worth a try. This eatery celebrates all things Hong Kong and Shanghai, alongside boasting a fabulous open kitchen where foodies can watch the magic happen from their tables.

Searching for the best Asian restaurants in Melbourne? Ishizuka is a firm choice. Dine in its life-sized Chinese lantern designed by interior masterminds Russell & George, all while delving into a regularly changing 12-course feast that's accompanied by sake or wine pairings.

Whipping up a range of award-winning sushi, Shoya is our favourite Japanese restaurant in Melbourne. Take a seat in its sultry dining space to watch the expert chefs prepare and serve up delicious food from its open kitchen. As for afters? Enjoy its umeshu chocolate cake.