The best restaurants in Melbourne are a true reflection of the city’s diverse and dynamic dining scene.
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.
Contents
Best Restaurants in Melbourne
The best restaurants in Melbourne are Attica for native ingredient-driven fine dining, Vue de Monde for luxury tasting menus with skyline views, Gimlet at Cavendish House for European-inspired elegance, Matilda 159 for wood-fired Australian dishes, O.MY for seasonal tasting menus, Chin Chin for bold modern Thai, Supernormal for polished Asian fusion, Tipo 00 for handmade Italian pasta, Embla for creative, produce-led plates, Poodle Bar & Bistro for French bistro classics with local flair, and Kazuki’s for refined Japanese-Australian fusion.
These venues define the city’s diverse and world-class culinary reputation.
The Best Restaurants in Melbourne are listed below.
1. Attica
Attica is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, offering an exceptional dining experience through its experimental approach to modern Australian cuisine. Known for celebrating native Australian ingredients, Attica crafts dishes that are both innovative and deeply connected to the country’s culinary heritage.
I highly recommend trying the potato cooked in the earth it was grown in, which features a smoky aroma and a silky texture that sets it apart from anything else. Another standout is the emu liver parfait, paired with a tangy Davidson plum sauce that balances the richness beautifully.
The atmosphere at Attica is intimate and inviting, with a modern, yet comfortable setting that enhances the overall dining experience. The service is impeccable, with Ben Shewry’s team offering detailed explanations of each dish, which truly elevates the meal.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: Experimental fine dining with native Australian ingredients
Signature Dish: Potato cooked in the earth it was grown in
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea VIC 3185
Booking: Visit www.attica.com.au for reservations.
2. Vue de Monde
Vue de Monde stands out as one of Melbourne’s most celebrated dining destinations, offering an exceptional modern Australian cuisine experience complemented by stunning city views. Located on the 55th floor of Rialto Tower, it’s a top choice for those seeking a dining experience that’s as much about the view as it is about the food.
I highly recommend starting with their smoked eel doughnut, which strikes a perfect balance between sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Another standout is the kangaroo tartare, delicate and slightly gamey, complemented by native herbs that elevate its depth.
The atmosphere at Vue de Monde is nothing short of breathtaking, with panoramic views that set the stage for an unforgettable meal. The impeccable service and curated wine pairings from boutique Victorian wineries enhance the overall experience.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: Fine dining with a view and native Australian ingredients
Signature Dish: Kangaroo tartare
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: Level 55, Rialto Tower, 525 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Booking: Visit www.vuedemonde.com.au for reservations.
3. Gimlet at Cavendish House
Gimlet at Cavendish House is a standout among Melbourne’s best restaurants, offering an extraordinary dining experience that marries the elegance of 1920s Europe with modern Australian influences.
The art deco interiors, dim lighting, and vintage glassware set the perfect atmosphere for an evening of indulgence.
I highly recommend starting with the Negroni cocktail, which is smooth and balanced; it’s a perfect introduction to the evening. The wood-grilled rock lobster is a must-try, with a smoky aroma and a buttery saffron sauce that elevates the rich flavors of the seafood.
The beef tartare at Gimlet is another highlight, expertly seasoned and served with crispy potato rösti, it’s a perfect combination of textures and flavors. The atmosphere at Gimlet at Cavendish House adds to the experience, making it the perfect setting for a special occasion.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: Sophisticated cocktails and upscale dining in a stunning atmosphere
Signature Dish: Wood-grilled rock lobster
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: Level 1, Cavendish House, 99 Spring Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Booking: Visit www.gimlet.com.au for reservations.
4. Matilda 159
Matilda 159 offers a dining experience that perfectly blends modern Australian cuisine with the captivating atmosphere of a wood-fired grill. Known for its creative use of native ingredients, this restaurant brings the power of fire to the forefront, transforming ordinary dishes into extraordinary creations.
I highly recommend trying the flame-grilled duck, which is rich and tender with a crispy skin, paired beautifully with the smoky flavors from the grill. The roasted root vegetables are a great side, glazed with honey and rosemary, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness.
The atmosphere at Matilda 159 is warm and inviting, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs work their magic over the fire. The service is top-notch, with staff offering detailed explanations about each dish and wine pairing, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: A unique dining experience with wood-fired flavors and native ingredients
Signature Dish: Flame-grilled duck
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 159 Domain Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141
Booking: Visit www.matilda159.com.au for reservations.
5. O.MY
O.MY is a hidden gem in Melbourne’s fine dining scene, offering a truly innovative and personalized dining experience. Known for its avant-garde approach to modern Australian cuisine, O.MY pushes the boundaries of creativity by offering a tasting menu that is designed to take diners on a journey through unique and locally sourced ingredients.
I highly recommend experiencing the multi-course tasting menu, which highlights the chef’s ability to blend unexpected flavors in every dish. One standout course is the bush tomato mousse, a rich and savory dish that beautifully showcases native Australian ingredients in an unexpected form.
The atmosphere at O.MY is intimate and experimental, with the chefs often interacting with guests to explain the inspiration behind each dish. The service is exceptional, and the restaurant’s open kitchen allows you to see the magic unfold.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: An experimental dining experience with a focus on native Australian ingredients
Signature Dish: Bush tomato mousse
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: O.MY, 276 High St, Windsor VIC 3181
Booking: Visit www.omy.com.au for reservations.
6. Chin Chin
Chin Chin is one of Melbourne’s most popular and vibrant restaurants, known for its bold, modern Thai cuisine and its lively atmosphere. With a menu that brings traditional Thai flavors into the contemporary dining scene, Chin Chin is a must-visit for anyone craving flavor-packed dishes.
I highly recommend the Pad Thai, a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, with crispy prawn crackers on the side. The Bang Bang chicken is another standout, featuring tender chicken smothered in a rich, tangy sauce that packs a punch.
The atmosphere at Chin Chin is energetic and bustling, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs work their magic. The service is quick and friendly, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.
Price Range: $$$
Best For: Bold, modern Thai cuisine in a lively setting
Signature Dish: Pad Thai
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 125 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Booking: Visit www.chinchinrestaurant.com.au for reservations.
7. Supernormal
Supernormal offers a unique dining experience in Melbourne, blending Japanese, Korean, and Chinese influences to create a contemporary fusion of flavors. Known for its strikingly simple yet beautifully executed dishes, Supernormal is a perfect spot for those seeking innovative Asian-inspired cuisine in a relaxed, yet chic setting.
I highly recommend the New England lobster roll, a deliciously buttery roll packed with fresh lobster and served with a tangy sauce. The pork belly with kimchi is another standout, tender and rich, with the perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors.
The atmosphere at Supernormal is modern and minimalist, with an open kitchen that gives diners a view of the chefs at work. The service is friendly and attentive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Price Range: $$$
Best For: A fusion of Asian cuisines in a stylish, modern setting
Signature Dish: New England lobster roll
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 180 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Booking: Visit www.supernormal.com.au for reservations.
8. Tipo 00
Tipo 00 is one of Melbourne’s best Italian restaurants, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience focused on fresh, handmade pasta and authentic Italian flavors. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its dedication to high-quality ingredients and innovative takes on traditional dishes.
I highly recommend the ricotta gnocchi, which is delicate, light, and perfectly complemented by a rich brown butter sauce. The fettuccine with truffle is another standout, with the earthy truffle flavor elevating the pasta to another level.
The atmosphere at Tipo 00 is cozy and modern, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs craft their dishes. The service is warm and attentive, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed yet exceptional meal.
Price Range: $$$
Best For: Fresh, handmade pasta and authentic Italian flavors
Signature Dish: Ricotta gnocchi
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 361 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Booking: Visit www.tipo00.com.au for reservations.
9. Embla
Embla is a contemporary, laid-back restaurant in Melbourne known for its creative approach to modern Australian dining. With a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, Embla offers a menu that changes frequently, ensuring fresh and innovative dishes that highlight the best produce from around the region.
One dish that stands out is the roast lamb with buttermilk. The lamb is perfectly cooked, tender and juicy, and paired with a silky buttermilk sauce that adds a velvety richness, complementing the meat’s natural flavors. Another standout is the cabbage with burnt butter, where the deep, smoky notes from the burnt butter elevate the humble cabbage to an unexpected delight.
The atmosphere at Embla is relaxed yet refined, with an open kitchen and a rustic yet modern design that creates a welcoming vibe. The service is attentive, offering insightful recommendations that enhance the dining experience.
Price Range: $$$
Best For: Creative Australian dining with seasonal ingredients
Signature Dish: Roast lamb with buttermilk
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 122 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Booking: Visit www.embla.com.au for reservations.
10. Poodle Bar & Bistro
Poodle Bar & Bistro is an elegant yet approachable gem nestled in the heart of Melbourne, blending classic French bistro fare with modern Australian touches. The restaurant offers a chic, intimate atmosphere that makes it perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
One of the highlights is the roast chicken, served with a crispy skin and juicy, tender meat, paired with a rich jus that complements the bird’s natural flavors. The steak frites is another crowd-pleaser, where the perfectly cooked steak is complemented by golden, crispy fries and a tangy béarnaise sauce.
The ambiance at Poodle Bar & Bistro is both stylish and relaxed, with its contemporary design and inviting feel. The service is attentive, with knowledgeable staff guiding you through the menu and wine pairings, making each visit feel like a personalised experience.
Price Range: $$$
Best For: Classic French bistro dining with an Australian twist
Signature Dish: Roast chicken
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 185 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Booking: Visit www.poodlebar.com.au for reservations.
11. Kazuki’s
Kazuki’s is a standout in Melbourne’s vibrant dining scene, offering an exceptional blend of Japanese cuisine with a contemporary Australian twist. Located in Ivanhoe, this intimate restaurant delivers a culinary experience that’s both innovative and rooted in tradition, making it a top choice for discerning diners.
A must-try at Kazuki’s is the wagyu beef with wasabi, where the melt-in-your-mouth richness of wagyu pairs perfectly with the sharp, bold flavors of wasabi, creating an unforgettable dish. The sashimi platter is another highlight, featuring the freshest fish, prepared with precision, and served with vibrant accompaniments that enhance its natural flavors.
The atmosphere at Kazuki’s is refined yet welcoming, with modern design elements that offer an elegant setting for intimate dinners or special occasions. The service is outstanding, with staff offering insightful recommendations and making every dining experience feel personalized.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: Creative, high-end dining with a fusion of Japanese and Australian influences
Signature Dish: Wagyu beef with wasabi
My rating: ★★★★★
Location: 2/157 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe VIC 3079
Booking: Visit www.kazukis.com.au for reservations.
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.
English (Australia)
简体中文