39 Best Restaurants in Melbourne, Australia in 2025
Some of the best restaurants in Melbourne are hiding in plain sight, waiting to be discovered by adventurous food lovers. From hidden gems tucked away in parking garages to eateries dedicated entirely to serving croissants, this city doesn’t disappoint with its culinary offerings.
Join us as we explore the 39 best restaurants in Melbourne, showcasing the standout dishes and painting a vivid picture of their inviting atmospheres. Are you ready to discover your new favourite spots? These restaurants in Melbourne will tick more than a few of your boxes.
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The 39 Best Melbourne Restaurants
1. Farmer's Daughters
Chef Alejandro Saravia is at the helm of Farmer’s Daughter, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to enjoy fresh and sustainable farm-to-table cuisine.
The Vibe
The olive green and oak wood seats, plant life and big open windows reflect Farmer's Daughters’ agricultural roots and eco-friendly ethos.
What to Order
The smoked blue eye with salted lime, fennel and cauliflower, tastes as good as it sounds.
Farmer's Daughters | 95 Exhibition St., 80 Collins Precinct, Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$
2. Vue de Monde
You can expect nothing less than exquisite fine dining at Vue de Monde, helmed by Chef Hugh Allen and one of the best restaurants in Melbourne. At just 18, Chef Hugh was awarded the Gault Millau Young Chef of the Year Award and has honed his craft at a two-Michelin-star restaurant based in Denmark.
The Vibe
Sleek black and gold-themed interiors, kangaroo leather tables and artistic wooden latte ceilings give one of the best restaurants in Melbourne a contemporary and sophisticated edge.
What to Order
The red kangaroo and mushroom is a unique and aromatic dish. When it’s time for dessert, order the chocolate soufflé served with native billy tea ice cream.
Vue de Monde | 55 Rialto Towers, 525 Collins St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$$
3. Chin Chin
Savour a truly delicious Asian-inspired menu at Chin Chin, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne serving Southeast Asian cuisine.
The Vibe
With neon lights, wall art and exposed brick walls, this is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne with bustling vibes.
What to Order
The chef's banquet at this contender for the best restaurant in Melbourne is a 10-course meal including kingfish sashimi, a delicious house-smoked brisket, rich red curry and coconut panna cotta for dessert.
Chin Chin | 125 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$
4. A1 Bakery
Family-owned and filled with the sweet smell of freshly baked goodies, A1 Bakery is a Lebanese bakery and Middle Eastern grocer that has been serving the good people of Melbourne for over 30 years.
The Vibe
This is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, providing a warm and inviting feel with simple wooden furnishings, exposed brick walls and a sense of familiarity. There’s seating at the front and a convenient grocer in the back in case you need to top up your cupboards at home.
What to Order
The cheese pie, made with tangy halloumi cheese, is one of the most popular dishes at one of the best restaurants in Melbourne. It’s simple but incredibly delicious.
A1 Bakery | 643-645 Sydney Road, Brunswick, VIC 3056 | $
5. Enter Via Laundry
With only 20 seats, Enter Via Laundry treats guests to an intimate dining experience where they can indulge in rich and diverse regional Indian cuisine crafted by Helly Raichura, the self-taught chef behind this hidden gem.
The Vibe
Thanks to the limited seating, this contender for the best restaurant in Melbourne has a cosy atmosphere and a subtle air of exclusivity. The distinct blue dining room features a large accommodating dining table, a minimalist chandelier and floor-to-ceiling windows.
What to Order
Depending on when you visit this notable option for the best restaurant in Melbourne, you'll be treated to a menu inspired by a specific region of India, featuring authentic dishes from that area.
Enter Via Laundry | 507 Nicholson St., Carlton North, VIC 3054 | $$$$
6. Hotel Esplanade
Let your hair down and unwind at Hotel Esplanade, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for hearty pub fare, a casual atmosphere and live gigs.
The Vibe
This nominee for best restaurant in Melbourne is vibrant and eclectic, with its character reflected in the moss-green walls, regal carpets and intricately tiled ceilings.
What to Order
The French dip is the epitome of comfort food, featuring thinly sliced roast beef prepared with au jus sauce, served on a fluffy sub and topped with melted mozzarella before being baked to perfection.
Hotel Esplanade | 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda, VIC 3182 | $
7. Kalimera Souvlaki Art
One of the best restaurants in Melbourne for authentic Greek souvlaki and warm hospitality is Kalimera Souvlaki Art.
The Vibe
Kalimera has an eclectic vibe with wooden spool tables, bamboo pendant ceiling lampshades and teal green walls. The vibrant atmosphere at this contender for the best restaurant in Melbourne is complemented by polite and attentive service.
What to Order
The gyro pork souvlaki is a must-try. This succulent dish features juicy grilled pork wrapped in a warm pita, topped with fresh vegetables and housemade sauce.
Kalimera Souvlaki Art | 41-43 Chester St., Oakleigh, VIC 3166 | $$$
8. Aru
At Aru, beloved Asian flavours and native Australian ingredients form an unlikely yet harmonious friendship, resulting in an incredible culinary experience. Regarded as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, Aru treats diners to contemporary dining that blends innovation with tradition.
The Vibe
Sleek and modern with wooden finishings and natural elements, Aru is a sight to behold. The open kitchen, illuminated by bright lighting, runs the length of the dining room, offering inquisitive diners a view of the food preparation.
What to Order
The dry-aged duck is an excellent choice; this tender yet crispy dish is served with muntries, red cabbage and grilled onion.
Aru | 268 Little Collins St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
9. IDES
Plan for an evening of fine dining at IDES, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne where remarkable food, incredible service and presentation are prioritised above all else.
The Vibe
Greyscale-themed interiors and dim lighting set the mood at one of the best restaurants in Melbourne. With only 32 seats, IDES offers an intimate and cosy setting to enjoy some of the best Melbourne food.
What to Order
After experiencing the 12-dish tasting menu, you’ll be craving dishes like cream of celeriac soup, duck liver parfait tart, confit lamb neck and more.
IDES | 92 Smith St., Collingwood, VIC 3066 | $$$$
10. Very Good Falafel
You can probably guess what Very Good Falafel does best! This is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne with a go-to to experience mouthwatering Middle Eastern dishes in a welcoming environment.
The Vibe
Cosy and intimate with limited seating, this is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for a quick meal and takeaway vibes. Diners enjoy their meal surrounded by white brick walls and philodendron plants draped across hanging lights, all while watching passersby outside.
What to Order
The falafel, of course! It’s the most popular item on the menu and you can get it in pita alone or with a plate.
Very Good Falafel | 629 Sydney Road, Brunswick, VIC 3056 | $
11. Flower Drum
As far as the best restaurants in Melbourne go, Flower Drum is up there with its exquisite Cantonese cuisine and fine dining of the highest standard. Acclaimed as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, it has held a top spot on the Melbourne dining scene since 1975.
The Vibe
Opulent décor featuring rich red carpeting, shelves adorned with wine bottles and a beautiful bird-themed mural give Flower Drum an air of sophistication.
What to Order
The Angus eye fillet melts in your mouth and comes with seasonal vegetables and a sauce of your choice.
Flower Drum | 17 Market Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$$
12. All Are Welcome
Among restaurants in Melbourne, All Are Welcome is a local favourite serving a range of freshly baked goods, superb coffee and a whole host of savoury snacks.
The Vibe
At All Are Welcome, there’s a distinct scent of baked croissants lingering in the air, with stacks of baked goodies on shelves and a crisp blue-and-white themed interior. Seating is limited, so expect friendly and quick counter service.
What to Order
The coffee is hands down the most popular item on the menu. Order the Mucho Gusto Everyday Coffee or the All Day Espresso Beans, then pair it with a flaky croissant.
All Are Welcome | 190 High St., Northcote, VIC 3070 | $
13. Gerald's Bar
Regularly frequented by locals, Gerald’s Bar is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for those seeking a perfect mix of bar atmosphere and good food.
The Vibe
Gerald's Bar is cosy and lively with eclectic art and knickknacks. With a bohemian paradise feel, it's up there with the best restaurants in Melbourne.
What to Order
The seasonal bistro menu changes daily. One day, you might find Sydney rock oysters and on another, halloumi with an earthy burnt honey.
Gerald's Bar | 386 Rathdowne St., Carlton North, VIC 3054 | $$
14. Minamishima
If it were possible to write a love letter to sushi, Minamishima would be the master poet, crafting each dish with precision and passion. The mastermind behind this spot is Chef Koichi Minamishima, whose wealth of knowledge in all things sushi makes it stand out as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne.
The Vibe
There’s a sense of serenity at Minamishima, with its minimalist décor, beautifully crafted wooden sushi counter, grey stone pillars and thoughtfully placed wall sconces.
What to Order
Omakase meets fine dining at Minamishima, where the chef selects and prepares a curated menu of nigiri and Japanese dishes using the best of the season's produce.
Minamishima | 4 Lord St., Richmond, VIC 3121 | $$$$
15. Marion
At Marion, if you’re not careful, you might close your eyes between bites and feel transported to the shores of Europe. This is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to experience a seamless blend of European and Melbourne dishes.
The Vibe
Marion has a rustic feel with white distressed brick walls, wine racks and hanging ceiling lights.
What to Order
This is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to enjoy the Chef’s Selection and savour a medley of appetising dishes like the mussels with ‘nduja, fried bread and aioli.
Marion | 53 Gertrude St., Fitzroy, VIC 3065 | $$$
16. Soi 38
Thai street food hits the Melbourne streets — or rather, a parking garage at Soi 38, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne specialising in bringing authentic noodle dishes to life.
The Vibe
Hidden inside a parking garage, Soi 38 is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne offering a no-frills, sit-down experience. The colourful seats and tables add warmth and colour to the cold, grey concrete surroundings.
What to Order
The Ultimate Bowl is a tangy, flavour-packed Tom Yum noodle soup featuring prawns, crispy pork, Japanese scallops, minced pork and eggs.
Soi 38 | 38 Mcilwraith Place, Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $
17. Hector’s Deli
If you’re looking for the best restaurant in Melbourne where classic sandwiches are taken up a notch and given a gourmet makeover, then Hector's Deli is a must-visit.
The Vibe
Hector's Deli is a compact space with a casual neighbourhood feel. Seating varies by location, with some offering space inside and out, and others providing no-frills counter service with stool seating.
What to Order
The HCT at Hector's Deli is a must-try — a balanced mix of mortadella, provolone, mozzarella and tomato chutney on toasted white sourdough.
Hector’s Deli | Multiple Locations | $$$
18. Gimlet at Cavendish House
Why settle for less-than-acclaimed cuisine when you can visit Gimlet at Cavendish House? This hidden gem has been voted among the best restaurants in Melbourne, offering a stupendous dining experience in an elegant setting.
The Vibe
Located inside a landmark building from the 1920s, Gimlet brings history and lavish food to life. Guests dine beneath grand chandeliers, with herringbone wooden flooring underfoot and large windows letting in natural light.
What to Order
One dish that makes this one of the best restaurants in Melbourne is the dry-aged T-bone steak, grilled to perfection in a wood-fired oven over coal, offering an irresistibly rich and smoky flavour.
Gimlet at Cavendish House | 33 Russell St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
19. Big Esso
Located in Federation Square on Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung's native land, Big Esso is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for all-day dining and authentic Indigenous dishes.
The Vibe
Casual, vibrant and communal are the best words to describe this Melbourne restaurant. With neon light signs, Indigenous wall paintings and teal tiles surrounding the bar, Big Esso is a pleasant spot to grab a bite to eat.
What to Order
Big Esso is the best place to experience Melbourne dishes lovingly prepared using native ingredients. Try the emu steak or the crocodile tongue skewers — uncommon but exquisite.
Big Esso | Fed Square, 25/2 Swanston St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
20. MoVida
A visit to MoVida is like experiencing Spain without the costly airfare. It is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to get your fix of tantalising Spanish cuisine, from traditional tapas to sharing plates and an expansive wine selection.
The Vibe
With its graffiti-covered exteriors, chalkboard menus and wooden fixtures, this is one of the trendiest and best restaurants in Melbourne.
What to Order
Order the paella, featuring pochas (white beans), Moorabool duck and periwinkle, all served on a bed of saffron-infused Valencian-style bomba rice.
MoVida | Multiple Locations | $$
21. Etta
If you're looking for cosy local dining, Etta welcomes you to sample the best Melbourne food with its innovative cuisine and welcoming ambience.
The Vibe
The interior is cosy, featuring warm pendant lights, marble countertops and glossy wooden floors. If you prefer to feel the breeze while you dine, there’s limited outdoor seating out front.
What to Order
The menu changes seasonally. If available, try the lobster frites cooked over the fire with sambal butter.
Etta | 60 Lygon St., Brunswick East, VIC 3057 | $$$
22. Amaru
Step into a world of irresistible Melbourne dishes and intimate fine dining at Amaru, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to experience contemporary Australian cuisine.
The Vibe
The interior of Amaru is wrapped in distressed painted walls and adorned with artwork, while sconces create a moody ambience with dim lighting.
What to Order
Start with the sweetbread served with spelt and Tokyo turnips, then move on to the Western Australian marron accompanied by seaweed, clams and bitter lettuce. Make sure to indulge in a wine pairing alongside your meal to enjoy a truly flavourful experience.
Amaru | 1121 High St., Armadale, VIC 3143 | $$$$
23. Smith & Daughters
For plant-based cuisine that doesn’t sacrifice flavour, head to Smith & Daughters, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for a delectable vegan feast.
The Vibe
The charcoal stone walls, dark teal ceilings and an accent wall dedicated to framed art reflect the fun and casual dining style of this Melbourne restaurant.
What to Order
The menu at Smith & Daughter is ever-changing, except on Ramen Nights. Always a winner, on Ramen Night, you can customise your meal by choosing your ramen and a drink, with the option to add sides and dessert for an extra cost.
Smith & Daughters | 107 Cambridge St., Collingwood, VIC 3066 | $$
24. Pellegrini's Espresso Bar
As far as family-run coffee houses in Melbourne go, Pellegrini's Espresso Bar stands out as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, renowned for its classic Italian coffee and traditional dishes.
The Vibe
This spot stands out as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for a laid-back feel, with diners sipping on their coffees and enjoying hearty meals atop chequered floors, surrounded by nostalgic décor.
What to Order
You can't go wrong with lasagna, especially when it's loaded with authentic Italian flavours, just the way Pellegrini does it.
Pellegrini's Espresso Bar | 66 Bourke St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $
25. Embla
At Embla, the charm of a wine bar meets the flavours of a restaurant, satisfying foodies and wine connoisseurs alike. With this fusion of culinary experiences, it comes as no surprise that Melbourne is considered one of the best foodie cities in the world.
The Vibe
The interiors at Embla feature dark wood fixtures, with shelves stocked with wine bottles and wood-panelled ceilings illuminated by low lighting.
What to Order
Start with the fried polenta with pine nut and sage, then savour the pork belly for your main course.
Embla | 122 Russell St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$
26. Di Stasio Città
Another spot serving delectable Italian is Di Stasio Città, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to experience Venetian dining.
The Vibe
Inside this contender for the best restaurant in Melbourne, you'll discover chic industrial designs, including sconces providing ambient light, moving art displayed on concrete walls and comfortable red leather seats.
What to Order
Some favourites at Di Stasio Città include ricotta gnudi and capellini with crab. While you’re there, explore the carefully curated wine list and savour a mix of local and international selections.
Di Stasio Città | 45 Spring St., Melbourne, VIC 300 | $$$
27. Attica
Known for its acclaimed fine dining and innovative take on Australian cuisine, Attica is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne.
The Vibe
Thoughtfully designed and intimate, Attica offers a serene dining experience with floor-to-ceiling curtains and tables adorned with tablecloths and eye-catching centrepieces.
What to Order
The menu changes seasonally. You can also try the sample menu with many dishes prepared using native ingredients.
Attica | 74 Glen Eira Road, Ripponlea, VIC 3185 | $$$$
28. Serai
Experience Filipino food cooked over a wood fire at Serai, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for authentic Filipino fare.
The Vibe
Serai is bright and cosy, with warm lighting and an open kitchen. Counter seats give guests a front-row view of their prepared meals, making it one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to enjoy a casual meal.
What to Order
Favourites at this candidate for best restaurant in Melbourne include the sisig tacos, made from roasted pig's head, tender kangaroo bone marrow and twice-cooked duck.
Serai | Racing Club Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
29. Chae
Chef Jung Eun is the brains behind Chae, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne. Here, you can savour lesser-known Korean dishes that focus on fermentation.
The Vibe
Operating out of a house, Chae offers just six seats. To call this front-runner for best restaurant in Melbourne cosy would be an understatement, as guests gather around the wooden kitchen counter for a homey dining experience.
What to Order
Chae is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for a reason. The tasting menu keeps diners coming back for more, featuring robust, clean and well-balanced dishes.
Chae | 133 Mountain Road, Cockatoo, VIC 3781 | $$$
30. Bar Margaux
A quintessential French brasserie and one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, Bar Margaux is known for its classic French dishes and an extensive cocktail menu.
The Vibe
With its chequered flooring, rich red leather barstools, cream brick walls and polished wooden bar, Bar Margaux is reminiscent of a traditional Parisian brasserie.
What to Order
Favourites at this competitor for the best restaurant in Melbourne include delicate steak tartare, steak frites and crème brûlée.
Bar Margaux | 111 Lonsdale St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
31. Lune Croissanterie
Calling all sweet tooths and pastry lovers! Lune Croissanterie is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne for irresistibly sweet croissants and other delectable pastries.
The Vibe
Bustling and vibrant, Lune Croissanterie features sleek grey tones and an open layout, allowing patrons to watch the bakers at work making their favourite pastries. You’ll typically find a long line in the mornings, so it’s best to arrive early to snag your croissant.
What to Order
Go for the classic or opt for the ham and Gruyère croissant if you’re in the mood for something a little more savoury.
Lune Croissanterie | Shop 16/161 Collins St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $
32. Sunda
One of the best restaurants in Melbourne for Southeast Asian cuisine is Sunda, where each dish is meticulously crafted with influences from Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia.
The Vibe
Inside this trendy nominee for best restaurant in Melbourne, you’ll find Industrial-style interiors reminiscent of a work site building with scaffolding and exposed brick walls.
What to Order
The lamb rump with a rich cashew pesto and curry jus is divine. Before you head out, be sure to ask for the peanut parfait with salted coconut and palm sugar for a sweet finish.
Sunda | 18 Punch Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
33. The Old Raffles Place
Helmed by husband and wife duo Carol and Alan Han, The Old Raffles Place brings a distinct taste of Singapore to the Melbourne streets.
The Vibe
The Old Raffles Place is charming and cosy with eclectic furniture, a dedicated framed photo wall and sparkling fairy lights.
What to Order
The Old Raffles Hainanese chicken rice is hands down one of the best dishes on the menu.
The Old Raffles Place | 68-70 Johnston St., Collingwood, VIC 3066 | $$
34. Manzé
Delicious Mauritian cuisine meets a wine bar at Manzé, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne to savour Indo-Mauritian flavours with Creole, Chinese and French influences.
The Vibe
Manzé is a culturally rich space, featuring wicker-style chairs, vibrant shades of green and shelves filled with wine bottles and jars.
What to Order
“Manzé” means “to eat” in Mauritian Creole, so while visiting, be sure to do so! The set menu is popular, with dishes including Loddon Valley lamb, whole mullet and macadamia kulfi — a creamy ice cream dessert.
Manzé | Shop 2/1/5 Errol St., North Melbourne, VIC 3051 | $$
35. Maha Restaurant
If you’re searching for one of the best Melbourne restaurants for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, Maha Restaurant should be near, if not at, the top of your list. This stylish and contemporary restaurant has made a name for itself since opening in 2008.
The Vibe
Maha is refined, moody and dimly lit, featuring an artistic ceiling design, flooring that resembles flames and a variety of seating options, including cosy booths.
What to Order
The set lunch tasting menu is a must-try; tuck into dishes like the hummus and slow-roasted lamb shoulder.
Maha Restaurant | 21 Bond St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
36. Hope St Radio
Among the best restaurants in Melbourne, Hope St Radio stands out for its ability to serve as both a live radio station and a casual dining space.
The Vibe
Inside Hope St Radio, you'll find white walls adorned with colourful drawings, an assortment of mismatched seats and dark wood tables, creating a warm and light-hearted atmosphere.
What to Order
The tagliatelle mushroom pasta is spot on. Order it with a glass of red wine for the perfect dining experience.
Hope St Radio | 35 Johnston St., Collingwood, VIC 3066 | $$
37. Tipo 00
If delicious pasta dishes are what you seek, look no further than Tipo 00, a pasta bar renowned for its exceptional handmade pasta and a variety of Italian-inspired dishes.
The Vibe
Tipo 00 is cosy and modern with white brick walls, pendant lights and tall shelves stocked with wine. The open kitchen is also a nice addition for curious diners.
What to Order
Start with the fermented honey with fennel and buckwheat and pair it with the tagliolini al nero for your main course.
Tipo 00 | 361 Little Bourke St., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$
38. Napier Quarter
With a focus on seasonal produce and serving simple, high-quality meals, Napier Quarter is a cosy neighbourhood restaurant where guests can enjoy espressos by day and wine by night.
The Vibe
Inside this nominee for best restaurant in Melbourne, you'll find a classic coffee shop vibe characterised by autumnal hues, with jars of pickled vegetables lining the shelves.
What to Order
The chef's menu is quite the treat with dishes like focaccia, pork and fennel salami and bay leaf pavlova cementing Napier Quarter as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne.
Napier Quarter | 359 Napier St., Fitzroy, VIC 3065 | $$$
39. Lee Ho Fook
Clever and contemporary Asian fusion is the best way to describe Lee Ho Fook, which takes an innovative approach to traditional Asian flavors in order to secure its spot among the best restaurants in Melbourne.
The Vibe
Lee Ho Fook has an open layout with round tables, red carpeting, dim red mood lighting and brick walls. This is the perfect spot for casual dining and a more upscale experience.
What to Order
The Lee Ho Fook Peking duck offers an umami flavour experience like no other. Dry-aged for 10 days, the duck is slow-roasted to perfection and served with fluffy steamed pancakes.
Lee Ho Fook | 11-15 Duckboard Pl., Melbourne, VIC 3000 | $$$
Try Cooking Melbourne Foods
While exploring the best restaurants in Melbourne is undeniably fun, it’s equally exciting and even more rewarding to try cooking classes in Melbourne. These expert-led classes teach you to craft famous regional dishes and international cuisines, from mouthwatering pavlovas to flavorful Asian street food. Hands-on, immersive and educational, you’ll discover a newfound appreciation for Melbourne's diverse culinary scene.
Hopefully, this helpful guide has you feeling inspired to add a few of the best restaurants in Melbourne to your hit list. From casual eats to fine dining, the next time you’re planning a getaway to this vibrant city, you'll never be short of exciting ways to dine.
For even more ways to explore Melbourne and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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