The Ultimate Foodie Guide: 15 Restaurants to Try in Melbourne
Welcome to the culinary capital of Australia! Melbourne's vibrant food scene is a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and innovation. From hidden laneway cafes to award-winning fine dining establishments, there's something to tantalize every palate. In this ultimate foodie guide, we'll take you on a gastronomic journey through 15 must-try restaurants in Melbourne.
Before you eat, come along on a walking tour with Free Tour Melbourne for an experience like no other. Led by local, passionate guides, you’ll be sure to uncover parts of the city where you find the unique, interesting and unknown about one of the best cities in Australia!
Vue de Monde:
Perched atop the Rialto Towers, Vue de Monde offers not just a meal, but a culinary journey. With sweeping views of Melbourne's skyline as your backdrop, each dish is a masterpiece crafted with precision and creativity. From the delicate flavors of freshly shucked oysters to the richness of aged beef, every bite tells a story of Australia's diverse landscape and culinary heritage.
Chin Chin:
Prepare yourself for a sensory explosion at Chin Chin, where the vibrant flavors of Thailand come to life. Amidst the buzzing atmosphere, you'll discover a menu bursting with bold spices, fresh herbs, and unexpected combinations. Whether you're indulging in crispy barramundi or fiery jungle curry, each dish is a celebration of Southeast Asian cuisine at its finest.
Supernormal:
Step into the sleek, modern space of Supernormal and prepare to be delighted by a fusion of Asian flavors and contemporary flair. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the tantalizing aroma of steamed buns and sizzling woks. Whether you're sampling their famous lobster rolls or savoring the umami-rich flavors of their ramen, each dish is a testament to Chef Andrew McConnell's culinary vision.
Cumulus Inc.:
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne's bustling CBD, Cumulus Inc. is a haven for food lovers seeking honest, seasonal fare. From the moment you enter, you're enveloped in the warmth of the bustling open kitchen and the aroma of freshly baked pastries. Whether you're indulging in their signature baked eggs or savoring the delicate flavors of their seafood platter, each dish is a testament to the simplicity and quality of Australian produce.
Movida:
Step into the lively world of Spanish cuisine at Movida, where every dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and passion. From the moment you enter, you're transported to the bustling streets of Barcelona, with the sounds of clinking glasses and sizzling pans filling the air. Whether you're indulging in their iconic tapas or savoring the smoky flavors of their paella, each dish is a celebration of Spanish culture and culinary artistry.
Attica:
Prepare yourself for a culinary journey like no other at Attica, where Chef Ben Shewry's innovative tasting menu pushes the boundaries of Australian cuisine. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the warm glow of candlelight and the tantalizing aroma of native ingredients. Whether you're sampling their signature potato cooked in the earth it was grown or savoring the delicate flavors of their desserts, each dish is a testament to Chef Shewry's dedication to storytelling and sustainability.
D.O.C. Pizza & Mozzarella Bar:
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Italy at D.O.C. Pizza & Mozzarella Bar, where each bite transports you to the cobblestone streets of Naples. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the aroma of freshly baked pizza and the sight of chefs tossing dough with practiced ease. Whether you're indulging in their classic Margherita or savoring the richness of their truffle-infused creations, each pizza is a celebration of tradition, quality, and passion.
Grossi Florentino:
Step into the timeless elegance of Grossi Florentino, where classic Italian cuisine meets contemporary sophistication. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the grandeur of the dining room and the warm glow of candlelight. Whether you're indulging in their handmade pasta or savoring the richness of their slow-cooked meats, each dish is a testament to the traditions and flavors of Italy.
The Press Club:
Prepare yourself for a culinary journey to the sun-drenched shores of Greece at The Press Club, where Chef George Calombaris reimagines classic Greek dishes with a modern twist. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the vibrant colors and aromas of the Mediterranean, with the sound of sizzling pans and clinking glasses filling the air. Whether you're indulging in their succulent lamb shoulder or savoring the freshness of their seafood, each dish is a celebration of Greece's rich culinary heritage.
Hakata Gensuke Ramen:
Prepare your taste buds for a flavor-packed adventure at Hakata Gensuke Ramen, where each bowl is a labor of love crafted with precision and care. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the aroma of simmering broth and the sight of chefs meticulously preparing each component. Whether you're indulging in their rich tonkotsu ramen or savoring the complexity of their miso broth, each bowl is a testament to the artistry and tradition of Japanese cuisine.
The Hardware Societe:
Start your day on a delicious note at The Hardware Societe, where French-inspired dishes are served with a modern twist. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of pastries glistening in the display case. Whether you're indulging in their fluffy croissants or savoring the richness of their baked eggs, each dish is a testament to the passion and creativity of the chefs.
Rice Paper Scissors:
Embark on a culinary journey through the bustling street food markets of Southeast Asia at Rice Paper Scissors, where each dish is a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant spices. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the sounds of sizzling woks and the aroma of fragrant herbs. Whether you're indulging in their crispy spring rolls or savoring the heat of their spicy salads, each dish is a testament to the diversity and richness of Southeast Asian cuisine.
Maha:
Prepare yourself for a sensory feast at Maha, where traditional Middle Eastern flavors are reimagined with a modern twist. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the warm glow of lanterns and the aroma of exotic spices. Whether you're indulging in their slow-cooked lamb or savoring the freshness of their mezze platter, each dish is a celebration of the richness and complexity of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Gazi:
Transport yourself to the bustling streets of Athens at Gazi, where traditional Greek dishes are served with a contemporary flair. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the lively atmosphere and the aroma of charcoal-grilled meats. Whether you're indulging in their juicy souvlaki skewers or savoring the creaminess of their taramasalata, each dish is a celebration of Greece's culinary heritage and passion for good food.
Smith & Daughters:
Vegans rejoice at Smith & Daughters, where plant-based dishes are served with creativity and flair. From the moment you enter, you're greeted by the vibrant colors and aromas of Latin-inspired cuisine. Whether you're indulging in their jackfruit tacos or savoring the richness of their eggplant parmigiana, each dish is a testament to the creativity and innovation of vegan cooking.
With its diverse culinary landscape, Melbourne is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you're craving Asian street food, Italian pasta, or innovative fine dining, you'll find it all in this vibrant city. So following your walking tour, come hungry and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure like no other in Melbourne!
