Where to go
Here's where you'll find the pick of the latest and greatest Melbourne restaurants, bars, galleries and boutiques.
Albert St Food & Wine
Over the decades Sydney Road has seen many a farmer pushing wheelbarrows of fresh produce down its well-worn road towards The Victoria Markets. Years on, Albert St. Food & Wine has restored this pilgrimage through their vision to bring only the finest local and organic produce to their “romantically seasonal” and Mediterranean dishes.
Location: Corner of Albert Street & 382 Sydney Road, Brunswick, VIC au-37.768842, 144.961818
I Know A Place
Hidden away from the passers-by only revealing itself to those ‘in the know’ this tiny bar is sure to sweep you off your feet. A steadfast favourite of Brunswick locals and you’ll soon discover why. You just can’t go wrong with the gourmet hot-dogs and top notch cocktails all devoured in the secret courtyard.
Location: Rear, 451 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, VIC au-37.793569, 144.979004
Akachochin
Seat yourself at the marble bar and watch ex-Nobu Head Sushi Chef Kengo Hiromatsu prepare your sushi while you wait for your dumplings. Browse the sake menu and with over 50 to choose from you’ll be able to literally eat and drink your way around Japan by matching your sake to the regions your dishes originate.
Location: 33 Dukes Walk, South Wharf, VIC au-37.824271, 144.950144
The Bishop of Ostia
The legend of Pope Joan’s scandalous birth to ‘The Bishop of Ostia’ has inspired an eatery that’s full of hidden surprises. Owner-duo Matt Wilkinson and Ben Foster have perfected the art of slow cooked food with pork scratchings a favourite alongside beautiful seasonal produce and some of the best Victorian beers and wines.
Location: 77-79 Nicholson Street, East Brunswick, VIC au
The Woods of Windsor
Something new with a hint of old has popped up on Chapel Street. The Woods of Windsor pays homage to the 1900’s with over 50 single malts on the menu, gramophones and taxidermy aplenty. It’s not only the atmosphere that’s inspired by another era; the menu captures all the richness of the time. Step inside and be transported to a Speak Easy.
Location: 108 Chapel Street, Windsor, VIC au-37.854322, 144.993223
Portello Rosso
Hidden behind a red doorway in one of Melbourne’s much-loved laneways is Portello Rosso, a small Spanish tapas restaurant that pride themselves on serving Spanish cuisine in the traditional way. Enjoy a variety of share plates or go straight for the favourite, seafood paella with a drop of the best Spanish wine on offer.
Location: Jamon Bar, 15 Warburton Lane, Melbourne, VIC au-37.813793, 144.961913
The Sharing House
The Sharing House is the latest from Paul Mathis, Melbourne’s much-loved restaurateur. Mark Briggs, previously Head Chef at Vue de Monde, has designed a fun menu to be enjoyed the European way – placed in the middle of the table for all to enjoy. Seat yourself at the bar made out of Lego and let the fun begin.
Location: 35 Dukes Walk, South Wharf, VIC au-37.824271, 144.950144
The Evelyn
Some call it home, some call it iconic. Comfy sofas a beer garden and music humming softly by day, sticky carpets, crowds of rocking music lovers and a moshpit by night. Whether you’re into one or the other The Evelyn is the place to be. The best of the Fitzroy pub scene all under one roof.
Location: 351 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, VIC au-37.796596, 144.978764
Fonda
If ever the phrase ‘Mi Casa, Su Casa’ was used to describe a restaurant, it would be Fonda Mexican in Richmond. A welcoming space with a menu full of healthy, tasty soft tacos, traditional burritos or charred corn and fat chips with mayo. Sip on a lychee and elderflower martini from a jar while you watch the world go by from your curb side stool.
Location: 248 Swan Street, Richmond, VIC au-37.825893, 144.998391
Salvage & Selvedge
Think a boy with a mission to restore, design and construct and a girl with a button addiction and what you get is the unconventional Salvage and Selvedge. Nestled in fashionable Fitzroy, those who visit the store lose themselves in the jungle of rare, hand crafted jewellery and pre loved furniture, all restored to perfection.
Location: 78 Johnston Street, Fitzroy, VIC au-37.798425, 144.977174
Treasurette
Love fashion and all that it encompasses? Treasurette has everything you need to get your fix. With pieces from design royalty like Stella McCartney, Givenchy and Pedro Garcia you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fashionista fantasy. So it won’t matter if you can’t make it to the catwalks of Paris and Milan they’ll bring the best bits to you.
Location: 140 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC au-37.813596, 144.969219
Sutton Gallery
One of the main stays of the art world, the Sutton Gallery is an intriguing contradiction. Located in the heart of Melbourne’s bohemian Brunswick Street the endearing space is cool, clean, and contemporary. If you’re after photography, installation or paintings, the gallery has been host to the most respected modern artists since 1992.
Location: 254 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, VIC au-37.799749, 144.978353
Mama Baba
The latest brainchild from culinary royalty George Calombaris and Made Establishment, Mama Baba is a vibrant Greco Italian restaurant. With a soulful menu inspired by George’s own Greek/Italian background. The converted warehouse is big and spacious yet still inviting, walk in for a bowl of pasta or a cocktail at the bar and you’ll walk out happy.
Location: 21 Daly Street, South Yarra, VIC au-37.837933, 144.994658
New York Cats
At 3pm every Sunday, Speak Easy on Chapel Street open their back door, set up the turntables, fire up the grill and transform into NYC style burger bar New York Cats. The menu is simple but all you need for a dusty Sunday. Choose between burgers, hotdogs and thick hand-cut chips, all made with the highest quality ingredients Melbourne has to offer.
Location: 359 Chapel Street, Prahran, VIC au-37.847630, 144.994004
Go Go Bar
Go Go Bar is the mysterious, atmospheric cocktail bar that you’ll find below the popular restaurant, Chin Chin. It’s the little quirks that make this place one of a kind, like the dark ambience, seasonal cocktail menu, the DIY Champagne Cocktails and a melancholic neon sign that reads ‘Lonely for you only.’
Location: 125 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC au-37.815479, 144.970473
Threefold Foodstore & Eatery
Part food shop, part café and part bar, Threefold Foodstore & Eatery serve up breakfast and lunch to eaters in and takers out 5 days a week. The provincial, French inspired food offers a spread of the delicious and the homemade, with plenty of tarts, salads and rich combinations. Try the duck leg confit with dates, roasted carrots and anise.
Location: 381 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC au-37.818228, 144.961463
The Atlantic
Inspired by the famous New York meat packing district, The Atlantic is obsessively particular about sourcing the freshest seafood from Australia's best producers. An ocean-to-plate philosophy inspires every element of their menu, featuring unique oyster varieties, sustainable fish and pristine shellfish.
Location: Crown Entertainment Complex, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank, VIC au-37.823547, 144.959948
Von Haus
Sometimes, when a bar gets everything just right, people are weirdly reluctant to spread the word. Many a beloved hangout has been lost to overcrowding and boozy, off-duty accountants. With rustic food, great music and personable wine service, Von Haus is an excellent bar.
Location: 1a Crossley Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000-37.811704, 144.971327
MoVida Next Door
The little sister of Frank Camora's wildly popular MoVida, Movida Next Door is more traditional in its Spanish offering: Here, the tapas accompany the drinks, not the other way around. With Spanish wine and rustically decadent bar snacks, this is a great place to fortify oneself on a cultural night out.
Location: 164 Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000-37.816756, 144.969114
Chin Chin
This new Thai diner has a cool but unfussy vibe. The menu is mostly sharable and you can order wine by the carafe from the ‘Wine Guy’. Crispy school prawns and suckling pig pancakes make great lazy afternoon drinking food. The air zings with spices and buzzes with conversation. Look out for fun touches like vintage propaganda posters and a Vietnamese cyclo by the door.
Location: 125 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000 au-37.815479, 144.970473
Kumo Izakaya
With a culture of sharing meals and making eating and drinking inseparable, Japanese Izakayas are a social experience. Our own Kumo is no exception. All dishes are sized for 2 and designed so you can enjoy 5 or more sharing plates. Kumo offers the best of traditional Izakaya fare, with modern twists.
Location: 152 Lygon Street, East Brunswick, VIC au-37.773541, 144.971524
Asuza
Inventive, lyrical and surreal, Asuza clothing is inspired by the wonders of science and psychology, ancient cultures and alternate realities. Established in 2008 in a collision of artistic interests. Their flagship store lives in Fitzroy, and their collections are now found all over the world.
Location: Level 1, 262 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, VIC au
The Everleigh
Stepping through this unmarked doorway is like stepping back in time to the roaring 20's. Minus the prohibition part. So don your fedora and sneak in for a drink, care of the mixologists at The Everleigh. Inspired by New York and London Member’s Club, Milk and Honey, The Everleigh serves cocktails that are straight out of a Boardwalk Empire script. The ice is chiseled straight off the block and the cut-glassware is vintage. Well hello, 1920.
Location: 1/150 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 au
Eat Drink Man Woman
Eat Drink Man Woman brings Chef Daniel Shelbert to the eclectic Brunswick Street circuit. The flexible menu is served all day and well into the night. Pull up a seat at the open kitchen. There you can watch as his team dish up simple but creative combinations of Asian and Mediterranean ingredients, like BBQ Balinese-style pork belly.
Location: 413 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 au-37.794622, 144.978990
Cookie
Cookie is billed as a beer hall - if that beer hall went to Paris and came back with Juliet balconies, French doors and a hipster record collection. Expect towering cocktails, 85 imported beers, more than 350 wines, a famous Thai kitchen - and only a short climb up the Curtin House stairs.
Location: Level 1, 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000-37.812085, 144.965107
Taco Truck
Taco Truck is the Mexican sequel to Beatbox Kitchen, the mobile burger joint which reignited food van culture in Melbourne. Soft Tortilla Tacos are offered on a rotating menu with meat, fish and vego varieties, along with fresh sides and salsa. So jump on Twitter or Facebook and follow that truck.
Location: Various Places - Check Twitter and Facebook, Melbourne, VIC au
Cowderoy's Dairy
Cowderoy’s Dairy describe themselves as ‘a milk bar and a cafe next to a cool park.’ They look after brekky, morning tea, light lunches and sweet treats. Best of all, the kids are welcome, with their own menu and a park next door to play in. They also happen to be dog-friendly, which makes it a true family affair.
Location: 14 Cowderoy Street, St Kilda West, VIC au-37.857707, 144.970668
The LuWOW
In the mood for an island adventure? Once you’re through the gates of The LuWow, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into another world. Think bongo drums, tikis, bones and hula girls. But don’t let the tribal atmosphere fool you, the cocktails are made with only top shelf spirits and pay homage to the Tropical tiki pioneers.
Location: 62 Johnston Street, Fitzroy, VIC au-37.798369, 144.976670
Backstreet
Visit a new foodie hot spot nestled in the back streets of Fitzroy, the second baby of Tim Tehan (Birdman Eating). Backstreet is a fascinating fusion between a cafe, deli, and dining space. Whether coffee or cured meats are more to your liking or if you simply want to treat your tastebuds to some exquisite produce, this is one Backstreet you won’t want to bypass.
Location: 152 Kerr Street, Fitzroy , VIC au-37.796961, 144.980642
LIFEwithBIRD
Flip through any fashion magazine and you’re likely to see the name LIFEwithBIRD taking over the glossy pages. The ultra modern, ultra chic designs by Nicholas Van Messner, complemented by the intuitive eye of fashion stylist and photographer Bridget ‘Bird’ McCall are a match made in very trendy heaven. There’s plenty to tweet about with this designer duo.
Location: Melbourne's GPO, Shop F05, Level 1, 350 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC au
Ladro
Since winning 'Best new restaurant of the year' in 2005, the bookings haven't stopped at Ladro. Their rustic pizzas covered in A-list toppings weave the kind of magic that unites South Yarra and Collingwood on Gertrude Street. Italian food delivered with original flair - book early.
Location: 224a Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065-37.806374, 144.982056
My Mexican Cousin
The people behind St. Ali and St. Jerome's have a new addition to the family, My Mexican Cousin. This Creole influenced all-day eatery and bar offers a vast selection of tasting plates and mains in a robust, aromatic fusion of flavours. And if it all seems a little overwhelming, don't worry - they have a "Creole-pedia" to assist diners.
Location: Corner of Sturt Street and Southbank Boulevard, Southbank, VIC au-37.823423, 144.967417
Alice Edgeley
After a three-year apprenticeship in London under Christopher Kane, Alice is back in Melbourne with her own label and a Gertrude Street store. Fascinated with history, you’ll find references in her work to all periods of fashion, from bustles to bow-ties. A background in costume has seen her design for film, theatre and music videos and even on one occasion for taxidermy mice.
Location: 220 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 au-37.806338, 144.981906
Taxi Dining Room
If we're lazily riding the transport theme, this Fed Square institution is the leather-seated cab, rather than the stretched limo, of Melbourne culinary experiences. It's critically acclaimed Japanese-inspired fine dining for the posh but not-too-posh with the sort of river views that make you want to show everyone you know.
Location: Level 1, Transport Hotel, Federation Square, Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 au-37.818020, 144.968100
SO:ME Space
A melting pot of creativity and new home to both established and emerging local designers is SO:ME Space. Part gallery, part retail, you'll find it hidden among the colour of the South Melbourne market, disguised behind pop-up walls of wood and draping greenery. Every few weeks you'll find new designers who like to test the creative boundaries. Head there for your fashion fix with a side of arts and culture.
Location: Cnr Coventry & Cecil Streets, South Melbourne, VIC au
Fitzrovia
This spectacular bistro with elevated views of the city skyline is classic Melbourne. A warm dining room of high decorative ceilings is off set by rustic display crates of fresh fruit and veg and an open kitchen. The menu is mod-Oz with organic flourishes and all dishes can be deftly paired with biodynamic wines or signature cocktails.
Location: 155 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 au-37.859082, 144.979415
Claypots Evening Star
Step inside Claypots Evening Star Teppanyaki restaurant, and right away you’ll get a sense of their commitment to freshness. After choosing from the fresh seafood on proud display, you can watch it grilled to perfection. The bustling spectacle of open kitchen cooking and the sounds of live piano make Claypots a refreshing, lively affair.
Location: Stall 101, South Melbourne Market, South Melbourne, VIC 3205 au
The Aylesbury
Stylish yet relaxed, The Aylesbury is a ground floor restaurant and rooftop bar from the duo behind Fitzroy’s much-loved Anada. A Spanish influence is evident on the delectable menu which, when combined with the carefully considered cocktail list and impressive skyline views, makes for a uniquely Melbourne experience.
Location: 103 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000 au-37.810417, 144.969073
Little Red Pocket
A Japanese cocktail bar with a distinctly Melbourne twist, Little Red Pocket blends the traditional (house-infused Jumai sake, umeshu and shochu) with the modern (orders taken by iPad 2) to create a mood of electric-Zen – perfect for Japanese tapas lunches, sophisticated post-work drinks or an intimate late-night cocktail.
Location: 422 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000 au-37.816063, 144.960419
Vue de Monde
This French restaurant is once again raising the bar. The spectacular, freshly-renovated space on the 55th floor of the Rialto Tower is the new home of Shannon Bennett’s haute cuisine. The magnificent view and world-renowned food will transport you to dizzying heights of gastronomic heaven.
Location: 55/525 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000 au-37.818692, 144.957433
The Bloomfield Hotel Pool
The only thing better on a hot summer’s day than a rooftop bar is a rooftop pool. If you want to feel like a real insider, head here and skip the public pool madness. If you don’t feel like a swim, simply find a sun bed to take in the sun and the views. And if you get a moment, check out the quirky boutique hotel itself.
Location: Corner Toorak Road and Millswyn Street , South Yarra, VIC au-37.837502, 144.979984
Boatbuilders Yard
Positioned on the Yarra River and neighbour to the Polly Woodside, the Boat Builder’s Yard adds a modern twist to Melbourne’s historic Maritime Precinct. This European style bar and café offers a unique mix of expansive areas and warm intimate spaces, also making the most of breathtaking city views.
Location: 23 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf, VIC 3006 au-37.824197, 144.949666
MoVida Bar De Tapas
To assemble the menu for Melbourne's favourite date restaurant, MoVida chef Frank Camorra scoured Spain for the finest bite-size comestibles. You'll find silky potato croquettes, all manner of chorizo and the best wine Spain has to offer. It's so good they had to open a second place, MoVida Next Door.
Location: 1 Hosier Lane, Melbourne, Victoria 3000-37.816772, 144.969101
Honour Among Thieves
The bad boy of fashion, controversial designer Roy Christou, (previously of cult label Roy), has returned with a new store stocking cool threads for ladies and gents. Look out for the illustration of a severed hand over the door. Perhaps a warning for thieves?
Location: 20 Russell Place, Melbourne, VIC 3000 au-37.813615, 144.967321
The Press Club
Masterchef George Calombaris had the recipe for success printed before launching his first venture, The Press Club, in the atmospheric Herald and Weekly Times building. Traditional Greek fare is re-imagined and served with joy. Neighbouring Little Press and Cellar is a mini-version with more emphasis on wines by the glass.
Location: 72 Flinders Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000-37.815830, 144.972473
Beatbox Kitchen
Tapping into the mobile food van culture of New York, Beatbox Kitchen was an instant local hit. Their burger and fries options are great and part of the fun is pinning them down via Twitter or Facebook as they drift around the inner city suburbs. Although it’s hard to miss if you’re passing by, with its multicolour beatbox stereo façade.
Location: Various: check Twitter and Facebook for updates, Melbourne, VIC au
Windsor Castle
Away from the hustle and bustle of Chapel Street is this eccentric and beloved bar on the city fringe. The Windsor's lime facade and parade of airborne elephants on the roof leads to a leafy courtyard popular in summer and, plenty of cosy indoor nooks for winter warming food and drinks.
Location: 89 Albert Road, Prahran, Victoria 3181 au-37.855853, 144.988099
Dandelion
Explore the fresh and subtle world of Vietnamese food at new Elwood hot spot, Dandelion. An informal hawker-style set-up allows for flexible dining. Pick up something light from the wrap-and-roll bar, tuck into a mud crab claw or share a BBQ'd snapper off the coconut grill. The wine list has been carefully considered to match the delicate flavours.
Location: 133 Ormond Road, Elwood, VIC 3184 au-37.885736, 144.988765
The Red Hummingbird
The Red Hummingbird reinforces Melbourne's love of hard-to-find rooftop bars and killer cocktails. Tips: When you see the little red birdcage hanging in the street, you've found it. Try the cucumber, mint, gin concoction they call a Renepogel - and if you can still read that backwards, you haven't had enough.
Location: Level 1, 246 Russell Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 au-37.810500, 144.967260
Morris Jones
Amid the bustle, buzz and urban bohemia of Windsor stands this two-storey expansive drinking and dining palace. Boasting a French-centric lunch and dinner menu (wood-grilled steaks a specialty) with a scattering of indoor lounges and a sprawling courtyard at the rear, it’s perfect for post-work feasts or kick-off/on cocktails.
Location: 163 Chapel Street, Windsor, VIC 3181 au-37.852355, 144.992970
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