The 49 best foods to try in Melbourne

First experience at the much heralded Flower Drum and overall the experience was a good one. The service and atmosphere of the restaurant are truly first class. Found the food to be a little hit or miss. Some dishes were exemplary and then others lacked a bit flavour. Obviously this is a small sample size so not doubting the restaurants reputation for outstanding cusine. However given the eye watering prices of all dishes the hope would be 10/10 flavour on all orders. All this being said, this was an enjoyable experience and would recommend to anyone looking to have a truly authentic Cantonese dining experience in Melbourne.

Great place for celebration. We had three course lunch today. Food was nice. Service was attentive. Not your typical Chinese restaurant. But if you are looking for something bit more up scale and finer this is one of the best restaurants in Melbourne.

Absolutely wonderful dining experience at Flower Drum. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, and the food was exceptional in both quality and presentation. My friend and I enjoyed the signature banquet, and every dish was a delight. It’s not the kind of place you visit every day, but it’s worth every visit for a special occasion. Highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy a truly memorable Cantonese meal in Melbourne.

I had dinner at the venue last Sunday for my Birthday Celebration but they did not include any special offer, so to mention in advance your special occasion does not make any difference. We ordered the chef selection ($300 pp + $60 pp, wagyu upgrade) and it was very average overall and it did not feel that the experience was fine dining. For that price you can go to Vue de Monde, Amaru or Minamishima and adding the beluga caviar for some extra bucks and you will definitely have a much better experience. Table was dirty when we arrived and we got probably the worst table at the venue (corner table with very little space, I recommended that table should not exist) but this point for me was not an issue as I had high expectations for the food, unfortunately the food totally disappointed us. Maybe the highlights were the Peking duck and wagyu dish, but what could be wrong with very safe dishes, right? As I said before food was extremely average and very pricey for the food quality. I felt that all dishes were very oily, and the presentation was not detailed as plate came dirty or very disorganised. There is not a non-alcoholic pairing for chef selection as well. Service was friendly.

Everything was perfect. We were a big group for my son’s birthday and the waiter was very helpful helping with the menu choice. We had a variety of chicken, pork, beef, seafood and duck. The cocktails were delicious and the food exceptional. I didn’t take a photo of everything that came out because we had so many little servings at the beginning and we were all so hungry. But I highly recommend flower drum.

Had dinner with a reservation and ordered a selection of dim sums and appetisers. Started of with the dim sums which included the mud crab siu lung bao and scallop siu mai (both had a nice seafood sweetness, not a common filling you would find in a yumcha restaurant), prawn har gao, pork siu lung bao and pork jiaozi. Then came the large seafood soup dumpling filled with a large piece of scallop, mud crab, mushroom and bamboo shoots in a clear chicken broth. This was warm, hearty and clean tasting. This was followed with the appetisers. The pearl meat dish is sautéed with spring onion, garlic chives and asparagus, served on a beautiful shell plate. It was soft and delicate; tried the oyster and fermented shrimp sauces that came on the side but they were both too strong and overpowering. For the dragon boat prawn dish, it is a butterflied king prawn topped with minced prawn and scallop meat, served with a spicy prawn bisque which has some heat and intense savoury seafood flavour; the sweet snap peas was a nice palate cleanser for the dish. The lamb spring rolls was crispy and piping hot but the meat was quite gamy. The peking duck comes with two pieces; pancake wrap had a soft chewy texture, roast duck meat was tender, skin was not crispy but was good enough with the contrasting texture from the cucumber and spring onion, and the sweet plum sauce tied everything together. Overall a decent meal, highlight was the seafood soup dumpling and the scallop siu mai. Service was good; the staff was checking in occasionally and refilling the tea. Price is on the higher end.

The food was next level, one of the best meals I have ever had. We let our waiter choose our food and we didn't regret it. Fine dining at its best. Very attentive waiting staff. Watching them prepare some dishes next to tables was great to watch. Very impressive. All of the staff knew what to do and were very diligent. Spectacular evening. We went to the bar after our meal. I think they were short staffed, they prepared the drinks elsewhere and forgot we were their at times. Other than that I couldn't fault the whole evening. I can see why this place gets rave reviews. It lives up to its reputation.

Recommended to go try the Spanish mackerel dumplings. That's what we ordered. Unusual shape, oblong instead of the normal pot sticker shape. However, the paste was very nicely done without being too dry or rough. The skin was also supple and cooked to perfection.

ShanDong MaMa is an excellent spot if you want to enjoy authentic and flavorful dim sums. The food was absolutely delicious – fresh, well-prepared, and full of taste. The menu offers a good variety, and everything we tried was satisfying without being expensive, which makes it a great value for money. The atmosphere is lively and casual, perfect both for a quick bite and a relaxed meal with friends. Service was friendly and efficient, making the whole experience even better. Highly recommended for anyone who loves dim sums and wants a tasty, affordable dining experience in Melbourne!

Came here for their famous dumplings one late afternoon. The dumplings were freshly fried but taste wise, it was only okay. For the mackerel one, it was more like fish paste (akin to that of an Asian fish ball) rather than real fish. As for the pork and ones, the fillings were quite tough. Also, these dumplings are not sealed, meaning when you eat them the juice will just escape. Also order their tofu noodles dish (starter). It was not properly tossed and just a pile of noodles with oyster sauce and chili oil heaped on top. Unless you like the taste of oyster sauce mixed with very spicy chili oil, avoid at all cost.

Visited Shandong Mama on 4 July around 2pm and it was still bustling. Rightfully so! Absolutely delicious food and lovely service. We ordered mackerel and spinach potstickers, pork and cabbage dumplings and pork belly slices with garlic and chilli sauce. Each dish was amazing, but the potstickers were the clear winner! The owner delivered food to several tables herself and introduced herself to my partner, who is also from Shandong. Definitely worth the hype and a very personable and delicious experience.

Shandong Mama is that classic, no-fuss Chinatown spot that absolutely delivers on flavour. It’s casual and unpretentious, with a great menu to dig into. We had the cucumber dish (a favourite of mine), some fried and steamed dumplings—the squid ink steamed dumplings were the standout, packed with flavour and really tasty. The fried ones were solid too. The cold silken tofu with egg was probably my least favourite—pretty mild, but that’s kind of the nature of the dish. Overall, a great little place for a relaxed, delicious

The restaurant itself is in the building. They have a variety of Sichuan style dishes to try. We got Spicy fried chicken with dry chilli and Sichuan pepper, dumplings, and steamed pork ribs with rice. Among all three, spicy fried chicken is our fav. The food overall is okay for us

Vegan friendly dining! Plenty of options to cater for all dietary requirements. Delicious vegan zucchini dumplings, mapo tofu and veggie stir fry. The gentleman provided amazing service and are very attentive. Easy QR code ordering direct to table. Would be perfect for date night or with a few friends.

We went to this restaurant for a birthday celebration and enjoyed every single dish from the set menu we had. The highlight of the menu was the duck, which was absolutely delicious and full of flavor. Overall, it was a modern and refreshing experience. I was looking for a set menu where steak wasn’t the main course and there was a touch of creativity — and this place delivered it perfectly.

Love this place! Nice modern cuisine and focus more to modern asian cuisine. Love the raw beef tartare. The sriracha added a nice taste to the beef. Their spanner crab toast taste fresh, crunchy & creamy. Their cheesecake desserts not only pretty but also delicious. Love it! On the pricey side, but still worth the value.

Every bite was full of surprises! The dishes captured Southeast Asian flavours perfectly, authentic yet creative, with great depth and richness. Highly recommend the Wagyu tongue and bone marrow, simply outstanding! The atmosphere was lively but comfortable, and the staff were super friendly and accommodating, they even helped us store our belongings. It was a busy day, yet we never felt rushed. A truly enjoyable dining experience!

By far the best restaurant we’ve visited in Melbourne ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ we opted for the tasting menu and it did not disappoint. Each course was packed with great texture and delicious flavors. The sourdough bread and claypot rice were favourites! Service was amazing, our table was comfortable - just wow. 100% will be coming back - thank you for making the last night memorable!

My friend and I went for a dinner to Aru Restaurant and it was the best night. Food was delicious, service was impeccable, not one complaint! We tried the signature set menu + added oysters, with a couple cocktails and it was delicious. Flavours were lovely, dishes came out in a timely manner, waiters/waitresses always checking on our table & serving us very well.

Such a great foodie experience! This is the second time I'm coming to this place and I have to say that it's my favourite Asian fusion restaurant in the city. Great atmosphere thanks to the stylish and sleek design, top quality customer service (shoutout to Emanuele for looking after us) and obviously the amazing food. Every dish was a success! I can't wait to come back

My partner and I dined here last night and, while our waitress was absolutely delightful and attentive throughout the evening, the overall experience fell short of expectations. There was an unusually long interval — close to an hour between our entrées and main courses, which was surprising given that the restaurant did not appear particularly busy at the time. Although the food itself was quite enjoyable, the duck, oysters, and spring rolls were all well-executed, the service lacked the same level of polish. When the bill was presented by one of the tall men who worked there, it was followed almost immediately by the EFTPOS machine, without allowing us the opportunity to review the charges first. We also didn’t understand a word he said, he spoke so fast and almost without care that we didn’t catch a word he had said to us when he would sometimes serve us. This interaction felt rushed and very uncomfortable. My partner even got up to pay, yet the staff member still returned to the table with the machine, whilst we had got up to walk towards him, which only added to the awkwardness. (Just rude tbh). Overall, while the food and one member of the service team were commendable (the little lady) , pacing and manner of service would benefit from a more considered and measured approach.

Chin Chin never disappoints! The flavours are bold, fresh, and full of that perfect Thai fusion twist. Every dish we tried was packed with flavour, and you can really tell how much attention goes into balancing spice, texture, and presentation. The vibe here is always buzzing, with a great atmosphere that makes dining feel fun and vibrant. The service was attentive and friendly despite how busy it gets, which really adds to the experience. If you’re in Melbourne and love Thai fusion, Chin Chin is an absolute must-try. Highly recommend coming with friends so you can order a variety and share – you won’t regret it!

We arrived for our lunch reservation early so went downstairs to the cocktail bar while we waited, and we are so glad we did. It had a totally different atmosphere and feel to the vibrant upstairs dining area. So we asked to be seated at the there for our booking. It's more intimate and the vibe was really good. Great music and easy to chat. The service was excellent and the staff were very friendly and accommodating. The food was outstanding. We did the Chef's Banquet which was eight share dishes. It was an explosion of flavours and by the end of it we were blown away. If you're in Melbourne, do yourself a favour and drop in to Chin Chin. Be sure to book and I would recommend asking to be seated at the cocktail bar downstairs. Amazing.

🎉🥂🙌 Our People Award 2025 at Chin Chin Celebration Feast! 🍾🎂🥳 Last night, our fabulous crew took over Chin Chin Melbourne to celebrate our Make An Impact - Our People Award 2025 - and what impact it was! Laughter echoed, cocktails flowed, and bellies were joyfully stretched as we indulged in a flavour-packed journey selected by the one and only Jorge. 🍽️ Highlights from the Table: - 🐟 Kingfish Sashimi — a symphony of balance and freshness. - 🦆 Crispy Duck — golden, tender, and gone in seconds. - 🥩 Wagyu Tartare rich, succulent, and perfectly seasoned. - 🐚 Scallops — delicate, delightful, and plated with finesse. - 🍛 Beef Cheek Thai Curry bold, aromatic, and melt-in-your-mouth magic. - 🍅 Heirloom Tomato Salad a vegetarian triumph that stole the spotlight. - 🍌 Banana Fritter — the sweet, crispy finale that wrapped our celebration in gooey bliss. 🍸 The Chin Chin buzz wrapped around us like a warm hug electric, vibrant, and unmistakably Melbourne. Big cheers to the Chin Chin staff who survived our spirited crew with grace and grit. Huge thanks to Jorge for the stellar menu selection, and to everyone who brought their appetite, energy, and good vibes. Nights like these remind us: great food and great company are the ultimate pairing.

Sat outside and definitely the right choice because it seemed a bit too loud inside for any conversation. The service was quick and the waiters were very attentive. The food was delicious (I am Thai)! Initially I expected an Asian fusion but the menu is predominantly Thai only, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! Ordered the Padseew and fish with egg fried rice.

It was my first time visiting Chin Chin and it did not disappoint! We made a group booking for a birthday and were so impressed by all of the staff who interacted with us. The food was absolutely incredible. Every dish was bursting with flavour, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. We especially loved how fresh and vibrant everything tasted. When we weren’t sure what to order, our waitress gave us fantastic recommendations that turned out to be spot on. Everyone was so friendly and attentive, making the celebration feel extra special. What an amazing experience!! We will definitely be coming back!

My experience at Chin Chin in Melbourne was very average overall. The food ranged from excellent to downright unpleasant, which made the whole dinner inconsistent and disappointing. The atmosphere was far from enjoyable — the music was extremely loud and the place was so noisy that we could barely hear our server or even have a normal conversation at the table. The service itself was just average and didn’t make up for the chaotic environment. The restaurant seems to have gone overboard with its Asian-fusion concept. Some dishes simply didn’t work. The salmon baked in bamboo leaves was overcooked, dry, and lacking in flavor. The pork belly was also underwhelming and not enjoyable at all. The duck dish was a mix of highs and lows: the breast meat was juicy and nicely done, but the leg was burnt. And while I genuinely love spicy food, the level of heat in the duck was so overwhelming that even I found it hard to eat — and that says a lot. In short, Chin Chin left me with mixed feelings. It’s an interesting spot with potential, but the execution of both food and overall dining experience left much to be desired.

Excellent experience at Chin Chin - we thought both our dishes were exceptional. The food quality was fantastic, taste exceptional, and really enjoyed the unique twist on Thai cuisine. Loved the restaurant interior as well. Highly recommend.

Ate here for a private event and would definitely come back for a special occasion. Great service, delicious food, and each dish could be made vegan. The waiter even doubled checked with me regarding gelatine, which is much better than most restaurants.

Amongst the best in Melbourne, the food is good with some unusual ones like the tasty cheese pie. The coctails are fairly good and the restaurant has an extensive drinks menu. We were seated on the the upper story seating in a room comfortable corner. The decor suits the restaurant layout and the service lady and manageress were excellent. The toilets on the landing was clean too. Parking in the precinct is a bit hard to find on weekends. And definitely need to reserve to get a table

I thoroughly enjoyed my dinner. The flavours are creative and everything was cooked really well. The staff was attentive and friendly. I really liked how they have half-portion options for some dishes so we could try more things on the menu. The highlights for me were the octopus, tuna, and lamb.

I celebrated my birthday last week and I had a very nice time there. Busy small venue but they can arrange your party if you are a big group. As we were over 7 people we had to do the set menu ($95 pp) The appetisers were very delicious, specially the anchovies one and the tuna tartare, then they served some extra things till the main dish.

What a wonderful experience and restaurant The food was amazing, the staff were so friendly and attentive and the atmosphere was warm with a buzz in the air. We experienced eating at the table over looking the chefs and it was great. The chefs served us and were happy to answer any questions. I was so excited to see some of Victoria’s wonderful wines on the list. Please add more I am so into supporting local industry! We will be back!!!!!!

When we told our server we’re vegan (which is usually bad news everywhere we seem to go lately) she gave us plenty of options off the menu including a golden beet almond salad, greens with sherry vinaigrette and a pistachio asparagus risotto. And although each dish sounded simple, they didn’t taste simple. My favourite were the roast potatoes soaked in a caper garlic sauce that permeated every crevice. And of course, who can forget their world class crisp martinis 🍸 that I’m convinced have healing powers. Especially on a gloomy day like today, Cumulus restored my spirit with warm service, cheery surroundings and deeply satisfying food.

A mother and daughter evening at a venue that she had neen waiting to experience. Hospitality at its finest with the most delectable dishes and incredible staff. A must-visit for anyone coming to Melbourne

Superlative food n fantastic service. They are very attentive n on hand to anticipate any of your needs. Will recommend this as a bucket list item. The only reason why I gave 4 stars for atmosphere was: by the time it was our turn to tour the kitchen, most of the food preparation had finished so there's nothing much to observe. The schedule should be more flexible

The set menu is coherent, celebrating native ingredients. Very innovative. Enjoyed most of the savoury but love the desserts most, especially the soufflé. Probably the best i have ever tasted. Was told the recipe was kept since restaurant opening. Definitely the signature dish! The little tour to open kitchen is a bonus. It is a bit pricey but worthwhile given good food, great ambience and night view.

My partner and I had dinner at Vue de Monde to celebrate our 5th anniversary, and the entire experience was absolutely exceptional from start to finish. It was clear that the team is passionate about every single detail. The food was extraordinary. Each course was a work of art, showcasing innovative combinations and visually stunning presentations that truly highlighted the quality of the ingredients. But what made the evening truly unforgettable was the personal and attentive service. The staff made our celebration feel incredibly special by presenting us with a personalized card signed by the team to commemorate our anniversary. A major highlight was the post-meal tour of their kitchen, where a staff member graciously showed us their operations and answered our questions. It was a fascinating look behind the scenes and a perfect end to the meal. It was a experience made memorable by a team that genuinely cares. Highly recommended for any special occasion.

Highly recommend for any special occasions. The experience starts from the moment you enter the foyer at street level where you are greeted and it continues as you take the lift to the 55th floor. The views are spectacular looking out to Melbourne high above the city at sunset. The wait staff were truly amazing and really did everything to break the mold of robot waiters,they added their own personal touch which was well received. The dining area was spacious and left the experience very intiment. The food was a absolute culinary masterpiece. The flavors and the textures and unique paintings of some foods left an orgasmic explosion in your mouth. We celebrated our 40th birthdays at Vue we made the most perfect choice of restaurants for this momentous occasion. The chefs tour of the kitchen added a whole new element to the experience, With Wealth of knowledge and overall experience every section of the kitchen was explaon in great detail by the Sous Chef who was a very funny yet very professional man. We enjoyed a photo with the chefs and the topped out the experience for us it was beautiful. After this we returned to our table to find beautiful personalized birthday cards signed by the staff. It was truly a night and experience that we will remember forever and pass on the message to as many people as possible. Highly recommended

We celebrated my birthday at Vue de Monde (2 Oct 2025), and the experience was exceptional from start to finish. The team (especially Silvia, Barbara, Mia, and Neil) were outstanding, attentive, intuitive, and genuinely kind. They struck the perfect balance between engagement and giving us space, making the evening feel effortless. From the lobby welcome to our farewell, every interaction was thoughtful and polished. They handled complex allergy requirements with remarkable care, never once making us feel like an inconvenience. Each of the 11 or so courses were perfectly portioned and timed. We had to decline the cheese course as we were so full! Every dish flowed into the next with thoughtful precision, each complementing the previous and what was to come. My highlights included; the garlic and leek tart, wagyu and damper, and the ice cream sandwich. The Million Dollar Baby cocktail was a heavenly must from Lui Bar. This paired with the views made the evening even more memorable. At the end, they presented a handwritten birthday card, which was a beautiful personal touch. It’s those small gestures, paired with flawless service and exceptional food, that make the Vue de Monde team truly world class. We are so grateful to the team for making the night unforgettable, and we will definitely be back.

One of the best restaurants if not the best restaurant in the Southern Hemisphere. From the time we got there till the time I left, the entire experience was amazing. The somm team, the wait staff were just exceptional. Explaining every single dish, element of the restaurant and the the inspiration behind. A special shout out to Raj, for being the absolutely lovely host and to the lovely team Barbie, Nicole, Danny, Ben, PJ, Cody, Maite and Fergus and everyone. (I couldn’t remember everyone’s names). The service, the atmosphere and the food were nothing short of exceptional. It was an absolute pleasure to visit this place and I can’t stress enough to visit it again! Much Love!

The food is perfection and every dish is a work of art - so beautiful and creative and the tableware uses gorgeous natural materials. But it’s the team that work there that make it such a special experience! Our fave part of the night was the kitchen tour and the interactive station with the patisserie chef. Shoutout to Andy for the tour - we loved meeting the team that brings it all to life, like Jack, the apprentice, he was all smiles and full of energy!

Although wasn’t intended to visit as my son just needed to go to the toilets but the manager was very nice and kind so we stayed for lunch after knowing it’s an Asian fusion restaurant. The dishes were amazing. Very well plated and cooked. We had a pleasant time.

This is my second time at this restaurant, and the food is still just as good. We ordered the lobster burgers and sticky rice cakes again, like last time, and also tried some new dishes. I highly recommend the roast pork—it’s perfectly cooked, soft, juicy, and full of flavor. The dumplings, on the other hand, were a bit too plain and not very impressive. The flounder was an interesting surprise for me. It came with a type of Japanese kombu I hadn’t tried before—it looked grey, turned a little slimy when eaten, and had a very strong taste. Personally, I enjoyed it, but I can see how it might not be

***** Supernormal: My Go-To for a Fantastic Night Out! Supernormal is, quite simply, my favorite spot in the city. After five visits, it remains consistently excellent. Everything, from the moment you walk in, is top-notch. The food is always the star, and I can never go past the lamb, it's always incredible, perfectly cooked, and a dish I look forward to every single time. And let's not forget that amazing little complimentary touch: the soy-roasted pumpkin seeds they bring out at the beginning are addictive! Beyond the food, the ambience is buzzing yet comfortable, the service is always great (attentive but never intrusive), and they truly nail the drinks. Their cocktails are inventive and delicious, and the wine selection is broad and thoughtful. Supernormal delivers a fantastic experience across the board. If you're looking for an unforgettable meal and a great time, this is the place. I can't wait for my sixth visit!

My colleague and I had lunch on Saturday, September 27th. We thought it was a very pleasant venue to get together. The menu is somewhat limited, but we didn't worry about it. The quality was great. We had double portions of the Lobster roll ( 2 each), the Duck leg, and the Scallops. Prepare to pay premium prices. We were seated at the counter which isn't convenient for personal conversations. ( hence 4 stars). The staff were very accommodating ( The manager (?) in the black suit and glasses was a typical and a professional host. Compliments to the Sommelier. Delightful wine list and the Medhurst Chardonnay 2024 ( Yarra Valley) was such a great accompaniment with the lobster rolls.

Friday night 5pm no reservation no problem. Grand Final eve so the vibe was great. Excellent Gin Martini served politely and professionally by Jez I think? Snake Bean side excellent, Prawn Toast and Lobster roll A1…. but what brought me to tears literally with some Umami taste stimulated dopamine hit …was a special dish of a Shark Bay WA Scallops. Seaweed butter torched on shell with some sort of Culinary Voodoo inspired seasoning it became immediately the most delicious thing I’ve eaten in decades. We hastily ordered another serve. Having been reviewed weekly in my own hospitality environment I am not prone to thrashing out reviews for reviews sake. Truly exceptional experience food and service.

My partner and I went to supernormal which is a Melbourne institution for Asian fusion. We sat at the bar/open kitchen and its great to see your food being cooked and plated right in front of you. Service and food where on point but in my opinion the dishes are overly sauces. Personally I just find my pallet in over driver after every dish. Don't get me wrong eveything was delicious! Do give this place a try~

Booked for dinner here for two having been a while back as part of a larger group and wanted to share the experience. I'd originally booked a table for 8:15 but managed to move it to a bar sitting at 7:00 which suited much better and the staff were very flexible with helping with that. It's a buzzing place and the one thing we made comment on was that there was just the incredible sound and atmosphere of people chatting and enjoying themselves, without any heavy overbearing music anywhere. Made it very easy to chat and enjoy and discuss everything we were eating. We went for the set menu option 1 so we could try a little of everything and have to say that overall it was outstanding. The only dish that seemed to lack a little in our opinion was the chicken, which unfortunately was the main course, although the selection of dishes we had been served up to then didn't make this a massive disappointment, and in fact we asked for the chicken to be packed to go with us. Desert was a wonderfully decadent dish and the perfect finish. Will definitely be looking to come here again and try a variety of other dishes.

To me, it was very average and overpriced. The music was too loud, it was overcrowded and noisy, not a good place to catch up with friends. The pasta was good but not impressive. They charged $18 for one king prawn, and it was overcooked. The tiramisu was way too rich and sweet. Service was minimal. No one checked on us to see if everything was okay. The staff weren’t very friendly and made us feel like they wanted us gone as soon as possible so they could serve the next customers. I don’t think I’ll be back.

My family and I were in Melbourne for a week and there were no reservations but we were lucky enough to nab a table as a walk in and we were not disappointed. Tipo00 lives up to the hype. We had a great waitress from NZ. The food oh the food. It was faultless. It was delicious. The flavours were incredible. I love this place. The chef's really know what they are doing and that reflects in the dishes. The produce they used was excellent. For such a small kitchen the dishes are superb. This place deserves the excellent reputation it has. Thank you Tipo00. You more than hit the spot x

I love this place for its consistency, always elite service and exceptionally high standards for food. I enjoy trying new restaurants, but I just know I’ll have a great meal every time I go to Tipo 00. It’s a smaller restaurant, so I don’t bring my kids here as the tables are quite close together, but that actually adds to the cosy, intimate atmosphere. The squid ink pasta is divine, and the octopus was perfectly cooked. The dessert was decadent without being too rich, the perfect end to a meal. Their Negroni is always spot on, and the staff never disappoint. It’s super easy to get to in the CBD, great if you’re visiting Melbourne and staying nearby. For locals, street parking can be tricky, so I’d recommend using Melbourne Central or another nearby parking garage and walking down. I’ve also had a ceviche here (I think it was kingfish?) that was wonderful. Highly recommend this spot, a true Melbourne gem!

Tipo 00 had been on my list for quite some time, and with how busy it gets, booking in advance is definitely required. It’s known as a true institution of Italian dining in Melbourne, and overall, it lived up to its reputation. We ordered five dishes plus the complimentary focaccia. Complimentary Focaccia (4.5/5) – I didn’t expect much since it was complimentary, but it was fantastic. Served warm, with a pesto and cheese combination that worked beautifully together. Simple but so well done; I’ll definitely be recreating that at home. Tuna Crudo (1/5) – This was on the specials menu, and we decided to try it out. The price wasn’t mentioned, but it turned out to be around $60 (if I remember correctly) for six small pieces, roughly $10 each. The dish itself was very average, nothing out of the ordinary, and definitely not worth the price. Felt like a bit of a rort, to be honest. Grilled Ox Tongue (3.5/5) – As a big fan of ox tongue, I had to try it. Unfortunately, it was just okay. The thinly folded slices lacked that chewy texture I enjoy, and the sauce was a little overpowering, masking the natural beef flavour. Linguine with Moreton Bay Bug (4/5) – The linguine was spot on; perfect texture and bite. The sauce was rich and full of flavour, though I would’ve preferred the bug served in its shell for presentation and juiciness. Some pieces were a little dry from being mixed into the pasta, but still very tasty overall. Pappardelle with Braised Duck (4.5/5) – The standout of the night. The pasta was beautifully al dente and clung perfectly to the sauce. The duck was tender, and the porcini added great depth of flavour. Tipomisu (3.5/5) – Tipo’s version of tiramisu was enjoyable but overly sweet. The chocolate overpowered the coffee flavour, and I think a bit more mascarpone would have balanced it better. Overall, Tipo 00 delivered on quality and craftsmanship with a few standout dishes, but also a few misses. Despite the disappointing crudo, I’d still come back for their pastas and that focaccia.

Tipo 00 deserves a 5 out of 5 rating for an exceptional dining experience. To start, I ordered the Lingua (ox tongue, balsamic & pink peppercorn), which was rich and flavorful. For the main course, the Tagliolini al nero (squid ink tagliolini, squid and bottarga) was perfectly cooked with a delightful depth of taste. We also tried the daily special, sea urchin and abalone spaghetti, and were thrilled by the freshness of the seafood. A tip for fellow visitors: there is often a queue outside the bistro about 15 minutes before it opens at 11:30am. It’s wise to either make a reservation (deposit required) or arrive early for a chance at a walk-in table.

The staff are professional yet warm and welcoming. All of my allergies are catered too without any hesitation, which is huge given I am a Celiac and anaphylactic to nuts. The pasta is delicious. Always on my to visit list when we go to Melbourne.

Tessa is AMAZING 🤩! We had such a brilliant time with DIVINE food ( well worth the wait as I had missed out dining here previously), urban service & spectacular company! EVERY dish delivered moorish praise. I can’t wait to come back! Thank you so much Tessa for reading our table impeccably! So fabulous to have such an engaging & efficient server .. from Ex-Hospo peeps U Rock 🤘🏽!

Our waiter didn’t take our order correctly, so we missed out on one of the dishes we really wanted to try. We also felt the service was quite rude at times. That said, the steak with mushroom sauce was delicious! The white wine mussels and shredded duck were also really good, but very salty (which, judging by other reviews, might be a recurring issue). The Crème Caramel was a bit average and underwhelming. The atmosphere is lively and the menu is huge — lots of interesting dishes to explore. I’m open to coming back to try more — hopefully with friendlier service and a bit more balanced seasoning.

The true definition of a Melbourne institution. I’ve only ever heard people rave about this place — and after dining here, I completely understand why it’s been thriving for over 40 years. What’s already charming is that bookings are only taken over the phone — no online reservations — which adds to its old-school appeal. The moment you walk in, you can feel the buzz. The atmosphere is electric yet classic — white tablecloths, mirrored walls with menus and specials written across them, and a retro bar greeting you at the entrance. The waiters, dressed in crisp black and white, move gracefully through the space, creating a seamless dining experience. Service was exceptional — attentive, fast, and friendly throughout the night. The food was absolutely exquisite. We started with a dozen oysters, mussels in white wine and cream, and the house-made pork sausage with mustard sauce — all perfection. For mains, we had the Entrecôte, cooked to perfection and served with fries, salad, and our choice of sauce. The portion size was generous, the quality outstanding, and at $53, incredible value. We paired our meal with cocktails followed by a bottle of rosé — the perfect match. France-Soir is one of those restaurants that stays with you long after you’ve left. A place I’ll always come back to and dream about returning to. It’s fun, timeless, and everything you want from a classic French dining experience. I hope it continues to shine in Melbourne for decades to come.

A hidden gem serving French cuisine. Its quite packed and always crowded, best to make a booking. Friendly staff. Food was served quick. The escargot was delicious. They serve excellent bread as well. Duck was cooked nicely. Chips were crispy. Steak was good, wished it was a bigger portion. The dessert was exceptional. Pear tart was amazing, chocolate mousse was rich.

I had an absolute fantastic night, no words can describe the time I had at France soir, Milan our waiter was caring and took time to make our night so special! John, Cedric, Justin and Gaspard did their part beautifully! Can’t wait to come back to our own little France here in Melbourne!

There is a reason that this is a beloved Melbourne institution, the food is delicious. The service is quick, attentive and friendly, the wine list is extensive. I love the steak tartare its perfect, the escargot is tender and packed with garlic, sopping up that butter with the fresh warm bread a delight. I had the rabbit special which was rich and moreish and the profiteroles were an obscenely generous serving.

Have been coming here for more than 30 years. Never ever been disappointed. It's a classic French bistro with bluntly a very extensive menu. There are moderately priced wines and shall we say more expensive ones so if you think the wine is overpriced choose something lesser.. What to order? Anything! But I need the steak au pouivre at least once a year. Been coming so long never had a disappointment. And the rude staff thing is something I have never experienced. It's just so good

Very nice French experience with waiters speaking in French and very attentive. Food was excellent. We had entree, main and dessert and everything was delicious and delivered in a timely fashion

Attica was a very special experience. It was more than just a meal, it was more of an experience, where you are taken on a journey through their meals. The service was spot on, allowing ample time to enjoy each meal and rest in between. The meals were impeccable, they took extra care to ask about my dietary requirements, ensuring to clarify each meal was allowed for and I didn't feel I missed out at all as they simply modified the meal so I could still enjoy the full experience. I would highly recommend it you are seeking a special meal out.

First time dining at Attica, loved every minute of it. Love that it was able to accommodate a celiac (not all fine dining even at an equivalent price point do) wait staff very attentive and knowledgeable. Only regret is not remembering to take a photograph of the lasagna dish. If I had to offer a critique (really splitting hairs) it maybe had a bit too many other diners but 1) I dined on a Friday and 2) even so not enough that it impacted my enjoyment that I would not want to come again.

After trying to get a table for a long time, my partner managed to get one for us for my birthday. We could not have had a better experience. The staff were very welcoming and knowledgeable and attentive. The food was amazing and lived up to everything I had heard. I would love to have a bag of the saltbush, while we love everything the stand out dishes were the lasagne and marron. While it is not a cheap dinner, it was definitely worth the price. I look forward to returning in the future.

What an unforgettable experience at @atticamelbourne. Every course felt like a love letter to Australian produce — delicate, deeply considered, and bursting with flavour. The way they hero local ingredients, especially those inspired by and honouring First Nations food traditions, is truly something special. The service was nothing short of impeccable — warm, intuitive, and deeply passionate. You can feel how much heart goes into every plate, every pairing, every story shared across the table. It’s more than just dining; it’s storytelling through food. A celebration of Australia — its land, its people, its spirit. Absolutely world-class.

Recommended by a chef friend from Singapore, I had high expectations — and Attica more than delivered! The opening snacks were exceptional, setting the tone for a meal which is full of surprises — including some adventurous native proteins (I'll keep it a secret!). A highlight was the visit to their kitchen garden, where we enjoyed fresh Tasmanian mushrooms — such a thoughtful and unique touch with apple juice too :) The entire evening lasted around three hours, but it never felt long — each course brought something new and engaging. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere felt both relaxed and refined. If you're in Melbourne, Attica is absolutely worth a stop. You'll leave full, inspired, and with a deeper appreciation for Australian ingredients. Huge thanks to the team!

Venison-like Crocodile fillet, kangaroo meat, ants 🐜 deserts … all these ingredients are original from Australian and hard to find in other counties. Attica is the one must try in Melbourne for foodies and those curious about trying new types of dishes.

3rd time back and Attica did not disappoint. They delivered an unforgettable dining experience that exceeded all expectations. The food was simply phenomenal — creative, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavour in every course. The service was warm, attentive, and seamless throughout the night, striking the perfect balance between professionalism and genuine hospitality. The ambiance was intimate and inviting, creating the ideal setting for a special celebration. We were there to mark a 70th birthday, and the team went above and beyond to make it feel truly personal and memorable. Every detail felt considered, and we couldn't have asked for a better evening.

Went here and greeted by friendly, smiley staffs. The place is clean and well spaced seatings. There’s 2 private rooms with tatami mats for private groups. Service is quick, food and drinks menu easy to understand. We had the sukiyaki and was cooked on our table by a very helpful staff. It was perfect for winters cold weather and it was really yummy. The beef slices and vegetables were well presented and generous servings and reasonably priced. This is place is easy to get to by tram from Flinders or a 10 min walk from Bourke’s on 86 or 96 from Russell st. Wheelchair and pram friendly with ramp outside.

We always come here for the sukiyaki — it’s authentic, consistent, and never disappoints. Service is great too. Perfect spot in winter, especially for small groups of up to four. Other dishes are fine, but the sukiyaki is definitely the star.

Kenzan has been on my radar for a while — I’d heard a lot of good things from CBD locals, so I finally went in to see what it was about. For me, the sushi and sashimi were the highlights. Super fresh, clean flavours, and definitely the standout of the night. The cold appetisers/entrees leaned a bit too sweet for my taste, but the chawanmushi (custard egg) and miso soup were both excellent. From the mains, I tried the chicken teriyaki, steak, and eel on rice — all cooked well, enjoyable, but nothing particularly memorable. At around $40 per main, the pricing felt a little on the high side. Overall, it’s a place that’s hard to fault. Everything was prepared properly, service was smooth, and the sashimi alone makes it worth a visit. A solid experience across the board.

The Unajyu was delicious, with no fishy taste, and the sauce and rice complemented each other perfectly. The lunch set bento, Korin and Kenzan Gozen were also great both options were served neatly, and the tempura was crispy and well done. However, the Gyu Teriyaki was not special and didn’t quite meet my expectations. What was most disappointing, though, was the SUSHI & SASHIMI COMBINATION with miso soup. It was the least impressive I’ve had at a Japanese restaurant. Since I went during lunchtime, the sashimi slices were uneven in size, and it felt like a beginner had cut them. That said, the staff were friendly, which I appreciated. I would recommend this place if you’re looking for something other than sushi and sashimi.

Kenzan continues to live up to its reputation as one of Melbourne’s most enduring and authentic Japanese dining experiences. The quality of the food and service is consistently outstanding, making it a go-to for traditional Japanese cuisine. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and the *deluxe sashimi platter* was a true standout – beautifully presented with melt-in-your-mouth textures and clean, delicate flavours. The butterfish was a particular highlight, silky and rich with just the right balance. Also loved the steak, which was perfectly cooked and packed with flavour – a great complement to the lighter seafood dishes. Kenzan delivers on every level: premium quality, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that reflects its deep roots in Melbourne’s dining scene. A must-visit for anyone craving authentic, high-quality Japanese food.

Great service and very good atmosphere, food was nothing extraordinary just what you would expect from quite typical Japanese crusine dishes. The dessert was really well done matcha brûlées was top tier, the yuzu mousse was nice too if you prefer very sweet dessert the teriyaki beef felt too dry and the sauce kind of ruins the good steak for me, if you prefer Western style perhaps its not the one.

Organised a surprise birthday party for my partner and her closest friends. We booked the private dining tatami style room and it was absolutely gorgeous and gave the very luxury vibe that allowed our group to enjoy our meaningful time together. All the staff were very accomodating and welcoming, I am genuinely so impressed with the food and the hospitality. 10/10 would recommend to anyone! The banquet food option was delicious! And the sake was absolutely wonderful. Thank you Kenzan Japanese Restaurant

Favourite wine bar where you can sit outdoors and people watch in the bustling Hardware Lane or cosy it up indoors with a glass of Nebbiolo. Arguably also the best wine bar fries in Melbourne. Crunchy on the outside but soft on the inside.

Lovely wine bar with tasty food and warm service! The ambiance is super cute especially outside on a sunny evening. Service was also super helpful and friendly. Onto the food - lots of interesting dishes on the menu, and I thought all of them were tasty but not outstanding. The thing that was outstanding was probably the chips - they were soooooo good. Would be back for drinks and chips and for the vibes, but not in a rush go back for dinner!

RECEIPT No. 2. Kirk’s Wine Bar, Melbourne (A RETURN, observed) There was a time I came here every week. Just me, a bar seat, a sketchbook, something simple and lovely on a plate. I’d order a drink, watch the bar staff work with elegance and ease, and draw whatever felt true. I always left feeling more like myself. Last night, I brought Sam. It was a surprise, he didn’t know where we were going, just that we were going out. I booked us an Uber there and back. He said no one had ever done that for him before. The night was my thank you to him. For every meal he made while I worked on my 75 illustrations. For all the quiet support, the warmth, the steadiness. I wanted to take him somewhere that meant something to me, and now, to us. We arrived just after 5pm, early enough to beat the no-booking crowd. Even so, the place was already buzzing, a rainy, cold night, but still full. We got lucky with a window seat. We started with two Negronis and asked the waitress what the most “Kirk’s” dish was. She named it without pause. (We ordered it, of course, and shared everything, as always.) There was steak frites with café de Paris butter, thick house-made chips, a green leaf salad dressed with dijon and bright grapefruit. And for dessert: two affogatos, one with amaretto, one with frangelico, soft, sweet, and just the right ending. The whole evening felt like a gentle collage of our travels and rituals, Milan and Paris, folded into one small window seat in Melbourne. Familiar food, thoughtful service, soft lighting, and the sound of a wine bar alive with conversation, just tucked off a laneway in the city. A treat, a thank you, a soft celebration. The total: $200. Almost exactly what we’d spent at Marmelo the week before. Coincidence, or just what good dinners cost when they mean something? wine bar: a favourite returned to chips: fat, golden, made in-house affogato: shared, spiked, softly celebratory total: $200, still worth every cent More @thejulietreport

Whenever I’m in Melbourne, I always make a point of stopping by for a drink and a bite to eat. A couple of days ago, my sister and I chose to sit outside, even with the rain about, and we still had a wonderful time. The wine was excellent, the chips were more than we could possibly finish, and we loved watching the bustle of pedestrians trying to stay dry. With the help of a very attentive and lovely waitress, we were able to shift our table slightly to dodge the rain, which made the experience all the more memorable.

Enjoyed a bottle of wine with a few bites at Kirk’s. Really enjoyed the extensive wine menu and their unique bites to eat. Servers were great as well.

My friend recommended this place for its pasta of the day. When we visited, there were two options, so we ordered one of each. The King prawn pasta was too salty, which made it quite disappointing. It would go well with wine, but I think it would be much better if it were less salty. The lamb pasta was quite greasy, but it didn’t have any bad smell, and the sauce was nice. I’m not really a wine person, but I ended up having two glasses because they were really good. And the staff were really, really nice, so it became a very good memory for me.

The perfect weekly lunch spot to catch up with friends and have a glass of wine. I really admired Kirk’s and its concept. It reminds me a lot of what Melbourne is about. It’s hidden situated on the corner of Hardware lane, with indoor and outdoor seating. We sat inside because of the weather but it was honestly such a beautiful space to sit in, very bright and open. We ordered a few dishes to share and 4 dishes between the 3 of us was the perfect amount of food to fill us up. I ordered one of the skin contact wines which paired perfectly with the food. The staff as well were very attentive and food came out very quickly.

Everything was good. The standout dishes were definitely the focaccia and the anchovy on toast. The burger was pretty good as well. I was recommended the seafood pie, but it wasn't really to my taste. The steak was alright, but I wouldn't be in a hurry to order it again. The starters are definitely a great choice here.

Half a Chook Tuesday We went along to the special night and were presented with a beautifully cooked chook that was tender and had flavour. Considering the number of people that also rolled up this was a credit to the staff. The service friendly and atmosphere a bit rowdy but thoroughly enjoyable! How else would you like your pub?! It was busy so I suggest you book. Thank you for a lovely experience.

This is one of Melbourne’s best gastro pubs. It’s lively, has outdoor seating, a pub bar area and a proper restaurant with excellent staff and fabulous food. Many includes steaks, roast chicken, loads of entrees and creative desserts. Great for families and groups or couples. Just a great night out. There is a bar snack menu with croquettes, fried chickpeas whipped cod roe and more. Excellent wines by the glass as well as by the bottle.

You would never guess how nice it is inside. The place was super busy for a Wednesday night. Loved the whole setting. We were well looked after. We ordered a rump steak which was cooked to perfection, and the Guinness beef pie. We will be back!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We had a wonderful kid-free night at the Builders Arms Hotel! From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the service was exceptional. A big shout-out to Nisha, who went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect – from our drinks to our meals, she made us feel so well taken care of, and we really appreciated her extra effort. Hubby loved his seafood pie, and my wagyu steak was absolutely delicious. The food, drinks, and overall vibe made for a perfect date night. Highly recommend for anyone looking for great food, amazing service, and a lovely evening out.

A lovely dinner at Builders Arms. We were greeted warmly by the staff there and could not commend the service any more. Food was delicious - highly recommend the beef pie!

Great Food ( quite expensive ) Service for our table was almost zero .. we were served no cutlery even when we had the food on the table and .. no water .. we had to grab by ourselves .. main dishes was served very late in 40 minutes wait .. but the entree came straight away 🥧Fish pie was delicious but the fish was cooked sooooooooooooooooooooo much to the point it was extremely hard to chew Chicken shnitzel was very nice Salad was very nice

Positives - The vibes in the restaurant were fairly good, though a bit noisy. - The service was very good, and food arrived relatively quickly. - I also really appreciate that you can order half serves of the food and wine - which allows you to try a wider variety. - great value - My favourite dish was the stracciatella foccacia Negatives - the wagyu intercostal skewers, while tender, were burnt and bitter on the outside - 2 of our 5 mussels were not debearded properly

Been here a couple of times before but first time for dinner. The kitchen maintained a solid performance throughout and the food was very delicious. The wine list was also extensive and the somm was very knowledgeable to help me chose my wine. The only let down was the service could have been more efficient as it took a long while to be served throughout the night.

Octopus with sobrasada and stracciatella with potato focaccia both to die for - recommend ⭐⭐!! Fried potatoes also fantastic. Umeboshu spritz 🍹- not so great, prosecco/soda tasted flat and drink was very bland I found the wagyu dish had too much going on - both bordelaise and pisto were sweet and didnt complement the steak. The taste on the green puree accompanying the pork scotch reminded me of the smells when walking through the fridge section of an Asian supermarket - give it a try and see if you can taste this too! Service great and great that you can get half portions of some dishes.

We absolutely loved the food. My partner who loves pasta was smitten with the Pipe Rigate and I have to say I loved it as well. The Wagyu was fantastic and the other dishes were all great. We had some unusual wines which were nice for something new. But the food was by far the winner.

My absolute favourite, it is always such a treat to come to Carlton wine room. I have been here 5-6 times now and absolutely adore the food, the staff and their impeccable service and this venue. The oysters were 10/10, so fresh and delicious. I usually hate anchovies but the anchovy fried bread is stunning and I order it every single time! The octopus with Nduja transports me to a Spanish tapas bar, the pickled fennel and thyme? add such a delicious flavour pop. The olives in the dish are the best I’ve ever eaten. The duck and pork croquette is such a rich, comforting starter and the sauce is unexpected and unique but pairs so beautifully. The pickled mushroom straciatella is incredible and a must have I will say I the only criticism I have was the focaccia was a bit different this time, not as flavourful, quite bland. The rump cap for main and fried potatoes are my absolute favourite. I do have to venture out and try something different next time! The wagyu rump cap is cooked to perfection, it absolutely melts in your mouth and is nicer than any $250+ steak that I’ve had elsewhere. Pairing it with the spring pesto and smoked greens that it comes with take it to a whole new level. I appreciate the little variations to this dish depending on the season. A touch of flaky salt on top of the meat at the end would have been great but nonetheless still perfect. The fried potatoes are the best potatoes you will ever have! I will just say the portion size could be adjusted for couples, the bowl is HUGE and no matter how hard we try we can never finish them and feel horrible wasting them. Even when you’re too full for dessert they still manage to make you feel special on your birthday by bringing out a chocolate truffle and candle. Thank you! The menu is impeccable, the service is the best I’ve had in Melbourne. The staff are lovely, calm and collected. Every staff member seems to know what’s going on even when they’re not in the room the service from start to finish runs so smoothly. And THANK YOU for bringing out the seafood starters first and then bringing out the meat/heavier items. I ate at an extremely expensive fine dining restaurant recently where all of our starters/entrees seafood and meat were all mixed in times of arrival and it ruined the experience. Something that seems so simple makes such a difference. Carlton wine room just gets everything right every single time. PSA if you are planning on dining at CWR and driving, allow yourself extra time for parking as it is a nightmare! Took me over half an hour to find a spot on Wednesday night, even the nearby parking garage was full and most parking is permit only.

Mixed feelings about this place! Initially I was super excited to pay them a visit as I’ve been hearing about them for quite sometime now. The space is small with limited seating which made it feel cosy. The menu isn’t huge but has nice variety of food to fit everyone’s tastes buds. We had few sharing players of Oysters, Anchovey on toast, lettuce salad, calamari & beetroot in chared yoghurt. The food was ok, nothing super special about it. You could get the same dishes with nicer flavors elsewhere. What disappointed us was that we were asked to leave our table exactly 2 hours after dinning & the staff kept reminding us every while that they need the table at 7:30. We’ve asked to move to a high table as we weren’t done yet & after taking sometime they have moved us but again the team weren’t happy that we haven’t ordered more food or drinks n one of the staff got us the cheque to settle it & leave. It wasn’t a polite action to get us out of the door by bringing the cheque although we haven’t asked for it. Again nothing special so I won’t be coming back here

Great dining experience overall. The service was attentive and friendly from start to finish, and the staff made us feel well looked after. There’s a solid selection of wine, with a few interesting picks that pair nicely with the menu. The atmosphere strikes a nice balance — it’s relaxed and comfortable, but still holds onto that refined, slightly posh vibe that makes it feel special without being stuffy. The food was very good — beautifully presented and full of flavour. A couple of dishes could’ve been a touch more memorable, which is the only reason I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5. But everything we ordered was enjoyable and well-executed. Would definitely come back, and happy to recommend it to others looking for a classy but approachable spot.

Wonderful service from the start till the end. Flavours were spot-on and the cucumber snack was definitely a highlight - mostly hits and no misses! Was celebrating my birthday as a solo diner and really appreciated all the small gestures and compliments that were generously provided during my meal. Kudos to the team!

Very tasty, though pricey, dinner! Came for dinner before a show with some friends & sat at the bar. Nice intimate vibe, though a little squishy. Food was amazing! I’d say for sure on the pricy end for how much you get - but can’t fault the flavours. Service was great & as a gf girly they offered great swap out for me, even with sharing plates. Special mention to the cucumber starter - it was insanleyyyy good! The scallops were also amazing. Peaking duck, of course incredible and the lamb was the absolute standout for us, so perfectly cooked, we lost our minds. Dumplings were fine, I’d give them a miss and try something else. Worth a visit for a special occasion!

I would travel far and wide to taste the sweet, crispy and wonderfully sticky eggplant, the intimate and mood lit dining room where we travelled through a delicious series of dishes that were impeccable! I loved everything about this place, from the copious cups of fresh tea, strawberries and pork and Peking duck. Continuing onto desserts which were all so wonderfully cleansing! I have now joined the list of people who’s favourite dining experience is Lee Ho Fook because let’s face it, after that I don’t think I would be the only one! I cannot wait to come back

Went here for the restaurant's 10 year anniversary for a nice date night, but had to wait 20 minutes to be seated even with a booking. Servers were not proactive in attending to us when we got in. Must admit, the food was incredible and really took us on a journey which brings my rating up. One of the servers was quite nice, he gave us some tea to take home and offered to take a picture of me and my partner. So the experience ended in a positive way. Hopefully won't have as long of a wait if I go on a different night. Would still recommend you try it just for the food

Dined here two months ago for their one night special dinner celebrating 10 years at the CBD location. The menu included 16 popular dishes from 2015-2025 served over seven courses. I was seated at the counter where all the action was happening which was nice. Most of the dishes were very tasty, you get to experience so many flavour and texture combinations and spices. The amount of food was just right. Favourites were the pickled mussel, baby cucumber with cashew cream, prawn cutlet, scallop with silken tofu, crispy eggplant, wagyu beef with black pepper sauce, and both the desserts. Also service was great; staffs were friendly and attentive, and pacing of the course was good considering how busy it was.

This was SENSATIONAL !! The best dinner I’ve had in Melbourne, completely and totally in love with how simple everything was, simple is hard to do well as there is no room for error. This was 10/10 in every sense, I loved the tea pairing with the food - a wonderful point of difference. Wow, wow, wow, I cannot wait to be back 🦆 I’ll be dreaming of crispy eggplant until that day !

One of the best dining experiences I’ve had in a while — absolutely worth it. The Peking duck was incredible with perfectly crispy skin, and the toothfish was light, delicate, and delicious. We enjoyed our date night here on a Wednesday, and the bonus of BYO with no corkage made it even better though we ended up spending 350+ because the food is sooooo delicious! We feel so lucky to have discovered this gem

I was here for at least 3 times over a week during my holidays here in late July. That explains how good the pastry here is. Tasted almost everything that is offered here. Price is on the high side, but the quality made it up. This cafe is a bit small, more suitable for takeaway or a quick bite before you move on. There is road side parking just right in front of the cafe so it is very convenient for those who drives.

Finally tried Lune as I’m usually buying from Agathe or South Melbourne bakery. We tried a few and the quality is good, crunchy and soft. Our favourite was the ham and cheese, absolutely delicious. Always wondered about the line every weekend and then we saw how small it is on the inside. Quality might have something to do with it too. They’re expensive but what isn’t these days. Service was excellent. Thank you 🙏

A famous croissant shop in Australia — today I finally got to try the Melbourne branch! Luckily, the queue wasn’t too long. The croissants were delicious and lived up to their reputation — perfectly crisp and flaky. If you love that crunchy texture, you’ll probably enjoy these. Personally, I think if the line were much longer, it might not feel that worth the wait, but the quality is definitely good. The prices are on the higher side, though still reasonable given the large portion size. My favorite was the original, while the almond one was also nice. I also tried the chocolate but found it just okay — the lemon one, however, was really well done! 🥐🍋

I finally had the chance to visit this place, and what I loved most were the coffee and the fresh, delicious pastries. There's not much else to say—it's a small, mostly takeaway spot. I wasn't actually aware of that beforehand, which was a bit of a surprise 😅. The place has a minimalist vibe, and I really appreciated how the menu was displayed on the table—very easy and thoughtful. I guess I was expecting a coffee shop with tables and chairs but overall, the coffee and pastries were fantastic. It was quite a busy spot, but that just shows how popular it is!

I usually am pretty forgiving in reviews but with such a famous establishment I am sad to say it was…meh. I went with a group of 5 people, one of them was me. Two of them got coffee, I asked one to write what they thought of it and they wrote “With a lack of coffee milk options and an extraction that tastes sour despite being based on good Ona beans, it feels like Lune needs to focus on good coffee to pair with their excellent pastries.” To sum it up in their words ”the coffee was shit”. Some would say that Lune is about the pastries and not the coffee and I agree, I am sad to say the pastries were meh. My friend said it wasn’t worth it and I have to agree. At an average of $6 to $8 a pastry, they felt more created to look nice than taste good. In fact I would say they rely on looks, from the ridiculous lines, them making the pastries in front of you and of course the beautiful looking pastries.

The service at Lune was great, the staff were very friendly and welcoming. The croissants are definitely on the pricier side, and I would have liked the option to have them toasted given the cost. That said, I understand it’s a very busy spot so it might not be practical. Seating would have been nice, though I do appreciate the unique standing experience they offer. The option of sparkling and still water on tap is a great touch. We ordered two almond croissants, which were beautifully made and clearly high quality, but overall I’m not sure they fully justified the price.

Ordered an almond and classic crossiant. Almond is a 5 on 5. Flaky, perfect amount of sweetness and good taste of almond. The classic crossiant was a 3 out of 5. A little soggy for my liking. People who like crossaint on the more flaky and crispy end, might not like it. Sorry I was so excited, I ate it first and then took the pictures 😂

Having a early lunch, order signature boat beef noodles, but there was some pork in my soup just wonder if it’s normal, taste still good, but what I have in Sydney city for $6 something would be no different. And then I order pork belly was very disappointed for the taste and tastier: it’s cold and hard no good deep fried pork skin smell, hard to chew, meat part are not tender and feel powdery should be thinner slice.

I went to this restaurant on Friday around 8 PM and waited about half an hour for a table. The food was amazing, tasting just like in Thailand. They even have authentic tuk-tuk decorations inside. The restaurant was quite busy with lots of customers and staff, but it added to the lively atmosphere. The restroom inside is very spacious. The menu is diverse, mostly focusing on Isaan dishes.

Food was very good but the Thai food scene in Melbourne is so good these days that it didn’t wow me as much as I hoped it would. But it was still good and worth another visit. I wished the prices were a bit better for the portion size though. Atmosphere is 10/10. I felt like I was in Thailand. Service is also really good and despite there usually being a line, it moves at a decent pace.

Typical Asian restaurant, service isn't a priority, which is absolutely fine. The food is EXCELLENT. Had the raw shrimp salad, fried intestines and ox tongue. The shrimp was super fresh and the salad sauce was not fishy. Ox tongue is superlative! Grilled to tender perfection and went well with the flaked salt and crushed garlic condiments. Fried intestines were also crunchy and fresh. Would definitely return if I go to Melbourne again.

I just LOVE this place so much. The food tastes so good and the service is really quick. I also liked the atmosphere because it had a tuktuk and street food stalls as their paying counter which I found was very creative. If you ever visit Melbourne CBD you should definitely try Soi 38!!

I ordered beef boat noodle. it was standard for me. My brother ordered tom yam noodle, he likes it. He came twice just to eat the same dishes. The beef ball was ok, the coffee was standard, I prefer Vietnamese one. Overall ok

A cool little place down the alley, has alot of potential but sadly the crispy pork and crying tiger were very dry and had no hint of moisture. The prawn entree was great though, plenty of flavour. Overall had potential to be good but didnt hit the mark. Have had alot better in the city.

Went to MoVida expecting one of Melbourne’s top-tier tapas experiences, but honestly the food just didn’t hit the spot for me. I wasn’t drinking that night, which maybe plays a role (perhaps the flavours pair better with alcohol), but a lot of the dishes leaned overly sweet or unbalanced. The anchovy dish went from a nice salty crunch to being topped with something that felt like ice cream sorbet — and for me, it just didn’t work. The bug paella/risotto was either too salty or too sweet depending on the bite, and I really wished it had more rice to ground it. A few of the other dishes felt similar — beef, potato, little biscuit-type things — textures and flavours that leaned far too sweet for my liking. On the flip side, there were a few highlights. The croquettes were the clear standout — the butter corn one was delicious, and the special brisket croquette was bloody amazing. The tasting meat plate was also a winner — simple, clean, and exactly what you want without being overworked. But beyond that, the O’Connor steak was just okay (faint in flavour), and the ox tongue, while dressed nicely, was far too chewy with little distinct taste. Service was excellent — friendly, attentive, and professional. Just a shame that for me, the food missed the balance and depth I was hoping for. The churros were great at least, but the cheese and biscuits felt overcomplicated — too many random toppings and textures that distracted from what should’ve just been good quality cheese and crackers.

MoVida is a truly delicious and exciting place, offering a creative take on Spanish cuisine with a wide variety of dishes to explore. Almost everything we tried was outstanding. The goat with cheese was an absolute masterpiece — rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. The pork neck was also excellent, tender and packed with taste. The octopus sausage was on the heavier side and quite greasy, but still enjoyable. The tapas here are unique and full of character, definitely different from the usual offerings you find elsewhere. The only real letdown was the scallop — it was burnt and ended up dry, which was disappointing compared to the otherwise high standard of the food. Service, however, left something to be desired. One of the waiters who served us was abrupt, condescending, and even tried to tell me how I should be eating my food and what to pair it with. That kind of attitude is simply unacceptable in a place of this caliber and definitely took away from the overall experience. In short, the food is fantastic, creative, and mostly unforgettable — but the service needs improvement. For that, I’d take off one star.

What a restaurant! We tried a few of the tapas, and all of them were excellent. You can tell that each dish is made with great care and attention to the ingredients. We had a wagyu croqueta from the specials menu that was top-notch, as well as the black paella with calamares — both were fantastic. They also have a great drink list with some excellent spanish wines and great sangria. Service from Liza could have been better and we appreciated her recommendation to visit MoVida next door. We ended up going two days after. Overall, I highly recommend this place!

Food is good and there are some creative tapas dishes but not cheap. It’s nice to pay a visit to this restaurant as the ambience is great. I will definitely skip the beef cheek since it’s quite dry if I go there again.

Behind graffiti walls and wine bottles in windows we found this lovely Spanish style tapas restaurant. Really nice atmosphere, super friendly staff and very well composed dishes. We asked the waiter to just surprise us and we t was marvellous.

Over ate, over indulged in everything from entree through the main dishes. All shared like good food should. The tapas were so good, we have gone to heaven. Must visit institution if you visit Melbourne.

The most phenomenal place for Spanish food in Melbourne, hands down. It's very much an institution and I would most definitely come back. The lions mane is okay but everything else is incredible and a massive hit!

We visited Queen Victoria Market and had a great experience. It’s a fantastic place to buy fresh food, from fruits and vegetables to seafood and meats, with so many options to choose from. We also enjoyed shopping around the market — there are plenty of stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, and local products. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, making it a fun spot to explore for both tourists and locals. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Melbourne!

Melbourne’s must-visit spots! The place is always full of energy, with friendly vendors, fresh produce, local products, and delicious food stalls. I loved exploring the variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs to cheeses, meats, and hot meals. The atmosphere feels lively yet relaxed, and the people are welcoming. It’s a great spot for both locals and tourists to experience a true taste of Melbourne’s culture. Definitely worth spending a few hours wandering around!

I always look forward in visiting this place every time we're in the city! I love the Victoria market for its fresh fruits, seafoods, coffee. They also have different restaurant inside and at the back. I also bought shirts here for my nieces. They have markets for random stuffs. My most favourite area is the seafood place where all fresh seafood is in display. The prices of the oysters here is a bargain and it is very fresh. I highly recommend this place and I look forward to visiting again.

It was my first time in Melbourne, and my husband was keen to take me to the Queen Victoria Market. From 6 in the morning until 12:30, we spent the whole day exploring the market. I was absolutely thrilled by the seafood section and amazed by the incredible variety at the cheese market. The whole experience was simply amazing!

As a tourist, i find this place facinating and unique. The old design in some part of the market is really amazing, not to mention their products too... Cold cuts, cheese, coffee, breads all looks inviting. Their fresh products also amazing. And in the clothing & souvenirs section... Heaven!!! I really enjoy eating fresh oysters, mussel and american doughnuts too. Will visit again next time

We spent most of our time exploring the vegetable/fruit and seafood sections. This is a great market to purchase both raw and prepared seafood directly from the vendors. A wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables are available, depending on the time of your visit.

A massive, sheltered market with a wide variety of offerings. I came mainly for the hot jam doughnuts and mussels, but the market has so much more, fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheeses, souvenirs, clothing, photos, and all sorts of specialty goods. It’s a vibrant place full of sights, smells, and flavors, perfect for wandering, grabbing a bite, and picking up something unique. Whether you’re after food, gifts, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere, there’s plenty to explore! 🛍️🍩🦪

Stalactites is one of Melbourne’s must-try Greek restaurants, right in the heart of the city on Swanston Street. We gathered as a group for late dinner— the souvlaki and chips were the highlights! The meat was tender and full of flavour, and the chips were perfectly crispy and seasoned just right. The staff were friendly and attentive, even though the place was quite busy. The service felt genuine and welcoming. The atmosphere is lively but still comfortable, with that classic Greek taverna feel. What I love most is that it’s open late, perfect for a quick dinner after a night out or when you’re craving something satisfying in the city. It’s also family-friendly and ideal for groups or solo diners. Highly recommend Stalactites for anyone looking for authentic Greek food in Melbourne CBD — great food, great people, and great vibes.

This place is highly recommended for an excellent reason! Very delicious, fresh food! The chips are the best chips I’ve had in Aus! They serve coeliac accredited gluten free options, so you can completely relax and enjoy your pita! The staff were very friendly, despite being really busy. I agree with the other reviews - highly recommend!

Although the prices kept on going up...but the food quality and quantity remains. Soulavkis are my all time fave. Always a messy event eating them. But how much and for how long will the prices keep going up? And at which point will I stop? I do not know. Enjoying it while it is still affordable.

Great food and fast service. The Mix Souvlaki is my go to followed by the Eggplant Dip. I feel like the don’t serve enough pita bread with the dip and when ordering the dip, it should accompany bread rather than ordering it separately. The Saganaki and Spanakopita were perfect.

First time trying original Greek's food and it was great. As veggie lover, i found the menu are suitable. Taste wise also good. Only the portion... Too much for me. I had a lunch date with my friend there and we had a great time.

Stalactites in Melbourne’s CBD is a long-standing Greek institution, renowned for its hearty dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and very friendly, professional staff. Located on Lonsdale Street, this vibrant eatery serves generous portions of classic Greek fare such as lamb souvlaki, moussaka, meat platters, dips with warm pita, and vegetarian and gluten-free options. The interior—with its cave-inspired décor and bustling energy—adds to the charm, while diners appreciate the lively ambience and efficient service. Whether you’re after a late-night feed or a sit-down meal with friends, Stalactites offers consistent quality, warm hospitality, and a fun, relaxed setting that captures the spirit of Melbourne’s Greek-food scene.

Very busy place. Tables are close but set up quickly for you. The restaurant was clean and everyone was friendly. We had the mix of chicken and lamb souvlaki. We found the chicken to be lovely and moist but the lamb was tough and overcooked.

The food we had here was alright, felt like the flavours and seasoning weren’t as potent on the night we visited. However it was an unreal dining experience in terms of the quality of service we got here. Excellent team working the floor provided us with great insight on the dishes and made our stay here much more enjoyable. Bread was phenomenal tho.

We visited this restaurant to celebrate a friend's birthday and had a mostly pleasant experience. The entrées and antipasti were absolutely delicious, and the drinks were well-made. We really appreciated how attentive the two male servers were; one of them even noticed I didn’t enjoy my drink and kindly swapped it out for something I'd like better, which was a lovely touch. However, the experience did have some inconsistencies. While the mains were okay, the off-menu tiramisu we ordered for dessert was quite disappointing. It was overly sweet and didn’t have that classic espresso flavor we were hoping for. Additionally, the presentation was a bit messy. When we mentioned this feedback to another server, the response we received felt a bit dismissive, which was a noticeable contrast from the otherwise great service we had earlier in the evening. In the end, it left us a bit disappointed. Overall, we’d say it’s a place with some really good highlights, especially on the appetizer side and thanks to some of the staff who went above and beyond. But there’s definitely room for a bit more consistency in both desserts and service attitude.

I reserved my birthday dinner on 27/06 here seeing the good reviews. However, my experience did not reflect any of the above. First of all, I am not allowed to bring my birthday cake in to share, which if fine and when I asked whether I can bring it in to take a photo, the lady over the phone was very hesitant so I just didn’t bring the cake at all. We were warmly greeted in the beginning and the nightmare begin when we started ordering. The restaurant light was very dim and it made us a bit difficult to see the menu, when the waitress in the black frame glasses, brown hair, ponytail came up was the real nightmare. My parents don’t speak or read English very well. Hence, my brothers and I are translating for them. It was a bit difficult for us to translate as the menu was hard to read with the lighting and with all the Italian words. The waitress came up and she was very impatient she sped read through the menu and the special menu and just took off. The restaurant was not the most quiet and with all the Italian mixed in her spiel it was very hard to follow. She left after she did her spiel we were there left dumbfounded. Afterwards we decided to ask her whether there is any recommendations so we can order according to that. Again she was very impatient and rude. She also asked previously whether there is any allergy and I advised her I was allergic to mango. However, my mum didn’t feel like seafood that day so she advised me before we asked for her recommendation. She was in a very condescending tone stating:” you should’ve told me before this is why I asked you if there is any allergies.” I was too shocked to reply as I felt like I was being scolded like a child. I didn’t know not feeling like seafood and allergic to seafood falls into the same category. However, I continue to let her recommend, she again spoke at a ultra fast speed and said all the none seafood is on the special menu. When I asked where is the special menu she said it’s in her head. I do recommend that there is a physical special menu as I cannot understand a single word coming out of her mouth. She also had quite an unpleasant breath, which really affected the experience. A gentle reminder about personal oral hygiene could really help maintain the restaurant’s excellent standards. After ordering I was left feeling really disgusted by her attitude. I can’t believe this is the service coming from a chef hat award restaurant. The first dish took forever to arrive. A simple lemon lime bitters took 20 minutes to service. The time in between each dish is way too long. The ravioli was quite salty and when I mentioned the food was alright to that same female staff she was unhappy with my response and again very rudely said, “ what’s wrong” I had to say the ravioli was quite salty and she seemed very upset about it. The final wagyu was too raw for my parents. I was never asked how we prefer the wagyu to be cooked. I’m not sure whether we are never asked or there was not preference for how the wagyu is cooked. The duck was quite dry and hard to chew. We were never offered the dessert menu as well. In addition, I personally thought she was just having a bad day hence the attitudes. However, she also served the table behind us and because the tables are very close and she is very loud I can hear her voice. I found out she is capable to being respectable and nice to the two caucasian lady sitting behind her which leaves me wonder why here attitude is like this with us? I do hope it is not because of a racial preference. On the contrary, all the other staff I have encountered in the restaurant are very nice, respectable and patient, that’s why I gave one star for service. Overall, it was a very unpleasant experience and it was the worst birthday dinner I’ve ever had. The service really makes up a big part of the experience. Overall I would not recommend to any of my Asian friends out there or friends who doesn’t understand Italian as it seems like it is a prerequisite to understand Italian to order otherwise you will be looked down by the waitress.

Came here for dinner with a reservation and had the 'Gran Four' tasting menu which included seven dishes as well as some starter snacks, sourdough bread and pre-dessert palate cleanser which was not listed on the menu. Most of the dishes were very tasty; highlights were the scallops encased in a light crispy coating, the lobster risotto which has a condensed seafood and cheesy taste with a few big pieces of lobster to enjoy, and the duck tortellini which was rich and savoury with a nice al dente texture. The strawberry sorbet was also very good with a naturally sweet and refreshing taste. Service was friendly and attentive, each dish was explained in detail and the course took around two and a half hours to finish.

Amazing food, service and atmosphere, not to be faulted. After so many years, still the best Italian food in town.

Dinner at Grossi Florentino was such a lovely experience. The atmosphere felt warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived. The service was friendly and professional without ever feeling over the top, and every course was full of flavour and care. The pasta was fresh and delicate, and the desserts were just beautiful. It’s one of those places where you can relax, enjoy great food, and really take in the moment. Everything flowed perfectly, and you could tell the team genuinely enjoy what they do. A wonderful spot for a special night out in Melbourne.

Had an amazing experience especially Eris was so professional,witty and friendly as well as all the dishes were delicious especially Tiramisu was out of world yummy

Managed to get a seat even though it was quite crowded, which speaks to how popular this place is with locals. The classic Italian pasta was delicious—authentic and full of flavor. Finished off with a tiramisu that was perfectly creamy and not too sweet. Great spot if you're craving real Italian food!

Was recommended to go to Pellegrini’s by a friend. We could not get a seat and ended up sitting in the kitchen with the chef Anna. What a delight this was as she was the Chef, the waitress and hostess with the mostest. Anna was unbelievable. Great food and coffee, but most of all beautiful people service. If you are in Melbourne and want a great meal, you must visit pellegrini’s.

We wanted Creme Caramel and this place gave the perfect fix to our craving. Perfect bitter, sweet and creamy amazing! The shop is 70 years old and you feel transported in time! Our kind of shop, good food with no frills!

We had the lasagna for two at Pellegrini’s and it was absolutely delicious. Homemade, generous portions, and that authentic Italian flavor you rarely find. The place has a charming, old-school vibe and the service was quick and friendly. Perfect spot for a simple yet flavorful meal in the heart of Melbourne. We’d definitely go back!

I cannot stress this enough, I LOVE this place. I come here every time I am in Melbourne. Genuinely authentic Italian food being put out here with a real homely vibe. That amatriciana is some of the best, and the napoletana is perfect. From past experience, the lasagna is also incredible. PLEASE go here, do it for yourself.

Extremely quick service no wait for a table incredible vibe and atmosphere. Went here for a quick dinner and drink before the play was exactly what we were looking for. Average price $22 per person for a main and drinks.

I went for coffee, GOOD COFFEE! After Walking a lot I found this Italian gem, I recommend the latte and almond cake! That was my choice and it’s amazing! The place vibe it’s amazing!

Chinatown in Melbourne is definitely a must-visit! So much culture, amazing food, beautiful people, and incredible art. It’s a fantastic experience both day and night. ❤️✨

Crowd during weekends, less people on weekdays, however, it’s indeed many restaurants & cafe, shopping malls & food courts, easily to spend hours to walk through & choose your favorite restaurant & cafe.

We had a good time — there are plenty of restaurants to choose from and lots of sweet shops like ice cream and drink stores. However, the area does have a strong smell of urine coming from the nearby alley.

My favorite Chinatown so far — full of character, culture, and little surprises around every corner. Honestly, I love it so much more than the one in New York. It feels more authentic, more alive. Whether you’re here for the food, the atmosphere, or just to wander — you won’t be disappointed. A must-visit every time I’m in Melbourne.

🏮 Chinatown Melbourne – A Food Lover’s Paradise 🥢✨ Located in the heart of the CBD along Little Bourke Street, Chinatown Melbourne is one of the city’s most iconic culinary destinations and the oldest continuous Chinatown in the Western world, established during the 1850s gold rush. Today, it’s a vibrant hub filled with restaurants, dessert bars, and specialty stores, making it the ultimate spot for anyone craving authentic Chinese food right in the city. ⸻ 🥡 A Feast of Chinese Cuisine Chinatown Melbourne is home to an incredible variety of restaurants, offering everything from street-style eats to fine dining experiences: • Dim sum & dumplings 🥟 — Popular spots like Shark Fin Inn and Tim Ho Wan serve delicious yum cha and handmade dumplings. • Peking duck & BBQ meats 🦆 — Crispy duck, roast pork, and char siu are must-tries at many Cantonese restaurants. • Hotpot & Sichuan dishes 🌶️ — Perfect for spice lovers, with bubbling broths and bold flavors. • Noodles & rice dishes 🍜 — From wonton noodles to fried rice, there’s something for every taste. Whether you want northern-style noodles, Cantonese seafood, or Sichuan spice, you’ll find it all here. ⸻ 🍧 Desserts & Late-Night Treats It’s not just savory food — Chinatown is famous for desserts and drinks, too: • Traditional Chinese herbal desserts and pastries • Trendy bubble tea shops scattered everywhere 🧋 • Sweet treats like egg tarts, mochi, shaved ice, and matcha puddings Perfect for ending your food journey on a sweet note! ⸻ 🎎 Vibrant Atmosphere & Cultural Heritage Beyond the food, Melbourne’s Chinatown has a rich cultural history: • Beautiful Chinese-style arches mark the entrances, making it perfect for photos 📸 • Festivals like Chinese New Year bring the streets alive with lion dances, lanterns, and cultural performances 🎇 • The area blends heritage charm with modern energy, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. ⸻ 🌟 Why You’ll Love Chinatown Melbourne • ✅ Endless Chinese food options — from affordable street eats to premium restaurants • ✅ Perfect location right in the CBD, easy to access by tram or train • ✅ Open late — ideal for late-night snacks and hotpot cravings • ✅ Cultural vibe with historic charm and festive energy ⸻ 📝 Final Thoughts If you love Chinese food or simply want to experience Melbourne’s multicultural dining scene, Chinatown Melbourne is a must-visit. With its diverse food offerings, vibrant atmosphere, and deep cultural heritage, it’s the perfect spot to eat, explore, and enjoy the city’s best flavors. Whether you’re after dumplings, hotpot, desserts, or bubble tea, Chinatown Melbourne promises a delicious adventure every time. 🥢🏮✨

A vibrant slice of culture in the heart of Melbourne. Chinatown is full of energy, with countless restaurants, cafes, and dessert spots offering everything from authentic dumplings to modern fusion dishes. The laneways are rich with history, and the mix of neon lights, street art, and aromas make it a feast for the senses. Whether you’re here for a quick bite, late-night supper, or just to wander, it’s always lively and worth a visit.

Came here during daytime and not much was happening around. I should’ve come at night time though:( but there were plenty of places to eat around. And not as crowded as i thought it would be. It’s so different from Chinatown sydney/adelaide!!!

Food was nice and the vibe was good. It did get pretty noisy in there and so it was sometimes hard to hear the conversation. But still, I enjoyed the atmosphere. The menu is very difficult to read in terms of finding vegetarian options. They are not marked with an icon or located all together in one section. You have to literally read through every meal on the menu to find meat-free options. There are a lot of stairs up to the dining areas and I didn’t see a lift. So I wouldn’t recommend for people with mobility issues. The salt and pepper tofu was the highlight of the night. It was SO GOOD! I’d probably go back again just for that. The menu is definitely designed for sharing food, as opposed to having your own separate meals. I think this is a good place to go for dinner with a group of friends.

Definitely keep away if you want great Asian food. We went for lunch and the place was full of suits out for lunch. The waiter was very patronising. We ordered pan fried dumplings and the crispy dumpling skirt was disappointing. Usually the dumplings are flipped onto the plate so the crispy skirt stays crispy. Next we ordered noodles which i think they got from noodle box. Lastly, the fried rice was so white i don't think it's ever touched a wok. Definitely no Wok Hei (Wok Chi). It tastes like they added ingredients to boilded rice, not fried at all. Lǎowài's asian restaurant.

My mate has been hyping this place up for quite some time now, so tonight was the night to finally try them. The restaurant looked nice and very busy even for a weeknight. It is located opposite Flower Drum in Chinatown CBD. I ordered their boiled dumplings, fried rice and also tried the mango pudding. The dumpling's outer layer was too thick, the fried rice was okay and I thought the dessert would be a custard but, it was more just mango jelly with some milk poured on top. One other thing I want to point out is the payment surcharge. Instead of letting the machine take out the surcharge depending on the card, the staff tried to put in a higher number manually! Thank god my mate was observant and pointed it out on the spot. I want to alert other customers to be mindful during payment

One of the best Xiao Long Bao I have tried till date. The dish had everything that was expected. This place was recommended by a YouTuber. Located in a shady looking alley in Chinatown this place is a find. It is kool to see through the glass how the kitchen is preparing dumplings. It is an art to make such perfect looking dumplings. The food is priced well and is of good portions. A must try!

Some high and lows. We did not make a reservation but were able to get a table. They have the ground level for walk-ins, which was great but it’s just a small space so a lot of people were turned away - in a not so nice way. Food was great. They do give good servings so best to order in the conservative side but note that it is difficult to order again, they are not that attentive.

Awful attitude. Got a ridiculously judgmental face from the lady on the 2nd floor, saying “Did you get to talk to the man downstairs?” and just waved me and my sister to go upstairs. The place looked better upstairs, but for some reason us Asians were put to the corner like we’re being punished in school (see pic for your ref). When the dumplings were served there were no sauce bowls for us to pour the chilli oil and soy sauce in, so we had to go fetch them for ourselves. The food was okay, nothing great. Would never come here again. Will also let all my friends know not to come here as well.

We returned to the restaurant after not having been to it for over 8years. Service was quick and friendly. Food wise, it was so - so…. It just didn’t seem very authentic Chinese. The Shanghai noodle seemed bland, the xiao long bao skin was on the slightly thicker side. The food was fine, just not as good as we remember it. Did it almost seem more westernised to cater for the patrons? Not too sure. Unfortunately, we will probably skip this restaurant next time and try something different.

I had a unique experience with the menu, but I enjoyed it! The atmosphere is charming, and the service is super friendly. I felt rushed, which I think is part of the Australian way of doing things that we should respect. The coffee really packs a punch—so good! The space is quite ample, though it’s not your typical setup. Overall, I really liked it! The prices are reasonable, and it's in a great central location in Midtown.

To be honest, I am stuck between a 4 stars or 5 stars for food because the barramundi was good! But the ricotta hot cake is too overwhelming for 1 pax. It’s starts off with really nice. After finishing half the cake, it becomes a chore; so tiring to eat it. Barramundi is nice, fresh and the sauce complements it well. Balance taste! Environment is nice and chill. Great place for groups catch up. Staff are fast and efficient, friendly and helpful. Would highly recommend this place. Love to try other menu item next time!

Finally we had the chance to visit the legendary Higher Ground. The place is considerably big and managing such a big venue which is fully booked is not an easy task, hats off to their great shop staff. Menu wise, great selection of elevated dishes and innovative drinks. This is definitely not an ordinary place so don't expect a light bill, our breakfast for two easily surpassed 200$ but no complaints 😉

This iconic OG brunch spot, housed in a former power station, exhibits a great industrial vibe with its high ceilings. While it can get crowded on weekends, making reservations is recommended. We tried a few dishes and found the food to be good.

If you’re craving a unique interior paired with exceptional service and outstanding food, Higher Ground cafe is the place to go. Designers transformed an old power station into a modern, subtly elegant space. The chefs match this vibe, crafting incredibly delicious and refined dishes. I was kinda thrown by the Udon Carbonara, loaded with spices and seeds—was this really my order? Yup, and it was ridiculously good! Even the long black (seriously high-quality) came with a Turkish twist—a side of sparkling water. Prices? Pretty fair for a place this awesome.

We stopped by Higher Ground late in the afternoon since they open a bit later than other cafes in Melbourne, 5 pm. We came based on a strong recommendation from a friend of my brother, who said this is her favorite spot in Melbourne. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the service was attentive and friendly. The drinks were solid — I had a hot chocolate, and the two others ordered flat whites. They also tried desserts: one was a caramelized item and the other a red velvet cake. While I’m not a big fan of sweets, I sampled a little and found it quite enjoyable. Overall, Higher Ground offers a nice experience with interesting decor and good quality offerings. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

Fantastic, high quality food. Plenty of gluten free options, it is expensive but the standard of the food is spot on. Could have done with some carbs with the fish, as I still felt a little hungry afterwards. Pleasant staff. Recommend.

I went with my friend last week, the food was delicious and was really quick to get in the table but the customer service is horrible. While we were waiting for a table, the girl that assisted us til the waiter that took our orders they were super rude. They were waiting for us to leave but they don’t even tell u the time closing, just picked up the things from the table while we were eating, not even one smile (or a fake one) Such a shame, the place looks really nice from outside but with this bad experience i dont recommend it.

A busy and animated place in the heart of Lygon Street. Serving sizes were MASSIVE and very generous. The food was okay, drenched in sauces and cheese, I would say it was a little rich. The eggplant parma was tasty and the tomato sauce had a nice sweetness to it. The osso bucco was falling off the bone and very tender. The veggies on both dishes were a little dry and was a little sad in comparison to the main dishes. Overall a positive experience, friendly staff and prompt service. Would be interested to see how it compares to other Italian restaurants in the area.

3 of us went to Tiamo in Lygon St Melbourne last night ( Wed ) for my daughters birthday dinner, we sat outside which was lovely and as it was abit cold but they had plenty of heating to keep everyone comfortable. The food and drinks menu was extensive, and suprised at the reasonable pricing, so we wanted to try abit of everything as we couldn't make up our minds. Although service was abit slow as it was super busy, but the staff were very knowledgeable on meals and wines. We finally ordered which was Lamb Cutlets which you get 3 Cutlets, we got the 3 Meat Ragu and also the Veal Saltimbocca, plus had the Garlic Foccacia as a starter. The meals were all amazing, packed with flavour and all very good serving sizes too and we paired it all off with a couple of bottles of Montepulgiano D' Abruzzo and we finished off the evening with Limoncello's. Honestly this was all traditional Italian which we love so much, it was perfect. Parking was abit of an issue, but typical of Lygon St, so we had to walk a couple of blocks to get to the Resturant, alternatively there was some closer multi story carparking areas, but unsure of pricing. All in all was a top night and would definitely go back again and recommend to everyone

1. I had an appointment with a friend, and the waiter directed us to two different seats. 2. We ordered food and the waiter didn’t put it in the system 7/10 ordered a Capricciosa pizza with anchovies The bread is somewhat fluffy, and the flavours were mild. It’s a standard good pizza 6/10 carbonara I could taste the black pepper in the pasta, but the noodles are slightly more overcooked than I would prefer. It’s moderately good. All in all, this place is alright

We visited on Sunday for dinner. We ordered lasagna, it came out cold, we politely asked to heat up more, still came out cold. Staffs were not interested, they were standing around talking, no apologies for serving cold food twice, had to ask for ice twice.

Met up with a work friend here, they booked a table for three. The place is very Italian, they have indoor and heated outdoor dining area. The staff are very courteous and the place looks wel organised. I ordered their mushroom pizza and I could almost cry - I would say it is to date the best pizza I have ever had in my life, it was wonderful and the chefs should be very proud! It was so delicious I thought of it for days. Unfortunately we only stayed in Melbourne for 4 nights, so when I visit, I will definitely eat here again. I recommend travellers to try this place, you will not regret it.

We recently had lunch at Tiamo in Carlton, and it was fantastic. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. The menu offered a range of traditional Italian dishes. We started with the antipasto and chips, which were the perfect way to begin our meal. For the main courses, we had the risotto, gnocchi, lasagna, and spaghetti marinara. Each dish had fresh ingredients and were cooked to perfection. The service was attentive, and we didn't feel rushed at all. The prices were reasonable, considering the quality of the food and the overall dining experience. If you're in Carlton and looking for a great Italian lunch spot, Tiamo is definitely worth a visit.

Loved this restaurant! Came here for a weekday lunch and sat downstairs with a beautiful view of the water, so peaceful and picturesque.✨ Even though it was quiet, the atmosphere still felt warm and inviting. The waitstaff were lovely and really knowledgeable about the menu. Our starters were great, such an unexpected combination of flavours that somehow worked perfectly together. I also really enjoyed my pasta as the main (wish I remembered the names of the dishes.😅) I'll definitely be back to try their dinner menu!

What a great place to hang out. The ocean view & the ambience was what drew me in the first place, but I left stunned with the food. The starters were brilliant. The tuna belly & the octopus tops the best. The complimentary bread & butter was AMAZING! So fresh & tasty. Highly recommend for special occasion. Expect to pay about $150-200 per head but it's worth it.

From the very first moment we arrived at the restaurant for lunch, no one greeted us. The host at the entrance was busy with a tablet or computer, and only after finishing his task did he look up and say hello. We were then seated, but no food menu was offered – only a drinks menu. We mentioned that we don’t drink alcohol and would only have water, but even after that no one came back to give us a food menu. While waiting, my friend and I started taking a few photos. A staff member came over and, although saying they didn’t mind, spoke in a rather unfriendly/toxic tone, suggesting that our photos might disturb other guests, even though we were very quiet and respectful. Later, when we finally managed to order food, appetisers were brought without bread. After quite a long wait, bread eventually arrived, but by that time the scallops I had ordered and didn’t eat were taken away from the table without me even noticing. I hadn’t had the chance to eat them. What upset me most was that nobody asked if it was okay to clear them, despite the fact that I hadn’t touched them. It is a common sense to make sure that customers really want them to be taken, or they should have asked why we didn’t eat them. Only afterwards, when I was looking back at the photos from our lunch, did I realise that I never actually got to try my scallops. I had been waiting for the bread, which arrived too late, and by then the scallops were already gone. When it came time to pay, my friend and I wanted to split the bill. While we were still figuring out how, the waiter tried to run away. When I told him I was ready to pay, he replied that he would come back later and we had to point out again that we are actually paying now and ask him take our payment. The whole process felt rushed, but food and menu delivery was slow. Overall, I left feeling very disappointed. The service showed a lack of respect and attention, and what should have been an enjoyable lunch was overshadowed by careless treatment.

Ended up for a late afternoon lunch on a busy Sunday. Besides a first reservation related misunderstanding, the staff was lovely and very attentive. The food was overall good although a little overpriced. I enjoyed especially the octopus chorizo screwers, nice and spicy, and the fluffy focaccia! Atmosphere in the indoor area was pleasant too. Will probably go back to try some more of their meals options.

We visited for a wednesday lunch which wasn’t in rush hours. The ambiance was nice and chill. Both our entrees tuna and beef tartare were ok but missing a little wow factor to it. However our mains were absolutely delicious and were packed with complex flavor profiles. Side dishes were well prepared as well. They don’t have a mocktail list but instead all the cocktails can be done without alcohol for non-alcoholic guests We didn’t drink much and our bill was around 200/person. So if you’re drinking, expect your spending around 250+/ person

Good quality ingredients but boring recipes. Kumquat jam is overpowering and masked the taste of tuna. Octopus was a bit dry and overcooked. Salted duck egg shaving was tasteless…The Asian influence on the food wasn’t really working🙈 Service was also not welcoming. Maybe it’ll be better if you’re rich white baby boomer ordering French wine🫤

A beautiful restaurant with a stunning interior! We ordered the duck, since it was recommend to us. It was lovely but not quite as live changing as we had expected it to be. The recommend red house wine on the other hand was one of the bests we ever had!

Nice restaurant, was excited to finally try this place out after hearing/reading about this place. I arrived too early for a 1.30 appointment so happy to find this place open at 11:35. I was quickly shown to a table, provided a menu and the server was anouy to leave. I asked if order would be taken at table - No, you have to order at counter hmmm … would have been courteous if she had said that at first instant, but ok. I decided nasi lemak ($13.50) sounded safe enough to try and they had sambal sotong which could be ordered extra for $6, plus teh tarik. Went to counter and ordered my food, no problem. Within 5 minutes my teh tarik appeared. Not bad. Tables were slowly filling up. The restaurant seemed to fill up left end of restaurant first instead of offering middle or right side to people coming in - just minor observations by me. Then my nasi penal arrived and I told myself: looks delicious. Took my photos of the food and drinks and started on my food. 😳😳😳 what !!?? Why was the food cold ? Is this how they serve nasi lemak here at Nanak? Even the additional siting sambal was cold. The sambal was also sweet. Becos I am on low sugar diet I am more sensitive to sugar in food. Oh dear, what do I do. ? I did not want to make a fuss. Taste was not great either. I surreptitiously watched my neighbours - they were busy chatting and seemed too engrossed in their conversations to worry about their food. is it just me? Or is this how the nasi lemak is usually served? Ahh … I was in no mood to complain or request heated food I ate what bits I could, then left - never will I return to this place. Sorry, Mamak team, hope I was just a single unfortunate customer.

We enjoyed everything we ordered, and the food quality felt pretty good. We especially liked the chicken satay. The only thing is that the prices are quite high—probably because it’s located in the center of the CBD?

Food was good. Roti is aft and curries are well prepared. Dessert offerings are unique and tasty. Only drawback is not very kid friendly. No high chairs offered.

Malaysian street food with a variety of different roti’s. Favourite is roti tisu which comes out like a thin cone that’s wafer thin with sprinklings of white sugar within giving it a crispy sweet texture. Choose to have it with ice cream or curry. Chicken satays are great but if were cooked on coal and not deep fried then pan fried would be better. Sambal is delicious & can buy a bottle to take home for $14. Plenty of seating & clean open restaurant. Staff friendly. Eftpos surcharge, weekend surcharge & public holiday surcharge apply.

The best roti you can find in Melbourne. Roti is made fresh to order. It’s light, flaky and chewy, and when dipped in curries and sauces, it’s the ultimate snack / meal. The desert rotis were also fantastic. Along with this, the service was amazing. Staff were all super friendly.

My first time trying Mamak was in Sydney back in 2017, and it left such a strong impression that I’ve always wanted to share the experience with my parents. So when my family visited Melbourne, I knew I had to take them to Mamak Melbourne. We ordered the chicken satay, nasi goreng, and banana roti. And honestly, the banana roti is still the must-try dish in my heart — flaky, crispy layers wrapped around warm, sweet bananas. It brought such joy to the table, especially for my mum — she couldn’t stop smiling with every bite. Seeing her so happy over a dish that holds a special place in my memory made the moment even more meaningful.

Great food and the service is Reslly attentive. We ordered the chicken skewers, tisu roti, kaya roti and roti chanai. My favourite was the tisu roti as it had a sprinkle of sugar WITHT a thin base. IVE cream was served on the side and paired perfectly. There kaya wasnt strong and tasted like orange. Roti chanai is an original and Reslly CSNT go wrong

What a great plant-based dining experience in such a beautiful, vibrant space! The staff went above and beyond to ensure we were well taken care of. The food and drinks were absolutely incredible. The menu has something for everyone to enjoy together. It was a perfect dining experience all around. I’ll definitely be back soon!

Good vibes and lovely service – it’s definitely the place to be! The food was amazing: we had several starters, one main, and still found room for dessert. Every dish was impressive, and we truly appreciated the chefs’ hard work in crafting a great dining experience. Unfortunately, each plate had a few small flaws that kept us from having that real “WOW” moment. Still, it’s absolutely an amazing place to enjoy food in Melbourne! Great job, guys!

My mates and I (you may remember us as the 3 guys with the funky t-shirts!) came by this past Sunday, and what an experience it was! Every single dish we tried was absolutely fantastic. Honestly, there wasn’t a single dish we didn’t enjoy, which was such a pleasant surprise. The staff were incredibly welcoming and made us feel at home. Huge shoutout to them for being so kind and attentive. We had such a great time that we’re already planning our return. Next time, we’ll be bringing t-shirts for the team as well. Food, service, and value: all 5 stars! The only reason I’m giving 4 stars for atmosphere is because it was a tad chilly. Thank you for making our Sunday so memorable!

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Smith + Daughters, and it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I stepped in, the warm, vibrant atmosphere and the welcoming staff set the perfect tone for the evening. The attention to detail in every dish was remarkable. The flavors were bold and beautifully balanced, with each plate thoughtfully presented to delight both the eyes and the palate. The aromas alone were enough to make the experience special, drawing you in before even taking the first bite. The cocktails were crafted with precision, offering unique and refreshing combinations that perfectly complemented the meal. Opting for the set menu was an excellent choice—it showcased the creativity and expertise of the kitchen, with each course flowing seamlessly into the next. Smith + Daughters is a true gem, proving that plant-based dining can be just as indulgent, satisfying, and exciting as any other culinary experience. I can’t wait to return! Alex from Perth

Unreal food, and I’m definitely not vegan. Incredibly friendly staff that squeezed me with no reservation and awesome chefs enjoying themselves in the kitchen! A real treat!

Staff here are super lovely and help to create a wonderful atmosphere to eat and relax. The food was delicious - we had the 4 course banquet of the middle eastern menu reboot and it didn’t disappoint. The salad was nice but the ‘charred’ aspect didn’t do much to the flavour of it. This was my second time dining here and Id definitely recommend, and will probably be back in future!

Lovely venue, warm and welcoming atmosphere. Great food, with a great selection (sat on the high tables, so you can see all the cooking going into the dishes and was told it was a new menu! so many nice dishes to choose from!) and the staff were all delightful. Great experience from start to finish.

Great food! And the best thing is it's open really late - 2:30am! We went there after a concert at 11:30pm and had a great dinner. It's a simple atmosphere, very busy, but it's all about eating and then moving on. That's just fine when this place is about just that. We enjoyed our food very much.

Supper Inn is an institution. I’ve been here so many times over the years and it’s always packed, cheap and cheerful! Size of meals do not disappoint. Have always been too hungry and forget to take photos except this time with ginger stir fry lobster. Congee is wonderful. The deep fried ice cream batter could be improved

I ordered congee with roast duck. It was really great. It was so warm and comforting. There were ginger slices in the congee but they were so thinly sliced that even for me who's not very much of a ginger flavor, i found it oddly well complement the congee and make it more comforting. Not to mention the roasted duck topping were also quite generous. I got 5 big chunks of them. Overall it was really satisfying and comforting dish especially for cold or rainy night.

If you like nostalgia , then atmosphere would be 5 stars . Old school treasure and food is awesome . Great locale in Chinatown .. a must visit when in Melbourne especially if you are in the CBD ..

Both the prawn and the beef congee are amazing. The fried pork ribs were delicious. Amazing warm and humble food! I’m coming back!

Hands down the worst Chinese feed I’ve had in Melbourne, maybe even the whole bloody country. The menu looks like it’s been slapped together by some dodgy AI – random ingredients chucked in, and every dish turns out like a soggy mess of soup. The fried rice was a joke: pitch-black, dripping in oil, nothing close to real Chinese fried rice. Everything was greasy, heavy, and just plain awful. Even the so-called dumplings weren’t dumplings at all – more like some weird lettuce wrap with bone shards inside. On top of that, they’re charging stupidly high prices for food that’s half raw or totally tasteless. Honestly, it’s a rip-off and a disgrace. Do yourself a favour and steer well clear of this joint.

It's just your average Chinese food for white guys restaurant. Does BYO, food is tasty & comes fast, all the classic dishes.... But it's like your neighbourhood fish & chip shop style Chinese food. If you grew up in the suburbs in the 1990s it tastes like nostalgia

On one of our final days visiting Melbourne, we wanted to tried some wine bar dining. We heard great things about here and let’s say it didn’t disappoint! Both my fiancé and I had an amazing evening. From the food, which every dish was a standout. The service was very warm and welcoming. Wish I remember the name of our host, but he was very helpful with suggesting how many dishes we should order from the menu. The same could be said about the wine, where he had a great knowledge of the wine. The highlight dish for me was the tuna with radicchio, something I don’t see on menus usually. The Vonglole and chicken breast were cooked and seasoned to perfection. We hope to visit again when we come back down to Melbourne. Thanks for the great hospitality!

Absolutely no notes at all, this place was wildly good. Service was top notch. Warm and attentive but not at all overbearing. The atmosphere is perfect. Very intentional and refined on every level - the lighting, the decor, the art. Nothing feels like an accident in this place. Watching the kitchen staff work through the open kitchen window got me very excited for the food. They were serious and paying a great deal of attention to their craft but loose and relaxed at the same time. Now the food was some of the best I’ve ever had. We shared everything - the lamb which was cooked to perfection and flavoured at the same level. The savoury tart which was a dish we just couldn’t stop talking about all week. Soured cucumbers, bread and I can’t even remember what else but it was all 1000/10. Everything was covered in fresh herbs but not in a token garnish way, they were all very much a part of the dish. Every aspect of this meal wowed us and we were surprised at how low our bill was walking away. I would have paid more for this calibre of meal but the fact we didn’t, made it all the better. This place is a knockout in every way, do not skip it.

Been wanting to visit since I tried saison aperitifs years ago! Embla met all expectations and even more. Food so good we forgot to take better photos. Tart shell on that globe artichoke tart is soooo thin and crisp. Remarkable! Please order the vermouths too!!!

A Melbourne institution and I loved it. Had dinner and wine and it was all so delicious! 9/10 Chickpea whitlof 8/10 (probably best shared between 3-4) Feta and cucumbers 10/10 Scallop 7.5/10 -nice and flavoursome Bread is bread and it was truly delicious Trout 8/10 but paired with the butternut squash (as recommended) and it was a 9/10 The butternut squash is quite salty and savoury so I would try and pair it with something! Wine was so good and the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly on recommending something that suits. I would HIGHLY recommend coming here!

Can’t go wrong, amazing food! Great relaxed ambience, service was amazin! Had the scallops, cucumbers, raw beef, fish. Loved every bit of it, was a bit apprehensive with the raw beef but was by far the best dish. Desert was excellent too. A must try. Excellent in every regards

Embla Wine Bar in Melbourne is effortlessly cool — a warm, intimate space with low lighting, laid-back tunes, and a vibe that invites you to sink in and stay awhile. The wine list is excellent, with a great selection by the glass showcasing interesting producers and styles. Every pour feels thoughtfully curated, and the friendly staff add to the relaxed charm. It’s the perfect spot for unwinding with friends or a solo glass at the bar. The only disappointment? It closes at 5 p.m. on Sundays — just when the chill session starts to hit its stride. Otherwise, near-perfect.

Got recommended this place and visited on our date night in August. We tried a few dishes, but unfortunately, the only one I remember is their duck liver parfait — which was actually quite good. The other dishes, however, weren’t particularly memorable. And as some other reviews have mentioned, their glass wine prices felt way too high considering the wines’ retail prices at liquor shops. It made us question whether it was really worth spending more to try additional dishes or wines, so we ended up not ordering more and wrapping up early.

#My partner ordered the potato hash and bacon on top which were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich and intense flavour. It was a completely different experience to what we were used to. The charm of Melbourne coffee shops is amazing. I loved the cute little tasting cards served with the coffees ☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️so playful and attentive. It was the perfect way to introduce them to the different types of coffee. The local brunch atmosphere here is calm, cozy and full of heart, with the efficient and always alert staff. Love Melbourne and Proud Mary. #thebestcafe #melbourne #proudmary #proudmarycoffeeroaster

Visited in Oct 2025 Proud Mary is a super famous coffee roaster and cafe from a global perspective, let alone from an Australian and Melbourne viewpoint. In 2025 it was ranked as the 4th best coffee cafe in the world by a publication. This was my first visit to the cafe and I was able to get a table after a 5-10 mins wait. I wanted to try as many coffees, and therefore ended up ordering the cold-drip flight which comprised 3 small cold-drips coffees of 3 different beans (their monthly highlight). You can also order the espresso, long black or pour over version of the same flight. I think ordering the flight is best way to experience of what this place has to offer. Also ordered a few food items. Absolutely loved the Tamarind Eggplant Omelette and the Harissa Eggs. Would definitely recommend trying these 2 dishes. Service was quite decent, and the servers were very responsive in listening to us and with their recommendations. Overall, a brilliant cafe with excellent coffee. A 100% recommendation

Good service and location. Atmosphere was great - it's in a heritage building of course! Food was good, not outstanding (was expecting more). Hotcakes apparently was the best dish. Paste (Lamb Ragu) was ok, the Potato Hash was undercooked in the middle.

I had a lovely experience at Proud Mary Cafe. The croissant, coffee, and breakfast were all really good. We ordered the Harissa eggs, which were delicious, but for the portion size, it felt a bit pricey. The staff were kind and welcoming, which made the visit even better. A great spot overall!

It was a Saturday, and the restaurant was quite busy. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and I really enjoyed their coffee — it had a unique, authentic flavour. However, I was a bit disappointed with the food. We tried the mushroom smash, lamb pasta, chicken roll, and French toast with bubble milk tea (I might have the names slightly wrong), but the flavours didn’t quite come together — the ingredients felt a bit mismatched.

Nice vibe and service. I got the ricotta hotcakes, they were really good, especially the apple crisp on top 😋 the cream didn’t have much of a thai tea flavor, but I enjoyed it nonetheless! Coffee was delicious 👍🏻 Prices on the higher side

I ordered a cup of strong flat white and toast. The coffee is good, not the bold/bitter one, it’s more on the fruity side. The toast is sooo good, simple toast and home made jam, but it’s toasted in a perfect crisp and the jam also delicious.

I’m dreaming about this food. The dips are the best I’ve had and the most fresh falafel. So so delicious. Recommend booking a table as it is a busy restaurant, which shows how much love this food gets! Beautiful restaurant

Surprisingly underwhelmed with our dinner last night at Abla’s given the highly rated reviews on here. The restaurant itself was dated with a stuffy smell (we sat downstairs). The food was mediocre and the meat dishes came out warm at best. We ordered beers first and my glass was dirty - with a dead fly floating on the foam. Not great The server was nice but mistook our orders. Maybe it was an off night but was a shame.

Had a wonderful dinner at Abla’s! The food was absolutely delicious—hearty, homely, and full of flavour. There was a great variety of dishes, including plenty of gluten-free options, which made it easy to find something for everyone. The service was warm, attentive, and made the whole experience even better. Highly recommend for anyone looking for comforting cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

ORDERED FEB 2025: 🦕 Mixed dips: combination of labnee, hummous and baba gannouj ($21.00) 🥔 Lebanese Potatoes/Batata Harra: Potatoes fried with garlic, coriander, chilli and salt ($16.00) 🥗 Fattoush: A green salad with radish, tomato, cucumber, capsicum and Lebanese fried bread ($18.00) 🍡 Kafta Mishwee: Four skewers of minced lamb, seasoned with parsley, onion and spices, grilled and served with tabouleh ($34.00) It was $45.17pp between two people here. REVIEW: Minor price increases on the mixed dips & lebanese potatoes compared to last year. ❤️ The food is still delicious and plentiful. The lebanese fried bread within the fattoush salad was crunchy and adds incredible addictive texture. Service is still second to none, offering more pita if you've still got some mixed dips remaining on your plate! Definitely still book before you go. It packed on a weekday! ------------- ORDERED 2024: 🦕 Mixed dips: combination of labnee (home-made naturally thickened yogurt), hummous (Chickpeas blended with tahini, garlic and lemon juice) and baba gannouj (smoked eggplant blended with tahini, garlic and lemon juice) ($20.00) 🥔 Lebanese Potatoes/Batata Harra: Potatoes fried with garlic, coriander, chilli and salt ($15.00) 🥗 Fattoush: A green salad with radish, tomato, cucumber, capsicum and Lebanese fried bread ($18.00) 🍢 Lahem Mishwee: Two skewers of lamb fillets, marinated and grilled, served with tabouleh ($32.00) 🏺 Jug of limonda: Home-made lemonade with rose water ($14.00) It was $40.60 for my portion! REVIEW: The food was fantastic. It was filling and flavourful. A couple of my favourite F words 🥰. Shoutouts are for the mixed dips with its refreshing olive oil and its generous pita servings which you can request for more once it runs out! Then, the crispy lebanese potatoes which isn't shy with its spices, and the fattoush with its crispy fried bread. I think fried food has a soft spot in my stomach 🤣. 💓 It's great food to share between friends, with a jug of limonda refreshing to have with our food. The food in general gives home cooked food vibes without compromising on the restaurant quality! Abla's has tight steep steps and I'm unsure if there's accessibility access. The area is well decorated with a bathroom upstairs as well. When you go, it's worthwhile booking at Abla's because they get PACKED out! 📕

home-style cooking that truly tastes home! abla’s boats four decades of food that never bends from authenticity. we enjoyed devilishly luscious and thick labnee, which will make the perfect dip for any dish here, with smokey baba gannouj and hummus that was on the stronger side of tahini. the fried bread was as crisp as it looks, even better when soaked in the glorious oils of the fresh fattoush. the chicken and rice is famous for a reason…gorgeously aromatic rice that smells like grandmas kitchen, delicatey shaped with tender chicken breast and golden almonds, this dish was a joy! the cabbage rolls were as rustic as ever, thinner and denser than what im used to. similar to their housemate pickles, a more bitter and tougher variety compared to others i’ve tried. for home-style cooking, prices are on the higher-end. but if you’re wanting to experience the authenticity of lebanese food, it’s worth it. abla herself says “anything you do with love you can’t do wrong.” she’s right! only good exists here at abla’s, that is good food cooked from straight from the heart!

This is my first time here and it didn’t fail to impress me with their incredible delicious filo pastry lamb roll. For the mains, we ordered the lamb skewers and the chicken rice. The lamb was grilled to perfection with the right marinade. So tender and tasty. For the chicken rice, I somehow enjoyed the spice rice more than the chicken. The chicken breast seemed dried and tasteless. We came on a Tuesday night so the restaurant was not too crowded. We were seated upstairs where service was slow as the waitress was downstairs most of the times. However, it is quieter upstairs. Overall, I enjoyed the meal

We needed a place that serves halal food to bring our guest and gave Abla’s a go and it’ll be our first taste of Lebanese food. Upon entering, love its coziness . Menu has heaps of lamb dishes - great if you’re a fan but I’m not. These were what we ordered and my view: ▪️The trio dips was good, but wished that they’ve toasted / heated the pita bread. ▪️Lamb ladies finger (spring rolls look alike) - not for me ▪️Falafel, nice and crispy, with similar dipping sauce with one of the trio ▪️Baked fish was too salty and again have similar dressing with one of the trio dip Wish we had a better experience esp that we brought our guest. Could just be what we ordered or that we are ignorant of Lebanese cuisine.

Tried Archie’s All Day – the Huevos Sucios(Dirty eggs) were just okay, could have used a bit more spice and punch.The Godmother was tasty, but felt like it was missing a little something. Coffee was average, even with an extra shot. Overall, decent but not particularly impressive.

Highly recommend this venue for a group catch up. Came here with some friends and family and everyone enjoyed their meals (the chicken waffles were amazing!). Coffee was great too. Recommend booking as it's super popular. We sat outside where there was heating too.

This place usually has a queue for a table ~10 minutes. There’s a choice of frontstore, indoor and courtyard seating. There’s frontstore has no heating so be weary during the colder that it will get frosty. Decent variety of options. The non-caffeine options on the menu is bit limited if wanting freshly made products. The hotcakes were alright. Our host wore sunglasses which was an interesting vibe when working.

Not my first time at Archie but the latest dish I had, which was the mushroom on toast something got me sick in the tummy 🥲 me and my friend shared the KFC burger and the mushroom toast but I got uncomfy stomach after that (my friend hasn’t finished the other half of his toast so now he’s still fine)🥹. Regarding the flavor, everything was on point to be honest, love the spices and everything but I might not try that toast again even though I love the taste! 😭

I always enjoy coming here. It has a funky lil vibe and the food is always tasty. Would recommend.

really impressed with this cafe on gertrude st! archie's has been on my list forever and i finally decided to pop down. usually there is a long line but i went on a weekday morning and it was relatively quiet, no need to wait for a table. service was great and they give you blankets if you sit outside on a cold day. the menu is really varied - they have brunch classics but also some more interesting elevated dishes. my coffee was delicious, but i do wish they did a matcha! there were a few vegan options to choose from, i went with the shakshuka which was incredible and very filling. i also appreciate that they substitute in a vegan feta rather than just removing everything to make it vegan. definitely adding to my rotation of great cafes in melbourne.

It’s good but I would rate other places in the area better! Got a seasonal veggie salad with a poached egg 7/10 just beware the chai is just tea with water and very floral and sweet! Coffee is good

We celebrated my husband’s birthday at Gimlet and had a lovely evening. The food was excellent, just as we expected. The highlight for us was the tenderloin, which was perfectly cooked and accompanied by fries and a salad. While the salad felt a little on the simple side, it certainly wasn’t enough to take away from the overall experience. The setting was faultless, with an elegant atmosphere and warm ambience. Service was attentive throughout (courteous and polite), and we really appreciated the thoughtful touch of a dessert with a lit candle to mark my husband’s birthday. A memorable night all around.

We went to Gimlet last night to celebrate my husband's birthday. From the minute we walked in last night until we left we were impressed. We had a consummate professional waitress named Rina. She was very knowledgeable, professional and very exceptionally helpful especially with my adult daughter's anaphylaxis to nuts. The food was delicious. Everything from the Garfish Gilda to the white asparagus to the steak. It was all fantastic. The atmosphere, the food and the service from Rina was all exactly what you would expect from a fine dining restaurant. I cannot recommend Gimlet enough. Thank you for a memorable evening x

Came here for lunch. Food: you can go with set menu or ala carte. Great thing about this place is that if you're dining alone, they provide half portion for the main and sides. I had the ala carte menu - zucchini flower, raw scallop, tenderloin, potatoes, and salted honey tart. Absolutely delicious. There are good selection of cocktails too, including classic cocktails not listed in the menu. Services: really great. Attentive and explains the menu very well, including checking in for any dietary and allergens requirements. Ambience: awesome. Great for lunch or dinner, and even supper. Overall a wonderful dining experience!

On my list of restaurants to check out for the longest time and I’m glad this was ticked off. Wonderful experience at Gimlet with the gorgeous decor, kind of old school English dining house vibe they are going for there, elevated and good service. However, I thought the food was not as memorable and spending close to $200 on a main (the steak), I didn’t think it was particularly mind blowing. The only dish I recalled that stood out was the scallop appetiser but anyone can basically replicate that dish. Still worth a visit though and I really did enjoy the night there.

Actually really disappointed by the experience we had here. My parents were visiting from the UK, so I really wanted to treat them and had done my research that Gimlet was the place to go to. First of all, I must say the food is absolutely delicious, cooked to perfection, and I cannot fault the taste. The waiters were all pleasant, however basic competencies that are to be expected in an establishment like Gimlet were not met. I have coeliac disease, and the waiter did not understand what cross contamination was, and I had to repeatedly say I could not share bread for the sharing starter. The waiter had explained that the special starter was to be shared between 3 - as you can see that is not the case. Despite asking for all gf bread, they brought normal bread and one gf - this had to be changed, and took so long time, we had to ask several times if it was coming. I did not feel safe eating here, which is shocking considering the type of establishment it is. Allergens should be taken seriously everywhere. There were lot of chefs in the middle of the restaurant who looked to be stood around doing minimal activities - to give them the benefit of the doubt, maybe they are training?? Not a good look for an establishment like Gimlet - looks unprofessional. That being said, the food is very good and the staff were pleasant, but a disappointing experience overall.

A lovely meal. One of the culinary highlights of my Melbourne trip. Delicious seafood nicely presented with amazing flavours. A must visit place for seafood connoisseurs. One star dropped for an incorrect order but staff rectified this, and were otherwise very attentive.

We visited Gimlet to celebrate our anniversary, and it was an absolutely amazing experience. From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. The food was exceptional — we highly recommend both the pork and the steak, which were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Our dishes arrived quickly and were served hot, which added to the overall enjoyment. To finish, we shared the chocolate millefeuille for dessert — and we absolutely destroyed it. It was rich, crisp, indulgent, and the perfect ending to an incredible meal. The ambiance was beautiful and romantic, making it ideal for a special occasion. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between elegance and comfort. Service was another highlight — the staff were attentive, friendly, and quick to take our orders without ever making us feel rushed. Lastly, the wine selection was excellent and paired wonderfully with our meal. Highly recommend Gimlet for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience!

Bought one hot jam doughnut for $2.30. Came around lunchtime, no crazy queue. They’ve temporarily moved to the E-Shed due to nearby construction, but it’s still easy to find. The doughnut was piping hot, crispy outside and soft inside, filled with sweet jam. Very sweet though, one is definitely enough or it gets jelak! A nice little treat to end your food hunt at the market haha. 🍩

The American Donut Kitchen is hands down the best jam donut spot in Melbourne. Hot, fresh, fluffy, and absolutely packed with delicious jam – all coated in the perfect layer of sugar. These donuts are next-level good. The big queues say it all – they’re pumping out these gems all day long, and they’re worth every second of the wait. An absolute must-try when visiting Melbourne!

The line is long but it’s so worth the wait. The doughnuts are freshly made there, filled with warm jam. It’s not too sweet thanks to the jam adds a nice tanginess that cuts through. The dough is warm has a nice chew but is so fluffy. I definitely recommend getting it as a snack. They keep making them so I don’t believe they run out. Don’t give up on the wait!

Famous donut of Melbourne. Hot donuts with Jam inside. A bit too sweet for my liking. Prices are ok. The texture for the donut is soft and a bit chewy.

I read reviews about these donuts and absolutely lives up to its expectations. Obviously you have to queue up for good things in life. The wait is worth it. Hot little cute donuts filled with jam. They melt in mouth like a surprise. A must try!

Got recommended by my sister in law, and glad we tried it! It was a chilly morning in Melbourne and we had the hot jelly doughnuts, beautiful 😍😍 soft, warm and lots of filling inside. The queue was pretty long when I got there I guess it’s pretty popular.

I visited this place, coming from Adelaide for the weekend. Safe to say the reviews are on point - the doughnuts are a generous size, pillowy as all hell, warm, cozy, filled with a delicious raspberry-plum jam and coated in sugar. You honestly can't go wrong. I only got the bag of 5, but immediately I wanted to get more. I'm grateful these guys aren't in Adelaide otherwise I'd be there nearly every day 😂

Went here recently with a group of friends for dinner. First time here, the fit-out and decor feels like fine dining. There are two large floors (toilets are upstairs), it was surprisingly large. Our waiter was exceptional: great with recommending hope and what to order, and wine recommendations. Very attentive. The entrees were all excellent. The bread in particular was enough to tempt anyone avoiding carbs to go back for seconds. The steak was "fine", nothing bad about it, but you can definitely get better elsewhere. Same with the lamb chop, but the lamb rissoles were excellent. The roast potatoes and the fries were great, as were the rest of the sides. We shared a lemon sorbet (lovely and tart), and the goat cheese panna cotta, which I would definitely go back for. All in all we really enjoyed the whole experience. Would be ideal for a group event.

I rate this 4.5 stars. My friend and I were very impressed by the bites, small plates, and service. The servers that helped us were incredibly warm and helpful with recommendations. The sommelier even came out to give us drink recommendations which was superb. We loved that several of the small plates and sides could be ordered in half portions so we could try multiple dishes. And all were delicious. Also, really pleased that the eclair bite could be made vegetarian for me with mushroom paste - exquisite. The kale and curds and the mushroom eclair were my favorite. Also the sourdough is heavenly. Honestly, the bites and small plates were so good, we were expecting more from the mains. Unfortunately, we felt the mains fell short - both were pricey, and didn't have the flavour that we came to expect after the initial starter courses. I had the cauliflower dish, as it is the only vegetarian main, and my friend had the market fish. We both thought the mains were not worth the price. Overall, Hazel was a lovely experience.

Enjoyable Experience. I had the Flinders Island lamb and raw alpine trout. The lamb was flavorful. The trout tartare was fresh and beautifully prepared—the saffron jelly paired perfectly, though the mayonnaise sauce was overly salty. The restaurant’s vibe was great, low lighting with a lively yet conversational atmosphere. My only gripe was the music; pop tracks like “Must Be Love” and “Music on the Radio” felt out of place against the otherwise classy, mood-lit setting.

Service and atmosphere was great. Peach punch cocktail tasty. Kangaroo tartare and Vegemite gougère were quite nice, would recommend-order. Food was quite average, everything a bit lacking on the flavour. Ie beef ham entree had white anchovy sauce according to menu description but didn’t taste any of that component in the dish. Lamb main was very bland, had to ask waiter for salt. Would return for drinks and light bite.

service was decent, what you’d expect in a fine dining restaurant. produce was fresh, well cooked. but all the dishes were predominantly SALTY. we had the clams, which in itself was already salty from the bivalves natural juices and the ham. was supposed to dip with the house sourdough which was great but also super salty, they salt the crust. same for the fish and chicken we had. felt that flavors were too one dimensional and lacked balance.

Excellent experience in a great atmosphere, very friendly waiters and fine food! 😋 Only our bread was served (also) completely burnt (see photo). But luckily this was the only bad thing that happened 😅

Had the 4-course chef’s menu for dinner ($95pp) and swapped the lamb main for the 20-day dry-aged scotch fillet (+$30pp) - easily the best decision of the night. The steak was incredibly tender, full of flavour and absolutely delicious, though the accompanying roasted potatoes fell flat and lacked seasoning. Another standout was the chicken mousse éclair that was rich yet airy, with beautifully balanced flavours. The chocolate mousse dessert was another highlight: understated in appearance but bursting with flavour, and perfectly paired with crunchy hazelnuts for texture. Lovely cocktail list, too. Service was warm and efficient, and the venue struck a nice balance between modern and cosy.

Gave Serai a go after hearing Gordon Ramsay called it his favourite spot in Melbourne — had to see what the hype was about. Overall, a solid 4/5 stars from me. Started with the Karekare hashbrowns — crispy, golden, and topped with salted duck egg. Simple but elite. The Sisig tacos (Ramsay’s pick) were packed with flavour and texture, definitely a highlight. The McScallop burger (2 for $24) was like a refined seafood slider — tasty, but not mind-blowing. The crispy chicken skin flatbread delivered exactly as expected: crunchy skin on toasted bread, rich and satisfying. The charred cabbage ($26) was surprisingly good, but hard to justify the price. For mains, we had: Pork Belly ($58) – great balance of flavours, not too sweet Chicken ($58) – cooked perfectly, juicy and tender, but definitely expensive King Whiting ($50) – very strong smoked/gamey flavour, lots of bones; not for everyone Wagyu ($62) – enjoyable but not particularly standout We finished with two claypot rices ($28 each), which worked well to balance out the richness of the mains. Service was great and the food was well-executed overall. The flavours were bold, the plating was clean, and the vibe had a modern Filipino-Australian fusion feel. I’d just come back from Bali (where the fine dining scene is strong), so expectations were high — and Serai held up well. ✅ Worth a visit if you're after something different in Melbourne CBD, just expect to pay a bit for the experience. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We spontaneously dropped in for a few drinks and ended up staying for dinner. We had the most unique and delicious dishes, everything was truly incredible! We were very impressed with the service from Nick and the wine recommendations too. Highly recommend Serai for your next dinner with friend or date night!

Never had perfect food until now. Coming from a filipino background the food was astounding as they fused it to a western setting. So much flavour in each bite and thought of carefully. And to top it off the chefs table and the chef jason was just an amazing experience, so engaging and just genuinely nice. Such a great insight into filipino culture for those that have never experienced it.

Absolutely loved this modern Filipino dining experience! Every dish was full of flavour and creativity — from the tender grilled squid and melt-in-your-mouth pork to the perfectly caramelised flan that ended the meal on a sweet, silky note. The plating was beautiful, and you can really taste the care in every bite. Cocktails were stunning too — vibrant, balanced, and made the whole dinner feel special. The service was warm and attentive without being intrusive. A perfect spot for sharing plates, conversation, and a little indulgence. Can’t wait to come back and try the rest of the menu!

This restaurant focuses on local ingredients with a Filipino twist in terms of the cooking. The result is a combination of ingredients that locals are familiar with but new ways of tasting them! We ordered a few things, and we have to say they really know how to cook their proteins. The lamb and the duck were both so wonderfully juicy, and the sauce they served went perfectly with them without overpowering the flavors of the meats. Our favorite thing, though, was probably the prawns - they were just bursting with flavor The claypot rice also great, but could be better if we got some of those cracked/burnt rice. Honestly, the portions are a little small for the price you're paying. The service was really friendly and knowledgeable, but it did take a little longer for the food to come out. Food - 7 Service - 8 Vibe - 8 Price - $$$

Absolutely exceptional! The best Filipino-Asian fusion I’ve ever had. Sitting at the chef’s table made the experience extra special, and the staff (Noah, Senan, Kisha, Renee) were incredibly warm, kind, and informative. The style is unique, cooking each dish over a wood fire while honoring Filipino roots, and every dish was superb and truly exceptional in taste. Highlights for me were the pork shoulder with savory monggo, oysters with wagyu fat, cassava cake with ice cream, the claypot tocilog, and the squid with charred cabbage—they were all outstanding. The cocktails, including the homemade gin, were amazing. Highly recommended—I can’t wait for the spring menu and will definitely be coming back!

Such a great spot which I don’t if it counts as a hidden gem anymore? Went there spontaneously for lunch and the vibe of the place is great, the kitchen is visible and the service was fantastic. We started with the kangaroo Kilawin and I was impressed that the flavours were familiar and yet slightly elevated. The other dishes followed the same theme but the standout has got to be the sisig tacos. Gordon Ramsay himself liked these and I definitely agree. It brought the familiar sisig flavours and textures in a taco format and the unique combination of the egg butter just elevated the dish significantly. We liked it so much we ordered it twice!