Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene boasts a plethora of exceptional restaurants, each offering unique dining experiences that have garnered widespread acclaim. Here are some of the city’s standout establishments, accompanied by insights from patrons:
Located in Ripponlea, Attica is helmed by Chef Ben Shewry and is renowned for its innovative approach to Australian cuisine. The restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that highlights native ingredients and creative presentations.
Customer Review: “Dining at Attica is almost like culinary stand-up. Few restaurants with this degree of fame, charging this many dollars, could equal Attica’s joke count nor land gags as successfully – or indeed meaningfully – as owner-chef Ben Shewry.”
Gourmet Traveller
Situated at the corner of Flinders Lane and Russell Street, Gimlet exudes 1920s glamour. The menu features wood-fired dishes and a curated selection of cocktails, making it a favourite for both casual and special occasions.
Customer Review: “Gimlet brings a Chicago-style flair to Melbourne’s CBD. Housed in a 1920s landmark, it’s the go-to for everything from laid-back catch-ups to upscale dining, offering an array of wood-fired delights and even a luxurious caviar service.”
Man of Many
Embla, located on Russell Street, is a wine bar that offers a menu centred around wood-fired cooking. The intimate setting and ever-evolving wine list make it a beloved spot among locals.
Customer Review: “Embla’s hushed, reverent atmosphere is better suited to the awe-inspiring knife skills of owner-chef Koichi Minamishima and a few trusted offsiders. They work with both local seafood and fish flown direct from Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo to produce peerless sushi, sashimi and more.”
Broadsheet
Perched atop the Rialto Tower, Vue de Monde offers panoramic views of Melbourne alongside its contemporary Australian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its meticulous attention to detail and immersive dining experience.
Customer Review: “Marron arrives first as glistening tail and then ‘innards’ served in a superb egg custard while wakame joins avocado in a tiny, exquisitely presented tart. Service and the view remain high points in what is arguably Vue’s best era yet.”
Gourmet Traveller
A stalwart in Melbourne’s dining scene, Flower Drum specializes in Cantonese cuisine. Known for its impeccable service and classic dishes, it remains a favourite for those seeking traditional flavours.
Customer Review: “The only reason this OG Melbourne institution has given up top spot on this list, is because we know it doesn’t need first place on this, or any other list, to continue its reign as a city-wide favourite.”
Timeout
Located on Little Bourke Street, Tipo 00 is a celebrated Italian eatery specializing in artisanal pasta dishes. The intimate setting and attentive service make it a favorite among pasta enthusiasts.
Customer Review: “Not all Italian restaurants are created equal. While many continue to play the same old culinary hits, Tipo 00 explores the country’s culinary nuances.”
The Telegraph
Situated on Flinders Lane, Cumulus Inc. offers a modern Australian menu in a sleek, minimalist setting. Known for its all-day dining and open kitchen, it provides a dynamic culinary experience.
Customer Review: “With a sleek, minimalist, industrial design with high ceilings, open kitchen, and wall-sized windows framing the iconic culinary lane, Cumulus is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and best fine dining restaurants in Melbourne.”
Man of Many
Located in Richmond, Minamishima offers an authentic omakase experience, showcasing the artistry of sushi craftsmanship. The intimate setting and meticulous attention to detail provide a memorable dining journey.
Customer Review: “Minamishima’s hushed, reverent atmosphere is better suited to the awe-inspiring knife skills of owner-chef Koichi Minamishima and a few trusted offsiders.”
Broadsheet
Situated on Flinders Lane, Supernormal presents a modern take on Asian cuisine, drawing inspiration from Tokyo, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. The vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes make it a popular choice for diners seeking a contemporary twist on traditional flavors.
Customer Review: “Renowned Melbourne chef Andrew McConnell discusses his new Asian-inspired restaurant Supernormal and bar Bar Miette in Brisbane’s CBD. Despite a long career centred in Melbourne, he saw an opportunity for expansion in Brisbane due to its burgeoning food scene.”
Courier Mail
Flower Drum is a stalwart in Melbourne’s dining scene, specialising in Cantonese cuisine. Known for its impeccable service and classic dishes, it remains a favourite for those seeking traditional flavours.
Customer Review: “The only reason this OG Melbourne institution has given up top spot on this list, is because we know it doesn’t need first place on this, or any other list, to continue its reign as a city-wide favourite.”
Timeout
These establishments exemplify Melbourne’s restaurant landscape’s diverse and dynamic nature, each contributing to the city’s reputation as a global culinary destination.
