My experiences go beyond just visiting tourist spots—I pay special attention to local food cultures. Every time I visit a new city, I dive deep into its culinary scene, exploring the restaurants, tasting local dishes, and immersing myself in the flavors that make each place unique. Melbourne, one of the most culturally diverse cities in Australia, offers an incredible variety of restaurants. From traditional Australian dishes to global flavors, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for a high-end dining experience or a hidden local gem, Melbourne has it all.
Today, I’ll be sharing some of the best restaurants in Melbourne that are an absolute must-visit. Whether you’re a foodie or simply someone who loves to explore new cuisines, these places will give you an unforgettable dining experience.
Hua Gu
Address: 17 Market Lane, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Phone: (03) 9662 3655
Hua Gu is a stunning Chinese restaurant located in the heart of Melbourne’s city center. With its unique design and rich traditional Chinese decor, dining here feels like embarking on a small cultural journey. The restaurant focuses on Cantonese cuisine but blends in modern and innovative elements, offering a refreshing twist on classic Chinese dishes.
One of the standout dishes here is their roast goose, which has a perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. It’s paired with a special sauce that elevates the flavors to another level. Another must-try is the Hua Gu fried rice, with grains that are perfectly separated, aromatic, and full of flavor.
The ambiance of Hua Gu is elegant and sophisticated, making it a perfect place for a date or dinner with friends. The service is exceptional, with attentive staff always ready to make your dining experience more enjoyable.
Why I Recommend It: If you’re looking for authentic yet innovative Chinese cuisine, Hua Gu will exceed your expectations.
Chuan Alley
Address: 136 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Phone: (03) 9418 3400
Next on the list is Chuan Alley, located in the trendy Fitzroy neighborhood on Gertrude Street. Known for its traditional barbecue and charcoal cooking, this restaurant offers a rich and flavorful dining experience.
At Chuan Alley, you must try their charcoal-grilled lamb chops and charcoal-grilled fish—both dishes are incredibly flavorful and have that unique smoky aroma. Another dish that stands out is their charcoal-grilled mushrooms with garlic sauce, which combines the earthiness of the mushrooms with the bold garlic flavors, making it an unforgettable bite.
The ambiance here is stylish yet relaxed, with a modern feel that suits a night out with friends. The casual yet chic decor complements the food perfectly, creating a great vibe for a fun and memorable meal.
Why I Recommend It: If you love barbecue and smoky, flavorful dishes, Chuan Alley should definitely be on your list.
Attica
Address: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, VIC 3185
Phone: (03) 9530 0111
For those looking for an unforgettable fine dining experience, Attica is a must-visit. Located a bit further out in Ripponlea, this Michelin-starred restaurant is well worth the trip. Run by renowned chef Ben Shewry, Attica is known for its innovative Australian cuisine, with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients from organic farms across the country.
One of the standout dishes at Attica is the chargrilled seafood platter, which features an array of fresh, expertly cooked seafood that highlights the rich bounty of Australian waters. Another dish I highly recommend is the slow-braised beef in red wine, which is tender, flavorful, and perfectly paired with the rich red wine sauce.
The restaurant’s interior is chic and luxurious, with every detail designed to make you feel special. The entire dining experience at Attica is an art form, making it the perfect place to indulge in the finest Australian cuisine.
Why I Recommend It: For a truly luxurious dining experience and a taste of the best Australian produce, Attica is an absolute must-try.
Chin Chin
Address: 125 Flinders Ln, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Phone: (03) 8663 2000
Located in the heart of Melbourne, Chin Chin is one of the best Thai restaurants in the city. Known for its bold flavors and vibrant dishes, Chin Chin is perfect for those who love spicy, aromatic food. The restaurant’s sleek, modern decor sets the tone for a lively and exciting dining experience.
One of their signature dishes is the green curry chicken, which is rich and creamy, with a balance of sweetness from the coconut milk and heat from the chilies. Another dish I highly recommend is the spicy and sour soup, which has a tantalizing balance of tangy and spicy flavors that will awaken your taste buds.
The service at Chin Chin is also exceptional—staff are friendly and eager to recommend dishes to suit your preferences, ensuring you have a fantastic dining experience.
Why I Recommend It: If you love bold, spicy flavors and Thai cuisine, Chin Chin is a must-visit spot in Melbourne.
Jim’s Greek Tavern
Address: 32 Johnston St, Collingwood, VIC 3066
Phone: (03) 9419 3827
For those who love Mediterranean food, Jim’s Greek Tavern is a fantastic option. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Collingwood, this family-friendly restaurant serves up classic Greek dishes with generous portions and authentic flavors.
The Greek mixed grill platter is a standout dish, featuring lamb, pork, and chicken cooked to perfection, each with its own delicious seasoning and smoky flavor. Another dish not to miss is the Greek salad, which is fresh, light, and full of flavors from tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, making for a refreshing side dish.
The atmosphere at Jim’s Greek Tavern is lively and welcoming, with a warm and inviting vibe that’s perfect for a casual dinner with friends or family. The staff are also extremely friendly, adding to the overall great experience.
Why I Recommend It: If you’re craving hearty Greek food and a lively atmosphere, Jim’s Greek Tavern is the place to go.
The Esplanade Hotel
Address: 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Phone: (03) 9534 0211
If you’re looking for a meal with a view, The Esplanade Hotel is the place to be. Located in the picturesque St Kilda Beach area, this historic hotel offers a modern Australian menu with a focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood.
The grilled salmon is a must-try here, cooked to perfection and served with a light yet flavorful sauce that brings out the natural flavors of the fish. The seafood platter, featuring crabs, shrimp, and oysters, is another standout dish—fresh, beautifully presented, and bursting with oceanic goodness.
With stunning views of the beach and a relaxed vibe, The Esplanade Hotel is the perfect spot for a leisurely meal with friends or a romantic dinner by the sea.
Why I Recommend It: For great food with a beautiful view of St Kilda Beach, The Esplanade Hotel offers the perfect combination of fresh seafood and scenic surroundings.
Bar Lourinhã
Address: 525 Collins St, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Phone: (03) 9691 3888
Finally, I recommend Bar Lourinhã, a stylish bar and restaurant in Melbourne’s Central Business District. It offers a fusion of contemporary Australian and Mediterranean cuisine, along with an impressive selection of creative cocktails.
One of their signature dishes is the lobster tower, which is light and refreshing, paired with a perfectly balanced mango cocktail that complements the seafood beautifully.
The atmosphere at Bar Lourinhã is chic and sophisticated, with a modern bar ambiance that’s perfect for enjoying tapas or small plates with a drink in hand.
Why I Recommend It: If you enjoy innovative cocktails and creative small plates in a sleek, modern setting, Bar Lourinhã is a great spot to unwind and indulge.
Melbourne is not just a city of culture and art—it’s a paradise for food lovers. From traditional Chinese and Thai dishes to Mediterranean flavors and fresh Australian seafood, every restaurant offers a unique culinary experience. Whether you’re a local foodie or a first-time visitor, the restaurants I’ve recommended above are sure to provide a memorable dining experience. So, when you’re in Melbourne, don’t forget to treat your taste buds to the city’s incredible food scene!
