10 Best Restaurants in Melbourne: A Culinary Journey for 2024

Melbourne, renowned for its diverse food culture, offers an eclectic mix of fine dining and casual eateries that cater to every taste. From authentic Cantonese delights to innovative Italian dishes, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Melbourne has to offer.

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1. Vue de Monde

Located on the 55th floor of the Rialto Tower, Vue de Monde combines panoramic city views with exceptional fine dining. Chef Hugh Allen crafts a seasonal tasting menu featuring dishes like Tasmanian oysters and kangaroo with native ingredients. The theatrical presentation adds a unique flair to the experience.

2. Flower Drum

A cornerstone of Melbourne’s dining scene, Flower Drum excels in Cantonese cuisine. Known for its Peking duck and delicate dim sum, it balances tradition with innovation, offering dishes like lamb spring rolls and silken barramundi noodles.

3. Minamishima

This intimate Japanese restaurant in Richmond is led by sushi master Koichi Minamishima. Its omakase menu showcases exquisite nigiri and other Japanese delicacies, providing an unforgettable dining experience.

4. Di Stasio Carlton

A modern take on Italian classics, Di Stasio offers a creative menu featuring handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh local produce. Its artistic decor and courtyard bar create an inviting atmosphere.

5. Gimlet at Cavendish House

This European-inspired eatery blends elegance and comfort. From baked scallops to chargrilled Lyonnaise sausage, every dish pairs beautifully with their extensive wine and cocktail selection.

6. Embla

A cozy wine bar with a focus on fire-cooked dishes, Embla serves creative small plates like chicken-skin crisps and hand-rolled fregola with vongole. Its intimate vibe makes it a favorite for casual dining.

7. Grill Americano

Specializing in premium steaks and fresh seafood, Grill Americano is an ode to Italian-American cuisine. The Josper grill and wood oven infuse dishes with rich, smoky flavors, complemented by a world-class wine cellar.

8. Mount Erica Hotel

This revamped pub offers elevated pub fare like octopus escabeche and crab linguine. It’s perfect for those seeking affordable dining with a gourmet twist.

9. Yugen Dining

Tucked away in South Yarra, Yugen offers a sophisticated Japanese menu in a chic, subterranean setting. Highlights include smoked eel chawanmushi and freshly prepared sushi at their omakase bar.

10. Marion

Located in Fitzroy, Marion is a wine bar known for its thoughtful menu and impressive wine selection. Pair grilled flatbread with fromage blanc or try their fresh anchovy dishes for a flavorful meal.

FAQs

1. What are the top casual dining spots in Melbourne?
Embla and Marion are excellent options for casual yet sophisticated dining experiences. Both offer thoughtfully curated menus in cozy settings.

2. Where can I find the best affordable restaurants in Melbourne?
Mount Erica Hotel is a standout choice for high-quality, affordable meals, offering creative takes on pub classics.

3. What are the newest restaurants in Melbourne to try in 2024?
Grill Americano and Yugen Dining are among Melbourne’s newest additions, already making waves for their innovative menus and exceptional ambiance.

4. Are there historic downtown Melbourne restaurants worth visiting?
Flower Drum, with nearly 50 years of history, is a must-visit for its timeless Cantonese cuisine and impeccable service.