Atria, the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne’s fine dining offering, certainly doesn’t need to rely on its astounding panoramic views to impress. However, as you ascend 80 floors up revealing uninterrupted vistas of Port Phillip Bay and the surrounding ranges, the views sure don’t hurt.
Since opening in March 2023, Atria has specialised in its own distinctive take on seasonal menus. The dishes and ingredients follow the local Melbourne climate, rather than the quarterly European calendar. Executive chef Michael Greenlaw (ex-Vue De Monde) is a keen diver and spearfisher, an interest that shines through in a menu that places unconventional seafood at the forefront. Think handpicked mud crabs, Victorian mussels and razorback prawns.
“Every month is a new adventure, and our menus shift accordingly” says Greenlaw. “It’s not just about heroing what’s in season; it’s often about preserving produce while it’s abundant and at its peak, in order to create and elevate dishes for the coming months.”
The wine list is a world tour that shines a light on local makers, curated by head sommelier Sean Lam. Saké is also a specialty – try some paired with cheese from the roaming cart.
As of this summer, Atria is now open for lunch as well as dinner. While diners have always been able to peer out at the glittering city skyline during an evening meal, now you can also appreciate the spanning views of Melbourne’s furthest reaches in the full light. As Greenlaw points out, you’re literally able to “take in the sweeping bay and surrounding landscape where so much of our beautiful produce is sourced”.
Atria is named for the brightest star in the southern sky, within the Triangulum Australe constellation, and we can see why. From the columns laid with mother of pearl to the glistening cutlery placed down with the utmost precision by a gloved hand, every detail shines bright here.
For more information and to make a booking, head to the website.
