The best BYO restaurants in Melbourne

Corkage: $0 – lunch only

South Yarra institution France-Soir has been wining and dining since 1986. Proudly French, the restaurant has maintained its allure and stature as one of Melbourne's most stylish venues. Although its authentic French food is common knowledge, the fact that they are BYO for lunches is one of the city's best-kept secrets. It's a little pricey for a casual lunch, but you can squeeze out plenty of value by bringing your own bottle. Then kick back and enjoy buttery snails, duck à l’orange and beef bourguignon with whatever verre de vin you choose.

Jim's Greek Tavern has been a staple for group dinner quandaries for almost 50 years. Primarily due to the vivacious and animated atmosphere – and helped largely by the flexible BYO policy. You will not be offered a menu here, but rather a waiter will customise your food based on your preferences. Be prepared to sit back as course after course of dips, seafood, meats and salads take their turn in an endless parade of Greek patriotism. Shove your drinks into the communal fridge and be prepared for a long night of fun.

Icon of icons, The Waiters Restaurant is Melbourne's worst kept secret and has been a BYO go-to for over 60 years. It’s unpretentious, Melbourne has become known for. Expect reliable, uncomplicated flavours here – with pasta dishes, scallopini and schnitzels this at their sincerest and most delicious. Grab a home-brought nebbiolo, sit back, and enjoy.

Modern Korean with a Mexican twist, Chimac is the undisputed king of the Melbourne BYO scene. Lively and welcoming, this Victoria street restaurant offers K-BBQ and other warming dishes to satisfy your belly. We recommend bypassing the single dishes and going straight for their “All you can eat” K-BBQ offering. For around $40pp you’ll receive countless servings of fresh meats, side dishes and banchan to grill at your table. 

Peko Peko has earned a dedicated following of local enthusiasts evidenced by the long line that spills from the venue. Their comforting menu is filled with crispy, meaty, fried things which works in tandem with their BYO policy. Have some fun and wash their signature POP chicken down with a paradoxical champagne or keep things budget friendly with a light bodied grenache.

You haven't lived until you’ve tried a selection of the Mamak roti. Pair them with a tangy fish curry and your favourite glass of vino and you’re fast approaching nirvana territory. The food is superb and the service is friendly – this casual Malaysian eatery is popular for a reason.

Corkage: $6 per person

Chinatown staple and beloved first stop on a night out, Shanghai Village is the BYO exemplar. Dumplings are what they’re known for but don't neglect the other dishes – we suggest the fried rice and some green veg for optimal pre-night out stomach lining. The atmosphere is boisterous and loud, with similarly frenetic (but functional) service to match. Opt for SV for a no-frills, tasty and lively evening that's perfect for a group celebration.

Corkage: $20 per bottle – Mondays only

High Street stalwark Estelle offers BYO on Mondays – which gives you the chance to use that bottle you’ve been saving whilst enjoying food at its Scott Pickett-y best. Throw caution to the wind and get the 5 course chef’s selection, or be a bit cheeky and just grab an artisanal cheese board and dessert.