Located in a former metalworks factory on Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, Cutler (formerly Cutler and Co) is the flagship restaurant of Andrew McConnell and Jo McGann. Since opening in 2009, it's consistently been at the top of Melbourne's luxury dining game, winning our Best Fine Diner award in 2017 and continuing to wow both loyal and new guests 15 years on.
While the venue may have somehow relaxed its sense of formality in line with current dining trends, crucial aspects of the experience remain: world-class service, a creative yet comforting menu that makes use of Australia's superb produce and – yep, we're calling it – the best long Sunday lunch in Melbourne.
A glorious afternoon may be spent here sampling the delights of wood-grilled Corner Inlet calamari tossed through a duo of punchy green romesco and aioli; fresh sashimi-grade tuna served on brittle, buttery shards of 'toast' with crème fraîche, marinated bullhorn peppers and horseradish; and creamy Abalone katsu sando bites, while washing the goodness down with Champers and expertly crafted cocktails like the Turtle Dove (that one's a knock-out).
Steak lovers can't go wrong with the dry-aged rib eye, a staple on the menu since the beginning, though specials of the day are always a must-try. On our last visit, a stunning duck pithivier with prosciutto took our gong for one of the best dishes we tried all year.
Better yet, the restaurant treats every guest with a kindness and attention to detail that's rare to come by. Here, a waiter will open the door and remove your coat for you, explain the menu, make drinks recommendations and check in on you throughout the meal. But it's also the kind of place where you can get your hands oily with some snacky sage and anchovy fritters (a non-negotiable item to commence proceedings), shirk an exxy set menu in favour of a few à la carte dishes instead, and laugh loudly with your company (side note: the acoustics at Cutler are perfect).
In other words, Cutler may be fancy but it's also unforgettably warm.
Planning a spesh date or a long-planned revisit? It's not even up for debate: Cutler gets our pick as the cream of Melbourne's crop. Make a booking at the website.