Ever wondered where Hollywood superstars, famous chefs and athletes eat out when they come to town?
On the back of Taylor Swift's euphoria-inducing tour Down Under, fans might be wondering where she chose to wine and dine. While room service was probably the ticket here in Melbs, we do know where she visited in Sydney. But that got us wondering: when superstars touch down at Tullamarine after a long flight, where are they opting to spend their dosh on food and drinks? There have been a few sightings over the years, so we've rounded them all up here.
Star sighting: Billie Eilish in September, 2022.
The story: Critically acclaimed plant-based chef Shannon Martinez posted a snap with the star on her Instagram account with the caption: "Always a pleasure to cook for my favourite vegan musical family. So happy to have finally been able to cook for you on our home turf."
Fun fact: In 2016, Smith and Daughters won the People's Choice vote for Best Restaurant at Time Out Melbourne's Food and Drink Awards.
Star sighting: Ed Sheeran in February, 2023.
The story: The owner of this classic 70-year-old burger joint had the shock of his life when the pop star popped in for a feed. Ed, who'd spent the morning performing a surprise concert at the Royal Children's Hospital, was kind enough to take photos and sign autographs for the starstruck man.
Fun fact: At first, the owner's mother didn't recognise the red head and treated him like any other ordinary customer. It's also been reported that Ed Sheeran visited Kisume during his Melbourne visit.
Star sighting: Marco Pierre White (time unknown.)
The story: The famous British chef has often spoken publicly about his favourite restaurants around Melbourne, with Flower Drum slipping from his lips more than once. He also has nothing but glowing praise for Tipo 00, Di Stasio, Añada and Cutler and Co.
Fun fact: In 2014, Flower Drum was crowned our Legend at Time Out Melbourne's Food and Drink Awards.
Star sighting: Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker, March 2024.
The story: It's not often one of the famous K sisters makes her way Down Under, so Melburnians were agog to see footage of her and her beau sightseeing at NGV and other top spots around Melbourne. In town for Blink-182's latest run of shows, the superstar couple made time to check out Latin-inspired vegan restaurant Lona Misa for a romantic meal out.
Fun fact: Lona Misa is a joint project from renowned chefs Shannon Martinez (Smith and Daughters, Smith and Deli) and Ian Curley (Kirk's Wine Bar, Amphlett House).
Star sighting: Billy Joel in December, 2022.
The story: Billy Joel was in town to perform for one night only in Australia. At some point either before or after Billy's history-making show at the MCG, he made time to indulge in a meal at this ritzy Italian fine diner.
Fun fact: Billy Joel crowned Grill Americano's viral tiramisu as the best he's ever had. What a compliment!
Star sighting: Harry Styles (squeal) in February, 2023.
The story: On his downtime during a Melbourne music tour, Harry dropped in at the beautiful warehouse eatery and concept store (famed for it's aesthetic Japanese-style breakfasts) for a 'lil break. We love Cibi, too – good choice, Harry!
Fun fact: Tik Tok users were quick to flood the comments when a clip of the sex symbol at Cibi surfaced, mainly to discuss Harry's interesting choice of outfit. 'i can't tell if he's in pajamas or a cute outfit someone help,' said one fan desperately.
Star sighting: Michelle and Barack Obama in March, 2023.
The story: The famous presidential couple had come to Melbourne primarily for business (Barack was doing a speaking tour), but they sure hit up some excellent Melbourne restaurants in their downtime, including Stokehouse, Embla and Gimlet.
Fun fact: Staudt told Time Out the Obamas were “the most wholesome people you’ve ever met”. Read the full interview here.
Star sighting: Kendrick Lamar in December, 2022.
The story: Along with a highly prepared security team, the American rapper headed to the fancy Lucas Group-owned Japanese restaurant during his 2022 tour Down Under.
Fun fact: The hip hop trailblazer is so popular here in Melbourne, tickets to his show sold out fast and he decided to schedule another. Sydney and Melbourne were the only cities to score second shows.
Star sighting: Bill Gates in January, 2023.
The story: The ultra-wealthy philanthropist was down in Melbourne to watch the Australian Open men's final. During his visit, the hatted Collingwood fine diner hosted Bill and his party for a private dinner outside normal trading hours.
Fun fact: Bill famously asked for Coke Zero, but chef and owner Peter Gunn didn't have any on ice for a table of eight. He had to run down to Coles and get a case!
Star sighting: Pink, Jerry Hall, Roger Federer and Serena Williams (each on separate occasions.)
The story: Since opening in mid-2011, Chin Chin has emerged as one of Melbourne's most famous restaurants. As a result, many celebrities have been said to grace its doors over the years – though they probably found it far easier to get a table than us humble civilians.
Fun fact: Our former Food and Drink Editor Jess Ho once worked front of house at Chin Chin and was even known as "the face" of the legendary restaurant. Jess is now a published author, podcast producer, writer and speaker.
Star sighting: Jacob Elordi in April, 2022.
The story: The Saltburn and Euphoria man of the moment was spotted at the charming Carlton North eatery sipping a coffee and eating soft-boiled eggs and bacon for brekky.
Fun fact: The handsome actor was born in Brisbane but attended high school in Melbourne, before moving to LA to pursue his acting career.
Star sighting: Dua Lipa and Troye Sivan in November, 2022.
The story: The beloved British pop star enjoyed dinner with her Aussie pal (and fellow singer) Troye Sivan at the cult favourite wine bar ahead of her Melbourne shows. Other venues Dua visited in town include Electric Bar and Carlton Wine Room.
Fun fact: The pair are said to have enjoyed natural Spanish wine and foccacia as part of their meal.
Star sighting: Alison Brie in September, 2023.
The story: The talented actress (famous for playing Trudy Campbell in hit show Mad Men) was on holiday with her husband and fellow actor Dave Franco when her sweet tooth struck. Of course, a visit to this town wouldn't be complete without a taste of Lune's flaky, buttery creations.
Fun fact: An apricot danish was the treat she chose, apparently. The New York Times once called Lune's croissants "the best in the world."
Star sighting: Anthony Bourdain in 2009.
The story: The late and great Bourdain famously adored the food scene in Melbourne, and attended the Lebanese bakery on Sydney Road with Matt Preston to sample its famous pizza and pies.
Fun fact: The pair ordered spinach, lamb and za'atar toppings, while Bourdain commented on film his love for Melbourne's multicultural food offerings, calling the city a "wonderland."
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