Lauren Dinse

Well, Melbourne, let's face it: summer's long gone and it's going to be a long, chilly few months ahead. Luckily, Melbourne's best pubs are lighting their fireplaces so you can beat those winter blues. Our advice? Pull up a pew, grab a pint, gather your friends by the fire and get cosy.  For more winter warmers, take a look at our guides to Melbourne's best hot chocolates and mulled wines. And if you'd like to start planning lots of other fun things to do in the months ahead, this guide is the place to start.

May 2024: As falling autumn leaves start to make our footsteps feel crunchier and the air crisps up to a nasty bite, nothing warms the soul like an old boozer with a crackling fireplace, great grub and a jolly comforting drinks list. This town is full of places just of the sort, so here's our current round-up of the best of them.  Trying to choose the 50 best pubs in Melbourne is like trying to choose the 50 best taco stands in Guadalajara or the 50 best sushi joints in Tokyo. That is, it’s near impossible because there are just so many damn good ones. From the casual local boozers to the world-class gastropubs and rocking live music venues, we believe that our great city boasts some of the best pub culture in the world outside the British Isles (you win Dublin, we guess), and we’ll gladly die on that hill.  What makes each of these pubs great is variable - perhaps it's located in a historic building, offers entertainment such as live music and trivia, and serves up quality food that you want to keep coming back for. Perhaps it has a stellar selection of beers on tap, great service and a community feel, or maybe it's welcoming to your four-legged furry friends or kids. No matter what the reason, these 50 pubs are the ones that we rely on, that we depend on like a close mate, that we keep coming back to again and again for just one more frothy, and that we are so thankful to have in our neighbourhoods.  Take your drinking to new heights at the best rooftop bars in Melbourne,

Not to toot our own horn, but Australia’s coffee scene is unbeatable. Our laid-back culture is underpinned by vast caffeine consumption, with nine in ten of us saying we enjoy a cup of Joe. Our thriving industry of roasters and baristas earns international acclaim year after year, and Sydney and Melbourne have been named among the top ten cities for coffee worldwide.  We have curated this list of Australian roasters who excel in every part of the process: from sourcing and roasting beans to ultimately brewing them expertly. Check out the best coffee roasters in Australia. Prefer the hard stuff? Get your liquid fix at the best bars in Australia.

Looking to plan a special meal for mum this Mother's Day? Whether you're thinking a casual afternoon lunch, or you'd rather splash out on something a bit extra like a fancy dinner with flowers delivered to the table, you'll get loads of ideas from this list. We've rounded up our favourite restaurants around Melbourne that have created set menus, exclusive cocktails, sweets and more – all in honour of mum. Does your mum love fresh blooms? These are the best flower delivery services in Melbourne.

If you're not familiar with the amazing concept of a cat café, it's basically a magical place where cat lovers can get their feline and caffeine fixes at the same time. There are very few joys in life greater than sipping a hot cuppa while petting a purring furball, so we've rounded up a couple of cafés in Melbourne to help you on your quest for a purrfect afternoon.  And if you thought it couldn't get any better than that, most of these spots have adopted their fleet of cats from a shelter or operate as shelters themselves. Fall in love with a particular furball? Take them home and let them be your fur-ever friend.  More of a dog person? Hit up one of Melbourne's pooch-friendly pubs. Looking to take care of a cute creature in need? Here's where you can adopt a pet in Melbourne.

May 2024: A great café isn't just a place to grab a quick bite to eat; it's a thoughtfully designed space, a reliable purveyor of A-grade coffee (and hallowed for its perennially good food), and a comfortable gathering nexus for community. So which ones get it right in this town? Bookmark this guide and consider it your autumn hit list. There's a lot to love about Melbourne's world-class café scene. Wickedly good coffee. Creative brunch dishes that taste as good as they look, fresh from the minds of some of the city's top talent. And of course, the vibes. Discovering hot new cafés is almost a competitive sport in a city with AM dining of this calibre, so we've scoured Melbourne to bring you a guide to the best of the best. Looking for dessert that masquerades as breakfast? Check out the best doughnuts in Melbourne. Prefer a healthier feed? Try our pick of the best healthy lunch eats in the CBD.

There's a thrilling nature to BYO. Perhaps it stirs adolescent memories of trying to sneak drinks into venues? Or the indisputable value it adds? Regardless, it’s gratifying to waltz into a venue, your favourite drop in hand, and be greeted not with frowns and finger-wagging but with open arms. To save you the time of google searching BYO-positive locations, we’ve created a list of various cuisines and price points.  Looking for a scenic nightcap after dinner? Check out some of Melbourne's best rooftop bars.

May 2024: It's been a month of sexy rooftop launches, cosy cocktail bar openings and more on the drinking front, but we Melburnians are a loyal lot. There are those watering holes we turn to again and again, no matter how many bright and shiny new spots prance onto the scene. This list is the ultimate guide to the best of 'em in town. Melbourne has some of the best bars in the world, whether you're looking for the laser-like focus of 16-seater Above Board or the rock ‘n’ roll ‘she’ll be right’ of Heartbreaker. You can find temples heroing whisky and palaces dedicated to gin; you can sip naked wines or suited-and-booted cocktails, grab a craft beer and a parma or a late-night Gimlet and a Euro-leaning cheese platter. Or how about a prawn club sanga and a bottle of Champers from tiny charmer Apollo Inn?  If you're looking for a bar to head to, we've rounded up the top 50 bars that we're really loving right now – we're sure you will, too.

May 2024: Winter is coming, and as that bitter Melbourne chill kicks in, so too does the desire for something hot, tasty and thoroughly soul-nourishing. But to eat something that ticks those boxes, you don't need to break the bank in this town. Melbourne's a wonderland for cheap eats that hit the spot, and so here, we've rounded up the best of them. The late and great respected chef Anthony Bourdain once famously said: “I'd rather eat in Melbourne than Paris." It goes without saying that Melbourne has long been revered as one of Asia Pacific's most exciting food cities, but that status isn't just attributed to our fancy restaurants – special as many of those upper crust institutions may be. Our laneaways and hidden alcoves are brimming with cheap street eats, smashable pub deals and dinner options you can enjoy for $20, $15 or even under $10, so you can stop counting your hard-earned pennies and start eating instead. Looking for a drink to wash it all down? These are the 50 best bars in Melbourne. Want to kick on? These are the best late-night bars across the town. 

Every day is a special day at Lune, purveyor of the world’s best croissants (well at least many people believe this to be true – this writer included), and Lune's April specials are as tempting as ever. Yes, even after that post-Easter sugar coma, we're still craving our Lune fix.You'll find all the latest specials below, and because they vary between locations make sure to check out what's available at each store beforehand to avoid disappointment when you finally get to the front of that never-ending line.  Need more buttery goodness in your life? These are the best patisseries in Melbourne.

May 2024: In a famous food city like ours, how on earth do you decide which restaurants are the best of the best? Of course, depending on your individual tastes, culture, budget, location and other factors, such a feat is impossible. But here at Time Out, we certainly do try – in fact, our critics are out dining and drinking every week of the year to deliver you an ultimate guide to only the finest eating experiences in Melbourne. Keep a note of this list to see which ones are exciting us the most right now. The continually evolving and expanding dining scene in Melbourne is both a blessing and a curse: how do you choose between so many incredible restaurants? Well, that's where we come in. Stop endlessly scrolling, and commit to making your way through Time Out’s list of the best restaurants in the state right now. Our always-hungry local experts and editors have curated 2024's most delicious and divine, innovative and imaginative, comforting and familiar, memorable and magical dining experiences right here at your fingertips. From old favourites and culinary institutions such as Attica, Stokehouse and Flower Drum, to emerging standouts and instant icons such as Serai, Gimlet, Amaru and Reine and La Rue, we've got it all covered here. And as for the brand new restaurant and bar openings catching our eye? Check out this guide instead. Get out, and get eating! You've got a lot to get through!  Prefer a tipple-focused adventure? These are the best bars in Melbourne. Looking for

April 2024 update: This month, we loved visiting Pirate Life's first ever Melbourne venue to check out the fresh market produce-driven menu – and rivers of their awesome craft beer, of course. Eat Pierogi Make Love bowled us over with their house party vibes and famous Polish dumplings, and we were also impressed by the friendly service and Latin American-inspired fare at Collingwood's newly restored Albion Hotel. Here's your ultimate guide to Melbourne's most exciting recent restaurant and bar openings, updated monthly for your reading (and tasting) pleasure. With this list on hand, you'll be the first to know where to find the hottest brunch spot, vino bar or fine diner – all sussed out by our fastidious team of writers and critics. Note: we generally include venues that are only six months (give or take) young in this list.  Ready to make a booking somewhere spesh? Read on. Still hungry? These are the 50 best restaurants in Melbourne right now. Fancy a tipple? Check out the 50 best bars in Melbourne.

  Since the turn of the millennium, Handpicked Wines has showcased wines from some of the world's most acclaimed grape-growing regions. Along with a flagship vineyard on the Mornington Peninsula, the multi-regional business has also opened cellar doors in both Sydney and Melbourne, so urban dwellers can explore the wines without having to leave the city. With a focus on exceptional quality, sustainability and respect for the earth, Handpicked's selection is perfect for those looking to discover new varietals or explore regional nuances in wine. You can explore the full range for purchase online. The Melbourne CBD cellar door is known to host indulgent raclette feasts throughout autumn and winter, and is also open year-round for wine flights, charcuterie and cheese plates, events, vino chats and more. Head to the website for more information. Looking for a drop of something special? Hit up one of Melbourne's best wine bars. We've also rounded up some of the best wineries you can visit in the Yarra Valley.

It's that time of year again in Melbourne, when raclette cheese suppers start popping up all over town. The Euro apres-ski delicacy is best drizzled over a plate of hearty delights, and that's exactly what you can indulge in if you pop into Handpicked Wines' urban cellar door in the CBD this chilly season. The chef will circulate the room, pouring melted raclette straight from the wheel onto your plate of potato, confit mushrooms, heirloom tomatoes, cornichons and rocket. It's $20 a head, or for a bit extra, you can dial your dish up a notch with the finest prosciutto, jamón, serrano or salumi.  The cellar door’s array of regionally expressive wines are available to pair with your raclette supper, so if you like the sound of a spot of vino opt for the Handpicked Wine Maker's Flight. You'll get to taste some top drops from Australia's finest regions, including the Yarra Valley, Margaret River and Coonawarra, plus the Pyrenees in Europe.  The raclette suppers will run every Wednesday and Thursday night until the end of winter. Go here to book a ticket, though walk-ins are also welcome.  Think wine and cheese are a match made in heaven? Check out Melbourne's best spots to enjoy this pairing. Looking for somewhere to kick on afterwards? Here's a round-up of our favourite cocktail bars right now.

Rocketing up to the highest floor of the Rialto Tower, your ears might pop and your stomach drop, but the destination is well worth the ride. At dusk, the rapidly fading sunlight in Vue de Monde bounces off the CBD’s skyscrapers, and the twinkling lights and far-off ranges are so very, very beautiful. It’s a dramatic entrance, and one that sets the tone for your meal to follow. After all, this experience feels just as much like a work of theatre as it does a restaurant.  But you might be relieved to find the stuffiness of its previous incarnations is long gone. The centrepiece kitchen’s new extensions welcome you into the hustle-bustle: there’s an intimacy with the close-knit team and their busy work that no longer feels like a secret operation. A succession of charming international staff are introduced by name, and with the restaurant’s passionate executive chef Hugh Allen at the helm, it really does feel just like one big happy family. And so, proceedings are eased along by my host and his impressively stocked Champagne trolley. First drink in hand, a palate cleanser chilled by a moat of ice is brought forth: a bowl of earthy radish and raspberry broth, topped artfully with geranium petals, and rendered even earthier by subtle notes of fermented koji. A grounding beginning. Next is a whisper-delicate tart wearing a crown of purple borage flowers, under which mandolin-shaved curls of avocado and samphire are a velvet savoury dream. Allen’s reverence for Indigenous ingredien

There's no better month for beer lovers in Melbourne than May. We've got GABS. Good Beer Week. The Aussie International Beer Awards. And of course, Pint of Origin: the ten-day event that kicks everything off.  Running from May 10-19 this year, the 2024 edition of Pint of Origin promises to be bigger, bolder and more bodacious than ever before. The create-your-own-adventure beer festival – first conceived in 2012 by the folks at local craft beer publication the Crafty Pint – will soon be popping up at some of our favourite pubs and bars around the city, and we can't wait to taste the wacky and wonderful creations on offer across the week. Wondering how the event works? It's simple: 21 Melbourne venues will host a different region of Australia or part of the world for ten days. Their mission is clear: serve only beers that come from their designated destination. Participating venues will run pairing events, themed tap takeovers, degustations, launch parties and opportunities to meet the brewers. Safe to say, there'll be no shortage of beer-soaked events throughout the program to take your fancy.  We're told around 700 beers will hit taps across Melbourne, from more than 225 breweries located everywhere from Quebec to Queensland, from Wales to Western Australia.  Pint of Origin 2024 Melbourne venues: The tap dancers from Beermash in Collingwood will be pouring Scandinavian beers. Benchwarmer in West Melbourne is showcasing Japanese brewers. If you love your Western Aussie brews,

It was love at first encounter with Bar Spontana, its selling points reading like my own personal wish list with every box getting a big tick. Authentic and creative Thai food? Yes. Plenty of experimentation, pickling and fermentation? Triple yes. Wine bar status? If a smart list of great grape stuff is on offer, I’m in like a flash, no need to ask twice. But there were also plenty of unexpected wonders at Bar Spontana (like one of the greatest cocktails I’ve ever tasted – more on that later) that swept my partner and I off our feet on our very first visit. This shouldn’t have been a surprise given the origins of its name – ‘spontana’ means ‘spontaneous’ in Esperanto, a universal language created in the 19th century to help diverse Europeans understand one another.  Another pleasant surprise was the warm ‘lived-in’ quality of the venue, despite it only being about a month old. Bisected into a curiously loungy front space with open windows and a long, narrow dining room aglow with the type of lighting reminiscent of a Thai city at sundown, here’s a cosy sanctuary you could spend all night comfortably drinking in – and if it weren’t for the late hour (we’d just had a few knock-off drinks at nearby Waxflower), we certainly would have.  Bar Spontana is tucked away down a Brunswick backstreet so you’ll need to fire up your Google Maps if you’re after a drink, but once you settle in and breathe in all those glorious, gingery-garlic Thai aromas, you’ll probably be tempted to stay fo

Chef Alistair McMurray is no stranger to the glittering pinnacle of the NYC dining scene. As the former sous chef at Eleven Madison Park, once crowned the world’s best restaurant, McMurray’s resume is aglow with peak moments – from working at acclaimed fine diner in Victoria, Ten Minutes by Tractor, to lending his skills at a restaurant in Canada that was voted the nation’s best two years in a row. The Mornington-raised chef is now returning to our shores to team up with the founder of coffee company Commonfolk, Sam Keck, for a once-in-a-blue-moon dinner pop-up. Titled ‘A Fairytale of New York’, it promises to bring the sparkle of New York’s dining culture to Melbourne while celebrating the enduring bond between two hospo legends. Keck and McMurray both grew up on the Mornington Peninsula, first teaming up at Merricks General Store and then Wildcroft, before branching out to focus on their own respective careers. For A Fairytale of New York, they’ve together crafted a multi-course sharing menu that pays tribute to McMurray’s American adventures while showcasing some of the finest Mornington produce that shaped his OG culinary ambitions. Visitors will receive a glass of sparkling on arrival, before tucking into elevated dishes from the seasonally inspired menu. For an idea of the types of dishes that may be included on the night, there's a snapshot at the website that may be subject to change.  The dinners will be held on Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4 at Commonfolk’s Morni

This self-serve frozen yogurt joint takes variation to a whole new level. As far as flavours go, Yo-Chi's rainbow of ingredients run the entire gamut – from melted Biscoff and Oreos to mochi balls, fresh fruits, apple crumble-like biscuits, chocolate 'soil' and a whole lot more.  Simply start with your preferred yogurt flavour: butterscotch, chocolate, green tea, coconut, cookies and cream, classic vanilla, salted butterscotch, strawberry cream or the oh-so-simple but oh-so-good OG signature tart yogurt. Then all you need to do is take your cup of goodness to the buffet counter and go nuts with all the toppings, after which the friendly staff will weigh your creation and charge accordingly. A little healthier than ice cream (because hey, probiotics) but just as decadent as an ooey-gooey scoop of gelato, Yo-Chi's yogurt is an ideal post-flick dessert after your trip to nearby Cinema Nova. It's a worthy cure for your sweet tooth if you're ambling down Lygon Street and in need of an extra sugar boost. But most of all, it's a fun and aesthetic treat for any time of day, for the little ones and the young at heart alike.  In good news for those who live further from the CBD, you no longer need to be a Carlton local to get your Yo-Chi fix. The chain now has several venues across Victoria, in Balaclava, Hawthorne, Malvern, Windsor and Brighton – plus, over 20 venues nationally. Find out more at the website. Craving more frozen treats? Check out this list of the city's best ice cream

With ANZAC Day on a Thursday, many folks are taking the Friday off to make it a long weekend. If you haven't made plans yet but know you want to get out of Melbourne and breathe in some wholesome country air, be sure to make a stop in Castlemaine. From Thursday, April 25 to Monday 29, a passionate gathering of chefs, cheesemakers, bakers, and food, wine, beer and cider producers of Mount Alexander Shire are getting together to showcase their finest wares. There's also an exciting program of special dinners, workshops, masterclasses, tours and tastings galore.  A highlight of the showcase are two special lunches, which celebrate the lifetime achievement of Ann-Marie Monda and Carla Meurs from one of the nation’s most iconic food producers, Holy Goat. After 25 years, these remarkable women will be making their last cheese in a few weeks’ time. Two four-course lunches at the Goods Shed on Sunday and Monday celebrate their achievements and showcase their exceptional cheese plus the produce from over a dozen local growers. Other events in this four-day food and drinks festival include a beer and cheese pairing masterclass, a vermouth class, a honey and apiary tour, a free apple juicing experience, a Thai cooking class, a special cheese-making masterclass, jazz in the vines, sourdough experience and a pizza night in a historic store. For the full program, check out the website. There's a lot to do and see – and taste! All about the brews? Don't forget to get tickets to the ultimate

Melbourne's giant beer, cider and fun festival GABS is back for 2024, so get ready to get sipping. Normally, the epic event would be held at the Royal Exhibition Building but after news that the heritage site is in need of an estimate $50 million in repairs, the beer nerds have moved their long-running project to Melbourne Showgrounds instead. Despite the new digs, the GABS brief fortunately remains the same: go on a deep dive with some of the best and most experimental local and interstate brewers on the scene right now. Of course, a few international brewers will be getting in on the action too (we see you, Kiwi cousins in hops) – but that's not even the most exciting part. We've just heard word that the world's oldest brewery, Weihenstephan, will be landing from Germany this year and they're currently brewing up special creations just for you. After nearly a thousand years, the Weihenstephan Monastery Brewery still stands atop Nährberg Hill, winning numerous prestigious awards over the years and ever conscious of its position as the oldest existing brewery in the world. Now you can try some for yourself! Pouring exclusively at GABS Festival will be Braupakt, Wheat beer, Pils and the Original Helles. And of course, the serious drawcard of GABS each year involves the roster of never brewed before, never to be seen again beers and ciders made just for the fest. In 2024, the bonkers beer festival will showcase more than 500 taps from 150 different breweries. There'll also be m

The Lucas Group certainly know how to nail a brief, and the eternally buzzy and bodacious Baby is no exception. Open all day (and all week) long, the restaurant is a stalwart neighbourhood favourite in Richmond for intimate dinners, celebratory occasions, lively gatherings with friends and sundowner cocktails and snacks at happy hour. The space exudes effortless charm with sultry neon red accents and rustic furnishings, a refreshing and contemporary setting for modern Aussie-style Italian dining.  It’s easy to while away the hours here with a smartly curated wine selection that showcases both local and international producers, though the seasonal aperitivo specials and handcrafted cocktails expertly mixed by the bar talent make just as pleasing pairings with the food. There’s Peroni too, if you’re partial to the classic Italian beer.  Start with the ever-delectable burrata with roasted red peppers and pistachios and the vitello tonnato with shallot, alongside the daily selection of cured meats with pickled vegetables for snacking, before moving onto the heartier stuff. Baby’s kitchen uses the freshest seasonal produce and ingredients available with zero pomp and all of the fun and flavour of familiar Italian crowd-pleasers.  When it comes to the pizza, expect the traditional topping combinations you know and love, plus a few specialty flavours thrown in for good measure, including an indulgent carbonara pizza and a potato pizza with guanciale (cured pork jowl). There’s around

There are plenty of reasons to pay Fisho's a visit next time you're down in Torquay: stunning beach views, fresh (and frozen, if you like) Margaritas and frosty pints of local craft brews – and last but not least, some of the freshest, best-cooked seafood you can find on the Great Ocean Road. Owners and long-time friends Luke Edwards and Luke Dalton spent years working in bars and restaurants out in Victoria's ski fields before the bright idea to open a fresh seafood joint in their hometown was born. From the scallops and oysters to crispy traditional-style fish and chips, expect high-quality, locally sourced seafood that's best enjoyed in the sun.

Pipi's is a contemporary kiosk in Albert Park serving world-class fish and chips, backed up by some serious hospo pedigree (chef Jordan Clay worked in Paris' Le Chateaubriand). Pipi's champions sustainable and locally sourced seafood, done simply and done well. Delicate fresh fish with crispy batter and chips dusted in saltbush powder juxtapose a humble classic with cheffy prowess. And make sure you order the homemade tartare – trust us, it's good.

It was a rocky journey to launch Moon Dog's new Americana-themed venture in Footscray, Moon Dog Wild West. Yet after multiple setbacks, including a last-minute cancellation to the beer playground's grand opening night and council issues caused by a fire hydrant, the wait is well and truly over. In April, the hotly anticipated venue finally swung open its saloon doors with visitors scrambling in to test their cowboy skills on its bucking bull ride and sample a froff from one of its 100 ice-cold taps. So what now on the Moon Dog front? Well, there's yet another brand new beer haven to look forward to and it's coming to Docklands' Marvel Stadium in a matter of months. Called Doglands, it promises to be even bigger than anything under the Moon Dog banner to date and will be split into two distinct areas: an eatery and bar to accommodate up to 100 thirsty beer-swillers, and a massive event space with capacity for more than 1400 patrons. Altogether, that's more room than both Moon Dog World and Moon Dog Wild West combined! Photograph: Supplied / Moon Dog While most details are still yet to be announced, we do know that Doglands will have Moon Dog's characteristic playful vibes, plus a 360-degree bar, small on-site brewhouse and even a hidden karaoke room! Anticipate fun oasis-themed features like palm trees, lots of pops of colour and more. Design renders of the space have already been revealed by Studio Y, and the Moon Dog crew are expecting to open its doors to the public at so

It's been an incredible few months for Victorian liquor producers. Our very own Four Pillars was crowned the world's best gin maker for a record third time, a Yarra Valley winery has been ranked Australia's best for 2024 and now, there's yet another epic local achievement we can toast to. Starward Whisky just took home 13 perfectly scored double gold medals at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), from more than 5,500 global entries. It's the largest win in the competition from just one distillery, and for an unprecedented third year in a row!  But what's all this whisky judging lingo? Well, a double gold is only awarded to entries that receive a gold medal rating by all members of the judging panel (it's a blind tasting), while a gold medal rating is for a score of 90 and above by one or more judges. And a platinum medal? Well, that's bestowed only to the very small number of entries that receive a double gold medal for three consecutive years. So all up, along with the 13 double gold medals, Starward's also taken home 13 gold and eight platinum. In plain English, this Port Melbourne distillery is producing some pretty top-notch stuff right now and the world is noticing. Photograph: Supplied / Starward Whiskey If you're browsing for a bottle at Starward's website or at any leading liquor store, keep in mind some of the producer's top award-winners: Starward's platinum medal winners at SFWSC 2024: Starward Nova Single Malt Whisky  Starward Hungarian Oa

There's no denying it: the last few years have been a challenging chapter for Melbourne's dining scene. While a number of exciting new openings suggest our city's slowly making inroads at recovering from its post-lockdown slump, restaurant closures are frequent and there's no question that many of our hospo heroes are doing it tough. We can only imagine how smaller operators and family-run businesses must feel in the face of such unpredictability. But luckily, we come to you today with some jolly good news! American Express – the lords behind those silver cards – is giving away ten grants of $21,500 to restaurants in both Sydney and Melbourne. The grant is intended to be a helping hand during an economically challenging time, allowing you to invest where it's needed most to improve and grow your business. Run in partnership with the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation and supported by Mainstreet Australia, to date the program has provided $240,000 in financial support to Sydney restaurants, and it’s now being extended to Melbourne for the first time.    Photograph: Supplied / American Express   Robert Tedesco, Vice President of Global Merchant Network Services for American Express Australia and New Zealand, said: “Small independently run restaurants are at the heart of our communities and local economies. Many are struggling with the fallout of cost-of-living pressures and need support. “We’re lucky to have one of the best dining scenes in the world and we

Whether you've spent the day trawling Chapel Street's best shops for treasures or hopping between some of the area's best bars with friends, there's no denying this has to be one of the most legendary strips in Melbourne. Now there's another exciting new spot set to open in Prahran this June, the latest big venture from the Mamas Dining Group (Hochi Mama, Straight Outta Saigon, Kiss and Tell).  Christened Suzie Q, the contemporary Cantonese restaurant will span two levels as a nostalgic ode to the underground nightlife scene in the '80s. While details are still scant at this stage, the group has revealed that the menu will be influenced by retro Chinese-American culture, with a focus on fusion fare and eccentric cocktails.   Mitchell and Eades (the team behind such glam spaces as Beverly and Grill Americano) will spearhead the design of Suzie Q's look and fitout, paying homage to classic Chinese restaurant aesthetics with fun contemporary touches. It's set to be a two-level venue comprising an ambient dining room at ground level and a private mezzanine for functions and events.  Though official photography hasn't yet been released, the dining group has shared several renders of what Suzie Q might look like when it opens next month.  Image render: Supplied / Mamas Dining Group On the food front, head chef Michael Stolley will laser in on classic Cantonese-style dishes, but with Mamas' signature modern spin. A Feed Me menu option is promised, too, which will include two smal

If you know, you know: Niku Shiki in Glen Waverley is a one-stop shop for some of the tastiest premium Wagyu available in Melbourne. Well, in good news for steak enthusiasts living or working closer to the CBD, the fresh meat specialist has just opened a sleek outlet at Melbourne Central. A butcher, contemporary Japanese diner and takeaway grocer all in one, the brand new venue is a carnivore’s paradise. Niku Shiki translates to ‘meat for all seasons’ in Japanese, and along with founder Kai Gu, hatted chef Ken Kee (Marble Yakiniku, Shoya, Shira Nui) has definitely made the venue live up to its name and pulled out all the stops. The high quality cuts are sourced from none other than Pardoo Wagyu in Western Australia and Stone Axe Wagyu, both renowned award-winners in the Wagyu world.  Photograph: Glen Yao If you’re on the go, stop in at the grab ‘n’ go kiosk and take your pick: we’re talking an epic range of premium Wagyu nigiri, tataki salads and other luxe sushi and sashimi bites. Alternatively, you can choose to dine in at the relaxed restaurant, where Kee has designed a menu to entice Japanese food enthusiasts and meat lovers alike. Steaming Wagyu sukiyaki hot pots make the perfect sharing dish for families and friends, while a diverse array of Wagyu donburi bowls combine melt-in-your mouth M9 Wagyu with perfectly cooked rice and condiments. You’ll also spot sandos, tacos, katsu rolls and more seafood-driven delights on the menu, plus a super tasty bento set lunch at $30

You may know his name for his incredibly addictive jars of hummus or the numerous pop-ups he’s cheffed for around town (a recent one was at Windsor hot spot Young Hearts), but there’s no disputing it: Tom Sarafian is the man of the moment.   And now, at long last, Melbourne’s getting treated to permanent digs from the young chef in collaboration with fellow hospo heavyweight Nathan Toleman. They’ve planned two new exciting venues in the CBD this winter: a restaurant and bar in honour of Sarafian’s grandfather, Zareh, and a daytime eatery and deli carrying on the Sarafian name.  Let’s start with the juicy bits about Zareh, which will celebrate Sarafian’s signature dishes and inspired creations paying homage to his heritage and the big, bold flavours of the Levant. Sarafian will use only the finest seasonal produce from local farms, cooking over a custom-made Armenian barbecue and seasoning each dish with quality spices sourced directly from artisan producers in Lebanon.  It’s an exciting foray into a permanent hospo project for Sarafian, who along with Toleman, has planned something special for Melburnians that comes from the soul. “Zareh, named after my grandfather, who was also a chef and brought my Armenian family to Melbourne from Egypt, holds a special place in my heart. I’ve always been inspired by the flavours of my upbringing – Arabic and Armenian dishes – and I’m proud to dedicate this restaurant to him and my family,” Sarafian said. “I have been working on this resta

Forever hunting down rare and prestigious bottles of vino for your collection? A private members club for wine lovers, 67 Pall Mall, is coming to Melbourne soon and promises to make that lifelong treasure hunt a whole lot easier for you. With existing membership sites across the globe in London, Singapore and Verbier in Switzerland, the prestigious club has chosen Melbourne as its first Australian destination due to our fair city’s rich food and wine culture.  “67 Pall Mall was born from passion and brought into existence by wine lovers, for wine lovers,” said founder and CEO Grant Ashton. “Melbourne was chosen above all other cities as our first outpost in Australia due to its close connection to independent and outstanding wine producers, allowing us to engage with a passionate wine culture and a knowledgeable collector community.” The club will showcase a master sommelier-curated list of 5,000 wines, one of Australia’s largest collections of local and international drops. There’ll even be a swanky new members’ venue, too, where you can swirl, swill and sip to your heart’s content. Photograph: Supplied / 67 Pall Mall Set to open in mid-2025, 67 Pall Mall Melbourne will be located within the three uppermost sky-high levels at 85 Spring Street. Upon entry on level 14, you’ll be met with stunning 270-degree views and a luxe maze of drinking and meeting spaces, plus an all-day restaurant for dining. There’ll also be a 7.5-metre wine cellar across two floors, affectionately re

Sure, watching Masterchef is pleasurable to the eye (aka food porn), but don't you ever wish you could just step into the screen and actually taste all those dishes from the show's best kitchen wizards? Well, thanks to a brand new collaboration between Crown Melbourne and Masterchef Australia, now you can. From May 16 to August 4, the complex will host a unique Masterchef pop-up restaurant helmed by a rotating line-up of some of the most beloved chefs from the show. Each of them will hold a three-week residency, during which they'll serve up visitors some of their favourite signature dishes, inspired by the respective cuisine they're most lauded for. Queen of spice and all things nice Kishwar Chowdhury is set to kick off proceedings until June 2. “I am so excited to be the first MasterChef off the rank for the Alumni at Crown residency," Chowdhury shared. "I’ve curated a special menu featuring some of my signature dishes, showcased across India and Bangladesh, including the dessert that took me to the MasterChef finale." Said dessert, of course, is none other than Chowdhury's 'Love Letter to Bangladesh': a heavenly scoop of toasted fennel and betel leaf ice cream, served with dark chocolate ganache, toasted coconut, dates, candied fennel mukhwas and jaggery caramel. Yeah, we'd make a booking for Chowdhury's residency for a taste of that dish alone. Savoury highlights from her menu include a lime and coconut scallop ceviche with charred pineapple and a rich Mughal-spiced goat

It was the old Hollywood film star Mae West who once said: "Let's get out of these wet clothes and into a dry Martini". Which is why it's perfect timing that Melbourne's very first dedicated Martini bar is slated to open in May – just as the weather in this town starts to take a turn.  The vodka masters at Grey Goose are launching Le Martini – a luxe 33-seater at Crown Melbourne where the bartenders will be serving up nothing but Grey Goose Martinis, albeit in a fun variety of different iterations. Love a classic? Then you should opt for the signature Martini, which comes with a good slosh of Grey Goose, Noilly Prat dry vermouth and a kiss of orange bitters to round out the drink.  If you want to branch out, there'll be other ways to enjoy the famous cocktail (yes, including shaken, not stirred), plus plates of elevated French-inspired eats from Crown's Bistro Guillaume to snack on. Designed to ooze timeless glamour with the bar as the centrepiece, this slinky and intimate watering hole is set to be a Martini lover's dream watering hole.  "Here, we are creating a place where guests can sip on the very best expertly crafted Grey Goose Martinis while immersed in exquisite surrounds," said the brand's marketing manager, Sander Janmaat. Though we don't have word just yet on all the drinks that will be available, we do know the bar will be led by an exciting rotation of internationally acclaimed bartenders. First up is award-winning New York bartender Dale DeGroff, otherwise know

For those who love the thrill of discovery, Melbourne’s a city that reads like a treasure map. From its laneways and hidden rooftops to its newly revived historic buildings, it seems that almost every nook and cranny in town conceals an exciting secret: some mysterious cocktail bar or subterranean eatery that rewards both those in the know and curious passers by alike. There’s now another such spot to add to your city hit list: Mill Place Merchants, a brand new speakeasy that harks back to Melbourne’s golden age. It’s tucked away in a heritage-listed 19th century building, down a laneway that was once known as a bustling hive for hat, soap, clothing and candle makers and traders. You enter the bar via a space disguised as a Victorian-era dressing room. Do a final fit check in front of a full-length mirror door, before entering a wardrobe that conceals the secret watering hole inside. Here, you’ll be entranced by opulent chandeliers and marine lights set against a backdrop of exposed stone walls. The room is adorned with a tasteful curation of vintage furniture and knick knacks that merchants would have collected on their various journeys. Photograph: Bonnie Savage The bar’s team is led by Paawan Engineer, who shares: “There has been a long history of speakeasies in Australia going back to the 1800s – working with a building from this time, we were inspired by the building’s history. It’s not retro or old fashioned, it’s original but pays homage to the classic.” Once you’ve

After weaving through the chaos of a garishly lit shopping centre, all you want is a bit of sun, peace, and a good coffee or bite to eat. Last year, Chadstone got the airy, light-filled Cityfields – a welcoming sky-high diner away from the noise.  Now, this year, Burwood Brickworks has scored a rooftop oasis of its own: Rombe. The tranquil all-day eatery has sprung up on the rooftop, affording visitors a nature-immersed dining experience with stunning vistas of the Dandenong Ranges.  Photograph: Supplied / Rombe The 2,500 sqm venue boasts an urban farm – an initiative from the shopping complex to further its sustainability measures – and three dedicated sections, including a restaurant, lush gardens and a former glass house that's been transformed into an event space. The garden is looked after by Cultivating Community, which is a local gardening organisation that provides employment and social connection for culturally and linguistically diverse communities.  It's the perfect set-up for Rombe's farm-to-table ethos, which sees chef Jerry Yi (Shihuishi, Red Spice Road) and his team source seasonal produce from the eatery’s garden for their cocktails and salads. Photograph: Supplied / Rombe For breakfast, dishes might include a salmon pastrami with soft egg, potato rosti and pickled fennel salad, with plenty of scope in the menu, too, to graze on classics like avocado toast, ricotta hotcakes and vadouvan eggs. Lunch plates feature daily made salads and mains like charcoal-

Want to escape to wine country? We’ve got plenty of places to pick from Down Under – Yarra Valley, McClaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Margaret River or the Hunter Valley, just to name a few. Within each region, you’ll find plenty of world-class vineyards and estates, offering top-tier drops at every price point. We're here to steer you in the right direction with our guide to the best wineries in Australia, but you can also take advice from The Real Review, one of Australia’s leading authorities in wine, who has just unveiled its highly anticipated annual list of the Top Wineries in Australia. Taking out the top spot for Winery of the Year Australia 2024 was Yarra Valley winery Yarra Yering. It's the fourth year in a row that a Victorian winery has taken out first prize. And it's not the first time Yarra Yering has taken the crown, having won it back in 2021. The judges gave special mention to Yarra Yering’s Carrodus Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, which achieved an almost-perfect score of 99 points, along with its 2022 Chardonnay and its Dry Red Wine No 1 Cabernet Blend. We'll take a case of each, please. And maybe the vino-tasting job, too?  Photograph: Supplied | Yarra YeringWinemaker Sarah Crowe This prestigious prize was awarded by a panel of the nation's top critics who sampled more than 10,000 wines around the country – but their final decision isn't made lightly. To ensure consistency, the ranking is determined by a proprietary algorithm, which considers the rating and recency