Lauren Dinse

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 finest of the lot. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Looking for dessert that masquerades as breakfast? Check out the best doughnuts in Melbourne.

A cuisine that lends itself to long, leisurely meals shared with others, Italian usually doesn't stop at just one course. So, do as the Romans do: start with an aperitivo – and an antipasto spread – before a primo course (cue the pasta), secondo (a meat dish), contorno (a side, or three) and of course, something dolce (sweet). The Time Out team have spent years scouring the city for Melbourne's best Italian food, from hot-out-the-oven newcomers to traditional institutions that consistently deliver. So if you're looking for an Italian feast that'll knock your socks off, look no further – we've rounded up Melbourne's best Italian restaurants for you to try in 2025. Buon appetito! Editor's favourite Italian restaurants in Melbourne: 🥂 Best for a special occasion: Di Stasio Citta 👠 Best for a hot date night: Studio Amaro 🍴 Best for a long Sunday lunch: Lagotto 🍝 Best for regional Italian cuisine: Trattoria Emilia 👯 Best for a friends' catch-up: Pepe's Parlour If you're after more Italian cuisine, visit our guides to Melbourne's best pizza and gelato.

Melburnians are almost as passionate about their cocktails as they are about their coffee. What's the proper way to make a Martini? Gin or Vodka Gimlet? And should a cocky ever be on tap? Though if there's anything we love more than these heated debates about drinks, it's putting an end to all that nonsense and simply enjoying them – whether alone, with friends or sitting opposite a lovely date. Wondering where to try next? We've sipped our way around this great city to find the bars with the best atmosphere, the most creative (or at least, the most welcoming) bartenders and of course, the finest drinks. Go forth, dear readers – you may just discover your new signature tipple.  If you're keen on exploring the world of vino instead, head to Melbourne's best wine bars. 

Whether you like yours thin and crisp or deep-dish, hot from the oven or cold and leftover from the night before (hey, we don't judge), there’s no denying the universal appeal of pizza. Outside of Italy, we reckon Melbourne pumps out some of the best pies in the world, and we've eaten our way around the city to find the very best. In no particular order, here are our favourite pizza restaurants in Melbourne right now – categorised conveniently by style, for those who know how they like it. Looking for more? Check out Melbourne's best Italian restaurants. Can't decide what you feel like? These are the 50 best restaurants in Melbourne. 

From the United States to Korea and Taiwan, fried chicken spans nearly every country and culture. Not everyone can meet their fierce standards, but these joints have come pretty damn close to perfecting the ancient art of battering and deep-frying poultry. Want more tasty bites? Check out Melbourne's best Korean barbecue joints. Looking for gut-friendly alternatives? These are the best gluten-free eateries in Melbourne.

From historic boozers to gastropubs and rocking live music venues, we believe that Melbourne boasts some of the finest pub culture in the world outside the British Isles, and we’ll gladly pass out on that hill. Our pub traditions are diverse and many – the weeknight chicken parma special, boisterous trivia nights, open mic gigs, friendly (read: competitive) pool games and that ever-wholesome Sunday roast. But every local has its own unique set of drawcards and that's what makes this scene so fun and diverse. Looking for somewhere you can bring your doggo? We know the pubs that'll greet your pooch with a smile. Want a pub where you can drink outside and soak up the rays? Our beer gardens are some of Melbourne's loveliest drinking playgrounds. And if you're looking for a pint with a side of history, we've got the intel on this town's oldest pubs. So without further ado, you know what to do: bookmark this guide and make your way through our recs with the same level of enthusiasm you'd scull your way through the taps.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Looking for more inspo? Take your drinking to new heights at the best rooftop bars.

Long gone are the days in Melbourne when Japanese food was a trend and sushi was considered adventurous. In 2025, the world-renowned cuisine is one of the most popular and respected in Melbourne. It’s desirable in winter when noodle soups and ramen are the order of the day, and in summer when cold, fresh bites like sashimi and soba are all you want to eat. These are the city's finest places to enjoy omakase, tempura, yakitori, udon, sake and so much more. Whether you want to dip into a cosy inn-style café or hobnob with the glitterati at Melbourne's stable of very fine Japanese diners, you'll find what you're looking for here. We can also point you in the direction of Melbourne's best ramen shops, dumplings, teppanyaki joints and whisky bars to cap off your night.

A sophisticated high tea will never go out of style, especially in Melbourne. Since the 1880s, hotel and venues around town have offered their own spins on this charming social ritual – an experience that commonly features finely crafted pastries, a premium tea menu, sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and beautiful settings that hark back to old-world luxury. This is the kind of occasion where you can (and absolutely should) don your fanciest garb. Whether you're planning a treat for mum, a hens' event, a family booking or a modern high tea that's a touch more on the creative side, our guide to Melbourne's best high teas is brewing with fun ideas. Warning: a craving for a scone may strike. For more special occasion dining ideas, try one of Melbourne's best restaurants. Or for something a little more low key, how about breakfast at one of these excellent cafés? 

Ever noticed how passionate Melburnians are about their burgers? All you need to do is mention the word to discover the zeal with which we regard this historically beloved two-hander. Debates run thick and fast about who does the best smash patty; whether potato, milk or brioche buns are better; if excess height is a sloppy deal-breaker; and finally, which grill masters around town are plating up the tastiest.  For an old-school Aussie burg, southsiders swear by Andrew's in Albert Park while northsiders are loyal to Danny's in Fitzroy North. You could argue that Huxtaburger sparked Melbourne's new-wave burger craze when it first opened in Collingwood, but there's been a lot to love since then. From the famously fancy cheeseburgers at Gimlet and Maison Batard, to cult fave suburban newcomers like Maidstone's Good Good Burgers and Brighton's Royale, Melbourne is a haven for mouth-watering stacks – whether you like 'em short and respectable, or monstrous and sauce-doused to the hilt.  So without further ado, here's our line-up of the best. We've sunk our teeth into multi-stacked beef and cheese situations, chicken and fish options, and equally indulgent vegan alternatives across town to deliver you this list. Read on and drool! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Don't want to break the bank? These are Melbourne's best cheap eats.

Time Out Melbourne's Best Destination Venue Award recognises the exceptional venues in regional areas across Victoria. They’re the types of places that are worth taking a little getaway to dine or drink in. In the past 12 months, we've travelled the state and identified those special spots that are making a mark on their towns. The winner for this and other categories will be announced on May 5. To see nominees for all categories, click here. To stay in the loop, sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter.

The nominees in the Affordable Eat category are well-loved restaurants or takeaway joints that offer up great-value meals – including some decent feeds for $25 and under. Our nominees in this category represent a broad diversity of cuisines and locations and are treasured within their neighbourhoods for consistently delivering on quality, value, service and flavour. They're the places our writers want to return to time and time again (and are affordable enough to do so!). The winner for this and other categories will be announced on May 5. To see nominees for all categories, click here. To stay in the loop, sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter.

Our Best Bar Award recognises wine bars and cocktail bars with that X-factor. They’re innovative and exciting yet always welcoming and fun. Each of the nominees is a cool space to hang out at, offers a diverse drinks list that caters to all tastes and has friendly, welcoming staff that add to the good vibes. Their bar teams are adept at shaking up something new as well as demonstrating a well-rounded mastery of the classics. While the nominees in this category may differ wildly in their offerings, each of them can be relied on to deliver a great time, every time. The winner for this and other categories will be announced on May 5. To see nominees for all categories, click here. To stay in the loop, sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter.

The final year of high school can be a stressful time for students and their parents, thanks to high study loads, ATAR pressure and all sorts of career-related quandaries. But for Melbourne lawyer and parent Jonathan Wenig, there was a distinct challenge unfaced by most: helping his autistic daughter Tali find meaningful employment opportunities in a job market that often overlooks the potential of those who live with a disability.  Feeling disencouraged by the disturbing lack of inclusive workplaces or fairly paid roles on offer, Wenig launched a charity to support his vision. Enter All Things Equal, a commercially viable café that provides award-wage jobs, structured training pathways and a sense of belonging, where all abilities are embraced.   The Balaclava café opened in 2021, and though pandemic lockdowns presented yet another challenge of its own, community support was strong and immediate. Fast-forward to today, and the buzzing, well-loved brunch spot is proof that good hospitality can and should embrace a diverse workforce.  About half of the team are people with a disability, employed in both front- and back-of-house roles and all paid standard hospitality wages. While the premise is unique, the offering stands up to the best of Melbourne’s quality cafés.  Located on Carlisle Street, it draws in daily throngs with its happy yellow exterior, friendly service and an unpretentious menu of excellently executed brunch standards. An inclusive vegetarian and pescetarian me

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. There’s a particular set of questions most Melburnians are only too eager to ask one another – our unfailing conversation starters, if you will. Encompassing the holy trinity of local interests (footy, coffee, food), they are as follows: Which team do you support? Where’s the best coffee? And, of course, what’s your favourite restaurant?  It doesn’t matter whether you’re chatting with an older crowd or one of the younger “I saw this restaurant on TikTok” types, France-Soir invariably comes up as a glowing example of a good Melbourne time. The fancy-ish yet lovably casual French bistro has been buzzing happily on Toorak Road since 1986, and remarkably, it’s still proving a hit among the upcoming dining generation. Is it the romantic bistro aesthetic that transports us to a sexier European place? The affable (if sometimes a bit chaotic) staff? The enormous gold-standard wine list? Or perhaps it’s the food – traditional Gallic classics that consistently stand the test of time in all their buttery-sauced, elegantly plated-up glory. Even when dining there on a focused mission, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly why France-Soir is such an indomitable favourite. But the truth remains that a lunch or dinner here is always fabulous, the hours swim by in a sea of joyous wine

The annual Good Food and Wine Show – now in its 26th year! – is returning to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 29-31 for a globally diverse foodtopia of epic proportions. You’ll get to hear from hundreds of local makers, producers and growers from across the country; see and meet your fave chefs; taste fabulous wines that you can take home; and the best part: eat! This year, there'll be more than 300 exhibitors showcasing the best in local and international cuisine. From red curry and Japanese-inspired lamingtons to candy and condiments, the show is set to be a food lover's heaven and the perfect opportunity to expand your culinary horizons. Over at the main stage, a stellar line-up of celebrity chefs will share their secrets via live demonstrations, including Miguel Maestre, Kirsten Tibballs, Brendan Pang, Nat Thaipun, Vincent Yeow Lim, Jane de Graaff and George Georgievski. The program has also expanded with the addition of two new major experiences. A hands-on Cooking School is coming to the show, featuring wonton workshops and classes on how to create your own chocolate and upgrade mid-week dinners. And there's a new dedicated bakery precinct, Baker’s Alley, which is set to bring together ten of the country’s most exciting independent bakeries (like Rustica and Tarts Anon) who will each create an exclusive baked masterpiece.  Plus, don't miss the chance to sample goodies from the wine pavilions and cheese corner, or treat yourself to a ticket to the

There's no better time of year for Melbourne's beer lovers than May, when Pint of Origin turns the entire city into a brew-tiful playground for ten days of froffy fun.  Running from May 15-24, the 2026 edition of Pint of Origin promises to showcase the biggest collection of beers at any one festival. First conceived in 2012 by the folks at local craft beer publication the Crafty Pint, the event will take over some of our favourite pubs and bars around the city, and we can't wait to taste the wacky and wonderful creations on offer. Wondering how the event works? It's simple: across the ten days, around 800 beers from more than 200 breweries will hit the taps at 22 Melbourne venues. Each venue's mission is clear: to host a different region of Australia or part of the world.   This year, festivalgoers can use a digital passport to guide their journey, with bonus beers and prizes up for grabs. Upgrade to a VIP experience on a curated crawl with the Crafty Pint team, join a Drinking History Tour to hear stories over a pint, or try the Beer Belts tour, which takes you through the city's western 'burbs. Participating venues will also be running pairing events, themed tap takeovers, degustations, trivia, run clubs, 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. Pint of Origin 2026 Melbourne highlights: The tap dancers from Beermash in Collingwood will be pouring European beer

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. It wasn't just the local Footscray community that lucked out when Reveka Hurtado gave her popular catering company Papelón a permanent home in the neighbourhood. South American expats and travellers craving a comforting taste of home are duly gratified here, while curious appetites from all corners of Melbourne are invited to explore Latin America’s gastronomic diversity beyond tacos and tequila – and there’s a generous bounty to try.  From its signature pabellón (a whopping platter of shredded beef, rice, beans and sweet fried plantains) and proper cornmeal arepas and empanadas to homey stews and meat specials inspired by traditional recipes, this no-frills diner belongs in everyone’s pocketbook of westside favourites.  The vibe Papelón hums cheerfully along the periphery of Footscray Market – sometimes a little sleepy on weekdays, yet much livelier in the evenings and on Saturday nights when live singers and musicians take the floor (check the restaurant’s Instagram for upcoming events; all-you-can-eat arepas night, anyone?). If you’re solo dining in the daytime, bring a book to read over a coffee and cake – well, a café con leche and a quesillo (a Venezuelan-style flan), to zero in on the sweet details – since it’s breezy and relaxed inside, tucked away fro

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. Update March 2026: We first reviewed French Fix in September 2024, and have continued to revisit it on multiple occasions since – it remains a delicious, affordable lunch option in the CBD. While there are plenty of sandwich joints with cult followings in Melbourne, French Fix deliver their signature baguettes on the reg with minimal fanfare. A true 'IYKYK' gem (and trust us, the people lining up at lunchtime definitely know), it's always satisfying, the team are lovely, and we simply won't ever get enough of it. – Leah Glynn, Time Out Melbourne Managing Editor *** Our most romantic travel fantasies of Paris are très incomplet without that universally swoon-worthy image: a bicycle rider with a bottle of wine and baguette en route to a picnic somewhere sunny and green. Ah, what a lovely daydream to be that cyclist right now. There’s a good reason a freshly baked loaf always features in that vision. Throughout France, bread isn’t just bread – it’s a daily ritual and a way of life. Exalted the world over, the humble baguette was even granted UNESCO world heritage status in 2022 after being added to the Intangible Cultural Heritage list.  But we can’t just hop on a plane to France every time a craving strikes, and a good baguette isn’t always so easy to find in Me

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. When Moon Mart landed in West Melbourne in 2022, its cult fave status was instantly palpable: long queues, limited seating inside and a buzzing corner store energy. The beloved pan-Asian café has since relocated to a slightly more spacious home on South Melbourne’s Clarendon Street, and yes, we can confirm: its sandos, katsu sets and creative drinks still set the gold standard. The vibe Moon Mart’s trademark yellow is the perfect shade of happy for breakfast time, a vivid splash that colours the door, patio umbrellas and a circular neon wall light. It’s bustling inside even on weekdays, and with Tame Impala’s latest record on rotation and front window views of Clarendon Street’s foot traffic, the atmosphere is cosy and energetic.  Though not as compact as its former home, Moon Mart is a rather intimately sized café, so don’t expect heaps of room to stretch out. However, there’s enough of an acoustic din – and space between tables – to feel like you can gossip with your pal in privacy. The food The menu is split into two columns: the snacky sando section ($16-24) and the larger-portioned rice set section ($25-38). You may be drawn to the latter if you’ve walked in with a hearty appetite, but take our word for it: you can’t go wrong with anything between sliced

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. Tucked away in the backstreets of Fitzroy North, Suze is a fun neighbourhood wine bar from two hospo veterans: Giulia Giorgetti, former restaurant manager at Marion; and Steve Harry, a man whose resumé reads like a Melbourne culinary icons list (we're talking Napier Quarter, Cumulus Inc, Auterra Wine Bar and Cutler). The dynamic duo have done the local community a service by filling this two-storey heritage building with all the necessary ingredients needed to make a consummate Melbourne wine bar: seriously well-trained staff, an easygoing energy, and rapidly evolving food and drink choices to reward maturer palates. The vibe Inside is like a warm, dark blanket – cosy and artsy, courtesy of a few modern works splashed across the walls. But the most coveted slice of real estate on nice days is the terrace. With the sun on your back and a light breeze carrying the plummy perfume of a Lake Eildon pinot to your nose, there aren’t many places you’d rather be on a weekend afternoon.  A highlight here is the style of service, which is suitably attentive and sharp (those who can never decide what to drink are in good hands here!), yet friendly and relaxed. Suze is the sort of inner north shapeshifter that accommodates intimate dates, casual catch-ups and big, boozy gr

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. Moondrop is a new drinking den from the team behind cult fave Carlton North café-bar Sleepy's (Steve Chan, Jesse Kourmouzis and Jacob Muoio). Loosely inspired by an enchanting fusion of Chinese folklore, East Asian flavour profiles and world-class bar culture, this dreamy venue mash-up blends Fitzroy cool and craft cocktails with the vibes of 1920s Shanghai.  Sometimes these ideas sound better on paper, but the celestially-headed Moondrop – a fresh takeover of the hallowed former space of the Everleigh – has quickly risen beyond its initial opening buzz to deliver one of the most thrilling and magical drinking experiences in Melbourne right now.  Once you slip in and get cosy, it’s hard to leave. The vibe Guests are whisked away from Gertrude Street into a world lit by a giant glowing moon lantern that's draped in soft white fabric, with a red mosaic bar and Mahjong tables disguised as furniture.  Chinese hip-hop and r’n’b set the tone, and the venue’s moon rabbit emblem – drawn from traditional Chinese mythology – appears everywhere: on uniform pins, menus, even the ice stamps.  The space is full of cosy nooks worth claiming for the night, from the Drop Lounge with its upholstered burgundy banquettes to the intimate 12-seater Burrow, a corner framed with velv

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. Update March 2026: We first reviewed Brae in October 2024, and revisited the regional restaurant in December 2025 – once again enjoying a truly exceptional, beautifully considered dining experience and further cementing our initial five-star rating. While some menu items may have changed from the review below, others, like the Brae Farm vegetable garden and half-time choc-orange dessert, are staples for good reason. And that's the beauty of Brae: while no two visits are ever the same, the thoughtful spirit, sustainable ethos and culinary curiosity remain woven into the very fabric of its existence. – Leah Glynn, Time Out Melbourne Managing Editor *** Caught up in the demands of fast-paced urban life, many of us wish to embrace the tenets of ‘slow living’ – a lifestyle choice that encourages taking a moment to smell the roses and reconnect with the tranquil beauty of nature. Though one doesn’t necessarily need to put on a nice shirt and make the two-hour drive to Brae to join the resistance cohort, it’s hard to think of a more seductive destination to unplug and reunite with the potency of the present. Here, culinary excellence is coupled with the serenity of the Birregurra countryside in the form of a leisurely degustation lunch from powerhouse chef Dan Hunter

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more here. Infamous for originally seating only four patrons, Matsu is an exclusive Japanese fine diner that has since expanded to accommodate 12. Welcome news for those of us who’ve so desperately tried to get a booking over the years. The menu offers a serene kaiseki experience (a traditional Japanese multi-course meal), where careful pacing, clockwork-like collaboration and a sense of ceremony transport you into a realm of timeless artistry. Matsu has also just launched a new omakase lunch offering on Saturdays, a more casual way to experience the magic, at just $155 per person. The vibe Despite having slightly more capacity, the restaurant is still, of course, a uniquely intimate space – a cosy rectangular cocoon where the chefs are the main act and the preparation of each dish is carried out right in front of you. Yet the atmosphere is far from stifling.  Calming minimalist furnishings and a clean workspace make an ideal backdrop for the kitchen action, and it’s a fascinating format to watch your dinner come to life, intricate step by step. Every detail matters, from the green, red, and gold embroidered coasters and Le Labo products in the bathroom, to the thoughtful polaroid snap at the end that you get to take home with you.  Wear something tidy and look the part;

Looking for something fun, educational, tasty and family-friendly to do this month? A quirky garlic festival is taking over the small regional Victorian town of Korumburra on February 28 and if it's anything like previous annual editions, it's going to be a glorious (albeit pungent) day out. The South Gippsland Garlic Festival, formerly the Meeniyan Garlic Festival, is back in 2026. It's Victoria's largest celebration of Aussie garlic and a great excuse to learn more about this long-prized culinary stalwart and fill a basket with some of Gippsland’s best produce. Predicted to bring more than two tonnes of garlic to the people from different growers from across Victoria, the aromatic festival will take place at the Korumburrra Showgrounds. There'll be a huge line-up of stallholders, plus live entertainment and fun kids' activities. Of course, Bluey will be there. Adults will want to check out the festival bar, which showcases celebrated Gippsland wineries, breweries and distilleries – including Fleet Wines, Gurneys Cider, Burra Brewing and more. Keep your eyes peeled for a garlic-inspired beer (yes, really). Meanwhile over at the kitchen, garlic in all of its fragrant forms will obviously be on the menu (spoiler: you can expect a garlic doughnut). This year, a massive line-up of chefs from Gippsland and Melbourne will be whipping up their favourite garlicky goods in interactive live cooking demonstrations, hosted for the first time by award-winning food writer, author and r

Love to eat out but watching your wallet? Then it'll be welcome news that a nifty new haunt in Melbourne is serving up fabulous French-inspired dishes at just $14 a pop – yes, really. Say bonjour to Frenchie, a red velvet-draped bistro and bar in the CBD channelling the lively spirit of famous Parisian neighbourhoods like Saint-Germain and Pigalle.  So if late-night supper club vibes are your thing, then you'll want a seat at this freshly polished table. Photograph: Griffin Simm Guests enter the space through a fun mirrored staircase – and though caviar bumps may make the rounds and classic French techniques reign supreme in the kitchen, you can leave any stiffness or formality at the door. Here is a spot for letting your hair down, with late-night service every night of the week (except Sunday). Frenchie also swears like a sailor, too, dropping both the F-bomb on its website in phrases like “c'est la f*cking vie” and“f*ck le chic”. Oh, and the restaurant's mascot is a cute illustration of a French bulldog. Photograph: Griffin Simm Perhaps now more than ever, there's something rather enticing about an unfussy Euro-style restaurant with a flat fixed-price menu. Perennially busy joints that follow this brief (such as Republic Economica, Good Times and the latter's little sibling Times New Roman) prove it's a game-changer for drawing in a crowd – particularly when $9 bowls of surprisingly delicious spaghetti are concerned.  Except at Frenchie, think old-school Gallic bistro

Just in case Carlton locals didn't already have too much pizza, ice cream and vino on their doorstep (and let's be real, is there even such a thing as too much?), a fun new spot is set to open right next to Pidapipo – and it's purr-fectly primed to be a popular purveyor of all the above. Get ready for Garfield, folks. A triple-threat pizzeria, licensed bar and soft serve haven, this Italian eatery comes with a cute Carlton-based backstory: while the building was being renovated, a local orange cat would prowl around in search of leftover pizza from Johnny's Green Room – hence the name, Garfield. It's the first launch out of a family of venues planned for the soon-to-reopen King and Godfree building from owner Jamie Valmorbida. Garfield credits its inspiration to modern pizzeria culture across the globe, from Naples and Rome to Tokyo. The menu has been developed in collaboration between culinary director Karen Martini and newly appointed executive chef Mark Glenn, and swings deliciously from the classic to the creative. Traditional ingredient-led pies will please the purists among us, though the pizzeria certainly won't shy away from more inventive ideas and specials to keep the Lygon Street throngs excited.  A classic Margherita is non-neogitable, of course, but we're also hanging out for Garfield's take on the Aussie pizza, which will feature guanciale, egg, Volos olives and thinly sliced potato. And we can also vouch for the titular 'za, which is inspired by the flavours of

Summer in Melbourne is for jumping off the St Kilda Pier, taking weekenders down the coast (are you team Great Ocean Road or team Peninsula?), wining and dining al fresco in pretty courtyards, and last but not least: engaging in the sweet pursuit of the best ice cream and gelato around town. While we've plenty of longtime favourites, it's always a delight when an exciting new artisan enters the stage. This year, it's Mondo Gelateria – a marvellous peach-hued gelateria housed within a 150-year-old heritage building in the CBD. As her namesake suggests ('mondo' means 'world' in Italian), she's coming in strong with 28 globally inspired gelato flavours on rotation, plus designer pastries, cold brew coffee creations and an aperitif bar – for Limoncello gelato infusions, of course. Photograph: Griffin Simm The all-day dessert darling is owned by gelato artist Rio Olivetti, who was trained by Stefano Tarquinio (head of the world-renowned Carpigiani Gelato University in Bologna). You'll taste the magic of Olivetti's time-honoured technique in every scoop, from the velvety-rich, cherry-spiked black forest gâteau to the silken pistachio crunch made with nuts from Sicily. Gelato enthusiasts can also anticipate plenty of innovative fusions, including yuzu and blood orange, cassis and calamansi, and matcha and mango.  Beyond gelato, Mondo serves up gorgeous pastries and cakes, courtesy of acclaimed Taiwanese pastry chefs Peini You and Jasper Yang. Treat yourself to one of the petit g

Roll up, roll up – on your skateboard, if you've got one! Cheltenham is about to get a brand new skate park as part of the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL), with the help of Melbourne skateboarding athlete Renton Millar. The homegrown legend is working with local skaters, parents and Kingston City Council members to design a seriously gnarly park that will blend bowl and street-style skating, with bold artworks inspired by the pipework of the former Highett Gasworks site. A seasoned skater with more than 35 years of experience, Millar brings global panache to the Bayside project. Beyond his elite career, he's judged Olympic skateboarding events and founded Shredability, which runs coaching programs and national competitions. So whether you're a novice or pro, rest assured you'll be in good hands practising your kickflips and ollies at this new site. “I’m stoked to be helping with the design for the new Cheltenham skate park,” said Millar. “I’ve designed skate parks all over the world, and this one is walking distance to my house, so we’re going to make it a good one! It’s going to be great to give the local kids a super rad skate park.” But the wheels don’t stop turning once this cool new skate park is complete. It's just one part of a major glow-up to Sir William Fry Reserve, which will soon be home to a full-size multi-sport court, pickleball court, new pathways, seating and greenery, plus a lush new events lawn for festivals and markets. There'll also be a brand new off-leash dog

Perched peacefully along Albert Park's foreshore, Pipis Kiosk is one of Melbourne's loveliest beachside spots for an elegant seafood dinner. Deserving credit beyond its good looks, the relaxed diner and its neighbouring fish and chips stand are backed by some serious hospo pedigree, with chefs Jordan Clay (ex-Le Chateaubriand in Paris) and Dave Kerr pairing up with wine whiz Tom Hunter to form the ultimate dream team. Fortunately for northsiders, the trio of experts have brought their salt-sprayed magic to Fitzroy this summer via a chic seafood pop-up that will run until the end of February. Pipis North is a next-level snack bar (hosted in the former site of Alta Trattoria on Brunswick Street) that is rolling out Pipis' signature hits along with refreshing drinks, happy hour deals and an irreverent dash of Mediterranean-style cool. For a mood board of what to expect, think Basque tapas bar culture.  “We’re looking to bring some seaside vibes north of the river over summertime – hot nights, cold drinks and lots of fresh seafood,” shares Hunter. “Pipis North is relaxed, fun and very much about popping in for a drink and a bite – whether that’s a quick skewer and oyster or settling in for the night.” Photograph: Jana Langhorst Call an inner north-dwelling mate, sidle up to the bar and take your pick from Clay's sharing-style menu. Will it be a round of spanner crab mini crumpets? Swordfish belly skewers with jungle bisque? King prawn tempura with barbecue spice? Or perhaps a s

For travel-loving Victorians, that dreamy five-week summer Euro trip so many of us save up for is a rite of passage. But did you know that Europe loves us just as much? In the year to June 2025, more than 534,000 European visitors touched down in Victoria, spending an enormous $1.4 billion. That's a nearly 30 per cent hike up from pre-pandemic levels, so it's safe to say: the love affair is intensifying. To keep the tourism momentum sky-high, European airline Finnair has announced it will launch daily services to and from Melbourne. The route, which will officially start in October 2026, links Helsinki and our fair city via Bangkok – and adds a huge 203,000 extra seats each year between Victoria and Europe. What this means is that we've now got an open door to around 90 European destinations via Helsinki, plus extra options throughout Asia through Bangkok. Score! The development is also a brilliant boon to Victoria's tourism industry, thanks to dollar-for-dollar backing from the Victorian government with industry partners. Since this initiative began, more than 60 partnerships have taken off, including collaborations with Accor, Alpine Resorts Victoria and Trip.com — all working together to place Victoria among travellers' go-to destinations.  “These new flights will help bring thousands of extra people to our state each week, which will help support Victoria’s world-class tourism, dining and hospitality venues,” said Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus. “Additional flights to

Melbourne is lucky to be home to some truly brilliant burger joints, but we've got to admit: sometimes, we're curious about what the burgers from famous US fast food joints taste like. Well, if you've always wanted to try America's famous Shake Shack without boarding a plane, you're in luck. For the first time ever, the cult brand – reportedly a favourite of celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Chrissy Teigen – has opened as a tasty pop-up at the Australian Open.  The New York-born business, which started out as a humble hot dog cart in Madison Square Park back in 2001, will operate across Topcourt and John Cain Arena until February 1. Visitors can get their hands on the chain’s signature ShackBurger (a single cheeseburger with a smashed Angus beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato and that legendary 'Shack Sauce' on a potato bun), and to sweeten the deal, the team will also be whipping up an AO-exclusive shake. “We’re committed to making the AO not just the best Grand Slam on court, but also the best off-court, and food and drink are central to that experience,” said Tennis Australia’s Head of Product Growth and Innovation, Fern Barrett.    Photograph: Arianna Harry Photography Shake Shack is just a small part of what's an exciting food and drink line-up for the 2026 tournament, with the wildly popular Peach Melbourne – a peach sorbet, vanilla soft serve and raspberry-dust dessert that sold more than 112,000 servings at the 2025 event – set to return, as well as the G

Right in time for summer, the Yarra Valley has uncorked a dash of extra fizz. Zonzo Estate – a local producer known for its winery, restaurant and smash-hit Zoncello Spritz – recently launched an energetic new restaurant in the heart of Healesville: Zoncello Yarra Valley. If the OG Zonzo venue is your well-dressed stepmother who greets you at the door, then consider this new upstart your sassy, cool cousin who already got the party started before lunch. For Rod Micallef, Zonzo Estate's director, Zoncello has been a Spritz-soaked vision a decade in the making. “Zoncello is a natural extension of the brand,” Micallef shares. “It’s about energy, connection and indulgence. Just like our Spritzes, the venue is designed to be fun, vibrant, and a little bit brazen, while still deeply rooted in Italian tradition.” Pull up to the former Innocent Bystander site and you'll now discover a playfully laid out maze of eating and drinking spaces for afternoon Spritzes, skewers and long lunch-worthy Italian fare – all served up in a bright, buzzing environment inspired by the glorious Spritz itself. The Zonzo team worked closely with interior designer Claire Larrit Evans to bring the large industrial-style space back to life.  Photograph: Supplied / Zoncello “Zoncello is the new permanent home for Rod’s Spritz range, beginning with the incredible success of Zoncello and followed closely by Bellina and Cicchio,” explains Larrit Evans. “We wanted the interiors to embody that same vibrancy an

Welcome to that weird post-festive season period after Chrissy and NY, when the decorations have been taken down and some of us are even back at work (*sniff*). But that doesn't mean the summer fun's over yet – not even close! Thanks to the Victorian Government's 2026 Summer by the Sea program, more than 100 wonderful child-friendly events are taking place across the state's coastal regions this month – and it's the perfect excuse to squeeze in an extra day trip or even a family weekender into your January calendar.  From kite-making and sandcastle-building to bush walks through koala territory and zoologist-guided twilight wanders, the program is jam-packed with activities that balance the joy of fun and discovery with important education around Victoria's wildlife and environment. The theme this year is 'The Coast, The Sea, and Our Community' and other highlights include the super popular rockpool rambles, San Remo sea slug searches, Werribee seaweed safari treks and Anglesea canoeing and snorkelling adventures.  Photograph: Creative Commons From January 3 to 18, Summer by the Sea is offering all these activities completely free as part of a state-funded initiative to get families out to discover the magic of Victoria's wild and wondrous coastal landscape. Whether you're already planning a seaside holiday or you're looking for something new and fun to do with the kids, check out the program online to see what's on offer. A key focus of the initiative is to teach particip

Dining in a real-life hot air balloon may sound grand, but not all of us are keen for a meal in a tiny basket hundreds of metres up in the sky. Fortunately, we don't need to! Australia's first-ever hot air balloon dining pod experience has landed, and you can now get the same whimsical vibes on ground level – well, the actual ground level of the Wharf Hotel to be exact. The riverside pub has announced its Wharf on Cloud 9 sessions will run for the rest of the summer. Will you take off into full flight mid-forkful? Heavens, no. But with your own private 'balloon' area that seats up to six of your pals, sunny views overlooking the Yarra, snacks and sips galore, and exclusive evening sessions (hello, perfect sunset shot!), the limited-time experience certainly promises a bit of 'grammable fun.   Photograph: Supplied / The Wharf Hotel Whether it's a birthday, a picturesque date or a summer lunch with friends you're organising, these pods are the perfect place to wine and dine by the water – and you can book one for a 90-minute afternoon sesh or a two-hour evening slot. Guests can order food and drinks from the hotel's classic à la carte menu, while optional grazing boards cover both charcuterie and vegetarian selections if a vino and cheese sesh is calling your name. Bonus: if you've got kids, they're definitely welcome. Opt for a booking on Sunday, when children's entertainment runs from noon until 3pm, including garden games and colouring activities. The little ones even get

When it comes to modern-day Melbourne hospitality legends, it's hard to think of a name more impressive than Andrew McConnell. The prominent chef and restaurateur, along with his partner Jo McGann and their tight-knit Trader House group, have spearheaded some of the city's best-loved restaurants and bars over the years – Gimlet, Apollo Inn, Supernormal, Builders Arms Hotel, Marion, Cumulus Inc, Cutler and several more successful projects. And the powerhouse team aren't planning to slow down anytime soon, with plans announced for a brand-new restaurant to add to their portfolio: Côte Basque. Set to open in the former Becco site in Melbourne’s CBD, the European-style grill will take inspiration from the fresh ingredient-driven cuisine and vibrant energy of the Basque Coast.  “The name references our love of Basque culture and the coastline that bridges the northern Basque region of Spain and the southwest of France,” says McConnell. “The raw beauty of the region and a bounty of benchmark produce have long been an inspiration for us. The tradition of woodfired cooking that defines this region will be central to the menu and influence not only what we cook, but how we cook.” The ground floor space will seat around 100 guests and retain many of the building's original features, from the green terrazzo floor to the stepped dining room and street-level windows along Crossley Street. The restaurant is currently being designed in collaboration with Vince Alafaci and Caroline Choker of

Anyone who loves eating out in Australia will know OpenTable. Even if you don’t think you know it, you’ve probably used it to book a table – whether at your local go-to or the city’s hottest new bar. But OpenTable is more than just a booking tool; it also reveals the trends and habits shaping how Australians eat and drink when dining out. Each year, OpenTable gathers data from thousands of venue reviews, plus reservation and search metrics, to come up with an intriguing set of reports. The latest? A definitive list of the top 50 restaurants in Australia for 2025, based on data from almost 200,000 diner reviews. This year, Victoria takes the crown as the state with the highest number of restaurants on the list at 17, while Queensland has 14 and New South Wales comes in third with 12.  Photograph: Supplied | Fiore at Down The Rabbit Hole Wines Let's take a look at the restaurants Aussies are loving right now – at least if five-star reviews and repeat bookings are anything to go by. The top 50 includes plenty of spots on our very own list of the best restaurants in Australia, including Time Out Sydney’s Restaurant of the Year Neptune’s Grotto and beloved Melbourne fine diner Vue de Monde. But it also spotlights hidden and regional gems, from the intimate 14-seat Humble on Duke in Sunshine Beach to Fiore at Down The Rabbit Hole Wines in the McLaren Vale. You can check out the full list below, listed in alphabetical order by state/territory. The top 50 restaurants on OpenTable f