Melbourne has regarded dining out as a way of life for quite a while now. The many international and noveau fine dining restaurants reflect the cultural melting pot that represent the present day population of this cosmopolitan city.
Dining in Melbourne
There are over 3,000 restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars in the city and surrounds of Melbourne. Many of these are quite affordable, There are restaurants that can cater for even the most demanding of gourmet experiences.
Melbourne has Thai Restaurants, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, Spanish, Greek, Indian, Italian, Japanese and just about everything in between, with as many different food styles as there are chefs that have settled here to practice their culinary arts.
From elegant dining restaurants to contemporary cafes and trendy wine bars, Melbourne’s many places to eat are renowned for superb food, atmosphere and good service. Take the time to treat yourself to one of Melbourne’s Fine Dining Experiences in the city.
Places to Try
Federation Square, has cool cafes and restaurants including Funkfish which has been voted as the best fish and chips to be found in Victoria.
Lanes like The Causeway and Niagara Lane also has some very cool eateries, or head to NewQuay for al fresco on the harbourside promenade.
Crown Entertainment Complex
Crown Entertainment Complex - Crown is fast becoming a world class dining precinct. Boasting more than 40 restaurants and bars and some new big names. One of the new - Nobu, the hip, world renowned Japanese-owned gastro-temple, housed in a spectacular two-storey $10 million setting. Neil Perry’s Rockpool Bar & Grill has elevated the steakhouse concept to a fine art with his on-site butcher, premium Victorian wagyu beef and a buzzing open-kitchen.
Richmond, Brunswick. Russell St and Chinatown
Other places to eat: In Richmond, try the Asian marketplace bustle of Victoria Street, try Brunswick’s Sydney Road for Turkish and Middle Eastern delicacies, or for some great Greek food, go to Russell Street in the CBD. Near there, a short walk, you will find Melbourn’s Chinatown as well.
Melbourne Foodies Bus Tour
You can even join chef and food author Allan Campion on his Melbourne Foodies Bus Tour. Experience his favourite places to eat, from coffee and delicious pastries and exploring Prahan Market for chocolate truffles.
Places for A Drink
Melbourne also has stylish, as well as trendy and hip waterholes for those seeking a drink or two to start the evening. The mulititude of the laneways and many alleys in the city hide many small and cosy places. Interestingly, Sydney only has just begun to allow smaller bars and wine bars to operate, it will take a long time before they even begin to catch up.
For live music, go to the Richmond Corner Hotel or the Esplanade in St Kilda. For some great views of the city skylights, the Transit Lounge.
Tipping and Gratuities
Appreciated for good service but not required in Australian restaurants.
Showing the location of Inner City Melbourne attractions, shopping areas and places to see - see the Map of Melbourne
