Melbourne skyline and cityscape - Popular travel destination in Australia, Oceania
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Oceania

Melbourne

Australia

Safety Score

7/10

Currency

AUD

Language

English

Timezone

Australia/Melbourne

About Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia is a cosmopolitan city teeming with art, culture, and culinary delights. With its distinctive blend of old-world charm and modern skyscrapers, Melbourne offers a unique cultural experience, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Great Ocean RoadMelbourne Cricket GroundNational Gallery of VictoriaRoyal Botanic GardensMelbourne's coffee culture

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Melbourne is during the fall (March to May) and spring (September to November) when the city experiences mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Weather Throughout the Year
Jan21°47mm
Feb21°48mm
Mar19°50mm
Apr16°57mm
May13°56mm
Jun10°49mm
Jul10°48mm
Aug11°50mm
Sep13°58mm
Oct15°66mm
Nov17°60mm
Dec19°59mm

Best Restaurants in Melbourne, Australia

Where to Eat in Melbourne - Dining Guide

upscale restaurant

Navi

$$$$
4.8
83b Gamon St, Yarraville VIC 3013, Australia

Navi in Melbourne offers an exceptional dining experience with a well-designed menu, professional service, and an intimate ambiance. Dishes are crafted with local ingredients and presented with thoughtful explanations by welcoming staff.

Pros
  • +Excellent service
  • +Well-balanced menu
  • +Unique dishes
Cons
  • -High noise level
  • -Limited privacy
fine dining

Scopri Italian Food and Wine

$$$
4.8
191 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Scopri in Melbourne is a widely recommended Italian restaurant, celebrated for its superb pasta dishes, quick service, and high-quality, flavorful food. The dining experience is further enhanced by the restaurant's unpretentious, tastefully neat interior.

Pros
  • +Delicious pasta
  • +Quick service
  • +Tasteful decor
Cons
  • -Inconsistent service
  • -Some dishes underwhelming
gourmet restaurant

Bistra

$$$
4.8
157 Elgin St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Bistra in Melbourne offers a lively atmosphere with innovative, delicious food and exceptional service. Despite some inconsistencies, it remains a popular dining choice.

Pros
  • +Professional service
  • +Innovative menu
  • +Delicious food
Cons
  • -Inconsistent cooking
  • -Overly salty dishes
Michelin star

Seven Star Chinatown

$$$
4.8
113 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Seven Star Pocha in Melbourne Chinatown offers an exceptional Korean dining experience with authentic, flavorful food and efficient, friendly service.

Pros
  • +Authentic cuisine
  • +Flavorful food
  • +Generous portions
Cons
  • -Slightly pricey
  • -Crowded seating
fine dining

Eureka 89 - Dining & Events

$$$
4.6
Eureka Tower, Level 89/7 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia

Eureka 89 offers an exceptional dining experience with beautifully presented food, attentive staff, and breathtaking views of Melbourne. The added entertainment with VR activities and the Skydeck experience make it a unique and enjoyable venue.

Pros
  • +Delicious food
  • +Professional staff
  • +Stunning views
Cons
  • -Small servings
  • -Dated decor
luxury restaurant

Lucy Liu Kitchen and Bar

$$$
4.6
23 Oliver Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Lucy Liu Kitchen and Bar in Melbourne offers a unique, vibrant dining experience with a range of delicious dishes, attentive service, and an energetic atmosphere.

Pros
  • +Unique dining experience
  • +Exceptional service
  • +Delicious food
Cons
  • -Busy
  • -Limited kid-friendly options
gourmet restaurant

Cinder

$$$
4.7
18 Brennand St, Fitzroy North VIC 3068, Australia

Cinder in Melbourne offers an incredible dining experience with a diverse menu, excellent service, and a Michelin-starred chef. The restaurant is highly recommended for its rich flavors, beautiful presentation, and value for money.

Pros
  • +Diverse menu
  • +Excellent service
  • +Beautiful presentation
Cons
  • -Limited parking
fine dining

Carlton Wine Room

$$$
4.7
172-174 Faraday St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Carlton Wine Room in Melbourne provides a memorable dining experience with high-quality food, a comfortable atmosphere, and knowledgeable service staff. Customers appreciate the variety of dishes and the option to have half portions.

Pros
  • +Quality food
  • +Great service
  • +Wine knowledge
Cons
  • -Over-seasoned starters
  • -Over-complicated dishes
Michelin star

Kazuki's Restaurant

$$$
4.7
121 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Kazuki's Restaurant in Melbourne provides a plush experience with beautiful, flavorful food and professional service, making it an ideal destination for special occasions.

Pros
  • +Refined flavors
  • +Beautiful presentation
  • +Professional service
Cons
  • -Pricey
fine dining

Cutler

$$$$
4.6
55-57 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

fine dining

Matteo's Restaurant, Melbourne

$$$
4.6
533 Brunswick Street Melbourne, Fitzroy North VIC 3068, Australia

Matteo's Restaurant in Melbourne consistently impresses its guests with its exquisite cuisine, professional service, and elegant setting. The restaurant is highly recommended for special occasions or group functions.

Pros
  • +Exquisite cuisine
  • +Professional service
  • +Elegant atmosphere
Cons
  • -Expensive
  • -Inconsistent quality
fine dining

Marion Wine Bar

$$$
4.6
53 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Michelin star

Norma Fitzroy

$$$
4.6
197 Smith St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Michelin star

Flint

$$$
4.6
199 Smith St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Flint in Melbourne offers a unique dining experience with exceptional food and warm hospitality. The professional yet friendly staff contributes to a memorable atmosphere.

Pros
  • +Exceptional food
  • +Warm service
  • +Unique dining experience
Cons
  • -Long wait times
  • -Loud environment
upscale restaurant

Gimlet

$$$
4.6
33 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Japanese

Udon Izakaya Tanukiya

$$
5
256 Johnston St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Japanese

KatsuDuo

$$
5
330 Cardigan St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia
Above Hareruya mochi ice cream

KatsuDuo is a highly recommended pop-up in Melbourne offering an elevated and premium take on Japanese katsu. Reviewers universally praised the quality of the food, the welcoming service and the cosy, Japanese-inspired interiors.

Pros
  • +Quality ingredients
  • +Welcoming service
  • +Thoughtful execution
Cons
  • -May run out of food
local favorite restaurant

Rue de Thanh

$$
4.8
Level 1/406 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Italian

Farro Pizzeria Fitzroy

$$
4.8
301 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

good restaurant

Lagotto

$$
4.7
1 York St, Fitzroy North VIC 3068, Australia

popular restaurant

Bon Ap' Petit Bistro

$$
4.6
193 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

French bistro

Paris Go Bistro

$$
4.6
116 Rathdowne St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

local favorite restaurant

Al Dente Enoteca Restaurant

$$
4.8
161 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia

Japanese

Kushiro Fusion Cuisine

$$
4.7
175 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

good restaurant

Rice Paper Scissors

$$
4.6
307 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Discover where to eat in Melbourne with our guide to the 25 best restaurants. Melbourne's food scene offers everything from authentic Australia cuisine to international flavors, street food to fine dining.

Popular dining spots include Navi, Scopri Italian Food and Wine, Bistra, each offering unique culinary experiences.

Food is an essential part of any Melbourne experience. We recommend trying local specialties and exploring different neighborhoods for the best dining experiences in Melbourne.

Frequently Asked Questions about Melbourne

Melbourne is known for its unique culinary scene. Explore local specialties and regional dishes at our recommended restaurants above. From street food to fine dining, there's something for every taste.

For popular restaurants, especially for dinner, reservations are recommended. Many restaurants now accept online bookings. Casual spots and lunch service typically don't require reservations.

Meal costs vary widely in Melbourne. Budget options range from affordable street food to mid-range restaurants. Check our restaurant recommendations for options at different price points.

Explore More of Melbourne

About Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne offers travelers an authentic Australia experience with its unique blend of culture, cuisine, and attractions. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, savoring local flavors, or discovering hidden gems, Melbourne promises memorable adventures for every type of traveler. Our curated guide features 15 must-see attractions, 25 recommended restaurants, 25 places to stay, carefully selected to help you make the most of your visit. Use Free City Guides to plan your perfect Melbourne itinerary, discover local favorites, and travel smarter with insider tips from experienced travelers.

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