Tucked between the historic facades of Queen Street, Ruby Dining brings a fresh energy to Melbourne's legal district. This new(ish) early-morn-to-late-night spot is the latest venture from Operator venues' Valerie Fong and Randy Dhamanhuri, with ex-Cumulus head chef James Cornwall leading the kitchen. It offers a welcoming and classy retreat from the buzz of the CBD, catering to all from dawn till well after dusk.
Drawing inspiration from London and New York's theatre district eateries, Ruby offers a space where patrons can unwind after work, friends can grab a pre-show dinner, and couples can linger over dessert and aperitifs. The all-day menu shines brightest after sunset, setting Ruby apart from its Operator siblings.
Cornwall's menu focuses on showcasing both technique and quality Australian produce without pretension. Standout dishes include the Chicken Oyster – a clever one-bite Caesar salad that’s thrown back oyster-style, and house-made rye flatbread with seaweed, olive oil, and aged soy sauce, as Cornwell is a firm believer that chefs should still practise the ancient craft of making a damn good loaf of bread.
For those after heartier fare, the grill section features prime Angus and Wagyu cuts with classic sauces, while the Margaret River Wagyu Bacon skewer, priced at a reasonable $8, exemplifies the kitchen's approach to accessible quality. Dessert lovers (or anyone with working tastebuds) would be wise not to miss the brown butter madeleines, baked fresh to order and served with whipped goat cheese and honey.
Ruby sources its ingredients from a who's who of ethical producers, ensuring each dish is a celebration of local flavour. Expect to see names like Ramarro Farm, Loddon Estate Free Range Poultry and Duck, Chooks at the Rooke Eggs, Stone Axe and Sher for Wagyu, and Goldstreet Dairy on the menu.
The interior, courtesy of We Are Humble architects, exudes ‘effortless chic’ without trying too hard. They've wisely kept the good bones of the space, including the bar and mirror-panelled walls, while adding splashes of ruby red, soft curved frames, and rich brown upholstery. The result? A warm, inviting space that feels both familiar and special.
Ruby Dining is open Monday to Friday from 7am to late, and Saturday from 8pm to late. Bookings are recommended but walk-ins are welcome.