The 50 best restaurants in Melbourne

What is it? A superb yet relaxed fine diner in Melbourne’s west for imaginative contemporary Australian food with the wow factor. 

Why we love it: Chef and owner Julian Hills describes Navi as his "dream" and you can taste how much heart he’s poured into it – from his clever marriage of native produce and European technique to his well-nurtured relationships with sustainable and ethical farmers. Anticipate a wildly unique culinary adventure that somehow still manages to feel grounded in the earthy dining space. Every morsel is a delight.

Time Out tip: There’s a separate cocktail bar area called Navi Lounge where you can sneak in for amaro tasting flights, elevated snacks (Murray cod katsu sanga, anyone?) and one of the best Gin and Tonics in town. No bookings needed here, and it’s a nice way to dip your toe into Navi’s world without committing to a full degustation.

What is it? Nestled in leafy Armadale, this intimate fine diner from ultra-talented chef Clinton McIvey (who's also the mastermind behind top wine bar Auterra) offers a multi-course seasonal degustation menu.

Why we love it: Enigmatic, daring and engrossing at every turn, Amaru offers one of Melbourne's most ambitious contemporary dining experiences right now. Expect fresh local produce with a native edge, cutting-edge fermentation and cooking techniques, and plating aesthetics prettier than a picture.  

Time Out tip: Even if you’re partial to a bit of booze, we recommend giving the non-alcoholic beverage pairing a go. From a sparkling bergamot shrub and Champagne vinegar (alc-free) wine to juicy fejoia tea with blackcurrant leaves, the imaginative concoctions we tried on our last visit here were a highlight.

What is it? A small family-run restaurant in Beaconsfield offering a critically acclaimed daily tasting menu at excellent value.

Why we love it: Time Out's Restaurant of the Year in 2023 stands out as one of the most energising fine dining experiences in Melbourne. The farm-to-table restaurant kitchen sources all of its ingredients from nearby Cardinia, a property owned and run by friends of the chefs. Over the years, the restaurant has set up nearly 400 garden beds, an orchard of 50 fruit trees, a berry patch, beehives and many other perennials they use on the menu. Each dish elevates humble produce to new heights, an alchemical feat that looks far outside the box in delivering an experience you'll remember. 

Time Out tip: Read our review to find out why O.My almost made this writer cry (in a good way).

What is it? For more than 20 years, this luxe restaurant atop Collins Street’s Rialto Tower has been a favourite fine diner for Melburnians celebrating all manner of special occasions. Describing itself as an Australian restaurant, Vue de Monde artfully showcases a blend of native ingredients and high quality produce across its dynamic multi-course menu. The Australian theme continues across its landscape-inspired design, down to the sustainably sourced kangaroo fur chairs.

Why we love it: While Vue de Monde’s long-admired menu may not shift and shake up as wildly as other fine diners on the scene, there’s a comforting quality to the restaurant that’s hard to not fall in love with. Executive chef Hugh Allen’s influence brings warmth and vibrancy to the operation, while the sense of theatre that accompanies each dish remains as exciting as ever. Oh, and that famous billy tea chocolate souffle remains the lightest, fluffiest bite of heaven in town. 

Time Out tip: Try and time your visit around sunset. Golden hour is when the views are at their most spectacular.

What is it? Tucked away on Lord Street in Richmond, Minamishima is a seriously excellent Japanese fine dining restaurant serving up an omakase menu from sushi master Koichi Minamishima.

Why we love it: ? Exquisite dishes notwithstanding, Minamishima is a masterclass in outstanding service and meticulous attention to detail. The restaurant’s genuine warmth and affection for what they do is matched by the sushi, the best we’ve had in Melbourne. 

Time Out tip: Opt for a seat at the sushi counter so that you can marvel at the chefs’ world-class knife skills.

What is it? St Kilda’s luxe beachfront restaurant for relaxed fine dining with a seafood focus.

Why we love it:  A gorgeous place to dine out and commemorate special occasions since 1989, this breezy, salt-sprayed destination from the Van Haandel Group has all the ingredients for a perfect meal: stunning views of Port Phillip Bay, exceptional seafood, a sustainable ethos that nabbed its Legend Award at our 2023 Food and Drink Awards, an award-winning wine list and some of the best and brightest service in the biz. We couldn’t be more infatuated. 

Time Out tip: Start with the insanely moreish saltbush and vinegar potato cake ($8), a much-loved specialty snack from executive chef Jason Staudt.

What is it? Led by acclaimed chef Ben Shewry, this Ripponlea fine diner is one of the most widely appreciated restaurants in Australia – and even the world. 

Why we love it: Attica has been around for more than 20 years and is both a celebration of Australia’s unique flavours and a joyous example of Melbourne dining at its most heart-centred and innovative. "You won’t see caviar and lobster on our menu," the website reads. "Instead, you’ll find dishes crafted with passion and intention to complement the bounty of ingredients found in Australia. We appreciate a rack of ribs – but ours come from crocs, not cows." There’s a true sense of wonder in Attica’s menu that rewards newcomers and returning visitors alike with a singular journey.

Time Out tip: Reservations are released at 9am (AEDT) three months in advance, so be sure to schedule a calendar reminder so that you don’t miss out on your preferred date.

What is it? A premium restaurant and cocktail haven from star chef Andrew McConnell and the Trader House crew, housed in a glamorous 1920s-era building. 

Why we love it: Gimlet stands tall as one of the few true bastions of old-world fine dining in Melbourne, dishing up lobster, caviar, winning cocktails and wine, and a seasonally evocative rotation of mains. Oh, and that Gimlet cocktail. Yet despite its Euro-style grandeur, the class act manages to channel a warmth and sense of intimacy, which is present across all touchpoints – from the excellent, well-tailored service to the lively ambience. 

Time Out tip: Not keen to splash out? Head in after 10pm on a Friday or Saturday night for one of Melbourne’s most sought-after cheeseburgers ($28) from the late-night supper menu.

What is it? Greasy Zoe’s is an intimate produce-driven restaurant hosted on the outskirts of Melbourne. It’s spearheaded by the naturally creative and ever-resourceful chef Zoe Birch (ex-Courthouse Hotel and Healesville Hotel) and her intelligent hosting partner and sommelier, Lachlan Gardner. Together, they’re co-curating an exceptional – and distinctly Australian – dining experience.  

Why we love it:  Birch and Gardner stick to the hyperlocal brief by championing small Victorian producers, described on the menu as Our Family. This might not sound earth-shatteringly different from other sustainability-focused restaurants on this list, but what Birch does with these raw materials is nothing short of epic. The ‘cheese’ course, for example, comes in the form of a toasted wattle seed and brown sugar-filled croissant, topped with 24-hour cheese and a well of wattleseed syrup. 

Time Out tip: Definitely opt in for the wine pairing and be sure to chat to Gardner about each drop. His remarkable knowledge is an unmissable part of the experience.

What is it? Etta describes itself humbly as “a little neighbourhood restaurant with a big heart”. With new head chef Lorcan Kan now masterfully steering the ship, its next exciting era has begun.

Why we love it: There’s always something fun and delicious to discover at Etta. Take the stunning seafood towers on offer right now, for example – best paired with the restaurant’s A-plus selection of Champagne, if you ask us. With a gorgeously curated wine list and a snack-heavy menu that manages to lean towards the unusual without sacrificing on taste, Etta shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Time Out tip: “Our style is more fun than formal,” Etta’s website reads. And it’s true. Etta feels more like a vibing party or wino gathering than a stuffy restaurant, so feel free to have a laugh and let your hair down!

What is it? A much-lauded Southeast Asian-Australian restaurant for punchy, bold flavours that hit the spot. 

Why we love it: Khanh Nguyen’s departure from Sunda last July left many wondering what would become of the contemporary Southeast Asian-Australian restaurant. But former sous Nabil Ansari’s appointment as the new head chef (after a brief stint at Firebird) has ensured the venue remains in good hands. Six years in, it could easily rest on its laurels but – whether driven by integrity or a shift in leadership – the restaurant is as exceptional as ever.

Time Out tip: There’s actually a fair amount of vegetarian options on the menu (and very tasty ones, too) so feel free to bring along a plant-based pal. We love the crispy tempeh.

What is it? A world-renowned modern Italian restaurant and one of Melbourne’s most loved institutions for outstanding pasta.

Why we love it: We could try to put our love for this Little Bourke Street darling into words, but legendary chef Marco Pierre White probably did it better in an interview with Grazia magazine, calling it his favourite restaurant. “Tipo 00, in my opinion, is the best food,” he shared. “You have the risotto, it’s delicious. The salumi is beautiful quality, whatever you get. It’s intelligent food in the sense that it’s traditional and authentic with a modern touch. I’ve dined in a lot of places in Melbourne and none of them deliver the standard of Tipo 00, in my opinion.”

Time Out tip: Tipomisù for dessert is non-negotiable.

What is it? Nestled in a CBD laneway, this new-school Chinese restaurant is by celebrated chef Victor Liong.

Why we love it: At this elegant Melbourne favourite, Aussie producers and seasonal ingredients are championed through a platform of modern Chinese food. Perhaps it'll be Tasmanian ocean trout sashimi with black bean and orange dressing to start, followed by the lacquered duck with quince hoisin, spring onion and bing bread, all capped off with a rose tea and red fruit trifle with vanilla and osmanthus cream. Whatever you eat, it's sure to be excellent. 

Time Out tip: Be sure to check out Liong's latest project Silk Spoon, a brand new CBD lunch haven for dishes inspired by the Silk Road. Nothing's over $18!

What is it? 'Eating house' doesn't quite cut it. ‘All-day diner’ falls worryingly short. In fact, when trying to sum up the place Cumulus Inc plays in Melbourne’s hungry heart, ‘favourite clubhouse’ comes as close as any description. And maybe that’s the thing about our winner of the Legend Award in the 2018 Food and Drink Awards.

Why we love it: Cumulus Inc is so many different things to so many different people. For city office workers, it’s the perfect show-off gaff for breakfast meetings with out-of-towners (bonus points for feigned nonchalance in the face of its boast-worthy fabulousness). For solo lunchers, it’s a place where singleton status is never a problem. And the food? Predictably great from the Trader House crew.

Time Out tip: Time your visit on a night when there's a play on at fortyfivedownstairs, which is located in the building's basement. After a recent dinner at Cumulus Inc, we checked out Hamlet from award-winning director Iain Sinclair. It was insanely impressive.

What is it? A sleek subterranean Japanese fine diner for hyper-seasonal kaseiki dinners, led by a chef with Michelin-level French training. 

Why we love it: Sometimes referred to as ‘Japanese haute cuisine’, kaiseki is a centuries-old Japanese culinary art designed to celebrate the purity of fresh ingredients through a meticulously prepared sequence of dishes. Executive chef Katsuji Yoshino comes highly equipped with skills in both innovative European and time-honoured Japanese techniques. The result? An experience that feels strikingly modern yet simultaneously rooted in sacred tradition.

Time Out tip: The staff tend to rattle off the description of each dish very quickly here, which means those unaccustomed to the complexities of high-concept Japanese cuisine are bound to miss a few details. Our advice? If you want to muse upon the high points of your meal later on, take snaps of the menu and each course that comes your way. These are nothing short of artworks and too beautiful not to be digitally immortalised.

What is it? Started up by Ezard trio Ned Trumble, Keat Lee and Chris Lerch, pan-Asian restaurant Lagoon Dining is consistently tantalising our tastebuds with some of the most considered and punchiest contemporary takes on classic dishes.

Why we love it: Though this restaurant might think wildly out of the box when it comes to inspiration, true Southeast and East Asian influences are apparent everywhere – from the dishes Lagoon chooses to spotlight to the condiments they incorporate into said dishes (think sambal belacan, white pepper togarashi, gochujang, Chinkiang vinegar). As it continues to reinvent itself each year and reinvigorate its reliably excellent pan-Asian fare, it deserves far more accolades than it’s gotten so far. 

Time Out tip: Read our review before you go. It's a surefire way to get your mouth watering in anticipation. 

What is it? Guy Grossi's opulent Italian fine diner on Spring Street.

Why we love it: Under the stewardship of the Grossi family, this Italiano staple still shines. The grand Mural Room is one of Melbourne’s last bastions of lavish European dining charm where the lighting is set to dim, and the mood set upon arrival by the proffering of a handbag stool. Through three generations of hard graft and some damned fine cooking they’ve cemented their place in the city’s dining history.

Time Out tip: Guy Grossi wrote a really great cookbook called My Italian Heart back in the early 2000s. Not only is it full of top-notch recipes, it's a window into Grossi's attitude towards food and connection. Highly recommend.

What is it? An iconic family-run Lebanese restaurant in Carlton that's been going strong since the '70s. 

Why we love it: When young Abla Amad came to Melbourne in 1954 she brought the love of cooking developed while watching her mother in their north Lebanese village. Later, she sharpened her culinary skills with the Lebanese women who would meet in each other’s kitchens to exchange recipes. Abla loved feeding people so much that meal-making for her family turned into hosting Sunday feasts for the community – and then came the restaurant. There’s no pomp or pretence here – it's so authentic it should come with a certificate. Places like Abla’s are not just about a good feed. They are part of the fabric of our city, and in these days of hyped new openings, it's important to celebrate this rare breed of restaurant.

Time Out tip: For something a bit adventurous, we recommend the kibbee nayeh ($40): raw lamb blended with burghul, served with onion, mint and olive oil.

What is it? Think of it as an ultra-boutique Japanese banquet running headlong into performance art and theatre. Omakase is a showcase of skill and showmanship, although Warabi deformalises the experience with an emphasis on chef-diner interactions.

Why we love it: The cross-counter chat proves a welcome pressure valve to those gathered in the serene, timber-lined cocoon lording it above Collins Street – at least before the sake has its chance to do some mood-loosening of its own.  The temptation is to clap, but even this dining spectacle demands some deference. So let’s make up for it now. Applause. 

Time Out tip: How about a mid-week sushi omakase experience? The menu from Tuesdays to Thursdays takes you on a 13-course sushi journey for just $185 a head, and features Warabi's signature unagi (eel) and a show-stopping dessert to finish.

What is it? A funky pub-style restaurant for plant-based eats, snacks and drinks from trailblazer chef Shannon Martinez.

Why we love it: If there's anything we can rely on Shannon Martinez for, it's to keep us on our toes. The fabulous plant-based chef, author and restaurateur has thrown us plenty of wildcards over the years, from trailblazing vegan deli Smith and Deli to ambitious Latin American vegan restaurant Lona Misa. Though there's been a spate of much newer projects from Martinez to get excited about in recent months – namely, Marvel Stadium's new Amphora and Friends of Fire – there's one restaurant that will always feel like the truest essence of Martinez' rock 'n' roll brand of inventiveness and deliciousness: Fitzroy restaurant Smith and Daughters.

Time Out tip: Ramen nights are go! Make a booking for a Tuesday night and be treated to your choice of ramen, namasu salad and a Japanese dark lager of Highball. Additional snacks cost around the $10 to $15 mark.

What is it? Thi Le and Jia-Yen Lee's renowned Richmond eatery, where you'll find modern iterations of Vietnam's regional specialties.

Why we love it: The chef here is emphatic that Anchovy is not a Vietnamese restaurant but rather an amalgamation of Australian and Vietnamese dining. Exploring the concept of 'Viet Kieu' (the term for a Vietnamese person who lives outside of Vietnam), Anchovy simultaneously represents provenance and metamorphosis, in the most gloriously edible way. 

Time Out tip: Can't find (or don't want) a dining mate? Feel free to come alone! Anchovy is geared towards solo diners or duos, with many of the dishes offered as half-serves.

What is it? A charming Fitzroy restaurant, zeroing in on flavours from the northern Italian region of Piedmont. The team behind Alta Trattoria includes Luke Drum (Carlton Wine Room), chef McKay Wilday (Victoria by Farmer's Daughters), Carlo Grossi (Ombra, Grossi Florentino) and vino expert James Tait (King and Godfree).

Why we love it: Rustic yet elegant trattoria-style dishes, sophisticated and rare Italian wines, and keen service who've nailed the brief – all of these will never go out of style. In fact, we enjoyed our experience at Alta Trattoria so much we crowned it the winner of our Best Relaxed Diner restaurant in 2023.

Time Out tip: This is an intimate and cosy restaurant, so why not try it out for a romantic date night? Who knows, this might just be the place for that romantic spaghetti-connected kiss.

What is it? A Polish restaurant in Brunswick that feels as homey and heartwarming as a house party – with excellent pierogi, vodka and cocktails to boot.

Why we love it: Good, honest food. Sometimes, it’s the only thing you crave. Like the type of meal your grandmother prepared for you when you were a child. Or freshly rolled pierogi. The couple at the helm of this Brunswick East restaurant, Guy Daley and Dominika Sikorska, are widely respected for bringing some of the most authentic Polish cuisine to Melbourne and they're absolutely smashing it.

Time Out tip: Remember to drink water – and lots of it. It's easy to overindulge on all the fabulous spirits on offer here.

What is it? Kafeneion (a play on the Greek term ‘kafeneio’, which refers to a traditional coffee house) aims to serve Melburnians a taste of true, traditional Greek comfort food.

Why we love it: Homestyle soups and hearty meat and vegetable dishes here are made from authentic village recipes you’re unlikely to find outside of the Hellenic motherland. The place itself has a touch of taverna about it, too, with basic white tablecloths and Supper Club’s rustic wood panelling. It’s easy to imagine merrily hanging out here until long after dinner as the Athenians do – and you absolutely can, for it serves supper and drinks most nights until 3am.  

Time Out tip: Want to expand your grape repertoire? This is your opportunity to try some lovely Greek wines. 

What is it? Babaji's was founded by chef Max Kamil Hassan as a sort of love letter to Kerala, a region in India famed for its lush landscapes and fascinating culinary heritage – think fragrant seafood curries, tender biryanis, street food snacks like idli and dosa, and a variety of vegetarian dishes that showcase local ingredients with an Indian twist. 

Why we love it: What truly sets Babaji’s apart is its heart. This isn’t just about food; it’s about the richness of Indian culture prepared and parcelled out in a way you can taste. Whether you’re a local or a wandering soul in search of something authentic, you’ll find that Babaji’s has a way of making you feel right at home.

Time Out tip: We reckon a meal here goes down best with toddy wine. But if you don't drink alcohol, opt for the authentic chai, served in a traditional brass dabara tumbler set. 

What is it? A critically acclaimed Euro-Japanese fine diner in Carlton.

Why we love it: Most of this restaurant's magic is thanks to a great chef – Kazuki Tsuya from Akita in Northern Japan, who blends classic French culinary techniques with Japanese flavours and top Aussie produce. The result? Dishes that are well worth the dosh. Fun fact: this restaurant was the winner of our Best Fine Diner in the 2019 Food and Drink Awards. 

Time Out tip: Choose this one for a special occasion. 

What is it? A modern Middle East-inspired fine diner from Shane Delia.

Why we love it: Though the Maha mothership has expanded with Maha East and Maha North, we pay our respects to the OG. Like an older, responsible sister, Maha continues to show up just the way you want her to, providing comfort in the form of whipped hummus, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, and smoked aged rice, like an upgraded version of a familiar and warming home-cooked meal. 

Time Out tip: This restaurant might be famous for its fall-of-the-bone lamb shoulder, but vegans are certainly nor turned away at the door. There's a vegan soufra set menu ($135 per person) that's just as delicious as the carnivorous option.

What is it? A bold Filipino restaurant from chef Ross Magnaye with platefuls of woodfired deliciousness, fun cocktails and an natty wine list. 

Why we love it: Time Out’s 2022 Restaurant of the Year (also our Best Casual Dining Venue in the same year) impressed us from the outset, a shot in the arm for the city’s food culture. Riffing on Magnaye’s Filipino heritage without suggesting anything like straightlaced authenticity, the fire-licked food is irreverent, playful and fun while also introducing the non-Filipino Melbournians to a new world of flavour. Backed by a pithy, natural-leaning wine list and a whole lot of buzz, the menu is a tour-de-force of things we want to eat. 

Time Out tip: A visit to Serai is not complete without ordering the super tasty McScallop. Just try it – you'll thank us later.

What is it? A celebrated St Kilda destination for simple yet wonderful Italian food, fabulous art and an extensive wine list.

Why we love it: All of the above gets our big green tick of approval, but we also find this restaurant's back story fascinating. In 1990, on the eve of the Gulf War, Italian porn star-turned-parliamentarian Cicciolina offered to sleep with Saddam Hussein in exchange for world peace. A foolproof plan it seemed, but sadly she was unsuccessful and off to war we went. Three years later, on a bustling seaside street in faraway St Kilda, a sultry Italian restaurant named for her colourful legacy was born. 

Time Out tip: Try and get into the Back Saloon if you're struggling to get a booking. It's open every evening from 5pm and accepts walk-ins. 

What is it? A superb Italian restaurant off the beaten track in Carlton, born from an Italian-born chef's imagination during the lockdown era. 

Why we love it: The dishes here change with the seasons to focus on local quality produce and regionally inspired Italian flavours, and in short, everything is fantastically delicious. If you have friends visiting from out of town and want to eat somewhere special, this is the crowd-pleaser to recommend. Panzerotti pomodoro with mozzarella and basil (the most epic take on a pizza pocket you’ll ever try) and juicy golden-fried olives stuffed with meat are our favourite starters. 

Time Out tip: Don't skip dessert – the latte e miele is a highlight, inspired by a type of childhood Italian confectionery.

What is it? A contemporary Asian-inspired restaurant from the Trader House crew, perfect for casual catch-ups and group celebrations alike. 

Why we love it: That iconic New England lobster roll. The spicy-sweet tteokbokki. The friendly waiters. The liveliness of it all. This fun restaurant from Andrew McConnel's stable might be old news, but the experience feels as fresh and alive as ever. If it ain't broke, why fix it?

Time Out tip: Check the website's events page to get the scoop on special one-off menus and happenings. It's a way you can revisit the restaurant for an entirely new (and potentially surprising) offering.

What is it? Farmer’s Daughters is bringing Gippsland to the city at its swish multi-level venue at 80 Collins St. 

Why we love it: Executive chef Alejandro Saravia spent many years bringing his vision of a deli, restaurant and bar to life, and the venue was welcomed with open arms by Melburnians seeking a taste of their own state. The colour palette is inspired by gumtrees, from olive green through to terracotta. Sink into brown leather banquettes and snack on warm Irish soda bread with cultured butter, Koo Wee Rup asparagus with black garlic and Tarago brie mousse before moving onto the likes of goat or dry age O’Connor beef.

Time Out tip: After dinner? Head up to the recently renovated rooftop terrace for a sneaky cocktail and night sky views.

What is it? A modern Turkish restaurant, bringing a thrilling taste of Istanbul to Balaclava.

Why we love it: Plenty of things stand out in chef Coskun Uysal's seasonal creative menu. The buttery-rich Turkish dumplings with chilli-dried mint, buttermilk and garlic aleppo, for instance. And then there's the kebab to reign over all kebabs – a succulent combination of grilled duck breast, smoked date jam, fresh orange and braised leeks. In fact, Tulum is so beloved that our readers voted it one of their favourite restaurants in 2024, and even Nigella Lawson has given it the tick of approval.

Time Out tip: If you're opting for a Saturday lunch, sit outside in the pretty courtyard. Food just tastes better outside, particularly food this good.

What is it? A humble and authentic Italian restaurant serving up regional recipes from the family's nonna.

Why we love it: There’s something to be said about the cuisine of Emilia-Romagna. Tomato isn’t the forté of this Italian region, so don't expect a traditional tomato ragu. The chefs at Trattoria Emilia hail from its namesake, and have created uncomplicated dishes that are big on flavour. This restaurant will forever hold a very special place in Melbourne's heart.

Time Out tip: We recommend the tasting menu. At just $95 per person, it's one of the best value meals in town – inclusive of starters and salumi, a fresh pasta of the day, a main course and, of course, dessert. 

What is it? Fantastic in its own right, this sibling restaurant to Sunda is dishing up incredible Asian-inspied recipes with a modern Australian twist. Named after the group of islands which ancient seafarers frequented as part of the Sino-Indonesian-Australian route, Aru draws on the cuisine of the three regions.

Why we love it: This venue heroes pre-colonial techniques of cookery across Southeast Asia – “cooking over fire, preserving, fermenting, dry-aging, curing and all those kinds of treatments,” says the chef. It’s a spirited take on the ‘f’ word that can often miss the mark, but here, the kitchen manages to make light-hearted commentary on colonisation through his fusion food, and he does so in a way that’s both moreish and respectful.

Time Out tip: We recommend coming in a large group. There are so many interesting share-style dishes here; your best bet at trying the best of them is to bring more mouths to feed (and dollars to spend). 

What is it? Peter Gunn's sleek fine diner in Collingwood.

Why we love it: You don’t get the menu until the end, and Gunn and his team of young chefs deliver food to the tables. They seem like they’re having fun. The diners seem like they’re having fun. What we’re witnessing here is the trickle-down effects of haute cuisine. Fun fine dining. File that one in Urban Dictionary.

Time Out tip: For a more low-key affair, check out the bougie wine bar next door March (also run by Gunn).

What is it? Collingwood's hip no-waste diner for cooking that uses no ovens, just fire, smoke and charcoal.

Why we love it: There's a sense of theatre here and the kitchen surprises with every turn and trick. Think bold presentation, playful rituals and dazzling flavours of ferment-driven origin. On our last visit, for example, diners were invited to smash bulbous nori rice crackers into pieces and use them to scoop up ground beef flushed a bright magenta by beetroot cashew cream. The culmination of everything was a deliciously salty explosion, a textural melange of slippery and crunchy. 

Time Out tip: Love an original cocktail? Try the Carrot Sour, made from the water used to ferment carrots for another dish on the menu.

What is it? An ultra-swanky fine diner at the top of Melbourne's Ritz-Carlton hotel with one of the best restaurant views in the entire city. 

Why we love it: At every turn, Atria’s dishes are strikingly unique and, most of all, delicious spotlights on local Victorian produce. Step into the black orchid-scented lobby of the Ritz-Carlton and ascend into the clouds for one of the most exciting dining experiences going around. 

Time Out tip: We haven't personally tried it yet, but apparently word on the street is that breakfast is a surprising highlight here. If you're lucky enough to be staying at the hotel, definitely check it out.

What is it? A legendary Spanish restaurant on Hosier Lane, probably single-handedly responsible for igniting Melburnians' passion for tapas.

Why we love it: In the years since Frank Camorra and business partner Andy McMahon opened their Hosier Lane flagship restaurant, the pair have launched an armada of Spanish eateries. But don’t let all that rampant breeding put the fear of neglectful parenting into you – MoVida is captained by a trusty crew and still offers one of the best bar dining experiences in Melbourne.

Time Out tip: Wanting a somewhat more casual experience? Head to the bustling bar-style diner Movida Next Door.

What is it? Lagotto is a charming Italian restaurant in Fitzroy North for long, boozy lunches, romantic occasions and everything in between.

Why we love it: For all its design award-winning elegance, there’s an irresistibly casual feel to the fitout. This is a place just as suitable for an afternoon wine with a gaggle of pals as it is for anniversaries and the like. There are countless restaurants in Melbourne where you can enjoy exceptional takes on classic Italian recipes, but where Lagotto stands out is in its playfulness. From pairing tuna with strawberries and kefir to pouring rare spirits from the motherland, the restaurant’s generosity and creativity are to be commended.

Time Out tip: Whatever you do, get the gnoccho fritto ($14) as a starter.

What is it? If you've got a thing for rare sake, French wines, A-grade sashimi or elevated fusion, then there's a new spot in Armadale that deserves a spot at the top of your dining-out list. 

Why we love it: Bansho is a luxe bistro that's nailing all of the above, aided by the genius of executive chef Tomotaka Ishizuka (Ishizuka, Kisumé, Koko), whose creative menu blends the finesse of modern French cooking methods with traditional Japanese technique. 

Time Out tip: We know you like what you like, but do experiment with the drinks list at Bansho. There are so many cool, rare and interesting drops to try, and it's a chance to discover something new!

What is it? France-Soir is truly a Melbourne institution. Established in 1986 by owner Jean-Paul Prunetti, the bistro was an instant success, and in the fickle world of hospitality, that success has endured.

Why we love it: Tables are packed tightly, and seats are in high demand. Waiters expertly ferry plates from the kitchen behind the swinging doors at the back, manoeuvring among the lively tables. The menu is composed of France's finest bistro-style fare. For all this restaurant's messiness (and at times, moodiness), we just adore it. It's that plain and simple.

Time Out tip: Head in at lunch on Monday to Wednesday and you can BYO with no corkage charge!

What is it? Cutler (formerly Cutler and Co) has been a mainstay on the fickle Melbourne hospitality circuit for many years, and for good reason. Andrew McConnell opened the restaurant way back when in 2009 in a former metal works factory, and it has undergone a transformative evolution over all those years, emerging as his flagship restaurant.

Why we love it: Cutler has stayed true to its values of refined, simple and hospitable dining throughout the years, as the industry continued to grow and evolve around it. Seasonable menus champion modern Australian food showcasing local producers and growers, expertly crafted by the skilful team in the kitchen. 

Time Out tip: Keen to kick on after dinner? You're in the right 'hood! Fitzroy is brimming with cool bars and pubs to explore. Here's our guide to the area so you can plan your night.

What is it? Situated in the Manse Building that once housed the minister of the nearby Wesley Church, Reed House is a produce-driven restaurant and poised to be one of Melbourne's greats. 

Why we love it: The food is playful, and the service is friendly and laid-back. Toeing the line between tradition and invention, Reed House feels like the epitome of next-gen hospo. The cool kids have grown up, got real jobs and now run your favourite restaurant. 

Time Out tip: You've got to try the ramen scotch egg with mushroom ketchup ($14). Amazingly, the chef has pulled off a dish that is more than the sum of its parts. 

What is it? A stylish Italian-leaning restaurant offering an approachable fine dining experience. 

Why we love it: At first glance, Lucia might seem like polished corporate dining – safe, stylish and formulaic. But beneath the sleek façade lies a restaurant brimming with technical precision and genuine heart. It’s fine dining without the pretentiousness: creative, playful and accessible. From start to finish, Lucia offers an experience that’s as relaxed as it is refined.

Time Out tip: If it's on the menu when you go, order the Aylesbury duck. It's a knock-out.

What is it? A friendly sushi omakase restaurant only open during the day.

Why we love it: The restaurant exclusively serves raw seafood plus accouterments – no other protein in sight. And the chef doesn't even have a Japanese background; he’s French with classical training. But despite the odds, Uminono is a star and offering perhaps the best-value sushi feed in Melbourne right now. 

Time Out tip: Don't want to eat indoors? Get the chirashi sushi box ($55) for the most luxe Japanese takeaway lunch in town and enjoy in the sunshine.

What is it? Rue De Thanh is situated on the quiet end of Brunswick Street, a celebration of Vietnamese food spearheaded by owner Than Tran. 

Why we love it: The menu here covers the gamut of familiar Vietnamese favourites with a contemporary flair and dash of French technique. Take, for example, the Bò tái Chanh, which is a rare beef salad but instead comes in the form of Melbourne-y beef carpaccio – sumptuous pink beef fillet topped with shallots, herbs and crispy garlic. Oysters come grilled or fresh, the latter topped with zesty nuoc mam and popping citrus finger lime pearls. Bánh khọt, coconut and turmeric pancakes are crispy-outside-gooey-inside perfection.

Time Out tip: Try the 'street eats' experience ($95 per person) at the chef's counter. This dining option features an authentic street food experience journey through eight courses of seafood and meat, with each dish intensifying as the meal goes on. 

What is it? A lively eatery on Racecourse Road for traditional Ethiopian food. 

Why we love it: For years, this restaurant has been keeping African food lovers happy and satiated with traditional and spiced-up Ethiopian dishes including kifto beef, goat with kemmam sauce and the lamb hot pot shiro bozena. Order the mixed platter feast to get a chef's choice of curries and a small salad served on a giant serve of delightfully spongy injera flatbread.

Time Out tip: Cutlery is optional here, so get your hands in there and sop up all the flavours.

What is it? An opulent multi-level hot pot restaurant for splashy, spicy fun and nightly shows.

Why we love it: Forget your standard Chinese restaurant — Panda Hot Pot is a full-blown sensory assault (in a good way). The former Dracula's site has been transformed into an epic homage to Sichuan cuisine and martial arts fantasy, complete with an enormous 16-metre, 1.5-tonne dragon suspended from the ceiling and an LED sky backdrop. It's that kind of place. This is hot pot on steroids. Choose your broth (ranging from 'mild' to 'oh my God'), then go to town on over 80 ingredients to dunk in the bubbling cauldron at your table. 

Time Out tip: Here’s the best part — free nightly performances that include face-changing shows, traditional music and dance, and even family-friendly 'panda' appearances. So we recommend dinner instead of lunch.