Lauren Dinse

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, and while restaurants (and writers) may come and go – there are a few spots 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: Lucia 👠 Best for a hot date night: Marameo 🍴 Best for a long Sunday lunch: Di Stasio Citta 🍝 Best for regional Italian cuisine: Al Dente Enoteca 👯 Best for a friends' catch-up: Studio Amaro If you're after more Italian cuisine, visit our guides to Melbourne's best pizza and gelato.

Spring 2025: Thank heavens the sun is shining once more! We've dearly missed al fresco breakfasts without rainwater on the seats and iced latte walks around the neighbourhood in warm weather. If you're looking for somewhere new to try that has our green tick of approval, this list is brimming with brew-tiful ideas – perfect for all your springtime brunching adventures. 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.

October 2025 update: Daylight saving is almost here (finally!) and that means longer, warmer days – aka more time to luxuriate over a three-hour lunch in the arvo sun or to grab a cheeky post-work snack and bev without it feeling like you should already be home tucked up in bed. However you want to dine out this month, we've got a list of spots that will cater to for all occasions – enjoy! The continually evolving and expanding dining scene in Melbourne is both a blessing and a curse: how do you choose between so many incredible restaurants? Well, that's where we come in. Stop endlessly scrolling, and commit to making your way through Time Out’s list of the best restaurants in the state right now. Our team of editors and food writers have eaten their way through the city to narrow down the city's tastiest spots just for you. From culinary institutions like Flower Drum and France-Soir, to emerging standouts and instant icons such as Serai, Gimlet and Kafeneion, we've got it all covered here. There are fine diners for when you want to get bougie, relaxed spots for rowdy group dinners, and neighbourhood gems that you'll want to keep a secret. So get out, and get eating! You've got a lot to get through!  Editor's favourite restaurants in Melbourne: 🥂 Best for a special occasion: Vue de Monde 👠 Best for a vibey date night: Reed House ☀️ Best for a long Sunday lunch: O.My 🍝 Best for an Italian feast: Trattoria Emilia 🫒 Best for a friends' catch-up: Stokehouse Stay in the lo

Melburnians certainly know how to ride the wave of a good food trend, but one phase that has stuck around is our collective love and appreciation for the humble sandwich. And for that, we are thankful. Arguably the most versatile food, you can eat it for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and the possibilities for fillings and combinations are endless. Start your day with a brekky sanga filled with bacon and cheese, munch on a meatball sub for lunch, and get a lil' fancy with a croque monsieur for dinner. However you take yours, it seems the sandwich trend is not going anywhere for a while, so work your way through our round-up of the best sangas in town.  Looking to change up your usual sandwich routine? Check out the best bahn mi in Melbourne. Finish on a sweet note with the best ice cream and gelato around town. 

At the beginning of spring when the sun comes out to play, Melbourne's glorious rooftop bars draw in flocks of thirsty revellers with their crisp, cool bevvies and sweeping city views. Maybe it's the higher altitude, but drinking is just more fun from above. So start climbing those stairs – or keep your fingers crossed for a lift – and check out Melbourne's best rooftop bars now.  Looking for an après-drink bite? Check out Melbourne's best late-night eats. How about another drink somewhere different? We've rounded up our favourite laneway bars in the city.   See full screen

October 2025 update: In case you hadn't realised, it's officially sit-out-in-the-sun-and-drink-delicious-bevvies season. Yep, the weather is (slightly) warmer and the days are (slightly) longer which means there's more time to squeeze in a cheeky drink or two. And lucky for you, we've got a list of some excellent spots where you can do just that. Cheers! Melbourne has some of the greatest bars in the world, whether you're looking for the laser-like focus of 16-seater Above Board or the rock‘n’roll ‘she’ll be right’ spirit of Lulie Tavern. You can find temples heroing whisky and palaces dedicated to gin, hole-in-the-wall nooks for sipping natural wines or classy spots for suited-and-booted cocktails. How about a prawn club sanga and a bottle of Champers from tiny charmer Apollo Inn? Or crocodile bites and ice-cold Martinis from Black Kite Commune?  If it's sky-high action you're after, then take a squiz at our guide to Melboune's best rooftop bars instead. For tipples a bit more out-of-the-box, we've got the scoop on some of Melbourne's weirdest drinking experiences.  We've rounded up the top 49 bars that we're really loving right now – and we're sure you will, too.  Editor's favourite bars in Melbourne: 🥂 Best for a special occasion: Apollo Inn 👠 Best for a vibey date night: Kirk's Wine Bar 🍸 Best for cocktails: Bar Bellamy 🫒 Best for bar snacks: Bar Olo 🍻 Best for a friends' catch-up: Young Hearts Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter

A good burger is easily one of life’s greatest pleasures, and Australia is teeming with top-notch options, most of which fall comfortably into that hits-the-spot territory. A burger’s simplicity – take a pillowy bun, place a juicy patty inside it, maybe add cheese or salad, drizzle over a sauce or two, then apply to face – makes it hard to stuff up. The flip side, however, is that it also makes finding the ultimate burger a bit of a challenge. Time Out’s hungry team of local Aussie writers have bravely put their jaws and stomachs on the line (in the name of exceedingly difficult research, you understand) to compile this list of the best burgers in Australia. We've told you exactly which burger to order at each spot, from the award-winning Fillet-O-Shrimp at CBCo Brewing Port Melbourne to the world-famous Gidley Burger in Sydney. Now it’s up to you to crown the true buns of glory. Note: These are ranked in no particular order. Editor's favourite burgers in Australia: 🍔 Best icon: The Gidley, NSW ⭐️ Best gourmet: Le Rebelle, WA 😋 Best cheeseburger: Charrd, VIC For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🥧 Australia's best pies🌭 The best sausage rolls🍕 The best pizzas in Australia

What are the best restaurants in Australia? With such a diverse and world-class dining scene, picking the best of the best is no easy feat – but don't worry, we've done the hard work (and the eating) for you. Our expert editors, including resident foodie Melissa Woodley, have tasted their way around the country to curate this list of the best restaurants Australia has to offer, from fine-dining institutions to hidden neighbourhood gems. So, what’s the secret recipe to an exceptional dining experience? In coming up with Time Out’s list of the best restaurants in Australia, we considered a mix of ingredients. Talented chefs? Stylish decor? Lively ambience? Top-notch drinks? And of course, food that you can’t stop thinking about for days, months, or even years. Luckily, Australia’s restaurant scene is sizzling with spots that check all these boxes, plus so much more. Here are the best restaurants in Australia right now. Editor's favourite restaurants in Australia: ⭐️ Best bucket-list: Saint Peter, NSW 💎 Best hidden gem: Warrior Restaurant and Bar, QLD 🥂 Best for special occasions: Wildflower, WA 🌊 Best view: Quay, NSW 🌍 Best sustainable: The Agrarian Kitchen, TAS Jump to list:  NSW | VIC | QLD | WA | SA | TAS | ACT | NT For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍹 The best bars in Australia⭐️ The best hotels in Australia

Whether you're looking for a bar in the north, south, east, or west of our fair city, Time Out Melbourne has got all points of the compass covered. Walk into any of these top-notch wine bars and you're guaranteed service by staff who know what they're talking about, a great atmosphere, and of course, a solid wine list. And being the snack-loving city we are, you can bet these venues are no slouch in the kitchen, either. For more carefully curated guides to Melbourne's drinking culture, head to our favourite cocktail bars, rooftop bars and whisky bars.  

Spring 2025 update: The start of the new season heralds many things: longer days, warmer weather and an appetite for eating out. But we know you want to save some pennies for a Spritz in the sun at one of Melbourne's many rooftops bars, so here's a list of wallet-friendly spots (yes, they still exist) that won't cost you a small fortune. Enjoy! The late and great respected chef Anthony Bourdain once famously said: “I'd rather eat in Melbourne than Paris." It goes without saying that Melbourne has long been revered as one of the world's most exciting food cities, but that status isn't just attributed to our fancy restaurants – special as many of those upper crust institutions may be. Our laneways and hidden alcoves are brimming with cheap street eats, smashable pub deals and dinner options you can enjoy for $20, $15 or even under $10, so you can stop counting your hard-earned pennies and start eating instead. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READ: Got a little bit more to spend? Check out Melbourne's best restaurants.

Since the 1960s, Lygon Street has been known and loved as Melbourne's Little Italy precinct. Locals and tourists alike flock to the leafy strip – abuzz on weekends with the roaring of fancy cars and roaming of uni students, teens and families – for proper espresso, pasta and cake, and a true taste of Italian-style al fresco action.  Sure, you might get a bit of hassle from the sales-y footpath waiters trying to lure you in, but true Melburnians know that's a part of the street's charm. And though much has changed in the last decade, there's no doubt that if you want to sit out on a terrace with a pizza bigger than your head or sip Spritzes on a rooftop, Lygon Street is still the place to be.  In 2024, there's a much larger and more diverse culinary offering in this area than ever before. Particularly on the southern end of the Carlton stretch, you'll discover incredible eateries for Egyptian, Japanese, Indian, Thai, plus a variety of other cuisines. No longer just the domain of spaghetti and salumi, Lygon Street is now also worth heading to for a bangin' biryani or world-class Asian fusion. And that's not all. Take a stroll up towards Brunswick East and you'll discover trendy wine bars, pubs with live music, American barbecue, Polish dumplings, Sicilian food and one of the best taco joints in town. Hungry yet? Let's go for a wander! We've listed Lygon Street's best restaurants in Google Maps-checked order so you'll know where to find them. Looking for the cream of the crop?

There's a thrilling nature to BYO. Perhaps it stirs adolescent memories of trying to sneak drinks into venues? Or the indisputable value it adds? Regardless, it’s gratifying to waltz into a venue, your favourite drop in hand, and be greeted not with frowns and finger-wagging but with open arms. To save you the time of google searching BYO-positive locations, we’ve created a list of various cuisines and price points.  Looking for a scenic nightcap after dinner? Check out some of Melbourne's best rooftop bars.

Time Out Melbourne never writes starred reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills for reviews so that readers can trust our critique. Melbourne is in a golden era for casual Greek food right now and Taverna – a nifty newcomer from restaurateur Angie Giannakodakis (Epocha, Press Club) – is proof. The breezy Athenian-inspired restaurant opened on the site of George Calombaris’s OG Hellenic Republic to much fanfare, an instant hit with Greek food lovers thanks to its wholesome taverna eats cooked with simplicity and served share-style, and its understated dazzler of a drinks list. Extra gold stars are duly awarded for Taverna’s warm approach to service, inspired by the spirit of ‘philoxenia’ (‘love of strangers’).  The vibe No need to make sure you’re suited, booted, glammed or gussied up before visiting this relaxed local. I head in for dinner on a Friday night, and the vibe is coolly casual; it’s got the spirit of an easygoing local. What sounds like Greek alt rock music softly complements the dinner hum, and while the restaurant isn’t exactly heaving at the seams (perhaps due to the selection of an earlier booking time), I spy a few couples on date nights and low-key family get-togethers. That’s not to say the restaurant doesn’t carry a sense of occasion – white-painted walls and comfy vintage-chic aesthetics may pay homage to the motherland, but it’s a restaurant that feels Melbourne and very much of-the-moment. Service is warm and personal,

As if the Melbourne Fringe Festival's program of art, theatre, comedy and experimental shows wasn't enough of a sensory feast to begin with, Queen Victoria Market is joining the fun for a second year with Fringe Flavours. Need somewhere vibe-y and cool to grab dinner before the show? This is your flavourful pit-stop! Complete with food trucks, stalls and bars lining the streets and open-air sheds, the month-long series of markets will be held every Wednesday night from September 17 to October 15. Festivalgoers and curious passersby alike will be treated to a tantalising array of snacky offerings – from Polish dumplings, artisanal pasta and tacos to Japanese-inspired soufflés, donuts and ice cream. Highlights of the vendor line-up include Flaming Skewers, Swerle, Smashville, The Lil Dumpling Van and more.  There'll also be plenty of action and performances available at the market each Wednesday night, such as cabaret, comedy, burlesque artists, bands, DJs and more.   The Fringe Flavours Night Market has no entry fee and welcomes everyone to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Bring your friends, family and a hearty appetite and have fun!  Looking to plan your social calendar ahead? Check out our fresh guide for fun things to do this October.

The Mornington Peninsula, Great Ocean Road and Yarra Valley Chocolateries are famous for their month-long festival dedicated to hot chocolate in all its irresistible forms, and this year’s no different. A total of 31 limited-edition flavours will be available to try throughout August, with decadent options loaded with everything from boozy truffles to choc-lined ice cream cones. Some of the flavours already revealed include Sweet Berry Tacos, a berry-infused hot chocolate accompanied by a sponge taco filled with white chocolate ganache and fresh fruit for dunking; and Dubai Sphere, which features a pistachio marshmallow sphere filled with Dubai chocolste crème that can be dropped into your steaming-hot bevvie. Heaven! Each steamy creation is barista-made with a shot of either dark, milk, white, ruby or caramelised warm couverture chocolate, and served in a large glass with a giant fluffy marshmallow and a selection of artisan ingredients.  “Our annual Hot Chocolate Festival has become a real feature on the calendar for our three Chocolateries, and we’ve loved coming up with even more over-the-top creations and experiences this year,” says head chocolatier, Allan Grandjean.     Can’t decide on just one hot choccie? Then the tasting sessions have your name on it. At $28 per person, it’s an opportunity to sample eight different flavours. You'll also get the chance to flex your culinary chops by choosing from 50 different ingredients to make three bespoke creations. Throughout

What’s better than gorging yourself on scones, finger sandwiches and Champagne at a regular high tea? Gorging yourself on piles and piles of cheese at the Westin’s un-brie-lievable High Cheese event, of course. Yes, the insanely successful event is back at the Westin's Allegro Restaurant for another year, and we turophiles couldn't be more thrilled. The idea for High Cheese first crystallised a few years ago when the Westin's executive chef at the time, Michael Greenlaw, teamed up with Anthony Demia from Maker and Monger to bring a series of cheeses together in both sweet and savoury dishes. Years later, the much-loved tradition continues. In 2025, the indulgent menu has been curated in collaboration with renowned cheese masters, brother-sister duo the Studd Siblings and vino legends Zonzo Estate. Ellie and Sam Studd, both members of the International Guilde des Fromagers and Certified Cheese Professionals, have joined forces with the Westin's executive chef, Apoorva Kunte, to curate an enticing three-tiered selection of dairy-licious treats. We're listening... Each creation showcases the finest quality cheese from around the world, with each tier crafted to highlight bold flavour, balance and technique. Highlights from the menu include Aphrodite Barrel aged organic fetta with tomato and lychee tartare, Woombye triple cream brie with pickled beetroot and raspberry almond pesto, and a shared baked Le Conquérant camembert with thyme and garlic. Yum! And a high tea wouldn't be

Long overshadowed by Victoria’s hallowed grape territories of the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Heathcote, Sunbury may not be the first winemaking region you consider for a wine adventure – despite being one of the state’s oldest, dating back to the 1860s. But that’s only one reason why Marnong Estate, a winery out in nearby Mickleham, ignited my curiosity. I’d also been gleefully told tales of camels, goats and alpacas swanning around the perimeter, of breathtaking panoramic views at sunset and romantic hilltop picnics, and a patch of smartly appointed luxury cabins well worth a stay. Add in the news that culinary talent Greg Feck had joined the winery’s Italian fine diner La Vètta as executive chef, and I was sold.   It takes just under an hour for my partner and I to drive from our home in Melbourne’s inner north to Marnong Estate, and we’re astonished to see the car park completely full when we arrive. Even in the crisp cold of a Melbourne winter, the estate is swimming with families and locals enjoying a day out – and it’s clear they’re having a grand old time. And as it turns out, so do we! Love for this winery is perennial, such is its Jack-of-all-trade destination appeal. Aside from La Vètta, there’s a cellar door and wine tasting room, accommodation, the vineyard itself, expansive event spaces, two Italian-inspired eateries and a boutique brimming with all kinds of gourmet goodies.  Why stay at Marnong Estate? For wine lovers, waking up to sweeping vineyard

Aren't we Melburnians just a lucky bunch? After its delicious debut, Australia's very own chocolate festival is back in town for its second year. The event, which features chocolate makers from ten countries (including Ecuador and Samoa), will be hosted at the Seaworks Maritime Precinct in Williamstown from July 5 to 6. Ticketholders will be treated to free choccy samples and insightful chats with the creators of the world's favourite sweet treat. There'll also be demonstrations on how the beans are made into chocolate – so if you've ever been curious about that amazing, alchemical process, here's your chance to learn about it firsthand! There's even an option to add a wine pairing experience to your day. Expect to enjoy 70 different tastings from 42 exhibitors on the day, many of which are offering no-sugar-added, all-natural, organic, vegan, gluten-free and kosher products. Note that sample sizes will be bite-sized and if you enjoy what you taste, you're welcome to purchase products directly from the makers to take home with you or give as gifts. Chocolate in its purest state is an experience not to be missed, so bring along your most passionate foodie friends and family for what's sure to be one of Melbourne's sweetest days out this winter. You can nab a ticket to the event here. For more info about the festival and the different ticket types available, visit the official website. Need to warm up? Here's where you can find Melbourne's tastiest hot chocolates. For something

After years of success, refined Italian eatery Cucinetta has brought back its famous cheese wheel for the 11th edition. Once again, the team is serving the traditional meal of fettuccine cacio e pepe, a simple yet sophisticated pasta dish made with quality cheese and lashings of pepper. Served out of a wheel of parmigiano reggiano (as all pasta should be served), it’s a cheese-on-cheese affair. Why, you may ask? Well, no raison d'etre is needed because who doesn't love a cheese wheel? To get your share of the marvelous cheese-sauced ribbons, all you need to do is make a booking and head down to Cucinetta's dining room in South Yarra on your chosen date. The wheel will be up and running July 31. A serving costs $36 and it's available on the menu over lunch and dinner. Want to get in on the carby goodness? Stop salivating, start booking.  Craving Italian now? These are the best Italian restaurants in Melbourne.

Marnong Estate's sophisticated contemporary Italian restaurant has fast been gaining critical acclaim, especially since the appointment of Greg Feck as executive chef.  From the picturesque rolling hilltop views and crowdpleasing Italian-inspired eats to the great wines produced on-site and cosy lounge spaces, this restaurant is perfect for a long and indulgent lunch.  Get the seasonal mushroom risotto if it's still on the menu – it was one of the most generous, comforting, flavour-bomb takes we've ever tried. Other highlights include the Ora King salmon gelato served in a charcoal waffle cone (it sounds weird, but it's genius), the tonno crudo with nashi pear and stracciatella and the ‘Vittore’ carpaccio inspired by the famous painter from Harry's Bar, Venice. The latter comes as a gleaming display of Wagyu beef, spiced walnuts, Warragul greens and 1950’s ‘Universal Sauce.’  All pasta is either hand-folded or bronze extruded 'fatto in casa', with free-range eggs sourced from the chooks of the estate. Most of the restaurant's meats are grilled over coal and local woods (think red gum or jarrah) to lend a distinct complexity to each dish. La Vetta is open Thursday to Sunday, for lunch (excluding Thursday) from noon and for dinner from 5-9pm. If you're looking for other out-of-town adventures, check out the best day trips from Melbourne. 

Located in a former metalworks factory on Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, Cutler (formerly Cutler and Co) is the flagship restaurant of Andrew McConnell and Jo McGann. Since opening in 2009, it's consistently been at the top of Melbourne's luxury dining game, winning our Best Fine Diner Award in 2017 and continuing to wow both loyal and new guests 15 years on. While the venue may have somehow relaxed its sense of formality in line with current dining trends, crucial aspects of the experience remain: world-class service, a creative yet comforting menu that makes use of Australia's superb produce, and – yep, we're calling it – the best long Sunday lunch in Melbourne. A glorious afternoon may be spent here sampling the delights of wood-grilled Corner Inlet calamari tossed through a duo of punchy green romesco and aioli; fresh sashimi-grade tuna served on brittle, buttery shards of 'toast' with crème fraîche, marinated bullhorn peppers and horseradish; and creamy abalone katsu sando bites; all while washing the goodness down with Champers and expertly crafted cocktails like the Turtle Dove (that one's a knock-out).  Steak lovers can't go wrong with the dry-aged rib eye, a staple on the menu since the beginning, though specials of the day are always a must-try. On our last visit in 2024, a stunning duck pithivier with prosciutto took our gong for one of the best dishes we tried all year.  Better yet, the restaurant treats every guest with a kindness and attention to detail that's rar

Unleash your inner sushi master in an exciting masterclass with Kisumé head sushi chef Toaki Kyo. The intimate series of classes across winter are designed for a small number of lucky guests, ensuring those joining get ample one-on-one attention and guidance from Kyo. It's an opportunity to indulge in one of the world’s most prized fishes prepared by an esteemed sushi chef and to learn some highly sophisticated culinary skills in the same afternoon. You'll watch as the restaurant's master chef breaks down a whole bluefin tuna, before you sit down to indulge in the three different cuts — akami, chu-toro and o-toro — straight from the chef’s blade. The front-row experience offers a once-in-a-liftetime insight into the precision and artistry involved in the process, as well as a rare chance to discover the different flavour profiles and markers of quality from a passionate, nationally renowned expert. From the accompanying five-course menu, you'll get to taste top seasonal produce prepared in some of Kisumé's most masterful dishes, from tuna sashimi and A5 Wagyu with tuna dashi to a delicate chocolate and sobacha dessert to round out the experience. This rare and special dining experience costs $215 per person and you can make a booking at the website. Move fast! Spots are limited and expected to sell out quickly.  Looking for a more casual seafood experience? That's OK, hop aboard these sushi trains in Melbourne instead. 

Since 1870, this local boozer has been well-loved for nailing the basics: good times, cold drinks and hearty food.  These days, it's a tad more upmarket than its days of yore, offering up fancy-fied bar snacks like corn and scamorza croquettes, Asian-inspired crispy chicken ribs and a delectable little lobster and prawn roll with salmon caviar.   But if you're after some no-nonsense pub grub, you can't go wrong with the juicy Wagyu cheeseburger or beer-battered fish and chips with mushy peas. The Vic's hand-crumbed parma is another winner, while hearty protein mains like the Otway pork cutlet, 300-gram rostbiff and 250-gram scotch steak will keep the meat lovers happy While the menu may be updated to reflect modern tastes, the pub's timeless charm remains with stripped wooden furnishings, a spacious main bar and a welcoming, no-frilles vibe all year round. A solid drinks list covers the gamut, with a broad offering of mainly Australian wines (plus a smattering of European drops), local-heroing beer taps selection, spirits and expertly mixed cocktails. For more info, visit the website. Looking for a pub that'll welcome your pet? Here's our round-up to Melbourne's best dog-friendly pubs.

Winter is here but that doesn’t mean you and the family need to stay at home. Rug up and head west to Grazeland to find your fave foodie precinct utterly transformed into a winter wonderland that will impress both kids and the young at heart. Each weekend from July 4 to 20, the epic culinary playground will be decked out with dreamy white snow, neon lights and cosy vibes.  As the days get shorter and the temps drop to new lows, there’s never been a better excuse to venture out and have a cosy night by the river. Warm up with mulled wine by the fire pits and dig into a diverse array of international eats, including aromatic laksa, New Orleans-style chicken, chicken satay rice, Turkish gozleme, dumplings and epic mac and cheese plates. Craving dessert? Try a winter-friendly warm apple pie or street crepes to finish your meal on a sweet note. With roving performers, live bands and interactive DJs providing plenty of entertainment, have a dance by the magical snow machine or treat the kids to a face painting session and playtime in the fun zones.   When it’s time to sit back and relax, warm up those mitts with a spice-infused mulled wine. Don't miss the kick-off Block Party event on Friday night, July 4, where Frosty the Snowman will be making an appearance and live sets will set the street party mood (no bookings required). Christmas may be far away yet, but when there’s an opportunity to have a white Christmas in July – we’ll take it! Looking for more fun things to see and do t

Since the news first broke in March that Hugh Allen – Vue de Monde's critically acclaimed executive chef – would be launching his very first restaurant right here in Melbourne, we've been eagerly counting down to its opening date. And now, that day has finally come: Yiaga (an Indigenous word meaning ‘to seek and find’) is officially open to the public. Located in the heart of East Melbourne's lush Fitzroy Gardens, it has taken up residence in an old pavilion that was originally built in 1908 as a tearoom and expanded with a dining room in the ’20s. It had been vacant for nearly a decade before Allen, in collaboration with renowned Australian architect John Wardle and his team, took over the venue and began a stunning transformation.   Photograph: Jason Loucas   Now it's a space that beautifully complements the lush garden setting, with an open dining and kitchen area, a rich and earthy colour palette, and terracotta tiles that emulate the bark of nearby elm trees. There's also a beautiful Tasmanian blackwood timber cellar by Ross Thompson, a custom-built table that furniture designer Vivienne Wong made using a cypress branch from the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens and even the Yiaga branding has been created to symbolise local specimens of Australian flora. The restaurant itself – which seats 44 diners, including an eight-seat semi-private dining area – will showcase Australia's abundant diversity of native ingredients and top-quality produce. Think pasture-fed Blackmore Wagy

It's no secret we're big fans of Bar Bellamy in Carlton – it was the winner of our Best Cocktail Bar award at the 2025 Time Out Melbourne Food and Drink Awards, after all. And now, we're ready to be just as charmed by its new sibling venue: Melitta Next Door, a colourful Mediterranean-inspired venue located (you guessed it) right next door.   Melitta, named after a type of honey bee, is designed to be an easier, breezier and more accessible destination for casual weeknight gatherings and those keen to have a taste of the Bar Bellamy magic in a brand new format. Through pre-batching cocktails and spearheading a more efficient approach to service, owners Dani and Oska Whitehart aim to serve locals in a way that's both affordable and approachable.   Photograph: Harrison Moss   “It's not about scaling back from Bar Bellamy,” notes Oska. “It's about scaling up speed in order to scale down prices.” The team describe the Melitta concept as reminiscent of “backyard parties when we were strapped but still wanted to have fun”. Leading the kitchen is Lorena Carso (ex- Napier Quarter, Estelle, Anchovy) who runs her own pop-up business, Sicilian Smoke Out – a celebration of open fire-cooking and recipes from Carso's home country and childhood. Expect to see this philosophy play out in the form of delicious flame-fuelled eats like the lamb arrosticini with salsa verde (a staple in Abruzzo) and vegan kohlrabi skewers, plus pan-fried flatbread finished off on the barbecue. Other hits on th

Hyde Melbourne Place was last year's hottest hotel opening in the CBD, thanks to its cool design and a bevy of dining and drinking destinations peppered throughout the property: Portuguese restaurant Marmelo, subterranean cocktail lounge Mr Mills and rooftop bar and eatery Mid Air. While the latter is now sadly closed, it's not the end for this swish rooftop and its signature twin "eyes" (you know, those incredible brick portals everyone was posting a bout on the 'gram), but rather the beginning of a new era. The space will soon be revitalised with the arrival of Mediterranean-inspired offering: Cleo. “As Hyde Melbourne Place evolves as a precinct, we’re excited to transform Mid Air into Cleo: a Mediterranean rooftop restaurant and bar bringing bold flavours, more generous spaces for all-day dining, and a new lively energy,” says general manager Jodi Brown.  "When it opens in December, Cleo will celebrate the warmth and conviviality of Mediterranean-style hospitality with the creative and cultural spirit of Melbourne in mind.”   The venue is being redesigned to encourage a relaxed communal dining experience, with warm tones, long tables and generous lounge spaces. An all-new food and drinks menu will spotlight flavours from the Eastern Mediterranean and old-world cooking techniques. Cleo will open this December. For more information, watch this space as details unfold or visit the website. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of

There's no denying Melbourne is a city full of film buffs – which means, unsurprisingly, our cinema game is strong. In the last twelve months alone, St Kilda's Astor Theatre has ranked among the ten most beautiful movie theatres in the world, an Australian-first dine-in cinema opened in Brunswick East and it's just been confirmed that Melbourne Central is about to get a massive new IMAX screen. Oh, and the city is also home to the Melbourne International Film Festival – one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Now, a former Sherrin football factory in the inner-north has transformed into a cool new independent single-screen movie theatre: Eclipse Cinema. The 64-seater, owned by former film projectionist Mark Walker, offers five to six daily screenings and spotlights A24 flicks, new indie releases hot off the festival circuit and niche director-driven programming.   Photograph: Supplied   Perhaps it'll be the quirky MIFF hit Lesbian Space Princess to catch your fancy, or Pedro Almodóvar's 2016 gem Julieta. You can find out which films are currently screening and book your tickets here. A cinema is only as good as its drinks and snacks offerings – and fortunately, you're sorted. Take your pick from a select range of craft beers, wines and bubbles, with popcorn, oat milk ice cream sandwiches and housemade choc tops on offer, too.  Whether you're a firm fan of independent cinema or you're planning an intimate date night, pop this one on your list, stat. Eclipse Cinema is

They don't call Melbourne the sporting capital of Australia for no reason; after all, we're home to the Aussie Open, the AFL Grand Final, the F1 Grand Prix and the Boxing Day Test, just to name a few. Well, it's time to pencil in a new mega moment in your 2027 sports calendar, and it's one that feels quintessentially Melbourne: the World Tram Driver Championship. The World Tram Driver Championship had humble beginnings in 2012 as a Europe-only contest, but in 2022, Melbourne was the first international team to be invited to participate. No surprises there – Melbourne's tram network is the largest in the world, boasting more than 250 kilometres of double track and over 5,000 daily services that transport almost 200 million passengers every year. We've even got our very own tram café! In 2024, teams from Africa, South America and Southeast Asia also joined in the championship – and so, the ultimate skills test for tram drivers cemented its global status. The annual event was held in Vienna this year, where tram drivers Craig Maher and Sally Burgess repped Melbourne to compete against 25 other countries in the hopes of taking out the gold medal. While they finished in 23rd (the Austrian team comprising drivers Elisabeth Urbanitsch and Florijan Isaku were crowned the winners – hometown advantage, anyone?), we're confident that hosting the championship in 2027 will give our Tramaroos all the moral support they need to 'ding' their way to the top. Disciplines tested in the competit

When that afternoon slump hits and brekky is a distant memory, the best fix is a fully loaded, so-fresh-it's-fragrant, chilli-spiked bánh mì – paired with a strong Vietnamese iced coffee, of course. While we're not short on great options around Melbourne to choose from, it can't hurt to add one more to your list. Bonus points: this one's a drive-through! A Vietnamese-Australian family have opened Melbourne's only active drive-through bánh mì store on Hampstead Road in Maidstone and hungry drivers are fast joining the queue. Bánh Mì Vietnam operates daily from the car park of a wedding reception venue.  “There’s nothing else like this in Melbourne,” owner Isabella Le commented. “We wanted to create something new that still honours the food we grew up with – fast service, bold flavours and real Vietnamese ingredients – just with a drive-through twist.”   Photograph: Supplied / Bánh Mì Vietnam   Though Le and her family spotted a gap in the drive-through market, there's no trade-off in quality for convenience.  “It’s proper bánh mì – made fresh daily, with pâté, pickled veg and crispy bread, but made easy for tradies, parents and anyone with a busy day,” shared Le.  The kitchen staff include Vietnamese chefs who've grown up making the traditional recipes – now brought to you, straight through a window and into your car. You can expect all your faves here – from crackling pork to lemongrass tofu rolls, with rice paper rolls, spring rolls and two-piece packs of fried chicken to

While we count down the days until the Metro Tunnel finally opens (ICYMI hundreds of drivers are now fully trained and ready to hit the tracks), some fresh public transport news has piqued our interest – and it will be a game-changer for those living in Melbourne's outer west. The Victorian Government has recently unveiled final designs for a new train station in West Tarneit, with major construction works for the multipurpose transport hub now ramping up ahead of the scheduled opening date next year. An addition to the Geelong Line, it will include two platforms, a pedestrian underpass, a 400-space car park and a four-bay bus interchange. There are also plans to service a new bus route for Tarneit North, while the existing Route 182 will be re-aligned to service the new station. These developments are part of a multi-million-dollar plan from the government to prioritise new and upgraded bus services, as promised in the Victorian Budget 25/26. The hope is that West Tarneit Station will ease pressure on nearby Tarneit Station, which is the busiest station on the regional network outside of Southern Cross Station, servicing almost two million passengers a year. Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams shared: “We’re delivering a brand-new West Tarneit Station – ensuring more Victorians can get to where they need to go sooner and reducing congestion across the west.” The surrounding precinct will feature a generously landscaped area including 17,000 native trees,

For loyal patrons of Flemington's popular Irish pub The Quiet Man, it was a tough blow when it shut down back in March (and on St Patrick's Day, no less *sniffle*). But fortunately, endings are often new beginnings in disguise. The historic Melbourne venue – long revered for its legendary Irish craic and community soul – has been reborn as Auntie Annie's Hotel after extensive refurbishments and a thoughtful rebrand. Zengal Hospitality Group, the team who took over the venue, are known for running St Kilda's Jimmy O'Neill's Irish Bar and St Patrick's Festival, as well as the cocktail bar Naughty Nancy's in Prahran. Co-founders James Gallagher and Zenita O'Neill have a long personal connection with The Quiet Man, with Gallagher having worked in the pub as a chef and O'Neill drawing in punters as a musical act with her band Zeon. “Since our early days in Melbourne, this venue has always held a special place for both Zenita and myself,” shared Gallagher. “It's where we met and where we began dreaming about our own ventures. This venue represents so much of our journey, and as we breathe new life into it, we aim to bring back the warmth and great customer service that people remember fondly. The food is at the forefront, as it always was, as well as good live music.” Photograph: Photography by Andez So yes, you can still warm up with a traditional Irish beef and Guinness stew, only now the menu has been expanded to include contemporary Australian favourites like delicious parmas

As the old Melbourne saying goes, "west is best" – and look, we can't help but agree in this instance. Adding to the vibrant food scene in the city's inner west, Bangkok-born home cook turned restaurateur Jojo Parkinson (Thai Alley) and her team have recently opened Odette House in Spotswood – a multi-level Thai-inspired experience, featuring an all-inclusive café, restaurant and rooftop bar. "The whole team in the kitchen has been with me for a long time," says Parkinson. "We created the menu and the recipes collaboratively." Photograph: Kimmy Liew Parkinson's housemade curry pastes form the base of several dishes served at Uday Restaurant (Sanskrit or Arabic for "rising of the sun"), which is situated on the second floor. You can opt for the crowd-pleaser green chicken and eggplant curry or a vegetarian yellow chickpea curry from Southern Thailand, but we'd bet the daily sell-out will be the slow-cooked massaman beef cheek curry – reimagined here as a pie for lunch.  Diners at the restaurant can also enjoy Thai-style fresh oyster omelettes, chicken larb spring rolls and the Northern Thai classic sea rong hai (crying tiger) – a juicy piece of grilled Scotch fillet steak served alongside a sweet and zippy tamarind, lime and chilli sauce. Photograph: Kimmy Liew The moody Uday Restaurant space lures visitors in with vibrant orange booths and wicker pendant lighting, while Odette House Café downstairs on the ground floor flaunts a more casual feel, complete with soft wood to

When Melbourne's beloved rooftop darling Madame Brussels closed its doors in 2021, you could almost hear the collective snap of hearts breaking. Though the former pastel-toned paradise has since spent a few lonely years unoccupied, the wait for its replacement is now over. A revitalisation of the coveted level three site is in the works, thanks to the Mamas Dining Group – aka the crew behind local hotspots Hochi Mama, Straight Outta Saigon, Windsor Wine Room and Chapel Street's Suzie Q. Photograph: Supplied / Mamas Dining Group While we're still waiting with baited breath for the dramatic reveal, the crew have spilled the (edamame) beans that it will feature a vibrant Japanese-themed restaurant and bar, complete with an extensive list of sake, craft beers and cocktails. The electric new watering hole, self-described as a “low-lit, disco-drenched homage to 1980s Tokyo” will invite patrons to take their taste buds on a trip across Japan, enjoy the city skyline views and boogie on late into the night. On the food front, a share-style menu designed by Mamas culinary director Michael Stollen will showcase smoky chargrilled izakaya-inspired dishes and fresh sushi from Japanese master chefs. Image render: Supplied / Mamas Dining Group Top local hospo architects Directitude – recently tasked with completing the extensive retro-modern fitout – have listed the project on their website as 'Toko Yoko', though full details of the venue and its offerings are yet to be announced.  “We’r

Melbourne’s pub history is a rich and fascinating brew of tales, places and characters worth remembering. Fortunately, a heritage building on the corner of Russell and Little Collins Streets was recently revitalised, with a suitable nod to the past. Formerly known as the Crafty Squire since 2015, the cornerstone pub has returned to its roots and reopened as Hickens Hotel – its original moniker nearly 160 years ago. The reimagined watering den has undergone a $12 million renovation and now spans four immersive levels of food, drinks and entertainment, aiming to cater to everyone from lunchtime diners and sports fans to the after-work crowd. “Hickens Hotel was named after the pub’s manager, landlord and once infamous British boxer and Australian champion, Ebenezer 'Abe' Hicken, notorious for holding legendary boxing matches back in the 1870s,” explains Giuseppe Lacava, Hickens Hotel's venue manager. “We’ve taken Abe’s love of sport and injected it into this iconic venue.” Take the second level, for example, where you'll now find the aptly named Abe's Athletic Hall: a retro-themed space featuring massive screens for viewing your fave sports live and loud, plus karaoke rooms, cosy booths and a nostalgia-inducing array of arcade games and foosball to transport you right to the good ol' days. Photograph: Zennieshia Butts While the street-level Hickens Front Bar has you covered for a traditional Melbourne pub experience, the Carlton Lounge next door has become the first bar in Aus

In the short year since Melbourne's StandardX hotel first opened its trademark red revolving doors, the design-led haven has fast made a name for itself as one of Fitzroy's most aesthetic spots to drink, dine and indulge. From bottomless brunches and Thursday night vinyl sessions to monthly tarot events and rooftop bar happy hours, a vibrant year-long program has cemented the trendy new hot spot as far more than just a place to stay. Oh, and did we mention it also took out a major style and design award in June? Adding to the buzz, celebrated Aussie chef Shannon Bennett (Vue de Monde) has chosen the hotel to head a three-month dining pop-up – his first Melbourne project in eight years. Bistro X, a limited-time offering of casual French-inspired fare, launched on July 23 and will continue running until October 15. “I’m excited to be back in the kitchen in Melbourne, doing what I love, alongside a team I trust and respect," shares Bennett. "We’re here to create something that feels part of the neighbourhood – a place people want to return to. For me, this is also about building the next generation of talent and creating a space where great food, energy and collaboration come together." Photograph: The StandardX In crafting the concept, Bennett has assembled a tight-knit team of long-time associates and fellow Vue de Monde alumni, including Cory Campbell (Cuisine Chef Of The Year), Ryan Henley (responsible for leading Christchurch's Pescatore to two chef’s hats) and master som