Now’s the time to support Melbourne’s hospitality industry, whether you’re up for a hearty breakfast or a cheeky nightcap. Eat, drink and make merry in the sunniest of seasons. Stay and build an entire staycation around the city’s finest restaurants and thriving bars. Just remember to plan ahead – it’s a good idea to book so you know you’ll get a table.
Dessous
Farmer’s Daughters
Sunda’s Khanh Nguyen has expanded his ground-breaking empire with the opening of this moody eatery where share plates combine Southeast Asian flavours and native Australian ingredients. Book a banquette opposite the 16-metre-long open kitchen. + aru.net.au
Located below sister-venue Hazel, this subterranean bar was made for late nights. Classic cocktails are given modern twists, while the wine list focuses on sustainable and biodynamic drops from lesser-known regions, like Henty in Victoria. Keep the night going with some great snacks. + dessous.com.au
Alejandro Saravia’s three-storey venue is a love letter to Gippsland, and showcases the region’s fresh produce and fine wines. There’s a casual eatery on the ground floor, a restaurant serving set course menus one level up, and a rooftop ‘greenhouse’ bar. + farmersdaughters.com.au
Pétanque Social
What once was a hawker stall is now a convivial standalone restaurant. Owner Chee Wong serves seven versions of the famous Malaysian stir-fried rice noodle dish, including one featuring blood cockles. There’s laksa, too. + facebook.com/ lulucktmelbourne
Big Esso Get a taste of Indigenous flavours at Nornie Bero’s latest restaurant – the name means ‘the biggest thank you’ in the Torres Strait, from where she hails. Order from a menu that includes dishes like namas (coconutcured kingfish) and chilli blue swimmer crabs. + mabumabu.com.au/dining
Its position on the Yarra and views of the city opposite make this outdoor venue the place to be on hot summer evenings. With a European countryside fit-out and menu of loved Melbourne dishes, it’s sure to attract the in-crowd. + crownmelbourne.com.au
Melbourne – Eat & Drink
Aru
Check online before visiting
Eat & Drink
Lulu’s Char Koay Teow
Pétanque Social
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