Melbourne’s Coolest Restaurants to Add to Your Dining List

Melbourne’s dining scene is anything but ordinary. From neighbourhood bistros to theatrical omakase and buzzing late-night spots, this city is packed with restaurants that deliver exceptional food, and an unforgettable experience. With multi-course degustations, moody wine bars and lively late-night eats with a side of karaoke – this list has something for every kind of diner. Grab your appetite and get ready to explore Melbourne’s coolest dining spots.

Best Cool Melbourne Restaurants at a Glance

• Best for a special occasion: Attica
• Best for a quick bite: Embla
• Best for cocktails: Cookie
• Best for atmosphere: Matilda 159 Domain
• Best for value: Yum Sing House

The Complete List of Cool Melbourne Restaurants

1. Attica

If you’re looking for an adventurous Aussie degustation restaurant in Melbourne, you simply can’t go past Attica. This Ripponlea spot, led by chef Ben Shewry, takes local Aussie flavours and gives them a twist that’s clever, playful, and sometimes a little wild.

The menu changes seasonally, but past highlights include Vegemite pie, wallaby blood pikelets, and giant emu eggs. It’s creative, it’s bold, and it’s definitely not something you’ll find anywhere else in the area. Everything here feels thought out – from the way the dishes look to how they taste – and there’s always an element of surprise that keeps it exciting.

The setting is intimate but unpretentious, and while the food might scream “fine dining,” the vibe is totally relaxed. Attica is consistently named one of the best restaurants in the world, and for good reason. It’s inventive, uniquely Australian, and a seriously cool Melbourne experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

• Address: 74 Glen Eira Road, Ripponlea VIC 3185
• Hours: Tue-Sat 6-10pm
• Phone: (03) 9530 0111

2. Embla

Embla on Russell Street in Melbourne CBD might look like a simple wine bar from the outside, but step in, and you’ll find one of the coolest spots in the city. It’s got an effortlessly rustic charm – warm wood, exposed brick, and an unfussy and warm vibe.

The wine list, of course, is what sets Embla apart. Forget the usual suspects; they focus on wines that are a little offbeat but always delicious. They focus less on big-name labels and more on finding something with real personality. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just curious, there’s always something new to discover.

The food is just as exciting. While their wood-fired oven adds smoky depth to some dishes, the menu is a mix of inventive, thoughtful plates made with quality ingredients. Think blue eye tartare, squid bigoli, chickpea pancake, and crispy chicken skin – dishes that sound simple but are anything but.

Embla is one of the coolest restaurants in Melbourne simply because it has exceptional wine, amazing food and immaculate service. It’s the perfect spot for a date, a catch-up with mates, or even just a solo glass of something special.

• Address: 122 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Mon-Tues 3pm-12am, Wed-Sat 12pm-12am, Sun 12pm-5pm
• Phone: 0455 122 121

Check out Embla Embla Menu

3. Atlas Dining

Atlas Dining is one of Melbourne’s most unique and coolest dining spots, and here’s why: every few months, the whole menu changes to reflect a different cuisine. Chef Charlie Carrington, who opened the place at just 22, draws inspiration from his travels around the world, taking dishes he’s encountered and giving them an inventive, local twist.

One season you could be indulging in rich Israeli flavours, and the next, you’re tasting the bright, punchy spices of Southeast Asia. The open kitchen adds a touch of theatrics, letting you see the magic in action, and every dish is built around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The food is clever and refined without losing its sense of fun – exactly what you’d hope for from one of Melbourne’s most talked-about dining spots (even nearly 10 years on).

The space itself is sleek yet inviting, striking the perfect balance between special occasion dining and somewhere you can just rock up to because you’re curious about what’s on the menu this time (although you should certainly make a booking if you want to actually get a seat). And with Charlie’s knack for turning global inspiration into something uniquely Melbourne, you’ll always leave thinking about your next visit.

• Address: 133 Commercial Road, South Yarra VIC 3141
• Hours: Tues-Sat 6pm-11pm
• Phone: (03) 9826 2621

Check out Atlas Dining

4. Cutler & Co.

Cutler & Co. perfectly captures Melbourne’s food scene – cool, confident, and just a little unexpected. Sitting on culinary hot spot Gertrude Street in a converted metalworks factory, it has an understated elegance that hits you the moment you step inside. It’s refined, but never over the top.

The menu focuses on showcasing seasonal produce. Dishes come out beautifully plated but not fussy. It’s simple, good food done right. One week it might be spiced duck or wood-grilled calamari; the next, something completely different. The tasting menu is a great way to explore it all, but if you’re in the mood to curate your own evening, the à la carte options make that easy.

The bar is its own experience, perfect for a pre-dinner Negroni or just some oysters and a glass of wine on a casual night. Speaking of wine, the list here is exceptional – thoughtfully curated and full of interesting options that pair beautifully with the food.

What makes Cutler & Co. cool is how effortless but exceptional the experience is. The staff are attentive but never hovering, the space is stylish but comfortable, and the food is exciting but grounded. What more could you want from a cool restaurant in Melbourne?

• Address: 55/57 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
• Hours: Wed-Sat 5pm-11pm, Sunday 12pm-11pm
• Phone: (03) 9419 4888

Check out Cutler & Co. Cutler & Co. Menu

5. Etta

Etta is exactly the kind of cool restaurant you’d want in your neighbourhood. Tucked on Lygon Street, it’s a warm, inviting bistro that’s small enough to feel intimate but never pretenious. The dining room is cosy and modern, with leafy touches that give it a welcoming, warm atmosphere.

The menu is Australian at heart, but pulls inspiration from everywhere – Greek, Italian, Middle Eastern, and Asian influences all come together in dishes that are fresh and exciting. While the menu changes, you can expect dishes like crispy red curry rice salad with octopus and otak-otak, hot smoked duck leg, cantonese style barbeque pork and cos lettuce, pear and curried egg.

Drinks-wise, Etta punches above its weight. The wine list is full of interesting picks, from boutique Champagnes to carefully selected Burgundies, plus some more adventurous options like sake and oxygen-treated wines. The staff know their stuff and are always happy to help you find the perfect pairing.

What really makes Etta special, though, is how genuine it feels. The focus on seasonal, local produce shines through in every dish, and the team goes out of their way to make sure you feel looked after. Whether you’re there for a proper dinner or just stopping by for a drink and a snack, Etta has a knack for drawing you back in time and time again.

• Address: 60 Lygon St, Brunswick East VIC 3057
• Hours: Tues-Thurs 5pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-10pm
• Phone: (03) 9448 8233

6. Osteria Ilaria

Osteria Ilaria isn’t your nonna’s trattoria – it’s Italian dining reimagined for Melbourne’s cool crowd. The menu is seasonal, inventive, and full of surprises. Sure, you’ll find classics like porcini mushroom and perfectly charred zucchini flowers, but then there are mains like tagliolini with spanner crab, fennel, pistachio and nettle, roaring forties lamb backstrap with asparagus and sebago potato. Even the bread game is strong – their 48-hour fermented sourdough is a standout, and they’ve nailed gluten-free options too.

And then there’s the wine. The list leans European but isn’t afraid to throw in some global picks, all thoughtfully chosen to elevate the food. And the vibe? Effortlessly stylish. The dining room is intimate but never cramped, and if you’re after something extra special, their private dining space – with exposed brick arches and warm wood finishes – is perfect for celebrations.

• Address: 367 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Mon & Sat 12pm-10pm
• Phone: (03) 9642 2287

7. Cookie

Perched on the first floor of Curtin House, Cookie is cool – very cool. It’s part modern Thai restaurant, part cocktail bar, part beer hall and completely full of life. Walking in, you’ll find the restaurant alive with chatter, cocktails being vigorously shaken and expertly poured, and plates of food flying out of the kitchen.

The food menu is made for sharing, with bold, Thai-inspired flavours that pack a punch. Start with small bites like betel leaves topped with spiced fillings, crunchy prawn crackers, or crispy pork belly. Then dive into bigger dishes like aromatic curries, fresh stir-fries, or fragrant salads – all designed to be paired with your favourite cocktail or a cold beer from the extensive drinks list. Plus, prices sit comfortably around $30-$40 per dish, and the serving sizes are very reasonable.

And about those cocktails? Cookie’s bartenders have nailed the art of creative, delicious drinks. There’s the Second Star to the Right, a seasonal sweet and sour gin creation with a sherbet rim, or the Khunya, a tropical mix of pandan, coconut, pineapple, and rum. For something with a kick, try the El Spanko Margarita, a Thai-inspired twist with coconut tequila and lime. At $23-$25, they’re packed with quality and flavour, making them well worth it.

Whether you’re after a delicious dinner, a few snacks to go with your cocktails, or a late-night spot to soak up the energy of the city, Cookie never fails to deliver.

• Address: 252 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-12am
• Phone: (03) 9663 7660

8. Minamishima

Minamishima in Richmond is omakase dining at its most refined. Chef Koichi Minamishima, with over 25 years of experience, crafts each piece of sushi with precision and an unwavering dedication to his craft. The result? An experience that’s quietly extraordinary.

The setting is intimate, with just 12 counter seats, putting you up close to the artistry of each dish. The seafood, much of it sourced directly from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market, is handled with care and presented simply, letting the quality speak for itself. Expect delicacies like flounder fin, seared wagyu, or Hokkaido king crab – each piece prepared with balance and intention.

Drinks are equally thoughtful, with sommelier Randolph Cheung curating an exceptional selection of sake and wine to complement the meal. Pairings feel effortless, enhancing the flavours of the dishes without overpowering them.

For those who appreciate precision, elegance, and the understated beauty of true craftsmanship in fine dining, Minamishima is a must. As far as Melbourne’s coolest restaurants go, it doesn’t get much more novel than that.

• Address: 4 Lord St, Richmond VIC 3121
• Hours: Wed-Sat 6pm-10.30pm
• Phone: (03) 9429 5180

9. Matilda 159 Domain

Matilda 159 Domain is one of Melbourne’s coolest dining spots, bringing together fire, flavour, and a touch of Scott Pickett’s signature magic. Named after his daughter, the restaurant combines bold design with a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it feel instantly special.

What makes Matilda so cool is its focus on open flames and hot coals. The entire menu revolves around smoke and fire, creating dishes that are packed with depth and flavour. Think perfectly grilled cuts of meat, fresh seafood kissed by the grill, and vegetables that are charred just the right amount. It’s a celebration of Australian ingredients, handled simply but expertly.

The vibe here is relaxed yet refined – it’s less formal than some of Pickett’s other venues (Chancery Lane, Longrain), but no less impressive. Matilda is a true experience for the senses. From the smoky aroma wafting from the open kitchen to the earthy, modern design of the space, every detail feels thoughtful and connected.

• Address: 159 Domain Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141
• Hours: Mon-Thur 6-10pm, Fri 12-2.30pm & 6-11pm, Sat-Sun 8.30am-2.30pm & 6-10.00pm
• Phone: (03) 9089 6668

10. Maha Restaurant

Maha isn’t afraid to push the boundaries of what Middle Eastern cuisine can be. Hidden in a sleek sub-basement on Bond Street, Maha serves traditional yet redefined Middle Eastern dishes. The set menus change regularly, so every visit offers something new, but the focus on bold, layered flavours and refined presentation remains constant.

For lunch, the Lunch Express is perfect for those short on time, while the Lunch Soufra lets you enjoy a more leisurely, curated selection of dishes. Expect starters like smoked hummus with ras el hanout spiced chicken or tuna crudo with sweet and sour harissa.

Dinner, however, is where Maha truly shines. The Dinner Soufra and Tasting Menu are all about indulgence, featuring standout options like their 12-hour slow-roasted lamb shoulder paired with a macadamia and fig lamb sauce.

The drinks list is just as thoughtful as the food, with a stellar selection of wines from Victoria to Lebanon and cocktails like Layla’s Smile, a refreshing blend of gin, chartreuse, and cucumber. Every pairing enhances the experience, whether you’re sipping a crisp Riesling with lunch or diving into a bold Lebanese red at dinner.

Maha’s secret? Combining innovation with tradition in a way that feels exciting yet grounded. With a focus on quality, and a setting that’s both cool and inviting, it’s a spot you’ll be urging your friends and family to visit ASAP.

• Address: 21 Bond St VIC 3000
• Hours: Mon-Sun 12-11pm
• Phone: (03) 9629 5900

11. Lucy Liu

Lucy Liu is where Melbourne’s cool crowd goes for inventive food, creative cocktails, and a buzzing, stylish atmosphere.

The open kitchen sets the tone, with chefs dishing out vibrant Asian-inspired share plates. Think kingfish sashimi with green nam jim, crispy pork hock with apple kimchi and pancakes, and short rib rendang that’s so tender it practically melts. The menu is playful yet polished, with plenty of options for vegan and gluten-free diners that don’t feel like an afterthought.

Then there are the cocktails – just as much of a reason to visit as the food. The Suika Ninja, with watermelon soju and tequila, and the Floating Market, a blend of rosemary vodka and pear purée, are both fresh, inventive, and perfect for a night out.

The striking decor and open layout give the space a bold, urban edge that feels effortlessly cool. Lucy Liu is simply a must-visit for anyone wanting to dive into Melbourne’s dining culture with style.

• Address: 23 Oliver Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-11pm
• Phone: (03) 9639 5777

12. Yum Sing Restaurant & Karaoke

Yum Sing House is where your night out kicks into overdrive. Open until 5 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, this is THE spot to eat delicious food, drink epic cocktails, sing your heart out, and probably stumble home as the sun comes up.

I don’t know why, but I never assume a karaoke bar dishes up particularly good food – but boy, does Yum Sing House prove that theory wrong. The menu is a playful twist on Cantonese classics. Start with dishes like prawn toast loaded with tobiko and prawn mayo, or mountain pepper calamari with chilli kewpie. Feeling fancy? The Tasmanian 5+ wagyu rump with black pepper sauce is melt-in-your-mouth good. Got a group? The ‘feed me’ menu takes care of the decisions and lets you dive into a mix of the kitchen’s greatest hits.

The cocktails are also next level good – the Suzie Wong is a fresh take on a Lychee Martini with gin and cloudy apple, while the Kung Fu Pandan reimagines a Piña Colada with pandan syrup and coconut cream. For something bold, try the smoky El Negroni with mezcal or the nostalgic Milky Rabbit, blending vodka, Kahlua, and house-made milk tea with a White Rabbit-inspired foam.

And then there’s the karaoke. All the markings of a good night out in one venue? Yes, please. Upstairs, you’ll find private rooms themed after Hong Kong’s iconic neighbourhoods – each decked out with killer sound systems and lights that make you feel like a superstar. Whether you’re belting out ballads in Mongkok or singing Spice Girls with your mates in Happy Valley, it’s impossible not to have fun.

Great food, creative cocktails, and karaoke until dawn? Now that’s cool AF.

• Address: 22 Sutherland St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• Hours: Tues 5:30–10 pm, Wed 5:30–12am, Thurs 12 am–12 pm, 5:30 pm–3 am, Fri-Sat 5:30 pm–5 am
• Phone: (03) 8638 9070

Honourable Mentions

• Gilson: At Gilson, you’ll find yourself opposite the infamous Botanical Gardens nestled amongst the bustling scene of Melbourne’s South East. Jamie McBride told Man Of Many the aim was to, “become an institution in Melbourne, one that offered a restaurant experience with an all-day menu inspired by Italy, in one of Melbourne’s most sought after locations.” The Gilson certainly has achieved institution status. You’ll find yourself rubbing shoulders with AFL players, media personalities and just about any primed influencer you can think of.
• Kisume: Kisumé is situated in Flinders Lane, within Melbourne’s CBD where you can discover three levels of art, design and dining. Take advantage of a bespoke menu, phenomenal sushi and Japanese specialities, while marvelling at the work of famed photographers Nobuyoshi Araki and Polly Borland in the dining room.
• Tonka: If the combination of Tandoor ovens and Tandoor-trained experts from one of Melbourne’s coolest restaurants doesn’t get your tastebuds tingling in anticipation, perhaps a few of Tonka’s menu highlights will. Add in a comprehensive wine and cocktail list celebrating the world of Indian spice and your salivary glands don’t stand a chance.
• Juliet Melbourne: This moody underground vino basement is the ideal spot for a few adventurous drinks and delicious nibbles. Juliet opens just four whites and reds each night and takes a twist on your standard cocktails with a Tequila old fashioned and a cider sangria. Expect many more hidden surprises such as spiced mince stuffed into the olives and regular raclette and jazz nights to give you a full sensory overload.
• Mamasita: Mamasita claims partial responsibility for the Mexican craze sweeping the nation, and with regular hour-long waits for seats at this innovative and authentic Mexican restaurant, they may have a point. The space is quaint and quirky, the spirits are artisan and refreshing and the food is mouth-watering and constantly evolving.
• Rice Paper Scissors: The great thing about having two locations (Melbourne CBD and Fitzroy) is that you are more likely to nab a spot at this bustling hawker-style eatery. At Rice Paper Scissors share not only exquisite South-East Asian chow with your loved ones but also a guaranteed evening of fun and frivolity.
• Florentino: Florentino has the perfect formula for an exceptional evening (or daytime) of dining: genuine hospitality, top-quality raw produce and lesser-known Italian wine varieties. No list of cool places to eat in Melbourne would be complete without it. The cellar bar, grill and Florentino have graced Melbournians with its luxurious style and authentic Italian cooking for nearly a century, meaning it is rooted in tradition but also committed to contemporary, sustainable practices.
• Stokehouse: A delightful ode to the ocean, Stokehouse in St. Kilda is the seafood lover’s paradise. The main dining room is situated perfectly to allow unparalleled views of the beach and water. A particularly clever detail is the location of mirrors which are angled in such a way that all guests can enjoy the view. There’s a reason Stokehouse was listed in the Top 6 Seafood Experiences by Tourism Australia in 2020.
• Alta Trattoria: Alta Trattoria stands out amongst the hoard of Italian restaurants in Melbourne, mostly due to its exceptional culinary talent which includes chef Carlo Grossi. This charming trattoria borrows inspiration from the northern Italian town of Piedmont. Featuring hero ingredients and traditional pasta types like tajarin (long-ribbon tagliolini) and ravioli del pini (pinched ravioli), the food is just one highlight. The wine also speaks to the northern Italian region with its impressive wine list.
• Freyja: Freyja serves up Scandinavian fare fused with Australian culinary styles. Under the helm of Jae Bang, former head chef at the two Michelin-star Norwegian restaurant, Re-Naa, this Collins Street spot prides itself on Nordic gastronomy and traditions combined with local culture. Menu highlights include the rainbow trout smørrebrød and Freyja waffle.

How Man of Many Chose These Cool Restaurants In Melbourne

With an editorial team full of foodies, Man of Many has had the unique opportunity to directly sample and experience food and drink from the best spots in Melbourne. As expert journalists who guide people between competing products and services, we have provided our independent opinion in formulating Man of Many’s selections. Our editors have taken into account location, food of the highest quality, drink and atmosphere while also making a concerted effort to highlight a few spots outside of the CBD. You can review our editorial policy here surrounding how we maintain our independence in our editorial reviews.

Updates to this Article

• 13 Jan 2025: We’ve cut the list in half to give you a more detailed review of each venue. The spots we’ve moved to the “Honourable Mentions” section are still worth a visit, but in our opinion, they didn’t quite make the top 10. We’ve also added Lucy Liu and Yum Sing House Restaurant & Karaoke to keep the list fresh and relevant. And, we updated the opening days/hours of each venue.

Alternatives to These Restaurants in Melbourne

Interested in more things to do in Melbourne? Here are our faves!

Melbourne’s Best Restaurants

• Best Fine Dining in Melbourne
• Best Korean BBQ in Melbourne
• Best Steak in Melbourne
• Best Italian in Melbourne
• Best Greek in Melbourne

Fun Things to Do in Melbourne

• Fun Things to Do in Melbourne
• Best Live Music Venues in Melbourne
• Best Paintball in Melbourne
• Date Night Ideas Melbourne

FAQs

Which restaurant is best for a special occasion?

For something truly unforgettable, Attica is perfect with its world-famous degustation menu. If you’re looking for a more intimate vibe, Minamishima offers an elegant omakase experience. For a unique and slightly more relaxed special occasion, Matilda 159 Domain delivers warmth and sophistication with its open-fire cooking and stunning design.

Which restaurant is best for dietary requirements?

Melbourne is the city for catering to dietary requirements, and you’ll find most restaurants on this list offer a certain level of flexibility for intolerances/dietary preferences. Maha and Etta stand out in particular for their ability to cater to a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Both offer bold, flavourful dishes that don’t compromise on creativity. Atlas Dining is also a strong choice as the menu evolves regularly, allowing for plenty of flexibility.

Which restaurant offers the best value?

Cookie is a fantastic option for value, with its shareable Thai-inspired plates and fun, casual vibe. Yum Sing House also shines in this category – it’s not just about great food but also karaoke, making it an affordable and entertaining night out.