Top Dining Spots in Melbourne

The late, great Anthony Bourdain once stated he’d rather dine in Melbourne than Paris. Who can blame him? Australia’s cultural and sporting capital is also one of the world’s most dynamic culinary destinations, shaped by superlative local produce, exceptional chefs, and the multicultural traditions of its 5.3 million residents.

As a passionate food enthusiast, I’m continually amazed by the breadth, depth, and quality of my hometown’s culinary offerings. And that’s before we even mention the coffee and cocktails. If you’re feeling hungry or in need of a refreshing drink, consider adding these personal favorites to your Melbourne hitlist.

1. The All-Day Breakfast at Top Paddock

Melbournians take breakfast seriously, and the all-day breakfast menus at local cafes typically stand out. A prime example is Top Paddock. Years on, it still attracts crowds with its vibrant atmosphere and creatively designed, sustainably minded dishes. My go-to order is the blueberry and ricotta hotcake – soft, fluffy, and topped with crunchy seeds, maple syrup, and double cream.

Timing: The all-day breakfast runs from 7am-4pm, Monday to Friday and from 8am-4pm on weekends.

2. Aromatic Breakfast Curries at Lankan Tucker

To start your day differently, visit Lankan Tucker, an upbeat cafe in Brunswick West, where breakfast pays homage to Sri Lankan cuisine. The Hip Hopper, a crispy bowl-shaped crepe with a soft-fried egg and aromatic curry, is a standout dish.

Timing: Walk-ins are welcome, but booking on weekends might be recommended.

3. Creamy Espresso Tonics at Bench Coffee Co

Coffee is a major part of Melbourne’s culture, and no visit would be complete without trying it. In the heart of the CBD, slurp an espresso tonic at Bench Coffee Co. It features a unique glass-block counter reminiscent of Parisian Modernist architecture.

Timing: Open from 8am Monday to Friday, and from 9am on weekends.

4. Indonesian-Inspired Sandwiches at Warkop

Dining out in Melbourne can be expensive; however, Warkop offers delicious sandwiches with Indonesian flavors at reasonable prices, including a tasty fried rockling and sambal matah combination.

Timing: Open daily until 3pm.

5. Warm Spinach Triangles at A1 Bakery

In Brunswick, A1 Bakery stands out as a well-loved Middle Eastern bakery, cafe, and grocer. Don’t let a queue deter you; the wait is worth it for A1’s flavorful, oven-warm spinach triangles.

Tip: Take your order to go and enjoy it along scenic Sydney Road.

6. Woodfire Pizzas and House-Made Pastas at Roccella

For fantastic Italian fare, Roccella is a must-visit. Here, you can find expertly crafted pizzas and house-made pastas, including unique creations that blend local ingredients with Italian tradition.

7. Pre-Dinner Tipple and Snacks at Marion

For a delightful pre-dinner experience, Marion in Fitzroy serves as one of Melbourne’s best wine bars, featuring knowledgeable staff and a diverse wine list. Their excellent bar snacks complement the vibrant atmosphere.

8. Charcuterie at Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge

Experience the panoramic views and lush vibes at Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge. The venue also features a well-curated selection of cocktails and light snacks.

9. Vegetarian Beyaynetu at Savana

If you’re on a budget, consider Savana for authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. The must-try is the beyaynetu, a delightful tasting platter served on spongy injera.

10. Late-Night Supper at Gimlet

For an unforgettable late-night experience, dine at Gimlet. With its Deco-era ambiance and delicious supper menu, including a memorable cheeseburger, it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a theater visit in the CBD.