Chefs’ guide to inner Melbourne: Where our top chefs like to eat out
Need a new local dinner spot? Our top chefs share their favourite suburban gems in inner-Melbourne. SEE THE LIST.
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We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to eating and drinking in Melbourne.
But have you been to these hidden gems?
Our city’s top chefs share their favourite suburban eating spots for you to try ahead of the festive season.
Did we miss any? Let us know your favourite suburban restaurant in the comments below.
Caulfield
Swami Nandan
Melbourne Marriott Hotel, head chef
Okami
All-you-can-eat freshly made Japanese – it doesn’t get much better. Okami is a Melbourne institution and its Caulfield site certainly shines. Simple, delicious, and affordable; this is my go-to for gathering with friends and family. Nobody will go home hungry.
67A Kooyong Rd
Bếp Việt
This fresh, authentic Vietnamese food always hits the spot. The intimate restaurant space makes you feel like you’re part of the family. A lovely ambience that complements the dining experience. Colder days call for a big bowl of spicy beef noodle soup, while rice paper rolls are a spring and summer staple.
729 Glen Huntly Rd
Dixie Bakery Café
To start my day with a quality caffeine hit, I make a beeline for Dixie Bakery Café. I
also can’t resist their delicious baked goods – an almond croissant or freshly baked loaf of bread will get me every time.
224 Balaclava Rd, Caulfield North
The Pita Man
There is nowhere in Melbourne that does falafel as good as The Pita Man. For ‘fast
food’ that satisfies and nourishes, this is the place. Whether I’m after lunch or dinner,
I know I’m going to get a delicious meal. If falafel isn’t your thing, there are lots of other
tasty options.
97 Hawthorn Rd, Caulfield North
Antique Bar
While Antique Bar is technically just across the suburban border in Elsternwick, I had
to sneak it onto my list of favourites. Sam and Babs have created a warm, welcoming and charmingly kitsch wine bar that is the ultimate spot for a nightcap. Whenever I have the chance, you can find me there with a wine or craft beer in hand.
218 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick
Spotswood
Sam Hopkinson
Botanical Hotel and South Yarra Deli head chef
Spotswood Hotel
It’s one of the few pubs left in the inner west that still feels like a pub. Their menu is excellent, filled with classics like fish and chips, burgers and a great selection of steaks but I can never seem to go past a good parma – and theirs is one of the best, topped with napoli sauce, ham, loads of cheese and fries on the side.
62 Hudsons Rd
Two Birds Brewing
I worked in the beer industry years ago and the women behind Two Birds Brewing were trailblazers when they opened in 2011. I’ve spent many afternoons out the front of the brewery having a cheeky drink or two. At Two Birds, the beers are the main event but the food is also great with perfect snacks such as potato samosas and hot wings, but those burgers are worthy of a visit alone.
136 Hall St
Candied Bakery
I first heard about these guys during the pandemic when we were developing South Yarra Deli. They do great cakes and pastries and I’ve enjoyed more than a few of their sausage rolls and loaded dogs. I never forget to grab a loaf of bread for home.
81A Hudsons Rd
Espresso 85
We’ve been going here for years. The coffee is always spot on and the menu is filled with cafe comfort food like Reuben sandwiches, house-made pies and a delicious Shakshuka. Do yourself a favour and get the knafeh french toast, which is a spin-off on the traditional Middle Eastern dessert. It’s sweet, gooey and loaded with fresh fruit. Getting a table at Espresso 85 is hard to come by, especially on weekends, so get in early.
85 Hudsons Rd
Spotswood Farmers Market
This community market is held on the last Saturday of the month. We love visiting to
support local producers and all they do. Obviously, it’s all about the seasons and at the moment, you’ll see me snapping up some morels, local asparagus and if they’re around, globe
artichokes. The Spotswood Farmers’ Market is held at the Kingsville RSL.
59 The Avenue
Hawthorn
Joane Yeoh
Kōri Ice Cream co-owner
Mister Sandrino
A neighbourhood wine bar inspired by European flavours, there’s just something about a small menu in a relaxed and intimate setting that makes you feel at ease. Head chef and owner Daniel has cooked every day since the door opened and makes sure the food is done to an incredibly high standard. A petite restaurant means a small number of staff, staff that care about the food, ingredients and the overall dining experience. The dishes themselves are intricate and detailed with my favourite being the white anchovy with candied fennel and olive crumbs. I’m glad to admit this is another location where I’ve become a regular diner.
219-221 Riversdale Rd
Saul’s Sandwiches
You know a sandwich place has got it right when you can’t even decide which sandwich is the best. Saul’s is one of my new favourite haunts on Glenferrie Rd and has this cool New York-diner aesthetic. What sets Saul’s apart from other Melbourne sandwich locations is its generous portions; each packing incredible flavour combinations that somehow leave you wanting more. The terrific service from bubbly manager Philip was the finishing touch and I strongly recommend anyone who’s in the area to drop by.
2/673 Glenferrie Rd
Via Porta Bakehouse
A pastry lover’s heaven, this cosy viennoiserie cafe showcases the baking team’s artistry and skill by displaying the baking process to the public. The Hawthorn location lays bare the entire baking process, giving you the chance to experience the vibrancy of a little Italian bakery before trying the freshest pastry delicacies.
646 Glenferrie Rd
Q Ribs G Noodle
If you’re searching for the perfect takeaway snack option, this is your place. Affordable Asian cuisine with unbeatable flavour, Q Ribs G Noodle hand make their noodle dishes and provide a cheaper alternative to most Asian takeaways in the area. Located just outside Glenferrie Station, if you’re searching for high quality comfort food at an exceptional price point, you can’t go past a serve of their signature fried ribs.
5/672 Glenferrie Rd
Vaporetto Bar & Eatery
A cosy and charming restaurant with an incredible pasta selection. Experience a slice of Venice in the heart of Hawthorn. A neighbour to Kōri Ice Cream, the abundance of natural light makes for a bright and vibrant place to meet friends for a drink. My favourite thing about Vaporetto is regardless of how busy they get, the service is always world class and they always make sure you experience the true warmth and cosiness of a traditional Italian restaurant. My personal order tip would be to try the saffron pappardelle – you won’t be
disappointed.
7/681 Glenferrie Rd
Collingwood
Peter Gunn
IDES, March by IDES chef/owner
Papirica
A small, relaxing and very homely Japanese café down the Victoria end of Smith Street, with a concise menu of classics such as omurice, yakisoba and a great katsu sando. The ultimate drawcard is chef Yutaka “Matsu” Matsuda’s Osaka-style okonomiyaki; a savoury pancake filled with vegetables and covered in a rich homemade vegan secret sauce. Follow that up with a baked cheesecake with daily flavours rotating between yuzu, matcha, and miso.
22 Smith St
Tarts Anon
Born out of necessity during the craziness of the past few years, pastry chef Gareth Whitton creates a small, focused menu of tarts that can be ordered whole or by the slice, with a coffee. The menu rotates with flavours ranging from chocolate and caramel, to passionfruit and ginger. I recommend keeping an eye out for a slice of their vanilla custard tart; it’s about as perfect as a custard tart gets. Their store is very Collingwood, located inside the bike store.
44 Sackville St
Above Board
This has been named one of the best bars in the world since it opened in 2016; a 12-seater intimate and minimalist bar with a rock-solid cocktail menu full of classics, and an even stronger menu of signature drinks created by Hayden Lambert and his team. Stirred down and boozy is my vibe when it comes to cocktails so try the ‘Gentleman Caller’, made with rye whisky, sweet vermouth and gran classico. Another favourite, the ‘Old Fashioned’ has rye whisky, orange bitters, house bitters and sugar syrup.
1/306 Smith St
Bowl Bowl
Chef Kun Fu (Frank) cooks Sichuan-style street food at Bowl Bowl, a charming restaurant three doors up from IDES on Smith St. Before work, I love to stop by for their boiled Sichuan mala. Then, as my day wraps up, I head in for their Xinjiang-style lamb ribs and yú xiāng eggplant with a cold Tsingtao in their beer garden. The mapo tofu on rice is about as good as it gets as a takeaway dish, perfect to enjoy at home. Better still, they now have a karaoke room.
96 Smith St
Piccolina
Sandra Foti and her team are relentless in their approach to create authentic, delicious and pure flavours of Italian gelato. The gelataria is a fun, engaging open space with plenty of room to sit and enjoy more than one scoop. I love the fun gelato cakes, such as the lamington and bombe alaska. Served with Nutella-flavoured ice magic, it’s the best. The ultimate drawcard here is the pistachio gelato. The texture is creamy, the flavour is deep, and it’s extremely moreish.
296 Smith St
Footscray
Donovan Cooke
Ryne, chef patron
Small French Bar
It is just as it says: small, French and with great drinks. There is a real old-school feel about the food offering, too. Think chicken liver parfait with pickles or with truffles and Armagnac, the charcuterie. Snack on cheese platters, washed down with a bottle of Cote du Rhone or a Burgundy. It’s unpretentious and a really comfortable place.
3/154 Barkly St
Ms Sue
Ms Sue is a relaxed and buzzing place that has great dishes for sharing. It’s about big flavours with a broad Australian-Asian take on the food. The pork belly with chilli glaze is a favourite as are the lamb ribs in barbecue sauce, cumin and fresh herbs. It’s an easy place to get the
family together, the service is always friendly and fun.
100 Hopkins St
The Station Hotel
It’s hard to go past the Station Hotel when we’re in the mood for a steak. The staff are always welcoming and relaxed while keeping standards high across the board. It really is one of the best steaks in Melbourne and I nearly always order the bavette, or flank. The meat is full of flavour, texture, and perfectly cooked. I can recommend the beer-battered fish and chips, too.
59 Napier St
D&K Live Seafood
I visit this place at Footscray Market to pluck live seafood out of tanks and get it straight into the restaurant kitchen. You can’t get fresher. D&K is our go-to for oysters and sea urchins in particular, but all of the seafood is top-notch like wild yabbies and whole fish. What’s good at the market that morning is right in front of you in the heart of Footscray. The service is great and they’re mad for a haggle – you’ve got to love that.
3/28A Leeds St
Kelvin and Ryan Seafood
Footscray Market is an institution and I like to get fresh fish from these guys. We always have a chat about the salmon (mainly asking if I can get the price down?) and other produce that’s landed. The hardworking owners always keep the local community buzzing and well fed.
146/81 Hopkins St
Aberfeldie
Kirsten Tibballs
Savour School founder, pastry chef
Scalable Fish and Op
Fish and chips is no longer my guilty pleasure. With locally sourced ingredients and
fish made fresh daily, Scalable is becoming a regular. Hand cut and hand dipped potato cakes, chargrilled prawns, and their Morton Bay Bug rolls with kewpie on a brioche slider are a must. Their classic fish and chips pack would be hard to beat in Melbourne.
1041 Mt Alexander Rd, Essendon
Too Good Bakers
This is my local bakery. I love their freshly made cinnamon doughnuts for a cheeky morning
tea treat, and it is hard to resist their almond croissants which are all baked on site. Living near Too Good Bakers is like having a Parisienne bakery on your doorstep. Just watch for the line out the door on a Saturday.
299 Buckley St
Benyue Kitchen
A restaurant with authentic southern Chinese cuisine. This is a place where the food
is best shared. My go-to is the Queensland uranian large king prawns with X.O
sauce. You also can’t pass on the roast duck, char kway teow noodles or stir-
fried Chinese broccoli. The best way to end this Chinese feast is with a banana fritter
and ice cream.
365 Buckley St
Aberfeldie Salumeria
This new kid on the block is a great addition to my suburb. The Italian cafe, grocer and
delicatessen is a family-run business serving up authentic southern Italian food. It’s great to dine in for breakfast or lunch, plus they have an amazing array of take-home options. It is hard to resist their handmade gnocchi. I keep coming back for the eggplant parmigiana, which is the best I have ever had. Olives, cheeses, bread, as well as packaged Italian goods – I am spoiled having this on my doorstep.
27 Tilba St
North and Eight
Open daily, North and Eight cafe is the community hub of Essendon. A broad menu makes this a go-to. My regular order is avocado on toast for brunch, and you can’t go past a
classic chocolate milkshake.
285-287 Buckley St
Yarraville
Alex Xinis
Fable Melbourne executive chef
Cobb Lane Bakery
This is Cobb Lane’s main production outlet and they only open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings. I especially like their Kouign-amann – a sweet Breton cake, layered with sugar and laminated dough. I also love their doughnuts, with the fillings changing weekly. Cobb Lane is also known for their delicious cookies – the peanut butter and chocolate flavour is a fan favourite. After something savoury? The pine mushroom and saltbush danish is a winner. It really has something for everyone to like.
1-3 Taylor St
Cornershop
I go here for coffee and the cavolo nero, parmesan and chilli scrambled eggs. I love their take on Melbourne’s famous smashed avocado topped with a green mango salsa. It’s my go-to coffee spot and they also have a great selection of cabinet items from local producers and suppliers – even some Cobb Lane. Meals are made fresh daily using produce from reputable suppliers. Cornershop’s offering is consistent, but make sure you get in early for your favourites. The interior is cosy, family friendly and they do great babycinos for the kids. There’s a reason this has been around since 2007.
9/11 Ballarat St
Gojé
Goje is a popular spot, even in winter, and does amazing plant-based, ethical and sustainable frozen yoghurt in six flavours with toppings – all made from scratch. The choc hazelnut frozen yoghurt is my go-to, topped with sour cherries, pistachios and almond blondie. The chocolate peanut butter and date roll and cookies are other favourites. Goje is great for a lunchtime pick-up or to satisfy those late night dessert cravings.
38 Anderson St
Pizza D’asporto
I almost always order the pizza diavola, made with san marzano tomato, mozzarella, hot cacciatore, roasted peppers, chilli and capers. It pairs with the radicchio and gorgonzola salad and a Sardinian Ichnusa beer – what a winning combination. The thin pizza bases are crisp. toppings fresh and always tasty. The meals and service are extremely consistent and there’s a lovely atmosphere, making it a great place to catch up with friends. Once you try it, you’ll see why it is so popular.
2-6 Ballarat St
Yim Yam
I love the authentic Thai and Laotian cooking. The waterfall beef or the family recipe of crispy fish khun por are must-orders, as the balance of spicy chilli and sour tamarind is incredibly moorish. The authentic flavours will have you thinking you’re in Southeast Asia. Yim Yam does home-churned ice cream with flavours changing with the seasons such as coconut, passionfruit and strawberry. It’s a perfect way to round out your meal with something sweet. This is incredibly busy for takeaway, so get in early – or head to The Railway Hotel for a pint while you wait.
40a Ballarat St
Carlton North
Sofia Eriksson
Henry Sugar head chef
Sleepy’s Cafe & Wine bar
Hands down the best coffee I’ve ever had is at Sleepy’s. It hasn’t been open for a year, but Steve Chan knows his coffee (he previously worked at ONA in Sydney, the sommeliers of coffee). He runs the kitchen and it’s hard to go past the bacon and egg dumplings. In addition to the coffee, there is a lot going on at Sleepy’s, such as monthly guest chef pop-ups.
787 Nicholson St
The Wine Corner
Knowledgeable staff can help you choose an awesome bottle depending on what you are vibing. It’s a super relaxed spot with a great grazing-style menu. When it’s sunny you can take a fold-out chair to the nature strip and sip something there. It’s this relaxed vibe that really makes Carlton North.
50 Princes St
Florian
This great little local cafe is across the road from Henry Sugar. The food changes daily, is seasonal and sourced within 10km of the cafe. Everything is also made in-house: from pickles to jams and preserves. As a chef, it’s a lovely touch to see other places echoing my ethos and I love to champion that. Not to mention as a Swede, their gravlax is on point, made with rye, tarragon, ricotta and a soft boiled egg – it’s like a slice of home.
617 Rathdowne St
Great Northern Hotel
This is my spot for a cheeky craft beer after my shift. They’ve got 22 beers on tap, and not contracted to any brewery. There’s always something tasty to sip on – a big stout for winter or a zippy sour for summer. The best part is they let dogs come all year round. I love their tap takeover events in the beer garden that are always worth popping your head in for.
644 Rathdowne St
Monforte Viennoiserie
This is my best kept secret, as they only stay open until they’ve sold out. The cute, hole-in-the-wall pasticceria is only five by two metres but is home to the best viennoiseries (puff pastry treats) around. I have to show my support for owner and pastry chef Giorgia McAllister, as she pushes the boundaries with amazing flavour combinations. I’m all for her savoury pastries. You must try the duxelle and hazelnut croissant with gouda, pine mushrooms and chive oil. Stay tuned, as a little birdy told me truffle is on the horizon.
585a Canning St
Sibling
The staff at Sibling are welcoming and lovely – and all of their profits go to charity. Sibling has an excellent volunteer program which fosters a unified community and helps marginalised people from complex circumstances and diverse backgrounds develop employability skills in hospitality. So while you’re sipping that 70 per cent dark Mörk hot chocolate, you can feel an extra warmth knowing you’re contributing to something good.
611 Nicholson St
Seddon
Luigi ‘Gigi’ Pozzoli
Gigi’s Gelato owner, chef
Mozzarella Bar
Being Italian, it would be crazy if I didn’t love pizza. Mozzarella Bar has a delicious range of authentic Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. You can never go wrong with the classics, which is why my favourite pizza is the Margherita Verace with San Marzano tomato, fresh mozzarella di bufala and fresh basil. Order the eggplant chips to share – they are a must.
103 Victoria St
Fig & Walnut
This is my go-to cafe for brunch in Seddon. I have a huge sweet tooth, so the hot cakes with raspberry curd and mascarpone cream always hit the spot. If on the rare occasion, I am craving something savoury, the chilli scrambled eggs are also a delicious option. The crunchy sourdough soaks up all of that eggy goodness.
11 Bellairs Ave
Copper Pot Seddon
Ashley Davis has curated a delicious European-inspired menu at Copper Pot Seddon, with high quality local produce. Start with the burrata and peppers. For main, try the pan-fried gnocchi – it’s light and fluffy, just as gnocchi should be. There is always room for dessert, and it would be rude not to indulge when there is creme brulee on the menu.
105 Victoria St
Seddon Wine Store
When I am looking for the perfect drop of wine, Seddon Wine Store is my first stop. Since moving to Australia in 2020, I have been enjoying trying local wines. My favourite so far is the Yangarra Estate Shiraz from McLaren Vale.
2/101 Victoria St
Sourdough Kitchen
For all of my baked good needs, I go to Sourdough Kitchen. The artisanal sourdough is baked fresh every morning and is the perfect addition for anything I cook at home for the family for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
172 Victoria St
Richmond
Michael Weldon
MasterChef Australia: Fans and Favourites contestant
Minamishima
This is my favourite restaurant in Melbourne. Sitting at the bar and watching the chefs create perfect sushi is the ultimate dinner and a show. The meal is elegant, thoughtful, and most importantly delicious. The seafood is always of the highest quality and because the menu changes regularly, there are always exciting new additions. It’s hard to pick a favourite piece of nigiri but the edge of flounder is always a winner and when the sea urchin is available I always order extra.
4 Lord St
Ca Com Banh Mi Bar
During lockdown a walk to Ca Com for bank mi became a regular Saturday outing for myself and my partner. Now lockdown is over, I think we go to Ca Com even more often. The jungle pork sausage banh mi is perfection. The bahn mi shop is run by Thi Le and Jia-Yen Lee, the pair behind Anchovy, which is one of my favourite restaurants.
336 Bridge Rd
Tarts Anon
Now that the Tarts Anon team has opened a permanent space, we have also added this to our Saturday morning walk. We often start with a slice or two of tart, then add the Ca Com banh mi – it’s the perfect combo. Gareth (the owner) makes the most amazing tart flavours and his commitment to perfection is second to none. I haven’t met a Tarts Anon tart I didn’t love but my favourites are chocolate and caramel and the new savoury egg and bacon option.
29a Gwynne St, Cremorne
Eazy Peazy
There is something so perfect about meat cooked on skewers over charcoal. At Eazy Peazy, the skewers are perfect and their modern take on the tradition yakitori is super exciting, making it a really fun place to eat. I love pairing the skewers and a few raw dishes, and a cocktail or three. The chicken meatball is always a favourite, as is the squid and chicken gizzards – for those who are game.
108 Swan St
Spread Eagle Hotel
Richmond has so many great watering holes, but Spread Eagle is my favourite. I love the pub classics, like the Parmi (I’m originally from SA). It has great cheese-to-sauce ratio and the crumb maintains its crunch. The pub does great Sunday trivia, the footy is always on the TV and the friendly staff serve perfect pints. There really isn’t much more I need from a pub – it’s perfection.
372 Bridge Rd
Brunswick
Yosuke Furukawa
Robata sous chef
Ceres Organic Grocery & Bakery
Here’s where you’ll find me on a day off. Ceres is nice and cosy with a fantastic energy. Its an environmentally friendly community cafe and bakery, serving a delicious organic menu.
A fresh loaf of bread and some croissants are my family’s go-to order. You can always find a fantastic range of fresh produce. I love grabbing a coffee and browsing the bright and colourful fruits and vegetables. It also has a wonderful and friendly team.
Stewart and Roberts streets
Bluebonnet Barbecue
You’ll never have a bad time at Blue Bonnet on Lygon St. This open flame BBQ restaurant has a classic American-style barbecue menu of slow-cooked meats. The barley-fed beef brisket steals the show and is the perfect comfort food. It has plenty of fantastic things on the menu, there is something for everyone. Big bold beers from local breweries are always fun to try.
124-126 Lygon St
Bouvier Bar & Grill
Fans of gin and whisky (and drinking in general) must check this place out. They have a very impressive drinks list that includes one of my favourite whiskies – the Shinshu Mars Distillery Iwai. Being a sister venue to La Luna Bistro means you’re in good hands for food. The duck liver parfait is a must – it’s so tasty – as is the smoked salmon. You can’t choose poorly with this menu. The atmosphere here is very special. Sit back, relax and sip a cocktail while staring at all the beautiful bottles at the bar.
159 Lygon St
Thaila Thai Royal Thai Cuisine
Everyone has a go-to Thai restaurant, especially when they are craving chicken satay skewers. This place is always top of the list for a delicious and easy family dinner. Go for the tasty red curry and pad see ew with flaky roti and fluffy rice. Marvellous volume, fun atmosphere and big, bold flavours. It’s also BYO so be sure to grab a few bottles of wine on the way.
82 Lygon St
Ivanhoe
Adam D’Sylva
Lollo executive chef
Theo’s Fish Bar
These are the best fish and chips, not just in Ivanhoe but across Melbourne.
They say Melbourne doesn’t do fish and chips as well as its interstate counterparts but Theo’s proves otherwise. Everything on the menu is prepared with care and to perfection. They’re particular about the oil they use and how often they change it. You can taste the difference.
If you need me on a Friday arvo, you’ll likely find me in the line at Theo’s.
165 Upper Heidelberg Rd
Woodfire Pizzeria and Cucina
I’m half Italian so, naturally, pizza holds a place in my heart. Woodfire Pizzeria and Cucina has been around since 1999, and it’s still slinging the north’s best pizza.
I believe this comes down to the base, which they’ve perfected — I even eat the crusts. I also love the mix of traditional and adventurous toppings. My go-to pizza is the Calabrese, it’s topped with ‘nduja salami (fancy, I know), Calabrese salami, fior di latte, marinated green olives, Ligurian olives and grana padano. Need I say more?
199 Upper Heidelberg Rd
Vinoshis Beverage Shop
Ivanhoe East is home to Vinoshis Beverage Shop, an independent bar open for drink-in and takeaway. Owners Jasmine and Yuri have pulled together an impressive list, including crowd favourites and rarer bottles. As well as wine, beer, spirits and sake, they also serve a medley of cheese and charcuterie. Think burrata, pate, cured meats and terrine. Best enjoyed on a lazy weekend afternoon with friends.
253 Lower Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe East
Benjamin’s Kitchen
A stone’s throw from Ivanhoe is the best authentic, modern Asian restaurant in the suburbs. The mastermind behind the menu is Benjamin Ruan, a Chinese native who immigrated to Australia and brought a whole lot of fresh, traditional and delicious culinary ideas with him. A few of my favourites include the twice-cooked pork belly, Thai fish cakes and hawker mee goreng. Arrive with an empty stomach.
758 Heidelberg Rd, Alphington
Pinkie
There’s a reason why Pinkie’s trade is roaring. Don’t let the line out the door scare you. The wait will be worth it once you take your first bite. The cafe has so many great options on the menu, including the salmon and avo bowl, the pinkie benedict and the green and grains bowl. For those with a sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with the ricotta hot cakes, topped with lemon curd, vanilla mascarpone, honey ricotta, lemon crumble, candied orange and dark chocolate ganache.
1 Westley Ave
South Yarra
Davide Amato
Cappo Sociale head chef
Charm Korean Restaurant
A cute 20-seater restaurant, serving authentic and traditional Korean dishes and set banquets. I go there to get my healthy kick of ‘assorted sashimi rice bowl and vegetables’, starting with a soup and, OK ... sometimes I treat myself to their ‘KFC Korean fried chicken’. It’s unbelievable.
146 Toorak Rd
Bounty of the Sun
Known for fresh and flavoursome Japanese small plates, this is where I enjoy eating a little bit of everything. As a regular, upon arrival, my table is quickly set with my favourite sake and kingfish sashimi followed by the deep fried chicken nanban dipped in sweet and sour sauce. Yes, I have a weakness for crispy fried chicken.
28 Nelson St, Balaclava
Mis Pizza Panuozzo Bar
This is where I indulge. Mis Pizza Panuozzo is where you’ll find mouth-watering, true southern Italian food. Dive straight into a panuozzo, a pizza alternative that’s essentially a larger panino – it’s the perfect Italian sandwich. I can never go past the porchetta panuozzi with pork loin wrapped in crispy pork belly, cheese and rocket. I’m a very happy man after a great sanger.
156 Chapel St, Windsor
Two Birds One Stone
I love my Sunday morning eggs and coffee here. Canteen-like in decor with white tiles, Two Birds One Stone’s communal table in the centre of the room is where I like to sit. Here I can slow down, enjoy a cappuccino and scrambled eggs with chilli jam and fresh chilli to help kick start my day before taking a walk along the river. Sometimes I even come back for a breakfast dessert – brulee French toast.
12 Claremont St
Steer Dining Room
A carnivore’s haven with the widest choice of Australian beef. I like to keep it simple, ordering the full blood wagyu rump cap nine-plus, medium rare with A5 Wagyu beef fat butter, a side of onion rings and cos salad to cut through all that goodness. I’m not a big wine drinker, but enjoy my gin. Steer Dining has a great range, especially mixed in their cocktails.
15 Claremont St
Temperance Hotel
When I’m tired, after a long motorbike ride, a large parma or hearty vegetarian meal goes down a treat. Temperance Hotel is where you can count on a good local pub meal, while listening to DJ tunes and live music.
426 Chapel St
A25 Pizzeria South Yarra
A great place for antipasto and pizza hangs with a casual vibe – it also does takeaway.
Pizza is my go-to for my nights in. It’s classic, fresh and satisfying. I like to order the humble arancini bolognese and pizza with prosciutto and rocket. They even include aioli and a spicy dipping sauce for your crusts.
720 Chapel St
Caulfield North
Stephen Clark
Robata head chef
Baker Bleu
If you love sourdough, this is the place to get it. Bagels, ciabatta, baguettes, rye – you name it. Even the dinner rolls are spectacular. They are a staple across so many Melbourne venues and it’s not hard to see why. I always recommend getting there when they open as they sell out quickly. Plus, the smell of bread is the best way to start your day. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a croissant, too.
119-121 Hawthorn Rd
Oh Happy Day Pizza and Wine
Everyone needs a favourite pizza joint and this one is a true neighbourhood gem. It’s always busy and bustling with locals getting their fix. Think thin and crispy pizza bases, topped with fresh ingredients and the best chilli oil I’ve ever had. There is not one pizza on the menu I wouldn’t recommend. The salsicca – which has pork and fennel sausage and garlic oil – is delicious. A neat little wine list and fresh pastas too. Leave room for cannoli.
346 Orrong Rd
Common Room Co
A standout brekkie spot. The menu boasts Melbourne brunch staples such as avocado on sourdough and granola with fresh fruit. Look out for a few special dishes, namely the sake-cured salmon with poached eggs and miso hollandaise. Common Room also has really good coffee. Like most popular brunch spots, it’s always packed but if you manage to score a seat you won’t be disappointed.
257 Alma Rd
Moonee Ponds
Dave Stewart
Ascot Food and Wine head chef and owner
Kömür
Kömür is a family-owned, Turkish eatery serving tasty traditional cuisine. With a big focus on barbecue, Kömür translates to “charcoal” and dishes up an array of quality meats, alongside fresh salads and homemade dips. Perch at the bar and you’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into owner Emir Uker’s home. My go-to is the Adana plate featuring skewered lamb mince — if you’re lucky you might even score some of Emir’s mum’s baklava. It’s insanely good.
446 Mt Alexander Rd, Ascot Vale
20 Young Street
Moonee Ponds locals know 20 Young Street is the place to be at lunchtime. You’ll often see a long line spiralling out the door – and it’s worth the short wait. As well as an abundance of fresh sandwiches made to order, this family-owned venue dishes up ever-changing, homely Italian classics. Think schnitzels, pasta, lasagne and porchetta. It’s just the best.
20 Young St
Yokoso Izakaya
I’m a big fan of Japanese cuisine and Yokoso never disappoints. Great to dine in or for takeaway, I recommend the sushi and sashimi, alongside gyoza, and the teriyaki salmon steak with fresh veggies and you’ve got yourself a nutritious and delicious feed.
702 Mt Alexander Rd
Esca Grill
Esca Grill has been operating locally for as long as I can remember. Ideal if you’re looking to toast on a special occasion, I love the white table cloths and attentive service. Known locally for its premium steak and seafood, I can’t go past the freshly shucked oysters and Southern Highlands eye fillet cooked medium rare.
650 Mt Alexander Rd
Moonee Ponds Pizza
Everyone needs a good local pizza place and Moonee Ponds Pizza is mine. I prefer thin pizza bases and these guys nail it every time. Without fail my order is the Volcano Pizza with tomato, cheese, hot salami, olives and peppers. It’s also conveniently on my drive home from Ascot Food and Wine if I’m feeling peckish after service.
45 Holmes Rd
Mr Charcoal Essendon
Another family-owned business, these guys have perfected the roast chicken – it’s tasty and succulent and always served with a smile. The ideal dinner when you don’t feel like cooking, I always opt for the quarter chicken with rice, house tzatziki, fluffy pitta and a fresh Greek salad.
1073 Mt Alexander Rd, Essendon
West Footscray
Sungeun Mo
BKK head chef
Migrant Coffee
With a menu made up exclusively of bagels, this is the perfect place for a lazy Sunday brunch. It opened during lockdown and it didn’t take long for me to become hooked. My go-to order is the breakfast bagel with bacon, melted cheddar cheese and banana ketchup.
I also add an egg and opt for the onion bagel. It’s simple but oh so good.
3/576 Barkly St
Harley & Rose
This is one of West Footscray’s most well known restaurants — and it’s not hard to understand why. My partner and I love this place when we’re staying local for the night. We often take groups of friends and family here, too. It suits any group really.I love the open-plan kitchen and being able to watch the chefs at work. It also has a great wine list and awesome selection of wood-fired pizzas. I can’t go past the pepperoni.
572 Barkly St
Zymurgy
Zymurgy, pronounced zahy-mur-jee, combines beer garden and barbecue. It’s another place that opened throughout lockdown and became a local favourite very quickly. It has a hidden beer garden out the back and is a great place to catch up with friends who live nearby for a quick drink. Any afternoon or night there feels just like an afternoon at your mate’s place. Unfortunately Zymurgy is only open Friday to Sunday at the moment.
561 Barkly St
Aangan
When I moved here about six years ago, West Footscray’s food scene was dominated by Indian restaurants. Times are changingand there are a lot more dining options now, but Indian restaurants are still found on mass. Aangan is my favourite. When nobody in my house wants to cook dinner, we go to Aangan. Typically for takeaway, but sometimes we choose to dine-in. I’ve tried many samosas chaats in my time but Aangan has the best I’ve ever eaten. Just thinking about that crunchy pastry and sweet (but well-balanced) side sauce makes me hungry.
559 Barkly St
Momo Magic Kafe
Momo translates to dumplings in Nepalese, so naturally, we go to Momo Magic Kafe for dumplings. It is a quick-service, authentic Nepalese restaurant that serves simple but flavourful items. It’s only small so my partner and I often go by ourselves orwith a friend or two. I love the buffalo dumplings with spicy soup sauce while my partner prefers the pan-fried kothey momos.
588 Barkly St
Prahran
Darren Purchese
Burch and Purchese Sweet Studio founder, pastry chef
Hobba
My local and a real hospitality gem. Owner John always greets his customers at the door and if you go twice, you’re considered a regular. This place is busy everyday which is always a good sign, but the space is large and the team so professional you’ll never have to wait long for a table. Best known for its great coffee, awesome brekkie, brunch, lunch and atmosphere, this means you’ll want to come back again and again, and you should— I’ll see you there.
428 Malvern Rd
Baker Bleu
The best bread in Melbourne might be a big call but I’m making it. This recently opened on the Prahran side of Malvern Rd at Hawksburn Village. All of the bread is long-fermented sourdough that’s easy to digest and has an amazing dark, chewy signature crust. I always tell myself to get one loaf when I visit, but it’s too hard! Go the chewy sesame and caraway ficelle (thin baguette), dark crusty rye caraway loaf and gnarly olive fougasse. Or the croissants, pastries and vegemite and cheese twist. Stock up on great quality pantry items, butter and other bits you didn’t realise you wanted.
42 Errol St
The Alps
A real hidden gem. This small, but well-stocked Commercial Rd wine bar is easy to miss but once inside you won’t want to leave. More than 400 bottles of local and imported wine is available, with a focus on vineyards surrounding the Alps including Burgundy and Savoie.
There is an everchanging wine by the glass menu of at least 20 quality pours, with a small food offering such as freshly shucked oysters, charcuterie, cheeses and dessert. Dine in or pick up a bottle for home, but with a roaring fire out the back and charming hospitality you might want to settle in for the night.
64 Commercial Rd
L’Hotel Gitan
This is one of Prahran’s most iconic pubs and a local favourite. It serves some delicious food inside a smart-looking art deco interior. The menu covers all bases— people in the know go for the nightly specials, the roast Bannockburn chicken a highlight on Wednesdays. Nothing beats a good roast chook washed down with a nice glass vino on a cold winters’ night.
32 Commercial Rd
Entrecote
Greville St has always been a favourite of mine for shopping and dining, but Entrecote has taken it to new heights. This super trendy place is the new must go in town and it’s easy to see why. The fantastic interior design and the vibe is chic, playful and very French. Pop in for a glass of red and the classic steak frittes or go hard with caviar ‘bumps’ and champagne. Book ahead of time to snare a table— it’s worth it alone for the theatrics of the waiters, people watching and delicious food.
142-144 Greville St
New-Age Greek snack bar is everything we love about eating out
This Yarraville eatery seats 15 people inside, has 11 items on the menu and nothing costs more than $24 a plate. It’s also everything we could ask for in a restaurant right now.
How much more restaurant meals cost compared to five years ago
Meal prices at some restaurants have tripled over the past five years, but chefs and owners say the industry is broken and they’re in dire need of help.