The Mulberry Group’s Hazel graces two levels of the 1920s T&G Building, with a kitchen helmed by Brianna Smith and Oliver Edwards, who are cooking with a woodfired grill and oven fuelled by Aussie ironbark. 

This ambitious Melbourne restaurant venture by chef Alejandro Saravia champions the whole of Victoria and its diverse regions. Overlooking the Yarra, it’s a tasty, multi-faceted homage to our state’s produce, people and places. 

Nestled up an unassuming Chinatown staircase, this Cantonese restaurant is a simple sort of spot with minimal frills. But it’s also a true institution — a longtime hit with off-the-clock chefs and discerning late-night diners alike.

No one understands the magic of a comforting bowl of quality pasta quite like the cosy, ever-buzzy Tipo 00. Named in a nod to the traditional flour used to make pasta, the beloved restaurant is serving some of the city’s best interpretations.

A small, but mighty production Julian Hills’ sleek 25-seat dining room has been impressing Melburnians since 2018. Here, a passion for top local produce, creative technique and unique flavour pairings is showcased via a five or eight-course tasting menu.

If you’re after the real deal when it comes to Sichuan hot pot, you’ll find yourself in expert hands at this CBD spot — the first local outpost of a brand that originated in hot pot’s heartland of Chengdu. 

From the minds behind Sunda, this top Melbourne restaurant draws inspiration from those early days of trade between Indonesian seafarers and northern Australia, championing the flavours of Southeast Asia, Japan and China, alongside native ingredients. 

A true legend of the game, France-Soir has been dishing up French-accented goodness from its charming Toorak brasserie since 1986. It’s considered a go-to for timeless, expertly executed French classics.

The team behind South American restaurants San Telmo, Pastuso, Palermo and Asado has taken a jaunt to Japan for this Tokyo-accented eatery, the playful, minimalist space sporting futuristic elements and neon lights aplenty. 

Yet another hit from legendary chef Andrew McConnell (Cumulus Inc, Cutler & Co, Marion) Gimlet is a suave Melbourne restaurant and cocktail bar located in the 1920s-built Cavendish House.