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Concrete Playground and Ellen Seah
December 15, 2021

Despite every expected (and unexpected) challenge that came with 2021, Melbourne’s hospitality and arts scene has returned with roaring vengeance. Across the last tumultuous year, we’ve seen a contactless, sustainably-focused at-home Korean barbecue service born from lockdown blues. A smoky, streetside bahn mi window enthralled so many Melbourne tastebuds, it’s now a permanent fixture along Bridge Road. And, a sold-out Sidney Myer Music Bowl concert (rightfully) marked our return to normality.

When lockdown lifted, restaurant bookings flew — and we flocked to the latest bar openings, from cosy spots dedicated to the humble oyster to sky-high drinking dens with million-dollar views.

Everyone from institutional favourites to the newest kids on the block threw their doors open to welcome Melbourne back. In return, Melburnians have never been more fiercely supportive of our businesses, our independent owners and our events. And, the city is better for it.

So, as this oddball year comes to a welcome close, it’s the perfect time to celebrate some of the most talented locals pushing Melbourne to be a better, braver city.

We are very pleased to announce Concrete Playground’s Best of 2021 AwardsThis year, we will be awarding a People’s Choice and CP Pick award in each of the following five categories:

These outstanding Melbourne ventures have been handpicked by Concrete Playground for their combination of originality, innovation, creativity, approachability and sustainability. We straight-up love them.

Cast your People’s Choice votes below by 9am on Monday, December 20 (you can only vote once per category, so make those votes count). People’s Choice and Overall winners in each category will be announced after 9am on Tuesday, December 21. Please note that your vote is recorded as soon as you make your selection in each category, but that you can edit your votes right up until when voting closes.

Remember, you need to have a Concrete Playground account to cast your vote. Sign up here!

If you have any questions or feedback, hit us up at [email protected]

  • ROBATA

    The San Telmo Group's playful take on modern Japanese barbecue heroes skewers cooked over charcoal and cleverly reworked classic cocktails.

  • FARMER'S DAUGHTERS

    This CBD spot pays culinary homage to all things Gippsland.

  • ARU RESTAURANT

    This considered offering heroes cooking techniques from eras past and a surprising fusion of flavours.

  • LONA MISA

    This all-day plant-based bar and diner hails from two celebrated Melbourne chefs.

  • WARKOP

    An ex-Navi sous chef and a veteran barista have opened this 15-seater cafe serving Indonesian-inspired sandwiches.

  • PASTA POETRY

    This one-stop pasta shop is slinging a range of expertly crafted pasta varieties, sauces and extras to help you reach new pasta night heights.

  • RISING MELBOURNE

    This year's citywide festival includes free First Peoples' art and a Yasiin Bey-led blockwide fest within the fest.

  • PLAY ON VICTORIA

    The Sidney Myer Music Bowl welcomed back live gigs with King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Baker Boy, Amyl and the Sniffers, Grace Cummings, and Vika and Linda Bull.

  • HIGHER ORDER

    This 90-minute immersive dining experience delivers a feast for all senses, fusing art, performance, music and design.

  • URBNSURF OUTDOOR CINEMA SERIES

    Yes, 'Point Break' is on the lineup.

  • VAN GOGH AT THE LUME MELBOURNE

    From 'The Starry Night' to 'Sunflowers', the artist's masterpieces are on display like never before at Australia's first immersive digital gallery.

  • TRIENNIAL EXTRA

    A month-long series of tunes, performances, eats and drinks, to complement the blockbuster NGV Triennial exhibition.

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