Milton Wine Shop

If you're looking for some hard-to-find wines, Malvern's Milton Wine Shop is a clear go-to in Melbourne's southeast. The cosy bottle shop isn't just for takeaway, either — the venue doubles as a wine bar that slings rare drops by the glass.

The venue is split across three spaces, including the bottle-o, a living room with fireplace, and a sun-filled courtyard. The latter is a rare outdoor gem that can also be used in cooler months, as it's heated and enclosed.

Expect both old- and new-world wines on offer here, with a focus on quality winemaking. By the glass, there are orange and chilled reds alongside the usual red, white and rosé, along with 'interesting and rare' drops from France, Italy and Austria. Apart from wine, there's a strong selection of craft beers from Australia and New Zealand, too.

The bar's simple food offering ranges from nibbles like wasabi peas and toasted barbecue corn ($5 each) to share plates like Spanish white anchovies ($12) and foie gras pâté ($15). There are also cheese toasties — like smoked brisket with cheddar and mustard and the 'nduja salami with cheese curds and olive tapenade ($10–15) — and an extensive cheese and charcuterie offering ($30–40).

Once you've tasted the range, you'll be more than tempted to hit the well-stocked bottle shop on your way out.