Multicultural Melbourne is foodie heaven. Think of a cuisine and the city is bound to have a restaurant serving it. We have the insider tips on what's happening in the dining scene, from taquerias to bakeries, from wallaby to laksa. And the bonus to your restaurant tour? You'll be eating your way around the city, taking in the sights of different neighbourhoods as you go.
Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
Once a steam railway train platform, now a spacious bar and restaurant alongside the Yarra, the Arbory has something very special about it. The old Platform 13 of Flinders Station is now an all-day eatery and beer garden that serves delicious meals ranging from burgers and hot dogs to the lighter, finer fare. The atmosphere is brilliant - and, for whatever it's worth, at 120 meters long it is Melbourne's longest bar.
Flemington, Melbourne
Laksa King truly is the king of Laksa! A two level eatery that's almost always packed, you can get traditional and contemporary Malaysian cuisine and a range of vegetarian options. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. Don't miss the Roti with Satay Sauce and the Laksa, of course.
Collingwood, Melbourne
Lazerpig is a very cool pizzeria-meets-bar in the trendy neighbourhood of Collingwood. It has a fun, pre-party atmosphere with DJ's playing as you fill up on pizza before a big night out. It has vegetarian options, large portions and you can drink a cocktail before, after or even during your pizza.
Footscray, Melbourne
A wonderful range of steaks are paired with French cuisine at this classy and slickly renovated former pub. Beautifully presented, high quality food served by attentive staff, this restaurant is a great place for romantic dates, business meals and special occasions.
Footscray, Melbourne
Plating up traditional and contemporary Vietnamese food, Sapa Hills is a relaxed, delicious restaurant with a menu that's sure to please most. With a range of fish, meat and vegetarian dishes and friendly staff you won't be disappointed by this fresh and tasty eatery.
Footscray, Melbourne
Roti Road serves up classic Malaysian Laksa and Roti Chanai but also has Yum Cha, noodles and deserts like fritters and sweet roti The interior is modern, chic and spacious. This restaurant great value for money with generous portions and fresh produce.
Brunswick, Melbourne
The traditional Lebanese food served at Tiba's is tasty, fresh and good value. It has a casual atmosphere and you can take your pick of falafels and wraps or plates that feature roast meats, dips, salads and vegetarian options. It's the go-to place in Brunswick for a deliciously satisfying feed.
Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
The food at Mamasita will leave you feeling happily full, unless the tequila leaves you feeling even happier. This bustling inner city eatery is usually packed and for good reason; it has unforgettable taco's, infamous corn on the cob and plenty of guacamole. Great vegetarian options and sweet treats too.
Fitzroy, Melbourne
This vegetarian taqueria is famous in Fitzroy for it's fast, fresh and animal friendly food. Order a positively filling burrito if you're feeling famished, or for something lighter there are Quesadilla 's and tacos. With reasonably priced and filling meals that you can wash down with a jug of Sangria, Trippy Taco is hard to beat for a casual, fun feed.
South Melbourne, Melbourne
You just have to check out this South Melbourne spot for brunch. I mean, well else are crayfish and wallaby going to be your first foods of the day. The cafe-restaurant itself is a hip number and the terrace is a must if you can get booked in. While you wait for the food you can sip on spicy wasabi-infused Bloody Mary.
Chinatown, Melbourne
You are spoilt for choice to eat in Chinatown but this no-frills dumpling bar is ideal if you want to grab something tasty and then keep exploring. Don't be put off by the queue because it moves fast and the food is served ultra-quick.
Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
This no fuss institution is open late and serves up classic, simple plates of pasta, gnocchi and mains. Drink red wine from a carafe, sit at a round table with your friends for a casual, unpretentious dining experience. Reasonably priced and good sized portions, The Waiters is an effortlessly fun inner city eating destination.
Fitzroy, Melbourne
Quirky, cool and full of flavour, Rice Queen serves up contemporary pan-asian fusion food that makes an impression. Their famous Korean Fried Chicken is a huge hit and the menu has modern twists on asian staples like fried rice and spring rolls with unbelievable sauces. The space is wonderfully trendy and you can't go past their crazy cocktail selection.
Fitzroy, Melbourne
Ladro describes itself as simply, 'pizza and beer' and, it's does the two exceptionally well. Laid back in it's vibe, and mouth watering in its menu, satisfaction is guaranteed at this hip and relaxed pizzeria. They have dozens of craft beer on tap and a combination of classic and contemporary wood fire pizzas as well as risotto and pasta if pizza's not your thing.
Fitzroy, Melbourne
Belles Hot Chicken nails the vintage diner aesthetic perfectly and even better, the Southern style fried chicken has been described as Melbourne's best. Theres classic American sides like Mac and Cheese and if your brave enough you can get that chicken seriously spicy. They even play old vinyl records for an extra touch of retro atmosphere. It certainly is happy days at Belles.
Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
You can breakfast, lunch or dinner in style at this acclaimed restaurant located in the fashion precinct of Flinders Lane in Melbourne's CBD. Cumulus Inc. is an award winning eatery offering a beautifully designed restaurant, a wine bar and a seasonal menu of fresh meat, fish and vegetarian options.
Fitzroy, Melbourne
If your looking for something upscale, hip and delicious, look no further than the elegant simplicity of Cutler & Co. Dining Room. With a menu that follows the seasons and includes on the freshest, highest quality produce, this is a dining experience that will linger on in your memory.
Brunswick, Melbourne
Modern Middle Eastern cuisine in a chic and elegant setting, Rumi never fails to impress and satisfy. Great for large groups with a banquet style feast available, or romantic date nights, you can enjoy a range of BBQ meats and smaller Mezze style plates.
Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
An Izakaya is a Japanese style gastro-pub and Izakaya Den recreates the atmosphere and flavours of Japan wonderfully in this trendy, lively basement bistro. Wash down tasty bites of Den fried chicken, grilled sweet potato and Shitake mushroom with a refreshing Asahi beer or Sake. Great for a fun feed with friends or colleagues.
Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
Making delicious Japanese Don style curry and Bento boxes, this restaurant is most famous for just how fast the staff can produce your food. Expect to wait to more than 5 minutes for a well priced, generously sized meal that is an unbeatable choice for a quick lunch on the go.
Melbourne CBD, Melbourne
Upmarket Indian food served in a delightfully contemporary space, this is a great choice for dinner dates and business meals. Hidden in one of Melbourne's signature laneways, Tonka has a mouth watering set menu for larger groups and modern twists on the classic curry favourites including aromatic Vindaloo's and creamy Korma's. You'll also find an assortment of refreshing cocktails that compliment the spices perfectly.
$274
Spend 2 days exploring the natural wonders around Melbourne. Ride up the Great Ocean Road, which hugs dramatic sea cliffs and curves through hinterland
$22
Cruise along the shores of Melbourne to the maritime seaport of Williamstown. Cruise past Melbourne’s shipping channels and some of the city’s most iconic
$17
Enjoy a scenic sightseeing cruise on the Yarra River and discover the routes of the early settlers of the Melbourne region. Take in stunning views of the city
$135
Leave the hustle and bustle of Melbourne behind, and breathe in the fresh country air as you trek through the mountains. Travel from the Western Victorian
$135
Explore Australia's most spectacular coastal route, the Great Ocean Road on this full day trip. Bear witness to an amazing array of stunning attractions as
$36
Towering 120 meters or equivalent to 40 stories high over the Docklands, the Melbourne Star, the only giant observation wheel in the Southern Hemisphere,
$109
Discover one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road, on this guided tour. From stunning surfing beaches to beautiful rainforests,
$135
Enjoy a full day exploring Melbourne's famous wine region, the Yarra Valley. Visit 2 wineries plus a boutique cider house and brewery; sample ciders and ales
$150
Escape from the busy city life and immerse yourself within the Dandenong Ranges. Ride on Australia's oldest steam railway, feed colorful birds in the
$163
Embark on this express evening tour to Phillip Island and witness the natural phenomenon of the penguin parade. With reserved priority forward seating at the
$130
Escape to the picturesque Yarra Valley on this small-group day tour from Melbourne and visit 4 of the regions top wineries. Indulge yourself with a delicious
$34
Experience Melbourne from the Eureka Skydeck 88 and catch a bird's-eye view of the city skyline and beyond. Upgrade to the Edge experience for a unique chance
$120
Embark on a guided tour to one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. This unforgettable journey takes you along the Great Ocean Road, making a stop
$139
Experience the best of Victoria's nature and wildlife on this day tour to Phillip Island. Get close to friendly koalas, hand feed kangaroos, see sheep
$165
Cuddly koalas, tiny penguins, and kangaroos—this is your chance to meet some of the Southern Hemisphere's most exotic, strange, and downright adorable
$129
Escape to the beautiful Mornington Peninsula on this coastal wine day tour. Visit boutique cellar doors, sample the region’s best wine, cheese and
$158
Get acquainted with the charm of Melbourne on this comprehensive guided tour. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Yarra River, see the city's famous sites, and
$135
Experience one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives on this guided tour. From stunning surf beaches to beautiful rainforests, this tour offers a wide
$22
Take a scenic cruise along the Yarra River and admire Melbourne’s stunning skyline. Enjoy this return cruise, passing by iconic landmarks accompanied by
The best time to visit Victoria's capital is up to you. If you go during the winter months, prepare for icy winds, but you can still have a good time anywhere with heaters! During summer, people-watch from the comfort of a rooftop bar, scope out the tennis, or check out the Brighton Beach bathing boxes.
Here's what we think will make your trip more comfortable:
Lucky for you, Melbourne has an extensive transport system. You can board one of the metro trains at Southern Cross Station and take it pretty much anywhere in and around the city, or ride one of the iconic city trams-the City Circle trams are free and perfect for exploring the major attractions. And then you've got your standard buses and taxis, which are always solid picks.
Want to cruise around with your own set of wheels? Hire a car and be on your way - Yarra Valley is about 60km east of the CBD, or you could head south to the Great Ocean Road. Be sure to snap some pics of the Twelve Apostles.
