The 10 Best Restaurants In The City Center, Melbourne

Down a quiet, cobbled lane in the middle of this bustling Aussie city, sits a little pocket of Spanish flare and flavor. Serving up authentic Spanish dishes, MoVida is the perfect place for dinner with its warm and relaxed atmosphere. With a jug of Sangria by your side, marvel at their outstanding menu, boasting delicious dishes such as mackerel served with a pine nut sorbet, or beef cheeks and Portobello mushrooms. Follow it all up with some classic Spanish churros served with rich chocolate sauce.
Address: 1 Hosier Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000 +61 3 9663 3038

Set in an old basement beneath another of Melbourne’s cobbled lanes is Coda, a unique French–Vietnamese fusion restaurant. This place is very popular and it’s easy to see why, with it’s intimate, cozy atmosphere and helpful staff. They also have an open show kitchen, where you can watch world class executive chef Adam de Silver at work. Share a meal tapas style, or choose from their set menu or a la carte. Favorites include their fresh spring rolls, Beetel leaves with crab or steak tartare.

Address: 141 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9650 3155

A favorite spot among locals, Il Bacaro Cucina is renowned for its fantastic Italian food. Serving up all the favorites, but with a real gourmet twist, this isn’t your average Italian eatery. From polenta with rabbit ragu, truffle tagliatelle and even agave nectar cheesecakes, the menu at il Bacaro Cucina is brimming with culinary delights.
Address: 168-170 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9654 6778

Overlooking the bustling Queen Victoria Market, Fancy Hank’s is a family friendly, US-style steak house. There’s usually some live music going on here too, giving this place a relaxed, trendy feel. There’s even a small second-hand bookshop at the back of the restaurant. Menu highlights include the brisket or pulled pork with a pint of their summer ale. This place is very popular, but they don’t take bookings so make sure to get here early to avoid long queues.
Address: 456 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9348 9998

Listed as one of the Top 50 Restaurants in the world – and second best in Australia – dinner at multi-award winning restaurant Attica is more of a culinary journey than simply a meal. Here it’s all about the experience, and by that I don’t just mean the calm, cool ambiance; each course you are served brings something more, evoking all of your senses. Every dish is full of big flavors and interesting combinations, making your visit here unforgettable. Although it is expensive it is well worth the price, but book well in advance to ensure yourself a table at this much sort after restaurant.
Address: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea VIC 3185, Australia +61 3 9530 0111

The newly opened Delhi Streets is an Indian street food lovers dream. Tucked away not far from Southern Cross Station is this fresh, modern and exciting Indian restaurant. With aromas and spices from the open kitchen, and Indian pop music filling the air, this place is always packed with a fun, lively crowd. For those new to the street food scene, the Masala Dosa is ideal: a crepe filled with spiced potatoes served with a coconut chutney and Sambar (lentils). There are plenty of options for both meat lovers and vegetarians, so you’re sure to find something to delight the palate of everyone.
Address: Katherine Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9629 2620

For the classic French restaurant experience without leaving the outback, try Bistro Vue, part of Shannon Bennett’s restaurant empire. The shabby-chic interior and impeccable classic menu serve to create a buzzing yet casual ambiance where you will feel right at home. With everything from French onion soup to garlic snails, Bistro Vue offers up all the classics you’d hope to find in a little French bistro. Pair you chosen dish with a bottle from their extensive wine list.
Address: 430 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9691 3838

Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, Cumulus Inc really is a culmination of everything. Sit at the bar and watch the chefs work, or head upstairs to the wine bar and enjoy a glass or two before dinner. Cumulus Inc is relaxed and stylish, with a great vibe and delicious food. Play it safe with the delicious full English for breakfast, or roast chicken in the evening – or try something more adventurous for a memorable treat, such as the octopus or nettle soup with scallops.
Address: 45 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9650 1445

Known for having some of the best pizza in town, +39 Pizzeria is the perfect choice if you’re looking for great food for a great price. The consistent quality and presentation of their food is one of many reasons why this place is great value for money. Serving both the classic pizzas that you know and love, as well as some of their own original recipes, +39 also offer a wide selection of pastas and sides.
Address: 362 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9642 0440

San Telmo is the perfect spot if you’re in the mood for the fresh and spicy taste of Argentina. Slightly off the beaten track, hidden up a tiny alleyway but still right in the center of town, San Telmo serves gourmet-style Argentinian fare, with smaller and larger plates to mix and match. With its easy going, cozy ambiance it’s a favored spot for the locals. Serving all the favorites of Latin America, its perfect to spice up your day. Why not try mixing and matching dishes, to make sure you experience it all.
Address: 14 Meyers Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia +61 3 9650 5525