Melbourne's Best Restaurants

With flights to available year round, a visit to this trendy, creative hub is a must. With its vibrant nightlife, Melbourne is an absolute restaurant haven - so much so that choosing where to dine out can be a real mission. But don't worry: from upmarket finesse to cheap but utterly cheerful foodie delights, we've got you covered with our list of the best places to eat in Melbourne.

Coda - 141 Flinders Ln
Having gained a loyal crowd of fans since its opening, Coda offers a second-to-none eating experience which, though recognised for its Asian leaning, is perhaps better summed up by the adjective "refined". Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant has a welcoming and cosy feel and is located handily in Melbourne's CBD. It's popular and on the pricey side, but Coda's excellence is rarely disputed by food critics or by amateur food enthusiasts.

11 Inch Pizza - 353-359 Little Collins St
Sometimes all you want on a night out is a good slice of cheesy pizza, especially after a long day of sightseeing. 11 Inch Pizza is fast becoming known for its deliciously fresh pizzas, which you can enjoy sitting down or on the go. Tucked away in a little city street, the restaurant is very obliging to its customers; whether you want a classic Margherita topping or a gluten-free vegetarian, you'll be catered to, and for a good price to boot.

The French Brasserie - 2 Malthouse Ln
A fine-dining Melbourne classic, this restaurant is revered for a reason. Offering a European dining experience at the North end of Melbourne, the French Brasserie offers a menu that is innovative and seasonal enough to be exciting, yet restrained enough to remain quintessentially French. The extensive wine list is a particular highlight, as is the elegantly-designed narrow space in which you'll dine.

Mamak - 366 Lonsdale St
Another CBD gem, Mamak offers a variety of mid-price-range Malaysian speciality dishes, priding itself on clean presentation and - by word of mouth - the best roti in Melbourne. With Malaysian diners attesting to the authenticity of its cooking, Mamak is a sure-to-please stop on your tour of the best restaurants in Melbourne.

Attica - 74 Glen Eira Rd
An up-and-comer in the cutting-edge food world, was pioneered by New Zealand chef Ben Shewry. Privileging the most natural food available (we're talking leaves and sustainably-caught seafood), Shewry has magicked up a highly original menu that is both delicious and just plain fun to sample. This is eight-course stuff, but if you've got a whole night and the money to spend then, Attica is well worth a visit.

Laksa King - 6-12 Pin Oak Cres
Searching for a cost-effective plate bursting with traditional Asian flavours? Look no further than Laksa King, a favourite with Melbourne locals and visiting foodies alike. Though specialising in - you guessed it - laksa of all kinds and variations, the restaurant also offers a large range of side dishes and stir fries: in other words, there's something to please even the pickiest eater. Service is fast but book ahead to avoid a long wait, as the secret of Laksa King has been out a fair while.

Maha - 21 Bond St, Melbourne
Make sure you don't miss Maha as you eat your way around Melbourne's restaurants. According to its mantra, Maha sets out to redefine Middle Eastern Cuisine - and judging from its glowing customer reviews, it's achieving just that. Spicy rice dishes, tender meat, refreshing desserts and doughnuts; a peek at Maha's menu will get you booking a table quickly. With great service and a real emphasis on the cultural significance of the dishes offered, this restaurant is a one-of-a-kind eating destination. Maha offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, too, so if your fellow diners have these requirements, then they'll be sure to enjoy a trip to the restaurant's Bond Street location.


Article kindly provided by attica.com.au