Melbourne Food & Drink News for the Foodies

Melbourne is the king of the foodie scene. Every week there’s a cool new restaurant, bar or hidden gem popping up around the city just waiting to be discovered. And while it’s great for our taste buds (our wallets not so much), it can be hard to keep up with everything that’s brand-spanking-new, or all of the events that roll around quicker than the blink of an eye. 

Need a hub to find all your Melbourne food news? That’s exactly what this is! Keep reading to find out the latest on our city’s food and drink scene.

Melbourne’s Longest Sushi Train Just Opened at The Glen!

Sushi Jiro has officially opened its 30th and largest store at The Glen Shopping Centre, and it’s set to redefine your sushi experience. The showstopper? Melbourne’s longest sushi train—67 metres of robot-delivered sushi gliding directly to your table. Alongside this, Sushi Jiro introduces its first-ever Japanese soft serve station, offering all-you-can-eat soft serve with rotating flavours (vanilla, matcha) and 30 toppings. The restaurant’s design, inspired by traditional izakayas, seats over 100 guests and serves signature dishes like the Soft Shell Crab Noritaco and Himalaya Signature Roll. Sushi has never been this exciting.

Dining Precinct Entrance, Ground Level, The Glen, Glen Waverley

Limited Edition Papi-Filled Kataifi Pie at A1 Bakery

For one weekend only, A1 Bakery is baking up the pistachio pastry that dreams are made of. Think golden, crunchy pastry laced with delicate threads of kataifi dough, and oozing with rich Pistachio Papi. It’s a fusion of Middle Eastern tradition and Melbourne flair, and we can’t wait to get our hands on it. Available at all A1 Bakery locations from 10am until sold out, this limited-edition treat won’t stick around for long—so set your alarms and prepare for a pistachio-packed delight.

3rd and 4th May

Locations in Brunswick, Fitzroy and Highpoint

Shyun Sumibiyaki Brings Authentic Japanese BBQ to Carnegie

Beloved South-East dining institution, Shyun, has opened its third venue in the heart of Carnegie, Shyun Sumibiyaki. Offering casual yet elevated Japanese cuisine, the team at Shyun Sumibiyaki hones in on authentic street food and Japanese BBQ. Catch up with friends over charcoal flames, sizzling meat and house-made sauces that will make your mouth water. With an atmosphere that’s equal parts lively and intimate, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back dinner or a special celebration.

126 Koornang Road, Carnegie

Quarterhouse

Quarterhouse, Melbourne’s fresh three-level pub, is ready to shake up the city’s drinking and dining scene. Opening May 14th, this dynamic venue blends classic pub charm with a refined Euro gastro-pub edge. The ground floor serves hearty share plates and live sports, level one offers sleek function spaces, while the rooftop bar boasts sweeping views of the Sky Park. Indulge in wood-fired pizzas, tender Wagyu skewers, and comforting chicken parmas, all paired with creative cocktails.

With live music, DJs, and unbeatable atmosphere, Quarterhouse is set to become the new hub for Melbourne’s after-work crowd and weekend sports fans and adventurers.

Opening May 14th

Quarterhouse, 693 Collins Street, Docklands

Melbourne’s Beloved Bakery Expands: Get Ready, East Brunswick!

To Be Frank is about to make your carb-loving dreams even sweeter with a new spot in East Brunswick! The cult bakery, famous for its slow-fermented breads and irresistible laminated pastries, is expanding—and we couldn’t be more excited. Opening in the second week of May on Nicholson Street’s buzzy East Brunswick Village, the new location features an open kitchen, so you can watch the magic happen. Get ready for another level of bakery brilliance!

Opens second week of May

East Brunswick Village

Pistachio Paciugo Special at Gigi’s Gelato This May

The pistachio food trend isn’t dying down any time soon! To our delight, Gigi’s Gelato has hopped on the bandwagon, and will be scooping a divine Pistachio and Raspberry Paciugo for the month of May. Think one decadent scoop of creamy pistachio gelato topped with fresh raspberry compote, pistachio drizzle and crushed pistachio. It’s pure pistachio heaven—but it’s not around for long, so make sure you get in quick.

Available during May

15 Anderson Street, Yarraville

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Balibola Releases Melbourne’s First Matcha Cans

Always jealous of watching Sydneysiders cracking open their cans of matcha on social media? Not anymore! Balibola has bought the viral phenomenon to Melbourne, so you can conveniently enjoy your green treat on the go! The matcha has the same creamy, slightly sweet taste that sent Balibola viral on social media when it first opened in Melbourne, with people flocking there in droves to get their hands on the innovative matcha flavour combinations. Now, you can stock up on their best-selling drink and pop it in the fridge at home!

7/259 Collins Street, Melbourne

Nostra x The Gem

Nostra is back, bringing fun and flavour to Collingwood’s grungy gem, The Gem. This collaboration blends Nostra’s take on Italian comfort dining with the electric energy of one of Melbourne’s best dive bars and live music venues. Led by Dane Hewson (ex-Embla, Grossi, Etta) and Lydia Greenwood, and inspired by Nonna’s kitchen, they serve indulgent dishes like cacio e pepe hash browns, smoked tomato lasagna oozing with parmesan béchamel and pork and beef ragu, and the irresistible eggplant parm sub.

Alongside these tasty Italian eats, you’ll find drool-worthy burgers like the OG cheeseburger, buffalo chicken with dill pickles and ranch, and even a sexy filet o’ fish. With previous pop-ups in Melbourne’s inner north and regional Victoria, Nostra’s unpretentious Italian comfort food is perfect for those seeking great food and an even better atmosphere. Walk-ins are welcome, bookings encouraged—get there, stat!

Sitchu Tip: Tiramisu cannoli for dessert, anyone? Shed your state-of-the-economy worries and head down for Lasagna Wednesdays! It’s just $20 (yes, you read that right – both meat and veg options, too), plus $8 house wines and $9 pints all night. Let’s not forget the tiramisu cannoli – it’s the dream dessert we all deserve. Your wallet will thank you, and your tastebuds will throw a party. You’re welcome!

Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5pm to 9pm, Thursday through Sunday, 12pm to 9pm

289 Wellington Street, Collingwood 

Victoria’s Top Wines Steal the Show at Dan Murphy’s Best in Glass Awards 2025…and They’re All Under $50!

Victoria is turning heads at the inaugural Dan Murphy’s Best in Glass Wine Awards, picking up eight prestigious titles across multiple categories and ranking as the second-best performing state overall.

The Yarra Valley emerged as a standout, showcasing its cool-climate finesse. Little Yering Pinot Noir ($21.99) was crowned Best Value Pinot Noir, delivering a bright, fresh expression of the region’s signature style. In the white category, Tahblik Marsanne ($17.29) from Nagambie Lakes took out Best Value Other Varietal White, proving top quality doesn’t have to break the bank. Meanwhile, the Oakridge Valley Series Chardonnay ($29.99) claimed Best Chardonnay, further cementing the Yarra’s rep for elegant whites.

From the King Valley, Pizzini Pietra Rossa Sangiovese ($30.29) was named Best Other Varietal Red, Dal Zotto’s Pucino Prosecco ($22.29) the Best Prosecco, and in the sweet wine stakes, Brown Brothers Moscato Strawberries & Cream Limited Edition ($14.99) from North East Victoria took the top spot. Naturally, everyone’s favourite spritz, Zoncello ($21.95), won Best Sweet Spritz.

To round out Victoria’s impressive run, Dominique Portet Fontaine Rosé ($28.29) was awarded Best Rosé, making it official: Victoria is home to some of the country’s most exciting and accessible wines. Happy sipping!

Nimbo Airlines x Made in Japan

Nimbo Airlines has officially taken off at Made in Japan, offering a dreamy pop-up café running until 29th June. This seasonal collaboration celebrates Japanese flavours and design, featuring a specially curated, playful menu. Sip on Nimbo’s signature matcha while exploring the beautiful new homewares on display. It’s a gentle escape—like a holiday in a bowl, without the hefty flight price.

19th April to 29th June

Friday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm

1-7 Wynyard Street, South Melbourne

Northside Grocer Opens in Preston

A new food haven has arrived in Melbourne’s inner-north. Northside Grocer, located in Preston, is quickly becoming a beloved local destination, offering much more than your typical grocery store. Co-owned by Emma and Greg, the grocer features a thoughtfully curated selection of small-batch, restaurant-quality meals, locally sourced produce, fresh flowers, and seasonal specials.

The menu includes everything from slow-cooked lamb shoulder with butter bean stew to comforting bolognese and hearty pumpkin soups. With Easter and Mother’s Day pre-orders now available, Northside Grocer also offers a range of curated hampers, local chocolates, and flowers, perfect for celebrations.

What sets Northside Grocer apart is its home care package service, delivering restaurant-level meals to Melbourne’s mature-aged community. With a streamlined delivery system to 450 suburbs across metro Melbourne, the grocer continues to make high-quality food accessible to all.

Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee, picking up a takeaway meal, or ordering in, Northside Grocer is bringing a new level of convenience, community, and flavour to Preston. It’s a must-visit for those seeking fresh, local, and thoughtful food options.

105 High Street, Preston 

Residence at The Potter Unveils Inaugural Head Chef, Robbie Noble

Set to open this winter at the newly revamped Potter Museum of Art, Residence has appointed its inaugural Head Chef: Robbie Noble. A veteran of Melbourne’s Vue de Monde and Paris’s Clamato, Noble’s debut concept Cherrywood brings a refined yet accessible approach to seasonal dining. Dishes like smoked bone marrow with oxtail marmalade on toast, and grilled John Dory with tomato butter showcase his unpretentious elegance.

With a focus on community and collaboration, Cherrywood promises generous, flavour-forward meals that balance classic techniques with creativity—a space for real connections and great food.

Opening winter 2025

The Potter Museum of Art, Corner Swanston Street and Masson Road, Parkville

Breadcetera: Malvern East’s New Gourmet Market Hub is Coming

Opening in May 2025, Breadcetera is set to redefine Malvern East’s food scene with a fresh, community-focused concept from the team behind Riserva, Baia Di Vino, and Lucia. This modern market combines premium pantry staples, fresh bread, and exceptional coffee with a carefully curated selection of specialty items and homewares.

Thoughtfully designed for everyday needs, Breadcetera offers everything from pre-mixed aperitifs to boutique liqueurs, creating a space that feels local and sophisticated. A destination for those seeking quality provisions, it’s the perfect place for last-minute gourmet ingredients or a quick, delicious coffee fix. A must-visit for locals.

Opens May

399 Wattletree Road, Malvern East

Melbourne’s First Immersive Wine Destination has Arrived

Winery and the Melbourne CBD are two locations we’d never imagine in the same sentence…until now. Melbourne Winery is the CBD’s newest destination to explore wine in a location where wineries and Melbourne’s city culture collide. This is no ordinary winery experience. The cellar door, rolling vineyards and charming farmhouse is replaced with a wine lab, a cheese room, an oyster bar, and rotating art exhibitions that spark curiosity and keep you on your toes.

This isn’t a tasting room. Nor is it simply an urban cellar door. This is a bold, innovative reinvention of the classic winery experience that’s been imagined for the city it lives in. Let your wine choices take the lead and watch food pairings follow suit—not the other way around. Melbourne Winery’s Launch collection features 32 varietals spanning three categories: the Essentials, Elevated Classics and Indulgence, a range with a bottle to mark every occasion.

Step inside to discover what makes Melbourne Winery so uniquely Melbourne.

247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

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Bon Iver’s “SABLE” Drops with Melbourne’s Tastiest Collabs

Bon Iver’s dreamy new album SABLE is hitting all the right notes this Friday—and it’s bringing the flavour. For one day only, Melbourne’s local hotspots are serving up exclusive, album-inspired treats that hit as hard as his music. At Terror Twilight, sip on a tangy grapefruit and sage soda, while Billy Van Creamy is dishing out a zesty vegan sorbet with a twist of grapefruit and olive oil. It’s a sensory overload of sound and taste, blending local flair with Bon Iver’s sonic vibes. 

Friday 11th April

Terror Twilight, 11-13 Johnston Street, Collingwood

Billy Van Creamy, Brunswick, Fitzroy North, and Albert Park locations

May Is Basically Wine Month, So Let’s Drink Accordingly

May isn’t just another month—it’s an open invitation to drink well and often, with three international wine days giving us all the excuse we need. Mark your calendars: Sauvignon Blanc Day (2nd May), Chardonnay Day (23rd May), and International Wine Day (25th May). That’s basically a month-long toast—and we’re here for it.

If you’re looking for where to celebrate, Vinesmith—Melbourne’s best new wine bar and restaurant—is the place to raise a glass (or three). For Sauvignon Blanc Day, start with the 2024 Blue Pyrenees Estate Sauvignon Blanc. Think pale straw with green flashes, and a nose full of lychee, gooseberry, lemongrass, and delicate white blossoms. Bright, crisp, and damn easy to love. Just $22 a glass of joy.

Then, for Chardonnay Day, go big with the 2020 Glenlofty Estate Reserve Chardonnay—a properly serious wine at $35. Handpicked from old vines, fermented with wild yeast in French oak, aged with care. It’s creamy, textured, and a bit luxurious—exactly how Chardonnay should be.

No matter the day, May is all about pouring something good. Drink up.

1 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Yo-Chi and Papi Reunite for Second Limited Edition Collaboration

The internet went wild over Yo-Chi and Pistachio Papi’s limited-edition collaboration last year, so much so that they decided to make the hot pistachio white chocolate sauce a mainstay in Yo-Chi’s bench of toppings. This month, they’ve joined forces to satisfy our stomachs once more with the ultimate frozen yoghurt topping: Pistachio Papi cheesecake. This classic, New York-style cheesecake has a buttery, crumbly base and decadent layer of Pistachio Papi sitting pretty atop the creamy cake.

It’s on for one month only, don’t miss out. Run to your closest Yo-Chi to get your hands on this ASAP.

Multiple locations

World #1 Bartender from London’s Highly Awarded Connaught Bar to Take Over The Lounge at Society for One-Night-Only

Clear your calendars: Agostino Perrone, the legendary Director of Mixology at London’s Connaught Bar (aka the World’s Best Bar), is landing in Melbourne for a one-night-only guest shift at Society on April 14th. It’s his first visit in over a decade, and he’s teaming up with The Dalmore to shake up a whisky-led cocktail menu unlike anything you’ve sipped before.

Expect sleek reworks of the Manhattan, signature Connaught flair, and a few surprises. Cocktail lovers, this is your moment — don’t miss it.

Monday 14th April, 6pm to 8pm

The Lounge at Society, 80 Collins Street, Melbourne

Exclusive Late-Night Tiramisu Spot Opens in Glen Iris

The latest addition to the sweet treat world has us drooling. Siora Tiramisu is a brand new late-night dessert cafe serving nothing but a whole lot of rich, creamy, heavenly tiramisu. Co-sharing the space with AM Bakehouse, an equally delicious bakery which runs during the day, once the bakery doors close, the cafe is speedily transformed into a fun hangout spot where you can indulge in classic, pistachio or limoncello tiramisu while sipping on a post-dinner coffee and playing Uno or Briscola. Dessert has never looked so cool.

Thursday to Sunday, 4pm to 11pm

286D Tooronga Road, Glen Iris

CHANDON Unveils a Stunning Events & Tastings Space

CHANDON Australia has unveiled its reimagined Homestead, an intimate, design-led space within its Yarra Valley estate. A century-old farmhouse turned luxurious gathering place, the Homestead blends heritage with modern Australian artistry—think soft pinks, earthy hues, and bespoke works by local designers. Here, guests can savour oyster bars, tableside cooking, and CHANDON’s rare Étoile wines while overlooking rolling vineyards. With curated interiors by Melanie Beynon and a focus on craft and storytelling, the Homestead is an exquisite stage for indulgence—where méthode traditionnelle meets contemporary elegance.

Now open for events, tastings, and private celebrations

The Only Hot Chocolate You Need this April

Calle Bakery has just dropped the ultimate winter indulgence: a Hot Chocolate Croissant Wheel. Packed with their signature Paris Hot Chocolate made from 100% Valrhona chocolate, this is the cosy treat you’ve been waiting for. Available Friday to Sunday from 9:30am for dine-in or takeaway. Don’t sleep on it—grab yours before they’re gone!

Friday through Sunday, from 9:30am

649 Rathdowne Street, Carlton North 

Hector’s Bakery Opens in Richmond

Everyone who’s ever fallen hard for a Hector’s Deli sandwich—get ready to fall even harder. Hector’s Bakery is here to steal your mornings, your money, and maybe even your heart. This buzzy new venture serves up freshly baked perfection alongside their cult-favourite sandwiches. Think cinnamon buns, morning buns, pain au chocolat, apple fritters, and a cheese and pepperonata croissant that’s already the stuff of legend.

Designed by Quinten and Josh Powell, the space is sleek, warm, and made for carb-fuelled daydreaming.

Open 7am to 3pm daily—see you in line.

Opens Thursday March 27th

33 Stewart Street, Richmond

Sydney’s Cult-Favourite Molly Tea Brings Jasmine Magic to Melbourne’s CBD

Molly Tea—the viral sensation known for its premium jasmine creations—is making its hotly anticipated Melbourne debut this May, with three new locations and a flagship store landing on Swanston Street.

Kicking things off with a soft opening, early customers who leave a Google review will receive a fragrant tea-scented sachet. Then, stay tuned for the Grand Opening: the first 100 guests to purchase two drinks will score a limited-edition Dupont bag and a rabbit-scented candle; the next 100 get the candle only.

Come sip signature drinks like the cult-fave Snowy Jasmine Milk Tea and dive into a sensory celebration of Chinese tea culture—complete with giveaways, discounts, and dreamy vibes.

222 Swanston Street, Melbourne

Ghanem Group is Bringing Brisbane’s Blackbird to Melbourne

Brisbane’s award-winning waterfront restaurant, bar and events space, Blackbird, is making its way to Melbourne later this year. The Ghanem Group’s new venture will be impossible to miss, an impressive three-level venue within Collins Place. Melburnians can expect the same sophisticated essence of Blackbird Brisbane, but with an added Melbourne edge that will make this second venue unique in its own right. Think opulent interiors, a world-class menu, and a buzzing atmosphere that seamlessly blends Brisbane’s charm with Melbourne’s signature style.

Opening June 2025

66 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

The Team Behind Don’s in Prahran is Opening Up a Brilliant New Spot in Carlton

Cordelia is set to bring effortless charm to Carlton this May. From the team behind Don’s, this sleek yet inviting spot will champion sustainably sourced seafood, handmade pastas, and simple, beautiful dishes. The space blends Scandinavian minimalism with warm timber finishes, soft lighting, and a sunlit corner perfect for lingering lunches. Downstairs, a cellar bar promises intimate cocktails. It’s a place for good wine without the gatekeeping, seafood without the clichés, and dining that feels as easy as a Sunday afternoon—but tastes like a Saturday night.

Wednesday to Thursday, 12pm to 10ish

Friday to Saturday, 12pm to 11:30ish

Gerald’s Bar is Moving to Lygon Street

Gerald’s Bar is on the move—but don’t worry, it’s not going far. After 19 years on Rathdowne Street, the beloved local is shifting just down the road to the old Enoteca Sileno spot on Lygon Street later this year. It’s a bigger space, but here’s hoping it keeps the same easy charm, ever-changing wine list, and effortless good vibes that have made it a true Melbourne institution.

Moving to 920 Lygon Street, Carlton North 

Freyja’s Bold New Chapter

Melbourne’s experimental fine diner Freyja is rewriting the rules with a bold new dining experience. Ditching traditional menus, they’re putting the power in diners’ hands—share your preferences, and the kitchen curates a bespoke Chef’s Selection just for your table. Executive Chef Jae Bang, with Michelin-starred pedigree, works magic with fermentation, pickling, and curing, crafting dishes like unripe blueberry ‘capers’ and six-month sourdough miso. Sustainability and hyper-local sourcing drive every plate, with foraged ingredients and seasonal Victorian produce taking centre stage. Housed in the heritage-listed Olderfleet building, Freyja is where innovation meets time-honoured techniques—dining here is anything but predictable.

477 Collins Street, Melbourne 

Yiaga: Hugh Allen’s Ambitious First Restaurant Arrives in Fitzroy Gardens

Hugh Allen is setting the stage for something extraordinary with Yiaga, his highly anticipated first restaurant, opening spring 2025 in Fitzroy Gardens. Years in the making, Yiaga will showcase Australia’s rich culinary landscape through a multi-course tasting menu that celebrates native ingredients, pristine seafood, and wild game.

The restaurant sits on Wurundjeri country in a historic pavilion, reimagined in collaboration with renowned architect John Wardle. Built with locally sourced Victorian materials, every element—from burnt earth clay tiles to handcrafted ceramics—reflects a deep connection to the land.

More than a dining experience, Yiaga will host talks, workshops, and educational sessions, shaping it into a dynamic centre for Australian gastronomy.

“Melbourne is home, and this is the restaurant I’ve always dreamed of,” says Allen. “I can’t wait to share what we’re creating.”

Yiaga is poised to redefine Australian dining.

See updates via their Instagram here

Slated to open spring 2025

Fitzroy Gardens, Melbourne

Melbourne Has Just Been Ranked the #1 Hottest Food Destination in the World for 2025

Melbourne, take a bow—you’ve just been crowned the world’s hottest food destination for 2025. A new study from the British luxury holiday brand Travelbag ranks our fair city as numero uno for food-obsessed travellers, and honestly, was there ever any doubt? With over 100 cuisines, a globally revered dining scene, and millions of food posts lighting up Instagram, Melbourne is a true culinary juggernaut. Beating out heavyweights like Tokyo, New York, and Bangkok, we’ve officially got the world’s best eats—so grab a fork, loosen your belt, and celebrate the only way we know how: by eating. Melbourne, we feast.

Fin Wines Reopens Its Finyard Cellar Door in Dixons Creek

After a year-long hiatus, Fin Wines is back, throwing open the doors to its Finyard—a laid-back, dog-friendly cellar door in Dixons Creek. This isn’t your buttoned-up wine tasting; it’s lo-fi, high-vibes, and all about good wine, good snacks, and good times. Sip through a five-wine flight ($20) featuring their zippy 2023 & 2024 releases, or settle in with a glass, some Chappy’s Chips (made with Fin’s own vinegar), and the occasional chef collab. Expect playful blends, pét-nats, ciders, and piquettes—all made with zero pretension and maximum drinkability.

Open weekends, 11am to 4pm

119 Lorimers Lane, Dixons Creek

Four Melbourne Pizzerias Ranked in the Asia Pacific’s Top 50

Melburnians already know our pizza game is extremely strong, and don’t need accolades and awards to prove it…but it always is nice to wave a trophy around. And now we officially have bragging rights to anyone who argues Melbourne’s pizza isn’t some of the best around, because four of Melbourne’s pizzerias have been ranked amongst the world’s best! The Italians have been working hard, eating their way around the pizzas of the Asia Pacific, and the judges have announced who has made the cut for the 50 Top Pizza 2025 list.

So, which Italian restaurants should you head to for a slice, you ask? Pascoe Vale South’s Shop 225 ranked number four on the list, leaping 27 places up the ladder compared to the previous year. Here, you’ll find authentic Neopolitan-style pizzas, premium ingredients and bursting flavours. Plus, it’s the first restaurant to receive accreditation from Coeliac Australia for its gluten-free options!

48h Pizza e Gnocchi Bar came next, securing a well-deserved spot in the rankings at number 12. Named after the 48-hour fermentation process that gives its pizza dough a light, airy texture with the perfect balance of chew and crunch, this spot is all about quality and tradition. Il Caminetto and +39 Pizzeria are the other two Melbourne pizzerias that ranked in the top 50, coming in 32nd and 33rd place respectively.

Next time you plan a pizza party, place these spots at the top of your hitlist.

Suze: A Napier Quarter Alum’s Elegant New Fitzroy North Haunt

Fitzroy North’s dining scene is set for a refined new chapter with the arrival of Suze, opening March 13th. Taking over the beautiful One Trick Pony space, this intimate new haunt is the vision of Steve Harry (ex-Napier Quarter), blending understated elegance with a produce-driven menu and a thoughtfully curated wine list. Expect house-made pickles, seasonal fare, and a warm, European-inspired atmosphere—perfect for slow, lingering dinners. With Suze in town, neighbourhood dining in Melbourne just got a little more fun and sophisticated.

Opens Thursday March 13th, 2025

6 Newry Street, Fitzroy North 

Johnny, Vince & Sam’s Expand Restaurant to Include “Nonna’s Good Room”

Eighteen months after opening and giving Melburnians a peek into Nonna’s house, the trio behind Johnny, Vince & Sam’s are unlocking the ultimate prize—the good room. Usually off-limits (unless you were a guest important enough to ignore the kitchen detour), this pristine space is now open, and stepping inside feels almost like a rebellious world-first.

The ‘formal’ room keeps the retro charm of the ristorante but brings in a sleek cocktail bar and a private dining space. Expect new cocktails that taste like tradition with a twist—Nonno’s Garden Martini with EVOO, the Italian-inspired Figroni, and a Gin Basil Smash.

Opens February 28th

306-308 Lygon Street, Carlton

Fish & Burger Co Re-Opens With New Frozen Yoghurt Spot Yo-Lo

After temporarily closing for a month to undergo renovations, Fish & Burger Co has reopened its doors with a whole new look, new menu and new frozen yoghurt hub! The beloved eatery now boasts a refreshed, modern space, an upgraded selection of burgers and seafood, and the exciting addition of Yo-Lo, a self-serve frozen yogurt bar with a variety of delicious flavors and toppings to choose from. Think dreamy pastel hues, healthy frozen yoghurt and acai, plus all the toppings you could ever possibly want! Located inside the Fish & Burger Co, Yo-Lo is the perfect post-dinner sweet treat.

1001 Doncaster Road, Doncaster East

West Side Wine Bar to Open in West Side Place

West Side Place is getting a brand new wine bar. West Side Wine is set to be a luxurious yet relaxed destination that will set the scene for post-work drinks, date night vibes, and everything in-between. While it hasn’t opened as of yet, the wine bar soft-launched and gave customers a sneak peak into what to expect through hosting global organic wine and spirits show, Taste With the Makers, featuring global winemakers from regions including France, Italy and Australia, who will grace the impressive wine list once the bar officially opens.

Follow West Side Wine’s Instagram for updates

645 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Justin Hemmes’ $55M Melbourne Takeover: Merivale Is Coming in Hot

Sydney hospitality kingpin Justin Hemmes is making his mark on Melbourne, dropping $55 million on an eight-level car park in the CBD. But forget about parking—this isn’t about convenience, it’s about culture. Hemmes’ Merivale empire is set to transform the site into a buzzing entertainment precinct, featuring Totti’s, Mumu, a hotel, live music, and even a day spa. Positioned near the theatre district, it’s being compared to Sydney’s iconic Ivy—an all-in-one playground of food, booze, and late-night revelry. Love it or hate it, this is a full-blown takeover, injecting Sydney swagger into Melbourne’s food and nightlife scene. Merivale is here—so buckle up. This one’s going to be big.

LUNE Croissanterie x Four Pillars Gin Lab Team up to Craft a Croissant Gin

Two of our favourite brands and two of our favourite things to consume. Has February peaked? We think so. You’ll have to get in quick if you fancy securing one of these limited-edition bottles as we have a feeling they won’t last long.

Espresso Gin-tini lovers and those fond of a rich and texture G&T, this one is for you. Distilled with LUNE’s delicious clarified butter and a host of toasty spices (nutmeg, wattleseed and nutmeg, amongst others), this drop is perfect for a post-dinner sip.

The best bit? To celebrate, Dan Murphy’s Malvern East and BWS Hawksburn will have a limited number of Lune vouchers to hand out with any purchase of the croissant gin.

Available for purchase from Wednesday 19th February

Gracie’s Wine Room Opens in South Yarra

Gracie’s Wine Room in South Yarra is everything you want in a wine bar—chilled, vibrant, and totally unpretentious. Before the first glass was poured, founder Kelsie Gaffey had already turned TikTok into her personal behind-the-scenes documentary, from late-night shifts to picking glassware. Now, the bar is alive with fluffy focaccia served with charcuterie, pickles, and cheese, plump Sydney rock oysters, natty drops running the gamut from orange to chilled reds and crisp rosé, and refreshing spritzes that hit just right. With a cool timber bar, a leafy courtyard, and killer tunes spun from a turntable, it’s a neighbourhood hangout that feels like home—but better. 

27 Toorak Road, South Yarra

Lost Cat Opens in Warrnambool

Lost Cat is the latest addition to Warrnambool’s dining scene, and it’s blends fine-dining techniques with laid-back charm. Helmed by ex-Rockpool chef Zac Nicholson and his wife, Jasmine Leung, this airy 55-seater is all about bold, comforting flavours.

Expect wood-grilled steaks with umami butter, house-fermented focaccia with onion butter, and seasonal baked custards. Locally sourced produce shines, and the drinks menu highlights western Victorian wines, gins, and retro classics like the ol’ White Russian. 

With its cosy vibes and thoughtful menu, Lost Cat is a must-visit for foodies and comfort seekers alike.

69 Liebig Street, Warrnambool

A Debaucherous New Bar Opens on Chapel Street

Sistine on Chapel is the seductive new cocktail bar causing a stir on Chapel Street. One of the newest editions to Melbourne’s bar scene, Sistine is from VALARC Group (Tartine Bistro, The Meatball & Winebar, Ines Wine Bar and Ned’s Bake & Bistro) and gives a cheeky nod to its namesake through playful charm from the renaissance period, rooms inspired by the Vatican and thoughtful design. 

There’s a snack vending machine called The Immaculate Conception vending machine, an innovative snack experience, featuring a rotating selection of curated bites from the Ines Wine Bar Kitchen. Expect caviar, salumi plates, and even recovery kits to ease the Sunday hangxiety.

150A Chapel Street, Windsor

Coffee Supreme Reopens

Coffee Supreme has reopened its Abbotsford cafe after having undergone a six-week renovation. Warm and inviting, the refreshed space features a modern yet cosy design with natural wood finishes, earthy tones, and plenty of greenery.

Known for its expertly brewed coffee, Coffee Supreme continues to serve its signature blends alongside a new seasonal menu featuring breakfast favourites, fresh pastries, and light bites.

The updated interior offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with a perfectly crafted cup of coffee.

28-36 Grosvenor Street, Abbotsford

Winner Announced for the S. Pellegrino Young Chef Academy 2024-25 Regional Final for the Pacific 

KyongHo (Daniel) Choi has won the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy 2024-25 Pacific Regional Final, earning a spot at the Grand Finale in Milan next year. Cooking under Chef Stephen Nairn at Omnia, Melbourne, Daniel impressed judges with his dish, Bacon and Cabbage or Pork and Kimchi, reflecting his Korean-Irish heritage.

Mentored by Josh Niland, he’ll now refine his skills for the global stage. The event at The Lume celebrated Australia’s culinary talent, with standout awards also going to Joshua Ross (NZ) and Siriporn Boonsin (NSW). Stay tuned for Daniel’s journey to Milan!

Can’t get enough Melbourne food and drink news and want to be in the know of more delicious restaurants, cafes and bars to book? Be sure to take a look at the best dining deals happening this week, or these fancy degustations if you want to dine out in style.