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.

Barragunda Estate to Open Tomorrow

Tucked away on a thousand acres of untamed beauty between Bushrangers Bay and Green’s Bush, Barragunda Estate is the kind of place where food meets artistry in its purest form. Set to open tomorrow, Friday 21st February, the 40-seat restaurant is the brainchild of Simone Watts, a chef who honed her craft under Greg Malouf at Momo.

Within the intimate dining space, guests will be immersed in the heart of the farm, overlooking the market garden and seeing exactly where and how the food on their plate has been grown or reared. The set menu will change daily, showcasing the best of the estate’s produce, complemented by wines and ingredients from local producers who share the restaurant’s regenerative vision.

With Wilitpoll sheep and Black Angus beef grazing the fields, Barragunda’s farm-to-table philosophy promises a dining experience that’s as much about sustainability as it is about unbridled, exceptional flavour. Book it now.

Dr Morse Turns 12 with a ‘Bistro Disco’ Glow-Up & a Heavyweight New Chef

In a bold move for Melbourne’s ever-evolving dining scene, The Northside Group has appointed David Boyle (Farmer’s Daughters) as Executive Chef, ushering in a new culinary vision across Bodriggy Brewing Co, Albion Hotel Collingwood, and Dr Morse. Expect vibrant Latin American flavours at Bodriggy, an elevated English pub experience at Albion, and a New York Italian-inspired ‘Bistro Disco’ at Dr Morse.

Celebrating 12 years, the Abbotsford institution has undergone a complete refresh—think house-made pasta, an aperitif vermouth program, and a reimagined dining space primed for DJs and late nights. Officially reopened on February 18th, Dr Morse is gearing up for a blowout birthday weekend (February 28th to March 2nd). Drink, dine, and dance—Dr Morse just got a serious glow-up!

Visit the Dr Morse website here for more details.

Dr Morse 12th Birthday Weekend: February 28th to March 2nd

274 Johnston Street, Abbotsford

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

FUNDAY Sweets Peaches & Cream Gummies

Say hello to Peaches & Cream, the latest limited-edition drop from FUNDAY. This better-for-you take on an Aussie classic is the ultimate arvo pick-me-up with juicy peach flavours and velvety cream—minus the sugar overload. Packed with prebiotic fibre, no added sugar, and gluten-free goodness, these gummies are exactly what you need in your snack draw at work.

Available online from February 11 from fundaysweets.com in packs of 12 for $54, or in-store at Chemist Warehouse for $4.49 for 1 x 50g pack

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

Green Cup x Summer Fridays and MECCA Collab

Summer wellness takes many forms, but two of our favourites are skincare and smoothies. So, it’s music to our ears that Green Cup is collaborating with MECCA and Summer Fridays to deliver an exciting collaboration this month! The Summer Fridays Mango Summer Smoothie will be available for the duration of February in all Green Cups stores. Containing skin-loving ingredients including coconut water, banana, mango, pineapple, maple syrup and vanilla protein & collagen, it’s designed to leave you glowing from within.

To make this collaboration even sweeter, every Summer Fridays smoothie that is purchased will come with a complimentary deluxe-sized Jet Lag Mask sample. Plus, customers will be entered into a draw to win a Summer Fridays x Mecca Jet Lag Product Set valued at $271!

Until 2nd March

Various locations

Yo-Chi Launches Rare Finger Lime Topping for February

The caviar of the citrus world has landed at your favourite casual hangout spot for the month of February only! 

Head into your local Yo-Chi store to adorn your fro-yo creations with beautiful, delicate and fresh finger limes from Bundjalung Country (Byron Bay). 

This native Australian fruit is such a treat and not to be missed this month!

Various locations

Chadstone Has a New Food Precinct Coming

Chadstone is raising the stakes with The Market Pavilion, a vibrant new fresh food precinct bigger than the MCG, set to open on 27th March. Bringing together over 50 top-tier vendors, it’s a gourmet playground where everyday essentials meet indulgent finds. Expect briny oysters at the Champagne & Oyster Bar, hand-rolled sushi at Kaiten Sushi Train, rich artisan cheeses from That’s Amore, and flame-grilled cuts from Vic’s Meats—all under one beautifully designed roof.

More than just a market, The Market Pavilion is a reimagined food experience, complete with a Food Concierge to help with menu planning, grocery refrigeration, and even AI-powered recipe inspiration. Quick stop? The new Fresh Food Parking ensures an effortless gourmet haul. And just next door, a refreshed Dining Laneway will offer everything from dumplings to steaming bowls of noodles. 

Opening 27th March, 2025

Summer’s Snack Game Is Stronger Than Ever

Have you heard? Melbourne’s culinary snack game is elite levels of delicious right now. As summer sweeps in, the city’s best kitchens are serving up bold, golden-hour bites worth every detour. At Cumulus Inc. on Flinders Lane, the snack menu is pure sunshine—spanner crab on fried bread with espelette pepper and pan con tomate with jamon serrano. Don’t miss their $2 Oyster Hour (weekdays, 3pm to 6pm), where pristine Australian oysters are shucked to order and served over ice with mignonette and lemon.

Over at Gimlet at Cavendish House, things get a little Amalfi Coast with their towering fritto misto: King George whiting, Carpentaria prawns, and calamari fried in an impossibly light batter, served with lemon aioli. Pair it with a chilled Campari Seltz or a spritz that matches the mood, plus grilled shishito peppers wrapped in smoked lardo or a peach and buffalo mozzarella salad—summer snacking, perfected.

Then at Marion Wine Bar, La Hora del Vermut brings vermouth-soaked Spanish vibes with tumblers of rust-red vermouth over ice. Razor clams steamed in Manzanilla, salty Gildas (anchovies, peppers, olives on a stick), and confit seafood toast are the ultimate pairings. Sip a siphon-served cocktail and savour Melbourne, snack by snack.

It’s Mango Season at Green Cup

Mangoes are a mainstay every single summer, and Green Cup has incorporated the sweet, juicy stone fruit into its limited-edition menu. Expect refreshing treats including influencer Ava Francis’ Mango Glassed Smoothie, Iced Mango Matcha, Acai Bowl with Fresh Mango and Chicken Salad with Mango.

If you’re a sucker for a mango every time stone fruit season rolls around, you’ll love trialling these four new additions to Green Cup’s menu—all equally as refreshing and delicious as each other!

Various locations

February’s Produce Report: What to Buy at Your Local Market Right Now

February is bursting with flavour, with watermelon, rockmelon, and stonefruit like plums, peaches, and nectarines peaking in quality. Mildura grapes—green, red, and black—are a standout, offering great value.

But it’s the last chance to grab Tasmanian cherries before they’re gone. Mushrooms are in short supply due to fires in South Australia, and avocados are at a two-year high.

Keep an eye out for the first Williams pears, Royal Gala apples, and Queen Garnet plums—all offering juicy, sweet bites perfect for late summer.

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

Mr Charlie’s Pop-up at CoConspirators Brewpub Extended

Beloved international fast food chain, Mr Charlie’s, has extended their pop-up until the end of April! The pop-up has received great success inside CoConspirators Brewpub,, helping to redefine plant-based fast food.

These burgers are so good, you don’t have to be vegetarian or vegan to enjoy everything on the menu! Pair your burger or nuggies and fried with a pint of craft beer from CoConspirators, and you’ve got yourself a fine meal indeed.

Plus, 25 new toppings have been introduced for 2025, including some weird and wacky combinations you never would expect to be in a burger. From lamingtons and mango to vegemite, you won’t be able to believe it until you see it…and try it.

Until the end of April

377 Victoria Street, Brunswick

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

American Doughnut Kitchen Prahan Introduces Four New Flavours

American Doughnut Kitchen’s new Prahan location has exclusively launched four new doughnut flavours. It’s the first time in 70 years that the traditional donut van has expanded its doughnut offerings beyond the traditional raspberry plum jam, so is an opportunity to grab with both hands next time you visit Prahan Market. The flavours include salted caramel, biscoff, vanilla custard and cinnamon, bringing a variety of contemporary and classic flavours into the donut shop.

163 Commercial Road, South Yarra

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

Axil Coffee Roasters and Kōri Ice Cream’s Summer Drink Range Continues

Melbourne specialty coffee roasters, Axil Coffee, has partnered up with Kōri Ice Cream to deliver a refreshing limited-edition summer drink range. The pair will release two new drinks at the beginning of each summer month, meaning Melburnians will be able to enjoy six refreshing beverages during the season. It all began with the Mandarin Sorbet Cold Brew Spritz and Matcha Pandan Milkshake with Strawberry Cream, and now, two new innovations join the mix.

January’s additions include ‘Coffee 3 Ways’ and a Banana Miso Caramel Milkshake. Coffee 3 Ways combines Axil’s signature New Orleans Cold Brew, Kōri’s ice cream made from Axil’s Seasonal Blend, and fresh espresso whipped cream—an irresistible treat for coffee lovers. The Banana Miso Caramel Milkshake brings together three starkly contrasting flavours in a surprisingly harmonious combination. Two drinks you need to try, ASAP!

Until the end of summer

Available at Kōri Ice Cream locations and select Axil Coffee Roasters stores

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

New Brighton Restaurant, Malèna Cucina & Bar, Opens

Brighton has a new neighbourhood gem: Malèna Cucina & Bar. Founded by Peter Aloi’s latest venue (Aromi, Cafe Duomo), Francesca Sanzo and Leonardo Alfieri, owners of local favourite Cucina & Co., Malèna is the epitome of authentic Italian. Calabrian and Sicilian cuisine are at the helm of this warm and inviting dining experience, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of southern Italy. Expect bold, flavourful dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes. It’s a must-visit for summer!

151 Martin Street, Brighton

Blitz Bar Self-Serve Acai Comes to Chapel Street

Melbourne’s first self-serve acai bar, Blitz Bar, has opened a third location on Chapel Street in Windsor. Come for the acai, but stay for the 30 toppings to don your acai bowl with. Whether you beeline for peanut butter and granola or prefer to make yours extra fruity, you can fill your cup to your heart’s content and simply pay by weight. Just make sure your eyes aren’t bigger than your stomach!

111 Chapel Street, Windsor

UGO Burrata Bar’s Summer Menu is Here

UGO Burrata Bar has just dropped its new summer menu, and it’s everything you’ve been craving! Overflowing with fresh seasonal ingredients and, of course, oozy burrata, it’s a cheesy dream come true. From vibrant salads to rich pasta dishes, each bite is a burst of flavour that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Plus, join the birthday celebrations this Sunday (15th December) at South Melbourne Market, where the first 100 customers can score a free S’more, one of UGO’s most popular winter hits. Don’t miss out on this tasty, cheese-filled fiesta!

South Melbourne Market, 322/326 Coventry Street, South Melbourne

Flour Child Awarded 5/5 for Pinsa Panino Polpette Sandwich

Social media sensation Banging Sangas is on a mission to find the best sandwiches across Australia…and he may have just achieved it. The carb connoisseur, Ross James Howse, has awarded a coveted 5/5 rating to Flour Child for its 48H Pinsa Panino Polpette.

This panini is a limited-edition creation features Italian meatballs, caramelised onions, candied tomatoes, chilli oil sauce, grated parmesan, and fresh basil—all enveloped in Flour Child’s signature bread. The Pinsa Romana bread formula undergoes 48 hours of fermentation for a perfectly airy and light texture with 80% hydration, delivering guilt-free (and bloat-free) indulgence!

Available Monday to Friday, 12.00pm to 3.00pm

$19.50

1/77 Acland Street, St Kilda

432 Church Street, Richmond

Melbourne Food and Wine 2025 Lineup Announced 

Melbourne’s food and drink calendar just found its headline act. From 21 to 30 March, the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival 2025 promises to sweep food lovers off their feet, delivering ten days of unforgettable eats, sips, and stories. Featuring a program of over 200 events, this isn’t just a festival—it’s Melbourne served on a plate, with a side of world-class flair.

A culinary tour de force, the lineup includes Curtis Stone’s triumphant return to headline the World’s Longest Lunch and Julia Busuttil Nishimura’s dreamy Royal Botanic Gardens brunch. International icons like Fergus Henderson (St. JOHN), Tomos Parry (Brat), and Daniel Calvert (Sézanne) will collaborate with Melbourne’s finest chefs for truly memorable dining experiences.

See the full lineup here

FUJIFILM Australia Launches ‘Foodtography’ Tours

Don’t know why your food pics never turn out quite like the food bloggers you see on TikTok and Instagram? Now’s your opportunity to learn from the best! Fujifilm has partnered with Bianca in Melbourne to deliver a food photography course that will have you shooting foodie pics like a pro by the end of the session. 

This food tour with Foodie Trails celebrates the launch of Fujifilm’s new Fujifilm X-M5 digital mirrorless camera, and you’ll be taught all about the settings, how to capture images and also will get to enjoy delicious food!

Available throughout November

From $100 per person

Book here

Silks Introduces Bottomless Noodles Offer

We all know and love a bottomless brunch, but what about bottomless noodles? Silk at Crown have introduced a bottomless noodle offering on Monday, Thursday and Friday at lunch time—the perfect way to fill up if you have a busy or full-on day! Diners can enjoy wok fried seafood, roast duck with crispy Cantonese noodles, stir fry Valley beef tenderloin with flat rice noodles, crispy pork with braised Hokkien noodles, and BBQ pork with egg dry noodles and Superior sauce. Want to make it bottomless noodles AND drinks? For an additional $45 per person, you can keep the beverages flowing!

$48 per person

1 Whiteman Street, Southbank

Green Cup Introduces Canteen and Dinner Opening Hours

Green Cup has launched their new ‘Green Cup Canteen’ in South Yarra. The new store, located onyl six stores down from the original Green Cup store, now features not only the acai bowls, smoothies and toasties we know and love, but also a salad bar where they will be making nourish bowls. The store will also be open until 8pm daily to cater for dinner hours. 

579 Chapel Street, South Yarra

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

KyongHo (Daniel) Choi has taken a major step toward culinary stardom, winning the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy 2024-25 Regional Final for the Pacific. Cooking under Chef Stephen Nairn at Omnia, Melbourne, Daniel wowed the esteemed jury with his signature dish, “Bacon and Cabbage or Pork and Kimchi,” a reflection of his Korean-Irish heritage. Competing against nine other promising chefs, Daniel’s talent and dedication stood out, which has earned him a place at the Grand Finale in Milan in 2025.

Guided by renowned mentor Josh Niland (of Saint Peter and Fish Butchery fame), Daniel will refine his culinary skills on the road to the finale, where he’ll compete on an international stage.

In addition to Daniel’s win, Joshua Ross (NZ) was awarded both the S.Pellegrino Social Responsibility and Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Awards, while Siriporn Boonsin (NSW) took home the Fine Dining Lovers Food for Thought Award.

The competition culminated in a gala dinner at The Lume, celebrating Australia’s vibrant culinary scene with live entertainment and a four-course meal, including the winning dish from the previous Pacific winner, Robin Wagner.

Stay tuned as Daniel continues his exciting culinary journey toward the Grand Finale in 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.