Melbourne’s dining scene this year is a testament to the city’s ever-evolving culinary spirit, offering a spectrum of experiences that range from Parisian elegance to Tokyo-inspired flair.
From the much-anticipated debut of Maison Bâtard’s opulent four-level establishment to the cozy intimacy of Carnation Canteen’s weekly rotating menus, these new openings promise innovation, atmosphere, and unforgettable flavours – something Melbourne residents are lucky to have in abundance already.
Whether you’re in the mood for a luxe oyster bar, contemporary Australian fare, or a late-night karaoke lounge, these fresh arrivals are redefining the way Melburnians eat, drink, and gather. Let’s dive into the best new spots to check out this year.
1. Maison Bâtard (CBD)
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Maison Bâtard, the latest venture from acclaimed restaurateur Chris Lucas, opens its doors on 26 November in Melbourne’s Bourke Hill precinct. Nearly a decade in the making, this four-level masterpiece blends old-school Melbourne charm with timeless Parisian elegance, offering everything from a luxurious oyster and caviar bar to a rooftop designed by Paul Bangay. Helmed by Executive Chef Adam Sanderson and Culinary Director Damian Snell, the menu reimagines classic French cuisine with a contemporary, lighter twist.
2. Reed House (CBD)
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Opening back in July of this year, Reed House is a contemporary Australian restaurant in central Melbourne, inspired by British brasseries. Located at 130 Lonsdale Street in the historic Manse Building, it offers a relaxed atmosphere that honours the heritage of its setting. The menu features modern cuisine crafted with quality ingredients, aiming to create an inviting space where friends can gather and share stories.
3. Tombo Den (Windsor)
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Tombo Den is a contemporary Japanese 26-seat sushi bar, cocktail lounge and karaoke lounge, all adorned with AI-generated Japanese film noir-style artwork. Inspired by late-night Tokyo, it offers an immersive dining experience with a daily selection of sushi, nigiri, and crispy rice dishes, as well as featuring small plates like duck hambagu and larger hibachi-grilled options such as charcoal chicken thighs.
4. Carnation Canteen (Fitzroy)
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Carnation Canteen is an intimate 20-seat restaurant led by chef Audrey Shaw, an alumna of Tedesca Osteria and London's River Café. The establishment offers a weekly rotating menu that emphasises fresh, seasonal produce, with a consistent highlight being the charcoal-grilled King George whiting, as well as a wine selection featuring vibrant Australian varieties alongside French sparkling, Spanish whites, and Italian reds.
5. Molli (Abbotsford)
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This neighbourhood bar and bistro has a menu that features contemporary Australian dishes such as house-made pasta and Wagyu rump cap with piperade, emphasising fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They also offer a thoughtfully curated wine list and inventive cocktails, providing a welcoming space for both casual drinks and relaxed dining.
6. Ruby Dining (CBD)
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This Melbourne-styled brasserie tucked into Melbourne's legal district offers an all-day dining menu that draws influences from brasseries and unique wine bars in London and New York. Expect bold flavours, a curated wine list, and specialty cocktails in a setting that balances the hustle and bustle of the city with a relaxed dining atmosphere. Open from early morning till late.
7. Elio's Place (CBD)
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Elio's Place is an all-day European-inspired bistro open daily from 7 am until late. It offers a diverse menu that transitions seamlessly from breakfast to dinner, featuring dishes like Comté omelettes, mortadella sandwiches, and Black Angus flank steak with cime di rapa. It also embraces the European tradition of aperitivo, serving drinks and snack-sized plates from 3–5pm daily.
8. Mid Air Restaurant & Bar (CBD)
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One of the city's most recent openings is this rooftop restaurant located on the 12th floor of the brand-new hotel Melbourne Place. Helmed by hatted chef Nick Deligiannis, it offers a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavours from Greece, Turkey, Spain, and Italy, enhanced with French culinary techniques. Guests can enjoy breakfast starting at 6:30 am on weekdays and 7:00 am on weekends, with lunch, dinner, and weekend brunches also available.
Needing more inspiration for your next night out? Check out our list of the spots we think are the coolest restaurants in Melbourne.
