Savor the Best of Modern Australian Dining: Top Restaurants in Melbourne

Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is renowned for its eclectic food scene. From hole-in-the-wall cafes to fine dining establishments, this city has something for everyone. When it comes to modern Australian cuisine, Melbourne is at the forefront, blending fresh local ingredients with international influences to create unique dining experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the top restaurants in Melbourne where you can enjoy the best of modern Australian restaurants Melbourne.

1. Rocksalt

364 Bay St Brighton VIC 3186, Rocksalt is one of the most iconic restaurants in the city. Helmed by renowned chef Shannon Bennett, this fine dining institution offers breathtaking views of the Melbourne skyline coupled with an unforgettable culinary experience. The restaurant focuses on modern Australian cuisine with a deep appreciation for native ingredients, using sustainable practices to create exquisite dishes.

Expect dishes like kangaroo loin with beetroot and wattleseed, or the famous Marron dish, complemented by a wine list that features the best Australian and international vintages. The experience is elevated by flawless service, making it ideal for special occasions.

2. Attica

Attica, located in the quiet suburb of Ripponlea, has garnered international acclaim for its inventive and often daring approach to modern Australian cuisine. Chef Ben Shewry draws inspiration from Australia’s diverse landscape and indigenous ingredients, creating dishes that are as much about storytelling as they are about flavor.

Attica’s tasting menu is constantly evolving, but it typically features unique ingredients like saltbush, finger lime, and crocodile. With its commitment to sustainability and innovation, Attica remains one of the top dining destinations for food lovers looking for an unforgettable experience.

3. Cutler & Co.

Located in the vibrant Fitzroy neighborhood, Cutler & Co. is the brainchild of award-winning chef Andrew McConnell. This contemporary bistro seamlessly blends elegance and comfort, offering a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. McConnell’s menu features modern Australian dishes influenced by European techniques and a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Signature dishes include grilled calamari with heirloom tomatoes, roasted lamb shoulder with native herbs, and house-made charcuterie. The open kitchen and sleek, industrial-chic interior provide a sophisticated backdrop for a memorable dining experience, perfect for both casual outings and celebrations.

4. Supernormal

For a modern Australian twist on Asian flavors, Supernormal is the place to be. Located in Melbourne’s CBD, this trendy restaurant offers a menu inspired by the culinary traditions of Japan, Korea, and China, all reinterpreted with a contemporary Australian touch. Chef Andrew McConnell’s playful approach to fusion cuisine has made Supernormal a go-to spot for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

Don’t miss the lobster roll, which has become something of a Melbourne legend. The restaurant’s open layout and casual vibe make it a great spot for both group dining and solo adventures, with the added bonus of an excellent sake and wine list.

5. Coda

Tucked away in an unassuming laneway in the heart of Melbourne, Coda offers a modern Australian menu with strong influences from French and Southeast Asian cuisine. The restaurant’s dynamic flavor combinations and chic industrial interior make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Chef Adam D’Sylva crafts dishes like yellowfin tuna with wasabi and ginger, and crispy pork with apple slaw, each bursting with flavor and creativity. The menu is designed for sharing, making Coda the perfect spot for a group dinner or a night out with friends. Don’t forget to explore their cocktail list, which features inventive concoctions designed to complement the food.

6. Estelle

Located in Northcote, Estelle is another standout in Melbourne’s modern Australian dining scene. Chef Scott Pickett delivers seasonal dishes that focus on simplicity and technique, allowing the ingredients to shine. The minimalist, yet elegant space is the perfect backdrop for the thoughtfully curated menu, which changes with the seasons.

Expect to find dishes like wood-fired octopus, beef tartare with native herbs, and a range of inventive vegetarian options. Estelle offers both à la carte and tasting menus, as well as an impressive wine list with a strong emphasis on local Australian producers.

7. Flower Drum

For over 40 years, Flower Drum has been a staple in Melbourne’s fine dining landscape, offering a luxurious take on Cantonese cuisine with a modern Australian flair. Executive Chef Anthony Lui blends traditional Chinese techniques with fresh Australian ingredients, creating an experience that is both familiar and innovative.

Diners rave about signature dishes like the Peking duck, honey-glazed pork, and seafood specialties such as lobster cooked in ginger and spring onion. The elegant setting and impeccable service make Flower Drum an ideal choice for a special night out, blending the best of East and West.

8. Ezard

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s Flinders Lane, Ezard is another example of how modern Australian cuisine can transcend cultural boundaries. Chef Teage Ezard’s “Australian freestyle” approach incorporates Asian-inspired flavors with European cooking techniques, creating a diverse and exciting menu.

Standout dishes include the signature crispy skin duck, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, and the famed ‘oyster shooter’ that kicks off many a meal at Ezard. With a sleek, modern interior and an extensive wine list, Ezard is perfect for those looking to indulge in a sophisticated dining experience.

9. The Stokehouse

Located on the iconic St Kilda Beach, The Stokehouse offers modern Australian dining with a view. The restaurant's menu is a tribute to Australia’s coastal lifestyle, with a strong emphasis on seafood and seasonal produce. The airy, beachside setting makes it perfect for a relaxed lunch or a romantic dinner at sunset.

Signature dishes include grilled kingfish with citrus and fennel, and the Moreton Bay bug tail served with native succulents. Whether you're stopping by for a casual bite or indulging in a full-course meal, the Stokehouse provides a quintessential Melbourne dining experience.

10. Sunda

Sunda blends Southeast Asian flavors with modern Australian cuisine in a way that is both innovative and incredibly satisfying. Located in Melbourne’s buzzing CBD, Sunda’s menu features bold flavors and unexpected combinations, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Chef Khanh Nguyen takes inspiration from his Vietnamese heritage, offering dishes like roti with Vegemite curry, and BBQ lamb ribs with fish sauce caramel. The restaurant’s sleek, modern design is the perfect setting for a culinary journey that showcases the diversity of modern Australian cuisine.

Conclusion

Melbourne’s modern Australian dining scene is a culinary adventure like no other, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that reflect the city’s multicultural heritage. From fine dining establishments to casual bistros, these restaurants represent the best of what Brighton café Melbourne has to offer. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring these top dining spots will give you a true taste of modern Australian cuisine at its finest.