This Melbourne icon divides food snobs – but our critic keeps going back

This Melbourne icon divides food snobs – but our critic keeps going back

It may not be Melbourne’s best French restaurant. But it might be the city’s best-loved bistro.

  • byBesha Rodell

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This cosy Japanese-Korean cook-your-own grill house channels campfire vibes in the city

This cosy Japanese-Korean cook-your-own grill house channels campfire vibes in the city

Grab a booth and cover the table with small,funky dishes and beautiful meats to grill over your own communal fire.

  • byTerry Durack
Stonkingly good bar food and Euro aesthetic set this stylish inner west spot apart

Stonkingly good bar food and Euro aesthetic set this stylish inner west spot apart

Pets and children are welcome at new Marrickville small bar We Three,run by a mother-and-daughter duo serving excellent snacks.

  • byLenny Ann Low
There isn’t a house wine here,but there are ‘house oysters’ (and they don’t get better)
Review
St Kilda

There isn’t a house wine here,but there are ‘house oysters’ (and they don’t get better)

Let yourself be steered off-road and try a different pairing at oyster and wine bar The Walrus.

  • byDani Valent
Not too fancy,not too casual,this bistro finds the Goldilocks zone (and brings the ’90s back)
Review
Carlton

Not too fancy,not too casual,this bistro finds the Goldilocks zone (and brings the ’90s back)

Nostalgic for those elegant bistros of the not-too-distant past? Even if you weren’t there,you’ll recognise the appeal of this Carlton newcomer.

  • byBesha Rodell
Does Merivale magic strike again at Good Luck Restaurant Lounge?
Review
Sydney

Does Merivale magic strike again at Good Luck Restaurant Lounge?

Justin Hemmes’ latest venue is a high-energy rabbit warren of a space with a menu that’s just as super-charged.

  • byTerry Durack
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Good Food Guide editor reveals his go-to spot for a slap-up meal (and it’s Nigella approved)

Good Food Guide editor reveals his go-to spot for a slap-up meal (and it’s Nigella approved)

There’s nothing quite like this caviar-topped dish in Sydney,and there isn’t a restaurant quite like Ester either.

  • byCallan Boys
‘Tough economic climates are temporary,but community is forever’:Why Gemini is a gem
Review
Coburg

‘Tough economic climates are temporary,but community is forever’:Why Gemini is a gem

This crowd-funded cafe,bar,restaurant and pantry has changed Coburg for the better. If you’re local,you’re lucky.

  • byDani Valent
These ‘genius’ dumplings are not what you might expect at a typical suburban Thai
Review
St Kilda

These ‘genius’ dumplings are not what you might expect at a typical suburban Thai

Charlong is clever,creative,run by women and could only be in Melbourne.

  • byDani Valent
Can a food truck really turn into a fine diner? This smoky skewer spot gives it a red-hot go
Review
Enmore

Can a food truck really turn into a fine diner? This smoky skewer spot gives it a red-hot go

It’s quite the switch,but Firepop manages to keep the thrill of the grill.

  • byTerry Durack
A little Japanese,a little French but a lot to love at this Armadale passion project
Review
Armadale

A little Japanese,a little French but a lot to love at this Armadale passion project

Don’t be deterred by the words “fusion food”. At this High Street newcomer,two cuisines meld with sensitivity and purpose.

  • byDani Valent