melbourne Function Hire
Cutler & Co
FITZROY
The flagship of celebrated chef Andrew McConnell’s restaurant empire is a lesson in refined elegance. From the leather booths to the chic front bar, it’s a perfect spot for a special occasion. Experience McConnell’s renowned fine-dining experience with the degustation.
Rockpool Bar & Grill
SOUTHBANK
An elegant Australian steak restaurant championing sustainable, grass-fed beef sourced from the likes of Blackmore Wagyu and Cape Grim. Various cuts are dry-aged in house, enhanced by a selection of classic sides, raw seafood and pasta. There's also a tome-like wine list to rival any in the country.
Porgie & Mr Jones
HAWTHORN
Don't be fooled by the diminutive shopfront. It opens up into a bustling, multi-roomed cafe.
Mr Wolf
ST KILDA
This striking, forest-themed dining room has been a destination for pizza and other Italian classics since 2004.
The Atlantic Restaurant and Oyster Bar
SOUTHBANK
A vast temple to seafood, located inside Crown Casino.
Maha Restaurant
MELBOURNE
The flavours at celebrity chef Shane Delia’s opulent Maha are familiar, but they’re assembled with more finesse than your average Middle Eastern restaurant. Vibrant mezze, a must-have lamb shoulder and an affordable wine list make this a winner for group dining.
The Funderdome
HIGHPOINT CITY
This giant, 2000-square-metre space has a bit of fun for everyone. Bring your crew, colleagues or kids for its Coney Island-inspired minigolf, arcade games and ’70s karaoke. When you’re all gamed out, there are fries, hotdogs and fun cocktails.
Farro Pizzeria Thornbury
THORNBURY
Farro is named after the Italian word for “spelt”, which underpins many dishes at this homely pizzeria and pasta house. Go for its Italian appetisers before feasting on homemade spelt pastas and woodfired pizzas. Its inclusive menu has plenty of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options, too.
The Gem Bar and Dining
COLLINGWOOD
This saloon-style pub has an Elvis fixation. The boot-worn floorboards feel lived in, and you might even catch a cowboy hat-wearing country act. The food sticks to the Americana theme: think Southern fried chicken and cheeseburgers.
Speakeasy Kitchen and Bar
PRAHRAN
A classic name attached to a deceptively large space that's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Horn African Cafe & Restaurant
COLLINGWOOD
Authentic Ethiopian cuisine and live music make this a stand-out venue.
The Smith
PRAHRAN
This spacious gastropub serves honest and elevated pub food alongside sharp cocktails. Go for its excellent oysters, gooey burrata, hulking burgers and juicy steaks.
The Smith
PRAHRAN
This spacious gastropub serves honest and elevated pub food alongside sharp cocktails. Go for its excellent oysters, gooey burrata, hulking burgers and juicy steaks.
Caz Reitop’s Dirty Secrets
COLLINGWOOD
A little gem, with intimate corners and old-world charm.
Hasti Bala Bar
MELBOURNE
A wild jungle safari function space at The Carlton Club.
Scopri
CARLTON
Inspired by Italy’s Piedmont region, the Scopri team plates up house-made pastas and heavy-hitting secondi such as kid goat cooked on the bone. Don’t be fooled by the starchy white tablecloths – there’s nothing but a friendly, welcoming vibe at this Carlton classic.
Cafe Latte
TOORAK
Make a quick stop in southern Italy for anytime of day.
400 Gradi
BRUNSWICK EAST
A Naples inspired Italian restaurant with some of the best pizza in town.
Vue de Monde
MELBOURNE
Vue de Monde translates to “worldview” in French – and that’s just what you’ll get at this celebrated fine diner. Perched 55 floors above the city on the Rialto Building’s former observation deck, it boasts an impressive 360-degree vista from Docklands to the Dandenongs.
Mr Wow’s Emporium
FITZROY
Pinball machines, table tennis, pool and bocce with decent cocktails? Believe it.
Brunswick Mess Hall
BRUNSWICK
A mix of business – from boutique beers to summer punch and Asian cuisine served Spanish-style.
Aviary Hotel
ABBOTSFORD
This cosy bar and eating house features stained-glass windows and archways, much like a cathedral. Its objects of worship? Elevated pub classics and steaks dressed with chimichurri.
Elk Room
FITZROY
More cocktails by The Everleigh in a dark, candlelit bar next door.
Misuzu’s
ALBERT PARK
This Japanese restaurant has a particular emphasis on traditional fare – sushi and sashimi, namely – as well as sake: there's an imposing and ever-growing selection on offer.
2 Brothers
MOORABBIN
A creative but approachable brewery and bar.
Hampton Wine Co.
HAMPTON EAST
A well-appointed bar where boutique wines are matched with modern European food.
Flying Brick Cider House
WALLINGTON
Take your tasting paddle out on the lawn.
CBCo Brewing
PORT MELBOURNE
The Margaret River brewery’s east-coast headquarters.
The Park Werribee
WERRIBEE
A few steps from Werribee Station, The Park is a craft beer-lover’s haven, with an overwhelming 30 taps pouring everything from hazy IPAs to big-name brews. The comprehensive menu spans pub favourites, woodfired pizzas and more.
The Catfish
FITZROY
An unpretentious spot for great beer, live music and authentic Philly cheesesteaks.
Henry and the Fox
MELBOURNE
A true all-rounder, whether you’re dropping in for breakfast or post-work drinks.
Rupert on Rupert
COLLINGWOOD
A verdant greenhouse bar with plenty of natural light.
Bottega
MELBOURNE
The tables at Bottega spill out onto the footpath much like they would in Rome or Florence, luring in passers-by with an energetic atmosphere. Mains usually feature produce from owner Denis Lucey’s farm, while an expertly curated wine list offers around 150 bottles from both Australia and Italy.
Mr & Mrs P
BRIGHTON
A restaurant and bar with an at-home feel.
Pinotta
FITZROY NORTH
Sit up at the bar or outside in the heart of Fitzroy North village over an unpretentious and affordable bowl of pasta. The owner of the neighbourhood spot is a self-professed wine lover, filling out the mostly Victorian wine list with ones she’d drink herself. Better yet, you can bring your own.
The Riversleigh
BAIRNSDALE
Victorian-era lodgings with modern-day perks.
Prince Alfred Hotel Carlton
CARLTON
Right opposite a university, this is a fine spot for students to miss lectures in. But it also welcomes everyone with its pub classics (from parmas to porterhouse steaks) and lush rooftop bar.
Storyville
MELBOURNE
A two-storey portal to another land that works as an opulent bar and your own personal fairytale to get caught up in.
Donovans
ST KILDA
This personable institution has been around since 1995 and retains a huge base of regular customers who love its classic, consistent menu.
Half Acre
SOUTH MELBOURNE
This multifaceted space couples the drop-in spirit of a pub with the food of a more polished eatery.
Oakridge Wines
COLDSTREAM
Undulating hills planted with pinot noir and chardonnay, and a restaurant on par with the city’s best. This is a winery worth travelling for.
Matteo's
FITZROY NORTH
Although the menu changes often at this neighbourhood restaurant, regulars keep coming back for the beautiful dining room, old-school Italian hospitality and extensive wine list.
Jamsheed Urban Winery
PRESTON
One of Australia’s best winemakers is behind this unusual cellar door, which feels like a mix between a brewery and a dive bar.
Pavilion
GEELONG
This historic two-storey building is right on Eastern Beach, probably the best location in Geelong. Visit by day for dimmies and potato cakes out front, white-chocolate French toast inside and fun Asian fare at Caledonia Shores, the restaurant upstairs.
Yering Station
YARRA GLEN
Victoria’s first vineyard is still one of its finest, and an absolute Yarra Valley essential. Enjoy a meal with panoramic valley views in the main building, or head to the heritage-listed cellar door for a tasting.
Yarrawood
YARRA GLEN
A relaxed, friendly winery that’s perfect for a family day out. Bring your picnic rug, order a grazing platter and find a patch of space out on the lawns. Then, take in the sweeping views out over the valley.
Zonzo Estate
YARRA GLEN
A sleek and spacious Italian restaurant and wine bar in the Yarra Valley. Rustic features like the old milking shed and barn make it a picturesque spot to enjoy a diverse range of wine varieties, mostly French. Plus, there’s a sharing menu that includes arancini, burrata and pizzas.
Afghan Gallery
FITZROY
This Brunswick Street institution is one of Australia’s oldest Afghan restaurants. Adored by locals and tourists alike, the veggo- and vegan-friendly spot is one of Fitzroy’s most essential dining experiences.
Flovie
CARLTON
This florist cafe is a double threat. Come for a creative, floral-themed breakfast, then grab some fresh cut flowers on your way out.
Aangan West Footscray
WEST FOOTSCRAY
Come to this West Footscray institution for rich curries, aromatic biryanis, and kebabs straight from the charcoal-fired tandoor.
La Maison
GATEWAY ISLAND
Home-style Lebanese cooking in a collection of historic buildings.
Little Miss
WODONGA
A cocktail and wine bar (with a killer list of Champagnes) right next to one of the best bistros in town.
White Rabbit Brewery & Barrel Hall
SOUTH GEELONG
The experimental sibling to craft beer giant Little Creatures has its own buzzing brewery in South Geelong. Aged ales are the specialty here, and there's a short menu of European-influenced bites to go with them.
Carter Lovett
ELSTERNWICK
This Victorian era-inspired cafe and diner from a group of hospitality veterans makes good use of the beautiful space it lives in. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or a drink, you’ll find a menu of spryly tweaked classics.
Stomping Ground Morris Moor
MOORABBIN
The Collingwood brewery’s third venue, located in a cavernous old cigarette factory, has room for 460 punters. Find 25-plus taps pouring easy-drinking and out-there ales, plus some exclusive to the site. On the menu: cheesy pretzels, parmesan-crumbed schnitties and steaks with boozy bacon jam.
Henry Sugar
CARLTON NORTH
Henry Sugar is the kind of wine bar every neighbourhood should have. It’s intimate yet communal; sophisticated yet relaxed. The mix of contemporary Australian fare, sharp cocktails and easy-drinking natural wines are a sure-fire bet your first time here won’t be the last.
Bon Ap' Petit Bistro
FITZROY
Not your average French bistro. Think steak frites, French onion soup and crème brûlée – but forget the waistcoated staff. The wine list covers the major French regions and follows on with whiskies and classic cocktails.
Captain Melville
MELBOURNE
One of Melbourne’s oldest drinking spots, this old boozer has come a long way since 1853. Inside, enjoy hearty pub grub, curries and pasta – all surrounded by lush greenery and old bluestone walls.
Dessous
MELBOURNE
Lively cocktails and refined snacks are on the cards at this dark and daring basement bar. But it’s really the wine list you come here for – it’s an adventure in unfamiliar regions and varietals, and focuses on biodynamic and sustainable drops.
Holmes Hall
MOONEE PONDS
A neighbourhood watering hole with a pub-like atmosphere. Nab a spot in the beer garden to sip one-off collab beers, slide into a banquette and enjoy a variety of share plates and mains, or sneak off and play Jurassic Park-themed pinball.
The Boathouse
MOONEE PONDS
An all-day eatery set in the picturesque Maribyrnong Park. Sit out on the deck with eggs Benny, loaded burgers or fresh seafood. The best part? The views of the Maribyrnong River.
Little Prince Wine
ST KILDA
A Euro-inspired wine bar, wine shop and deli set beneath The Prince Hotel. Enjoy classic Australian and European wines; cheese, charcuterie and small snacking plates from the deli; and descend to one of Melbourne’s most impressive wine cellars.
Fitzroy Town Hall Hotel
FITZROY
This is one of Melbourne’s most underrated pubs, where veteran chef Sean Donovan blends French techniques with Aussie barbeque. The historic hotel has a casual front bar, two dining rooms and an untouched wine cellar.
Panama Dining Room and Bar
FITZROY
Ascend three flights of stairs to reach this convivial loft, where arched windows offer views of Collingwood. The bar menu offers refined snacks, while the slightly quieter restaurant serves heartier, modern Australian dishes of market fish, oysters and meaty share plates.
Ramblers Ale Works
HAWTHORN
Go for globally inspired beers, from a West Coast IPA to a French-inspired saison, at this brewery in a converted mechanics’ warehouse. Choose from 12 house taps, or something from the mostly Victorian wine list. Also on the menu are loaded American-inspired burgers, toasties and burrito bowls.
Thai Tide
MELBOURNE
A neon-lit Thai diner serving dishes rarely seen outside the country. Order punchy betel leaf wraps, caramelly mackerel and ant larvae soup. Plus, there are lo-fi Australian wines and disposable cameras to capture your night.
Windsor Castle Hotel
WINDSOR
This quirky lime castle is an improbable oasis away from bustling Chapel Street, and it has a huge courtyard. During the warmer months it’s thronged with locals, all drinking iced beverages and frosty beers.
Cam’s Kiosk
ABBOTSFORD
This neighbourhood spot has an all-day cafe, diner, gallery space and courtyard with views of the Abbotsford Convent. It’ll take you right through your day, from your morning coffee to your late-night share plates and local lo-fi wines. As for food? Expect hearty veggie soups, charcuterie plates, mussels steeped in chilli and tomato sauce, and more.
The Farm Cafe
ABBOTSFORD
Visit this laidback cafe for its simple yet satisfying breakfasts (think a loaded ploughman’s lunch), consistently good coffee and cold-pressed juices. And follow it up with a stroll around the Abbotsford Convent.
Benzina Cantina
PRESTON
Hit this neon-lit Mexican bar for tacos and burritos loaded with pork belly, spiced chicken or mixed veggies. Devour your tacos in the cactus-lined courtyard or spacious dining hall, or climb to the rooftop for easy-drinking Margaritas and cold Mexican beers.
Little Drop of Poison
ELTHAM
A Spanish tapas bar. A Mexican taqueria. A Chilean picada. This Latin American oasis in the suburbs is a mash-up of all three. Come for classic pintxos and raciones, backed up by a thoughtful drinks list heavy on sour cocktails.
Mr Miyagi
WINDSOR
Colourful, neon-lit and always a party. Go for Japanese fusion including salty edamame, crunchy karaage and the ever-popular salmon and nori taco. Plus: frozen and fruity cocktails, sake and umeshu, and a tight Japanese whisky list.
Co Bake Space
RICHMOND
This peachy space is designed for takeovers by cakers, floral artists and other creatives. Expect lacy vintage cakes, floral sculptures and watercolour cakes, plus workshops, tastings and lots of collaborations.
Cassette
KENSINGTON
This sustainably minded corner cafe composts on-site and finds clever ways to use excess stock on its globetrotting menu. Find loaded potato rosti, Reuben sandwiches and innovative coffee-spiked bacon and eggs.
The Everleigh
FITZROY
This cocktail bar's eye for detail is second to none – it even has an in-house ice company to ensure every drink gets the perfect block.
Bar Margaux
MELBOURNE
Walk down the nondescript staircase and let your eyes adjust. There’s no natural light at this New York-inspired French bistro – that’s why it’s so easy to lose track of time here. It's also home to one of Melbourne's most famous late-night burgers.
The Courthouse North Melbourne
NORTH MELBOURNE
At this 1857-built art deco pub, enjoy a meal cooked on the hotel’s parilla grill and English-style ales served from hand pumps. Plus, stunning Sunday roasts and a record player spinning Dolly Parton and the Beatles.
Migrant Coffee
WEST FOOTSCRAY
Two best friends founded this Filipino coffee spot, which serves bagels with Filipino, Thai and Maori influences. There’s also coffee by Coffee Supreme, alongside all-day Mimosas and Bloody Marys.
Pincho Disco
COLLINGWOOD
At this playful Latin American diner, you can watch the chefs prep pinchos and anticuchos (Peruvian skewers) by the open kitchen. Or, slide into a booth for woodfired dry-aged steak, Grapefruit Margaritas and maximalist vibes.
Basils Farm
SWAN BAY
Biodynamic wines and straight-from-the-garden lunches overlooking Swan Bay.
Friends of Mine
RICHMOND
An all-day every-day cafe with a solid list of brunch cocktails.
Oko Rooftop and Cafe
FITZROY
This progressive cafe by a mother-son duo is in a bright yellow, plant-filled space. Come for brunch classics with Mediterranean flavours, from Jenga-like polenta stacks to family-recipe meatball subs.
Brewmanity
SOUTH MELBOURNE
Hop to this taproom and rooftop bar, which was co-founded by an AFL legend. It’s pulling pints of limited-edition brews alongside share plates – like karaage chicken bites, or beer-braised lamb with creamy slaw.
The Botanical
SOUTH YARRA
It’s been around for years, but this sprawling pub still pulls a crowd with its post-Tan brunches, upscale pub fare and footy season steak nights. It serves top-tier steaks (including Wagyu), which are dry-aged in house.
Moon Dog Wild West
FOOTSCRAY
Moon Dog’s bar in the Franco Cozzo building leans heavily into an old-Hollywood interpretation of the American West. It comes complete with a mechanical bull, “Cowboy Shots” and a Blues Brothers-inspired bar.
Citizen Cafe
MURRUMBEENA
Locals come first at this neighbourhood cafe, set in a former milk bar. You’ll spot them out the front enjoying a reimagined smashed avo and Padre coffee. Or, on warmer days, in the courtyard with an Espresso Martini.
Gilbees
ABBOTSFORD
Community comes first at this homely wine bar, which celebrates the tight-knit scene around it. Come for share-friendly seafood dishes, local wines, or a browse of the local art for sale on the walls.
Kahaani
CARLTON
Kahaani, which means “story” in Hindi, showcases deep cuts from India’s diverse regional cuisines. Try the refined reshmi kebab, or the family-recipe goat curry that predates Partition.
Re’em
GRUYERE
This 200-acre property has a slick Chinese-inspired restaurant with uninterrupted lake views. Lunch in the restaurant or stop by the cellar door for snacks. Or turn your day trip into a weekender and stay in one of its 16 luxe rooms.
Arlechin
MELBOURNE
Whether it’s bolognaise jaffles, midnight spaghetti, or tiramisu, the Grossi family’s revived bar will keep you eating (and drinking) in style, post midnight. Don’t miss the cocktail that puts puttanesca in a glass.
Olympia
OAKLEIGH
Settle in at the car-park-turned-rooftop-bar for Greek-inspired cocktails or unwind in a booth downstairs. Wines are mostly Greek and Aussie, and share plates include saganaki croquettes and taramasalata with caviar.
Rombe
BURWOOD EAST
This sprawling urban farm and eatery sits in an unlikely spot – atop a suburban shopping centre. It’s a rooftop oasis, complete with all-day, farm-driven fare and views of the Dandenong Ranges.
Molli
ABBOTSFORD
A slick bistro and bar by hospo heavyweight Nathan Toleman. The pastas are made in-house and the cocktails come fermented and served in punchbowls. And there’s a rooftop function space with raised beds, chickens and city views.