Vue de Monde

Given Vue de Monde’s reputation, a meal at the restaurant comes with expectations nearly as high as its lofty location. Luckily, it hits the mark with some of the best dining in the country. Located 55 floors up, on what was the observation deck of the Rialto, the restaurant’s third home boasts an impressive 360-degree view of the city, spanning from the Docklands to the Dandenongs. Executive chef Hugh Allen has steered Vue away from its European-leaning beginnings towards an offering more informed by native Australian ingredients and techniques.

Complementing the dramatic view is a multi-million-dollar fit-out by award-winning architecture firm Elenberg Fraser. The space dark is sleek with a modern Australian twist. Burnt jarrah wood appears throughout the space. The tables are covered with kangaroo hide and are large enough to seat a whole family, yet are generally dedicated to couples. They hold a simple scattering of river stones that cleverly double as salt and pepper-shakers, butter vessels and cutlery holders. 'Roo makes another appearance, in the form of fluffy chairs (and might even be on the menu).

Each dish is brought to the table and explained by one of the charming and insightful chefs. There's one set menu – which ranges in size between 14 and 17 courses. The menu changes daily, but dishes have included a radish broth with fermented koji; an avocado tart; or room-temperature caviar served on top of a macadamia purée. For dessert, there’s the restaurant’s signature soufflé.

Dining at Vue is as much an experience as it is a meal. Theatrics seem to infiltrate every aspect of dining, from the open kitchen to the staff and of course the food itself. With such seamless service, it’s very easy to put your complete faith in these hospitality professionals and let the drama unfold.

Lui Bar, Vue de Monde’s sibling venue, also sits on the 55th floor. It’s complete with a circular bar made from stone and, like the flagship, remarkable city views.