melbourne Romantic Spots
France-Soir
SOUTH YARRA
Open since 1986, France Soir is one of Melbourne’s pre-eminent restaurants – attracting the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Mick Jagger. Find classic French staples from steak tartare to margret de canard (duck breast) for mains, to crème brûlée for dessert.
Stokehouse
ST KILDA
Seafood and stunning ocean views – it's no surprise this is such an institution.
I Carusi II
ST KILDA
Artisanal 12-inch pizza bliss south of the Yarra.
Cicciolina
ST KILDA
With an impressive collection of art covering the walls, Cicciolina feels like a dinner party in an eccentric painter's home – and it’s almost always full. Diners young and old are drawn back for its simple Italian cuisine and lengthy wine list. Enjoy drops from Italy, France and beyond from the bar out the back while you wait for a table.
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.
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.
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.
Grossi Florentino
MELBOURNE
There aren’t many Melbourne restaurants left where they’ll open the door for you, pull out your chair and fold a napkin on your lap. Impeccable service is a fine backdrop to a three-course meal of traditional Italian decadence.
Philippe
MELBOURNE
Classic-but-contemporary dishes from Melbourne’s French-cuisine master.
Il Bacaro
MELBOURNE
At this CBD stalwart, you'll find old-school service, a lengthy wine list and plenty of classic Italian charm. Dishes here have a Venetian focus, and include a zucchini risotto plus a signature Moreton Bay bug spaghettini. For drinks, opt for a classic Bellini or a parmesan-infused Martini.
Rivendell Farm Cottages
TAMBO UPPER
Luxury cottages on a working farm, with a private chef so you won't have to lift a finger.
The Riversleigh
BAIRNSDALE
Victorian-era lodgings with modern-day perks.
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.
Lui Bar at Vue de Monde
MELBOURNE
The cocktails and snacks at Vue de Monde’s adjoining bar are served with all the creative flair you’d expect from one of the country’s finest diners. Walk-ins are always welcome here, which means you don’t have to pay high-end degustation prices to experience the sparkling city view. It’s the best in Melbourne, hands down.
Airstream Hotel at Mitchelton Winery
NAGAMBIE
Stay in one of seven vintage American-made caravans flanked by lush vineyards. It’s a short stroll to the winery’s hotel and day spa, and its unmissable farm-to-table restaurant, The Muse.
Restaurant St Lawrence
HURSTBRIDGE
Named for the patron saint of cooks, this homey fine diner by a pair of Levantine Hill alumni champions produce from the Yarra Valley and pairs it with drops from the region’s top wineries. On the weekend, the low-lit dining room transforms into a sunny bakeshop selling cakes, tarts, cookies and more.
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.
Smithward
COLLINGWOOD
It may feel like a neighbourhood wine bar somewhere in Europe, but this tiny spot exclusively pours Victorian vino as a rule. It also goes hard on the cheese front – mop up some melty, stretchy raclette with a stub of crusty sourdough for the full Smithward experience.