Scott Renton

Expect an art deco-inspired facelift, and extended food and drinks menus – but the new publicans are focused on keeping the venue’s soul intact.

Hamish Vaccari’s Italian sub shop has moved out of his grandparents’ old house and into a new 118-seat home. Which means Nonna’s meatball subs and bolognaise-loaded fries are back.

Is there a better way to kick off your night than with snacks and a cocktail? In partnership with Red Rock Deli, The Espy is hosting a weekend aperitivo hour designed to ease you into the evening with the perfect food and drink pairings.

Swing by a family-run takeaway joint, settle in at a popular rooftop restaurant or let the good times roll at a rollicking neighbourhood cocktail bar.

Hit the CBD for a hidden laneway spot, drop into a buzzing Fitzroy diner or try tacos made from scratch, the right way.

The popular Sydney Road boozer has hosted thousands of gigs since opening in 2018.

Hit the chaotic CBD cafe for $4 St Ali coffee, matcha by the litre and a healthy shock to the system.

A Korean hangover soup and noodle restaurant with lines out the door, a charming corner store serving Lebanese-leaning baked goods, and a bar with serious ’70s swagger have all joined The Hot List as of today.

The menu draws on the history of the heritage space, which once played host to an influential 19th-century botanist. Cocktails like the Eucalypt, the Oak and the Fern are inspired by plants in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens.

From the menu to mood lighting and everything in between, the acclaimed chef knows how to throw the perfect dinner at home. In partnership with Boutique Homes, we share his tips.

And it’s run on the same ethos, so expect unconventional cocktails – based on banh mi and Coco Pops and more.

A lucky group of five will score three nights’ glamping accommodation, festival passes to Grampians Grape Escape and return transfers across the weekend.