Where Chefs Eat: 14 Top Chefs Share the Best Melbourne Restaurants for When You’re With a Group

The hardest part about getting a big group together is usually finding a date and time that works for everyone. Then there’s the question of where to go. As we gear up to prime season for family catch ups and big group reunions, we asked 14 top Melbourne chefs where they go when they’re dining with a crowd.

Tom Sarafian, Zareh

Jim’s Greek Tavern. It’s not only one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, but hands down the best experience for a large group. No menu, no fuss and BYO beers and wines make for the best fun!

Andy Allen, Masterchef

I reckon the back room at Capitano. I used to live a couple of streets away, so it was a go-to for big or small groups and takeaway.

Jung Eun Chae, Chae

Chopstick Delight in Mulgrave. Authentic Chinese restaurant serving generous portions. I like going with a big group of friends so I can order various dishes to share.

Junda Khoo, Ho Jiak

I’d say Secret Kitchen. The free-range chicken and jellyfish salad there is awesome, as are the roast goose and roast duck.

Charlie Duffy, Daybaker

Jim’s Greek Tavern. It’s lively, a little chaotic, but full of charm. The hospitality is warm and the food is so tasty. Bring your booze and they’ll do the rest.

Robbie Noble, Cherrywood at Residence

Juicy Bao in Chinatown. Pork and prawn wontons with chilli and peanut. Fish soup, big bowls of rice and big plates of greens perfectly drenched in garlic, oyster sauce and ginger to name a couple of favourites. It’s so good to see the dumplings made right in front of you with such detail.

Nornie Bero, Mabu Mabu

Builders Arms Hotel – it’s just perfect for groups. The food comes out to share, the energy is always buzzing, and everyone leaves happy and full.

Ross Lusted, Marmelo

Supernormal. The atmosphere is always lively, and the food is a crowd-pleaser.

Mo Zhou, Gaea

Ling Nan can never go wrong. It’s fast, delicious and affordable.

Nat Thaipun, author of Thai: Anywhere and Everywhere

Morning: A1. Lunch: Pho Hung Vuong 2 in Richmond. Dinner: Goldy’s, I love it. Or Hotel Lombardo. Great pizza, drinks and a pool table.

Alex Kaew, Charlong

I love organising group dinners at Korean barbeque buffet BBQ King on King Street. The highlight is grilling meat at the table while sharing laughs (and a bottle of soju) with friends.

Audrey Allard, Holy Sugar

Johnny’s Green Room. It’s a great location and the perfect rooftop as we’re moving into warmer weather.

Frankie Cox, Crop

Jim’s Greek Tavern. It’s impossible to have a bad time. You arrive with your BYO and the rest is looked after. I’m always the one that orders, so I love a set menu that allows me to just relax and be present.

Eun Hee An, Moon Mart

We had our Moon Mart staff party at Panda Hot Pot and it was such a fun time.