Andrew McConnell
Andrew McConnell is one of the most influential figures in Melbourne’s culinary scene. The chef and restaurateur continues to recalibrate the city’s dining culture and raises expectations with each new opening. He’s largely responsible for making fine dining-level food and experiences accessible to Melburnians at his venues, which have become ingrained in the city’s culinary culture. Here are all the chef's sharp restaurants and bars, together in one place.
Words by Scott Renton
Updated on 13 August 2026
Restaurant
Cote Basque
Andrew McConnell and Jo McGann’s CBD spot is an ode to the grill restaurants of Spain’s Basque region – and a nod to the history of the building that houses it.
Bar
Marion Wine Bar
Pick a bunch of shared dishes from the day’s menu on the wall. Order some wine with help from the switched-on staff. The format’s simple, but everything is just right.
Restaurant
Supernormal
Supernormal is beautifully executed; a slick, understated fit out, an open kitchen and that indefinable X-factor. You’ll find plenty of Chinese, Korean and Japanese influences on the menu.
Restaurant
Cutler
Cutler is a lesson in refined elegance. From the leather booths to the chic front bar, it’s a perfect spot for a special occasion. The seasonal menu is the star here – ask the staff for matched wines.
Bar
Builders Arms Hotel
Throw back easy-drinking lagers with a burger or rotisserie of the day in the front bar. The excellent table-service bistro, though, is where it’s clear you’re in a McConnell establishment.
Restaurant
Gimlet at Cavendish House
McConnell’s signature flair is all over this grand bar and dining room, from the exacting service to the comforting European dishes.
Restaurant
Cumulus Inc.
While McConnell didn’t invent Flinders Lane as a dining destination, his all-day eatery definitely sat on the crest of a wave of new and exciting openings for the strip.
Shop
Meatsmith Fitzroy
The bright, marble-countered space, with its high ceilings, is more meat emporium than standard snag shop. Display cabinets are stocked with perfect lamb racks and rare-breed pork.
Shop
Meatsmith St Kilda
This St Kilda outpost followed the Smith Street spot a couple of years later, toting the same marble counters, excellent produce and service from smart, green-aproned staff.
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