The slimmer version of Andrew McConnell's Cumulus Inc. has the same elegant charm.

Tapas on a rooftop, with vermouth on tap and killer city views.

The lights are low and the cocktails are good.

A rollicking good-times pizzeria from the Leonard's House of Love crew.

A trio of hospitality lifers is behind this smart wine bar, which is equally good for snacking as a full, sit-down dinner.

Walk down the nondescript staircase and let your eyes adjust. There’s no natural light at this bistro – that’s why it’s so easy to lose track of time.

Fresh, handmade pasta rolled from the best possible ingredients is the draw at this intimate osteria.

This all-day diner serves the goods any time you need.

This spot just off St Kilda Beach is one of Melbourne's original Mexican restaurants, and it's still one of its best. That's thanks to an uncompromising commitment to quality ingredients. The drinks list, which includes a handful of Margaritas, complements the fun, shareable food.

A welcoming space filled with craft beer and classic books.

Fun, informal and always vibing.

Tacos, tequila and a party atmosphere.

The most comfortable bar in Northcote.

A bottle shop and bar that hasn't forgotten the Europe of yesteryear.

Get to know each other over one of 230 bottles of wine.

Cosy booths, great drinks and genuine service to set the mood.

The best seats are at the bar in this subterranean Japanese restaurant.

Order cocktails; have them delivered to your plush seats.

Two-parts Danish minimalist furniture store, one-part Italian wine and cocktail bar.

A bar that's all about Italian aperitifs and salumi boards.

Eat cicchetti (Italian tapas) then head to a movie at Cinema Nova.

Share a crisp wine over some aged meats.

A speakeasy-style bar that's all about cocktails.

This charmingly refurbed pub feels like it’s been around forever. Park yourself in the sunny, plant-filled atrium or nab a spot out front, then order a riff on the Chiko Roll, spicy mussel “schnitzels” and a Goldy’s Gaytime for dessert.

A Euro-trip to take again and again.

Small, intimate and delicious.

Asian fusion from morning through to night.

For a quieter, less flashy date that's more about comfort.

This neighbourhood bistro and wine bar keeps going from strength to strength. Its latest incarnation, guided by the steady hands of owner co-owner Hannah Green and head chef Rosheen Kaul, is one of the best places to eat and drink in Melbourne.

Tipo 00 has an offering too good to refuse: carb-loaded, butter-drenched pasta.

This swish bar – decked out in emerald marble and plush velvet – was once a Bakers Delight. Now, it's a buzzy bistro and wine bar from a former Fitzroy Town Hall head chef and the owner of nearby wine bar Barkley Johnson. Visit for a caramelised-onion baguette, whole fish swimming in miso butter and a peachy aperitif cocktail.

Pairs a mid-century European fit-out with modern, effortless cool. Try toasties and coffee in the morning; and oysters and wine at night.

The Colonel’s got nothing on this fiery Nashville-style fried-chicken joint.

Some of the best dining and views in the country.

This once-esoteric fine diner has a more approachable format under executive chef Elijah Holland. It’s serving chic, accessible food that defies any one cultural influence.