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

Canned seafood, wine and a moody, low-lit ambience. Perfect.

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

The lights are low and the cocktails are good.

The late-night bar that replaced a pizza institution pays respect to its legacy, and has an atmosphere of romance.

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 bar is helping out with the liquor drought in sober Camberwell.

A place for serious grape lovers.

A quintessentially European dining and drinking experience.

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.

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

Skip dinner and head straight to the cocktails.

Order cocktails; have them delivered to your plush seats.

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

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.

A Euro-trip to take again and again.

The follow-up to Neighbourhood Wine is cool and comfortable. Take a seat at the bar or in front of an open fire and feel the tension melt off your shoulders.

Small, intimate and delicious.

Asian fusion from morning through to night.

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

A stunning wine bar with a vegetarian-friendly menu.

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

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 big gun classic in Italian dining in Melbourne.

Some of the best dining and views in the country.

A bold, contemporary diner dedicated to cooking with fire and smoke, from the owner-chef of Estelle and Saint Crispin.

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.

The flagship of Andrew McConnell's restaurant empire.

Restaurateur Rinaldo Di Stasio is back in the city with an extraordinary restaurant that blends high art, high drama and high cuisine.