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.

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

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.

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.

The most comfortable bar in Northcote.

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.

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

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

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. Plus, very Aussie cocktails such as the Bloody Oath and Bob’s Your Uncle, and weekly pool comps.

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.

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.

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.

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.