Dinogo’s Melbourne Foodie Guide

When pondering “What defines Australian cuisine?” it’s a bit like asking, “What is American food?” The cliché might involve meat pies and Vegemite, but the true answer is a vibrant fusion of banh mi, souvlaki, pippies in XO sauce, steaming bowls of bun bo hue, crisp cannoli, and yes, meat pies as well. While cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth each offer their unique take with warmer climates and better beaches, Melbourne’s culinary scene truly stands out for its delicious diversity.

On the southeastern edge of Australia, Melbourne combines historic Victorian charm with dynamic street art across a tapestry of unique neighborhoods. Whether exploring the Yarra River or the bustling Central Business District (CBD), Melbourne is often likened to San Francisco. Yet, it bears closer resemblance to Chicago’s vibrant energy, New York’s boldness, and LA’s varied food culture. Despite the comparisons, Melbourne remains an exceptional and distinctive destination for dining amid its iconic gum trees, local pubs, and cricket fields.

Today, Melbourne is renowned for its all-day café culture — a perfect blend of excellent coffee and sophisticated brunches stemming from the city’s 1950s Italian espresso bars, which have now influenced global trends. Beneath this modern veneer of avocado toast lies a food scene that reflects the city’s diverse population. Greek, Italian, African, Lebanese, Southeast Asian, and Chinese flavors converge, while vibrant immigrant-run Mytouries preserve culinary traditions from around the world. A stroll through the CBD reveals a plethora of Asian-inspired treats, from creamy bubble tea to hand-pulled noodles and crispy fried chicken.

Despite its vibrant street-level offerings, Melbourne is celebrated as a premier restaurant city. From intimate cafés and charming trattorias to world-renowned dining rooms, the city’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors. Chefs showcase everything from crispy Chinese eggplant and artisanal pasta to exotic wichetty grubs, all served with a warmth that transforms diners into friends.

The Dinogo Guide to Melbourne invites you to indulge in everything from fluffy ricotta hotcakes and golden bowls of laksa to elaborate tasting menus, robust espresso martinis, and late-night souvlaki packed with fries (yes, chips). If the southern hemisphere can manage to have Santa visit in summer and toilets flush the other way, surely it can make the food taste even better. Forget the long flight—it's time to experience it all firsthand.

Excited to dive in? You can actually book your trip with Dinogo today, courtesy of travel experts Black Tomato. And don’t forget to download one of our tempting Melbourne phone wallpapers to start your adventure now.

Must-Try Eats in Melbourne

From fiery Sichuan eggplant and late-night souvlaki to the ever-popular avocado toast, discover the iconic dishes that define Melbourne, Australia’s culinary hotspot.

Seriously, Don’t Skip the Espresso Martini

In Melbourne, a city that lives and breathes coffee, this drink truly shines.

The Ultimate Guide to Enjoying a Meat Pie

Uncover the tale behind Australia’s beloved stadium snack.

The 38 Must-Visit Restaurants in Melbourne

From trendy Turkish breakfasts and exceptional espresso to unforgettable late-night souvlaki, Melbourne, Australia’s dining epicenter, excels in nearly every culinary category.

Welcome to the World's Premier Breakfast Destination

In Melbourne, breakfast is undeniably the star of the day.

A Flawless 24-Hour Food Journey Through Melbourne

Your ultimate guide for a day of culinary delights

And What About Sydney?

A Slightly Biased Case for Melbourne's Rival City

The Chinese Food Renaissance

Melbourne Has Never Been Better for Enjoying Chinese Cuisine

Stock Up on All the Snacks

Tim Tams, Cheezels, and Vegemite — the best souvenirs come from the Aussie snack aisle

What Exactly Is a Flat White?

Turns out, your confusion is perfectly justified

Pass on the Avocado Toast

Discover the Essential Breakfast Dishes You Can't Miss in Melbourne

The One Neighborhood You Must Explore

A Tasty Journey Through Vibrant Footscray

More Pubs, Please

Australian Pubs: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Gathering Spots

How to Sample Every Delicacy at Australia’s Premier Market

A Local’s Insider Guide to the Best Eats at Queen Victoria Market

Attica: The Pinnacle of Fine Dining’s Future

How Dining at Melbourne’s Top Restaurant Rekindled a Critic’s Passion for Gourmet Cuisine

Personalize Your Phone with Aussie Flair

Enjoying the photography in this guide? Download these Australian-themed wallpapers for your phone

Editorial Lead: Lesley SuterConsulting Editor: Besha RodellCreative Director: Brittany Holloway-BrownContributors: Adam Moussa, Audrey Bourget, Besha Rodell, Fred Siggins, Jess Ho, Meister, Milly McGuinness, Russell Jackson, Tristan LutzePhotographers: Jacinta Moore, Jez Hunghanfoo, Tristan Lutze, Audrey BourgetIllustrator: Barry PatenaudeEditors: Monica Burton, Lesley Suter, Matt Buchanan, Erin DeJesusCopy Editors: Rachel P. Kreiter, Emma AlpernFact Checkers: Dawn Mobley, Lisa Wong MacabascoEngagement Editors: Adam Moussa, Milly McGuinnessProject Manager: Ellie KrupnickSpecial Thanks to Sonia Chopra, Patty Diez, Amanda Kludt