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When people think of Melbourne, it’s often synonymous with coffee culture—charming European-style laneways, aromatic cafes on every corner, and an alluring mix of old-world charm and modern architectural aesthetics. Add to that the city's breathtaking natural landscapes, and you have a place that feels romantic and endlessly intriguing at every turn.
But Melbourne’s allure extends far beyond its visual appeal. For food lovers, this city is a true paradise! Melbourne’s culinary scene is a rich tapestry of global flavors, from hidden laneway cafes to Michelin-level fine dining, from leisurely brunch spots to vibrant street food stalls. Whether it’s exquisite plating or authentic flavors, Melbourne ensures a gastronomic experience that satisfies even the most discerning taste buds.
So, who says visiting Melbourne is only about soaking up art galleries and cultural vibes? While most are still immersed in the city’s artistic charm, I’ve already mapped out a gourmet adventure to delight the senses.
In this article, I’ll take you on a journey to six must-visit restaurants in Melbourne, where every bite will be a celebration of flavor and discovery.
Stop 1: Golden Dragon Palace – Traditional Cantonese Yum Cha
Location: 363 Manningham Rd, Templestowe VIC 3107
Opening Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–10 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Average Spend: $50–$80 AUD per person
If you’re looking for a place in Melbourne that blends traditional Cantonese flavors with an elevated dining experience, Golden Dragon Palace is an unmissable destination.
I had heard about this renowned restaurant within days of arriving in Melbourne. A quick search on Google Reviews revealed over 1,000 reviews, with a solid rating above 4.1 stars. While it might not boast a perfect score, as a die-hard fan of yum cha, I couldn’t resist the temptation to experience it for myself.
Menu: Click here to view
The menu at Golden Dragon Palace offers both a la carte options and curated tasting menus: the Six-Course Banquet ($79 AUD per person) and the Seven-Course Banquet ($89 AUD per person). For anyone suffering from decision paralysis, these set menus are a blessing! For larger gatherings, the flexibility of ordering individual dim sum ensures every guest’s cravings are satisfied.
We opted for one of the banquet menus, and the first course, Dim Sum Platter, set the tone—each bite-sized dish was artfully crafted, aromatic, and impossible to resist.
Highlights to Try:
Black Pepper Beef with Broccoli: Tender, juicy beef paired perfectly with crisp, fresh broccoli.
Signature Fried Rice: Light yet flavorful, with each grain distinct and infused with wok hei (that smoky stir-fried aroma).
Another standout was the Steamed Fish, which was delicate and perfectly cooked. The simple seasoning elevated the natural flavors of the fish, evoking memories of traditional Hong Kong tea houses. The Japanese Prawn Balls were also a delight—crispy on the outside, succulent on the inside, with a sweet and tangy sauce that kept me reaching for more.
The meal concluded with the Lettuce Wraps, a refreshing dish featuring crunchy, savory fillings encased in crisp lettuce leaves, creating a layered and satisfying finish to the evening.
Golden Dragon Palace seamlessly preserves the timeless essence of traditional tea houses while incorporating modern twists to cater to today’s palates. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or catching up with friends, this spot promises an unforgettable Cantonese dining experience.
If you, too, yearn for the nostalgia of Hong Kong-style yum cha, Golden Dragon Palace will not disappoint. It’s the perfect place to rediscover comfort, tradition, and culinary delight.
Second Stop: Conservatory (Seafood Buffet Restaurant)
Location: Crown Melbourne, Crown Towers, Level 1/8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006Opening Hours: Daily 7:00 am-10:30 am, 5:30 pm-10:00 pmPrice Range: AUD 75-135
When it comes to Melbourne's fine dining, the restaurants within Crown Casino are undoubtedly top choices for food lovers. These establishments not only boast world-class chefs and an incredible variety of culinary delights but are also renowned for their impeccable dining environments. Today, I want to recommend the Conservatory Buffet at Crown—a venue often hailed as “Melbourne’s Finest and Most Indulgent Buffet.”
Stepping into Crown Casino, the luxurious atmosphere immediately sets a tone of grandeur. At Conservatory, you’re greeted with elegant decor and a spacious, inviting ambiance. The interior is bright and expansive, with gorgeous chandeliers and intricate detailing adding a touch of opulence, yet the space remains warm and comfortable.
One of the most captivating features is the seating area, which offers panoramic views of Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, the city skyline and serene waterfront scenery unfold before your eyes, creating a dining experience that is both indulgent and tranquil. With such stunning views to accompany your meal, the flavors seem to shine even more!
Breakfast at Conservatory is priced at AUD 75 per person, while lunch and dinner are AUD 130 per person. Given the exquisite ambiance, top-notch dishes, and overall experience, the value for money is quite reasonable.
Menu and Pricing: Website Link
The desserts here are a standout highlight. From intricately designed cakes, strawberry puddings, and chocolate mousse to macarons, the selection is abundant and visually stunning. Each dessert is crafted to perfection, with delicate textures and indulgent flavors, making Conservatory a haven for dessert lovers who come from near and far.
What’s even more exciting is the presence of Asian-inspired dim sum! Traditional delicacies like siu mai, prawn dumplings, and char siu bao are prepared with care, delivering authentic flavors that transport you straight back to your favorite tea house. The seamless combination of desserts and dim sum ensures every guest finds their perfect culinary indulgence.
The seafood spread is another reason why this buffet stands out. Fresh prawns, oysters, and snow crab legs are elegantly displayed across the buffet station. Each offering looks succulent and inviting, drawing you in for a taste. My personal favorite is the prawns—plump, sweet, and perfectly bouncy with every bite. The oysters, too, are remarkably fresh, tasting as though they were just plucked from the sea, providing a true oceanic delight.
All in all, the Conservatory at Crown delivers an unparalleled dining experience, offering an unbeatable setting, an indulgent selection of desserts, and an irresistible seafood feast. Dining here is not just about the food—it’s a celebration of both the visual and gastronomic senses. If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne, this top-tier buffet is a must-visit. Whether it’s to celebrate a special occasion or simply treat yourself, Conservatory will leave you thoroughly satisfied and craving for more!
Third Stop: Minamishima (Japanese Restaurant)
Location: 4 Lord St, Richmond VIC 3121
Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays and Sundays; open Tuesday to Saturday, 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Average Price: $200+
If you have a slightly larger budget, I highly recommend this restaurant! Stepping into Minamishima feels like being enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere. There’s no flamboyant decor here—only an understated elegance reminiscent of a serene Japanese garden. However, what truly leaves a lasting impression is not just the environment but the unparalleled culinary experience it delivers. As a pilgrimage site for Japanese cuisine lovers in Melbourne, Minamishima redefines the art of premium Japanese dining with its fresh ingredients, traditional techniques, and meticulous presentation.
Every ingredient at Minamishima is carefully selected to ensure each dish is presented in its most flawless state. From delicate sashimi to melt-in-your-mouth sushi, every slice of fish is cut and served at the perfect temperature, preserving the natural sweetness and refined texture of the seafood.
The sashimi here is absolutely remarkable. Each bite unveils distinct layers of flavor—whether it’s the rich, buttery texture of tuna or the refreshing subtlety of snapper, every piece lingers on the palate. What’s even more impressive is the lack of “flavor repetition.” Every ingredient surprises you with a unique taste, keeping the dining experience exciting right up to the final bite.
Japanese cuisine emphasizes “bringing out the original flavor of the ingredients,” and Minamishima takes this philosophy to its pinnacle. The chefs here are masters of traditional Japanese cooking techniques—be it raw preparation, light searing, or delicate frying. Each dish is presented with surgical precision. For instance, lightly seared fish glistens with a tantalizing sheen of oil, releasing an irresistible aroma, yet its interior retains a delicate, refined texture. This balance of technique and finesse is simply breathtaking.
The chefs’ meticulous craftsmanship reflects the heart and soul of Japanese cuisine. Their respect for the ingredients and passion for their craft are conveyed to diners through every dish. This dedication is one of the reasons Minamishima stands out among Melbourne’s many Japanese restaurants.
In Japanese cuisine, visual presentation is as important as the food itself, and Minamishima excels in this regard. The restaurant uses tableware that reflects traditional Japanese aesthetics, turning each dish into a work of art. Fine porcelain plates and wooden trays are carefully chosen to complement the colors and plating of the food, creating a visual masterpiece with every serving.
This attention to both visual appeal and flavor makes every dish at Minamishima feel like a delicate and elegant story being told. The restaurant is often referred to as “cuisine for the eyes” because every detail reveals the thoughtfulness and care of its creators.
Minamishima is more than just a restaurant; it is a sanctuary where traditional Japanese culinary techniques and modern aesthetics meet. Here, every bite pays homage to the ingredients, and every glance celebrates beauty. Whether you are a devoted fan of Japanese cuisine or seeking a premium dining experience to remember, Minamishima will transport you to Japan with its heartfelt and impeccable creations.
Stop 4: Rare Steakhouse (Australian Steakhouse)
Locations:
42-44 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000
6/61 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
12 Goldie Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000
Opening Hours:
Closed on Sundays
Monday to Saturday: 12:00-3:00 pm, 5:00-10:00 pm
Average Price: $70-80 per person
In the vibrant culinary city of Melbourne, if you’re craving a steak experience worth remembering, Rare Steakhouse is a must-visit. Known for its premium beef, outstanding cooking techniques, and exquisite presentation, this restaurant has earned its reputation as a “paradise for steak lovers.” With multiple locations in Melbourne CBD, Rare Steakhouse offers consistent quality that will leave you thoroughly satisfied.
From the moment you step inside, the ambiance strikes the perfect balance between elegance and warmth. Yet, the true highlight here is the steak itself—a culmination of the chef’s careful selection and precise execution. Whether you prefer a juicy rare steak or a tender medium-rare, the chefs here will masterfully meet your expectations.
One of my friends once remarked: “The perfect steak—exceptional quality and expertly cooked.” And I couldn’t agree more. The chefs’ attention to detail is unparalleled; every cut reveals a perfectly pink center surrounded by a golden-brown, seared crust that adds a subtle crispness. With every bite, the steak releases its succulent juices, delivering a burst of rich beef flavor and tender texture—an experience that words can barely do justice.
Rare Steakhouse offers a diverse selection of cuts to satisfy every steak lover. From the classic sirloin and bone-in tomahawk to the buttery and tender filet mignon, each cut has its unique flavor profile and texture, making it a feast for those who appreciate premium beef.
Beyond steaks, their starters and sides are equally impressive. A standout dish is the oysters with finger lime granita. The oysters are fresh, silky, and smooth, while the tangy finger lime granita adds a refreshing and slightly tart note—a perfect way to begin your meal. I ordered this combination, and it was simply delightful!
Menu link: https://raresteakhouse.com.au/menu
Additionally, Rare Steakhouse caters to various dietary needs with an array of gluten-free options, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and quality.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal customer, Rare Steakhouse’s dedication to quality ingredients and exceptional service is evident. Their professional staff will thoughtfully guide you through the menu, highlighting the characteristics of each cut and recommending the perfect steak based on your preference. This attention to detail makes every diner feel valued and relaxed.
If you’re visiting Melbourne, Rare Steakhouse should absolutely be on your list. Their steaks elevate simple ingredients into culinary art, offering every bite as a luxurious indulgence for your taste buds.
Fifth Stop: Humble Rays (Australian Brunch Café)
Location: 71 Bouverie St, Carlton VIC 3053
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am-4pm
Average Cost: AUD 30-40
Melbourne, renowned as a foodie’s paradise, has embraced brunch culture as an essential part of daily life. Among the city’s numerous brunch spots, Humble Rays easily holds the No. 1 spot in my heart. Returning with my colleagues for a second visit, I couldn’t hide my excitement. After all, the crab meat scrambled egg croissant I had last time still lingers in my memory, and this time, I was ready to explore even more of their mouthwatering dishes!
The dining space at Humble Rays is surprisingly spacious despite its modest exterior. Its clever design ensures a comfortable experience, with the back section offering plenty of room. This time, we were seated at a high table along the walkway. The thoughtful addition of power outlets under the table quickly eased any “low-battery anxiety,” while the extended table surface made it easy to manage the many dishes without feeling crowded—a small but considerate detail.
Thai Milk Tea (AUD 4.5):My colleague joked that a sweet milk tea is the perfect morning pick-me-up. Humble Rays’ Thai milk tea is silky and rich, with its signature sweet tea aroma and just the right sweetness—pure happiness in a cup!
Iced Latte with Vanilla Ice Cream (AUD 7.5):Originally, I planned to order a hot coffee, but after scrolling through the restaurant’s Instagram, I couldn’t resist this indulgent iced latte. The fragrant coffee combined with creamy vanilla ice cream was decadently satisfying—especially as the melting ice cream swirled seamlessly into the coffee, creating a velvety texture that left me sipping non-stop!
French Toast Forever (AUD 20.5):This dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate! The fluffy French toast hides a luscious vanilla bean custard center that’s irresistibly sweet and creamy. Surrounding the toast is a colorful array of fresh fruits, including bananas, apples, oranges, grapes, kiwis, and strawberries, providing a vibrant boost of vitamin C. The accompanying honey and berry compote add a refreshing tang that perfectly balances the sweetness. Topping it all off are dreamy elements like boysenberry ice cream and wisps of cotton candy—pure magic for anyone with a sweet tooth. Guilt-inducing yet utterly delightful!
Crab Meat Scramble (AUD 21):This is undoubtedly the star of the Humble Rays menu! A golden, flaky croissant is generously stuffed with creamy crab meat scrambled eggs, complemented by a mildly spicy hollandaise sauce. Every bite bursts with rich seafood flavors and silky egg texture, making it absolutely unforgettable. My colleague, visiting for the first time, couldn’t stop raving about how incredible it was, even regretting not trying it sooner.
Confit Mushroom (AUD 4.5):Don’t underestimate this humble side dish! The confit mushrooms are meticulously prepared, resulting in tender, juicy bites infused with aromatic olive oil. Each mouthful highlights the natural sweetness of the mushrooms—well worth the wait!
Overall Experience
This brunch cost us an average of AUD 30 per person. While not the cheapest option in Melbourne, where a simple meal can easily exceed AUD 20, Humble Rays offers not only delectable dishes but also a thoughtfully designed space and warm, attentive service. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal returnee like me, this café never fails to deliver a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
Stop 6: Mansae Korean BBQ (Korean BBQ Restaurant)
Location: 16 Dhanga Djeembana Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 5-10pm
Average Cost: AUD 70-80 per person
Living across the street at EQ Tower, I always see a long queue in front of Mansae Korean BBQ. Finally, I couldn’t resist anymore and invited my friends to check out this much-talked-about Korean BBQ spot for myself.
Note: This branch does not take reservations, and the reservation option on Google Maps applies to another location—don’t get confused! If you want to enjoy your meal without waiting too long, I suggest arriving early. Each table has a dining time limit of 1.5 hours, but the staff’s efficient and attentive service ensures a seamless experience. They even help grill the meat, so you don’t need to worry about cooking it perfectly yourself.
We ordered the Happiness Set, priced at AUD 100, which includes a variety of beef and pork cuts. At first glance, the portion seemed small, but the quality quickly impressed us. The beef was exceptional—tender, juicy, and without any off-putting smell. When cooked to the perfect doneness, the beef released an aromatic, mouthwatering flavor. The pork belly, cut into thick slices, took longer to grill but delivered a firm and satisfying bite. Pairing it with unlimited banchan (side dishes) and fresh lettuce created a perfect balance; the tangy kimchi cut through the pork’s richness, making every bite irresistible.
Beyond the BBQ, we also ordered Budae Jjigae (Army Stew), Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles), Seafood Pancake, and Tteokbokki (Stir-Fried Rice Cakes).
Budae Jjigae: The tomato-infused broth was hearty and packed with noodles, spam, ham, and dumplings. While not groundbreaking, it was warm, comforting, and generously portioned.
Naengmyeon: A pleasant surprise! The noodles were chewy and firm, and the restaurant thoughtfully provided scissors to cut them into bite-sized pieces. The broth was refreshingly sweet and tangy, offering the perfect palate cleanser after grilled meat.
Seafood Pancake: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with seafood—paired perfectly with the dipping sauce for an added punch.
Tteokbokki: Soft, chewy rice cakes in a sweet and spicy sauce. Addictive and satisfying!
For drinks, we tried the Peach Soju Slushie and Mango Soju Slushie. These were absolute standouts! The icy, fruity flavors were light, refreshing, and perfect for pairing with BBQ. To finish the meal, we shared the Ice Cream Pancake—a delightful dessert featuring a crispy pancake wrapped around vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold textures was divine, leaving us craving more.
Overall, Mansae Korean BBQ delivered an impressive experience with its high-quality meats, expertly controlled grilling process, and attentive service. The unlimited banchan and modern ventilation system meant we could enjoy the meal without being overwhelmed by greasy smoke or smells.
Key Notes:
Cost: Expect to spend AUD 80-100 per person for a full meal with drinks. If you have a smaller appetite, AUD 60+ will still leave you satisfied.
Service: Efficient and attentive staff grill the meat for you.
Atmosphere: Modern and clean, with minimal smoke thanks to advanced ventilation.
The only downside is the lack of reservations, leading to long wait times during peak hours. I recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds.
Located near the Queen Victoria Market, Mansae Korean BBQ is easily accessible and well worth the visit for any K-BBQ lover. Whether it’s the quality of the meat, the variety of dishes, or the warm service, this restaurant delivers excellent value and an unforgettable dining experience. Bring your friends and indulge in a fantastic Korean BBQ feast!
Alison’s Story
Born in Hong Kong an moved to Australia, I have been associated with real estate all my life. As the plane slowly landed on the runway of Melbourne Airport, my life and career also changed to another runway. I changed from a Hong Kong real estate agent to an Australian real estate agent, and successfully obtained the Australian lawyer qualification.
When I was working in a law firm, I was surrounded by highly educated professionals. Even though their wages are very well, and they are absolutely the elites in society, but their lives are full of hard labor, and it’s hard for them to get rich through buying properties.
So I spend all my time and effort on learning financial and real estate investment knowledge, hoping to achieve financial freedom as soon as possible, and let my parents who have worked hard for many years live a good life.
Now I will share with you the knowledge and experience of investing in Australian real estate, and embark on the road to financial freedom together.
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The original intention of Miss Alison to establish investwithalison.com is to provide neutral Australian real estate information through this platform and help investors establish the most suitable investment strategy.
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