Navarone Farrell

Winter just got cheesier. From 15 May to 22 June 2025, Fed Square transforms into a snow-dusted French alpine village for Fondue Chalet—the city’s most indulgent winter pop-up from the team behind Melbourne’s cult-favourite Raclette Igloo.

When midnight cravings hit, Melbourne’s late-night dining scene delivers. From steaming bowls of Cantonese noodles to New York-style pizza slices, these late-night restaurants in Melbourne keep the city fed long after dark.

Arguably Melbourne's best restaurant, and the one with the best view, Vue de Monde has seen some incredible chefs through its doors. But current executive chef Hugh Allen has achieved quite a lot in his 29 years and counting, and now he can add restaurateur to his resume. 

Melbourne’s doughnut game just got a serious upgrade. Joey’s Doughies, the brainchild Joe La and Brian Taing, is set to open in the QV Foodhall.

What is the best restaurant in Melbourne? Our fair city has hundreds of spots that could be considered the best. Good thing I've got my 20 favourite spots for you right here, with something for everyone.

Chef and food advocate Simone Watts has done it all—cooked, farmed and travelled the world—and now she’s landed at Barragunda Dining on the Mornington Peninsula, transforming the way we think about food. 

Sip on prosecco and unwind as this bougie spa institution hailing from the Gold Coast opens its first Melbourne franchise.

Move over, Sydney—Melbourne’s about to get a dose of the Merivale magic and we've got our fingers and toes crossed for a certain famous woodfired bread.

Ever been at the kids’ play centre and thought, ‘I wish there was a little more here for me?’ Well, you’re not the only one. Hoopla has opened as Australia’s first ‘parent’ focused kids indoor play centre and family outing spot (read: there’s a grown-ups menu). 

The heart of Melbourne, the CBD. We've got heaps of good restaurants here in Melbourne and Victoria as a whole. Whether you're looking for Flinders Lane restaurants or you're just looking to tuck into some affordable fare, we've nailed down the best.

Coffee runs thick through Melbourne's veins, and in every corner of the city you'll find caffeine-soaked cafes to frequent. But cafes go beyond a good coffee, and for Collingwood cafes, we're spoilt for choice.

Searching for the best Italian restaurants in Melbourne? From hidden trattorias to fine dining, here are Melbourne’s top 25 Italian spots for pasta, pizza and more in 2025.

We’ve all got our local Melbourne Thai restaurant that we swear by and practically have on speed dial—or at least saved in our favourites on our food delivery app of choice. No matter your preference, if you're looking for the best Thai restaurant Melbourne has to offer, you're in luck.

Forget diamonds—Melbourne’s real luxury is a perfectly cooked steak. Whether you’re after a melt-in-your-mouth wagyu, a charred, smoky ribeye, or an old-school pub porterhouse with all the trimmings, this city delivers.

On the hunt for the best cafe in Melbourne? It's a tough one, simply due to the sheer volume of options. The standard the city has set has been replicated all over the world, and it's no surprise as the quality of our coffee is world-class and our brunch is unbeatable.

This destination diner in the Southern Grampians is the very essence of local, Victorian dining. And it doesn't hurt that the surrounds are stunning.

Forget ordering pizza to your neighbourhood bar/bottleshop combo. Benchwarmer has completely smashed the mould on what to expect by installing an izakaya inside their craft beer haven.

Hint, it involves free entry, and we're here for that to send them off.

Flinders Lane is the beating heart of Melbourne’s dining scene, a laneway where culinary magic happens. This is undoubtedly one of Melbourne’s foodie hotspots. From hole-in-the-wall gems to high-end hotspots, this iconic strip is a dining paradise. 

From mind-bending installations to boundary-pushing performances, here’s your guide to the standout events you won’t want to miss.

The southern hemisphere’s largest shopping centre, Chadstone has just dropped the lineup for a massive 26,500sq m foodie precinct. The two areas, The Market Pavilion and Dining Laneway will host some of Melbourne’s tastiest food retailers. 

Tucked away on Tasmania's picturesque East Coast is Devil's Corner winery. This is the kind of place you drive past wistfully, wondering if you have time to stop in. We're telling you, you need to make the time.

Best bars, best bars, best bars... Unlike the bartender we're not going to ask, "what do you usually like?", we're just going to hit you with some straight fire. That's right, 29 of our editor-approved watering holes.

Where’s the best spot to get a good glass of vino in Melbourne? Here’s your handy cheat sheet.

When the clock hits cocktail hour you don't want to be messing around, it's time for a crisp martini or meaty negroni. Thanks to Melbourne's stellar culinary and bar scene there are some seriously good spots around the city to get a glass in hand. From hidden watering holes to some serious first-class swank here are Urban List's picks for the best cocktail bars Melbourne has to offer in 2025.

Melbourne’s bustling dining scene owes a very honest tip of the hat to France. Every suburb has its own cache of bakeries, bistros and patisseries reminiscent of the City of Lights, and if you're like us wondering why you're here rather than there, well, this list might just save you the trip.

The Melbourne edition of il Mercato Centrale, originally launched in Florence in 2014, offers a dynamic day-to-night dining experience, from light snacks to full restaurant meals. Located in the iconic McPherson building on Collins Street, this 2,500 sqm space has been transformed into a vibrant retail and culinary hub.

Stuck for unique date ideas in Melbourne? The sheer number of options is overwhelming, but don't worry we've got you. If you're looking for the best, fun, cute, cheap, cool, free or first date ideas we have something good for everyone.

Melbourne has one of the most culturally diverse culinary scenes in the world, but you already know that and so do we. What you may not know though, is where to find the cream of the crop when it comes to Indian food—enter Urban List.

There’s a reason Jackalope on the Mornington Peninsula is on everyone’s bucket list: from its stunning grounds to unique architectural design, moody black colour palette or funky bar and restaurant, the hotel is the very definition of a luxury stay.

Patience, young padawan LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition will be knocking down blast doors and arriving in Melbourne on 4 May at Melbourne Museum.

We’re calling it a touchdown. Further cementing Melbourne as Australia’s sporting capital, next year we’re going to be able to catch live NFL games. Yep, American football—the National Football League—a la Travis Kelce is coming to us live.

If you’re craving a nature escape with a side of serious relaxation, Victoria’s hot springs are just what you need. These natural oases are designed for you to unplug, unwind, and soak away your worries in mineral-rich waters. From stunning coastal retreats to hidden mountain gems, we’ve rounded up the best hot springs in Melbourne and Victoria that are perfect for a rejuvenating day trip or a luxurious weekend getaway.

Ever wanted to live out your very own White Lotus experience but without the murder mystery? Three Hummock Island, a private island off the Tassie coast might be just the spot to do it—best of all you can rent it for pittance. 

We wanted to really find out what constitutes a good burger, so we asked the masterminds behind some of our faves. It turns out that there’s a bit of a theme—a secret ingredient if you will—to all of the burgers we know and love.

Good things come in small packages, and so do great things, such as Xiao Long Bao. Our city is spoilt for choice when it comes to these often-steamed, sometimes-fried pockets of flavour, so much so that you’ll be left doing laps of Chinatown until everything shuts up shop for the night.

The heat is beaming down, the beach is calling, and you've got a thirst that only the iciest drink is going to quench. But there's something else calling your name, something that is going to instantly cool that core temp down, something that is totally worth forgoing the summer bod for—ice cream.

Nothing beats ditching the big smoke in the summertime for a stint down the coast. Packing up the car and heading south is an integral part of the culture; recharging the batteries and getting some much-needed sun and rest. Victoria has a rich coastline with some of the most unique beaches and bays in the world; from the long-stretching Great Ocean Road to the crystal blue waters of Mornington Peninsula, and the remote stretches of Shipwreck Coast. To experience the ocean to the fullest there’s no better way than pulling up stumps at a beachside shack and taking all in that sea air. 

The Super Bowl is a big deal, and whether or not you're into American sport you can't help but get caught up in the fever, the chicken wings and of course the drama.

Following waves of immigration in the sixties and seventies, Greek food and culture has become a huge part of Melbourne’s culinary identity. We’ve got the largest Greek population outside of Athens, so it’s no surprise the city is brimming with Greek taverns and family-owned restaurants to suit all occasions and budgets. It’s a tough task, but we’ve pulled together the best Greek restaurants in Melbourne, with plenty of options for the souv-fans, seafood lovers, dairy queens and vegetarians out there. 

You know those scenes in the movies when someone gets a huge bouquet delivered to their office? And all the co-workers gather and gush about what a sweetie the sender must be? Well, you can be that sender in 2025, thanks to Urban List finding the best flower delivery Melbourne has to offer.

There's nothing quite like the music scene in Melbourne. Any night of the week in pretty much any stretch of the town, you can catch live tunes—be it howling, foot-stomping rock 'n roll in sticky-floored pubs, sultry jazz in booth-seated lounges, or dirty techno at one of the many dens and d-floors in town.

The sight of the blossoming purple flowers of the Jacaranda trees is a friendly reminder that the true frosty season is over and there are warmer climates ahead. The Jacaranda is typically earmarked with the coming of summer and Christmas (according to the jingle). The floral tree is an Australian icon in the plant community and a welcome beacon to the tail end of the year. 

Finding the best oyster bar in Melbourne is no easy task, that’s why we're shelling out the details on the city’s best.

There’s nothing quite like parking it up by the pool. To ensure you maximise the sun and the good times this summer get your eyes across these incredible pool stays across Victoria.

Have a bit of a sweet tooth after dinner? Or maybe you're just craving a sugary fix from one of Melbourne's many incredible dessert bars. Don't worry, we've got you covered with our top picks for dessert in the CBD and further afield. These are Melbourne's best dessert spots for 2025.

Navigating Melbourne’s vibrant dining scene while sticking to gluten-free options has never been easier. Think gluten-free pasta dishes, pizzas, and even indulgent desserts—all made with care and quality ingredients. If you’re seeking the best gluten-free restaurants in Melbourne, these spots have you covered.

One of the most important food groups to Melburnians, pizza, is held in a treasured category of its own. Boasting some of the finest pizzerias outside of Italy, the level of craft here is world-class from classic leopard spotted Neapolitan-style to thick-cut deep dish. 

Want to know where to pitch your tent? We’ve rounded up the best campsites in Victoria. Most are a pretty easy drive from Melbourne and for the rest... just tell your boss you’ll be coming in sick on Monday.

If you're a hungry herbivore, look no further than our guide to Melbourne's best spots for vegan eats, from burgs to fine dining, it's all here.

Arguably one of the greatest, most historic and popular cuisines that the world has to offer, it’s never a surprise to our wallets or our stomachs when we start craving Chinese food, and we’re sure you’re no different. Something about it makes it the ultimate comfort food, what with the savoury, salty, complex fusion of flavours.

Finding time for romance can be tricky, but we've made your life easier. From spa sanctuaries, luxury rooms in wine country tp cosy cabins in the woods, we have you covered with these 20 stunning romantic getaways from the Mornington Peninsula to the High Country and everywhere in between. Here the most romantic getaways in Victoria for 2025.

Looking for the best cheap eats in Melbourne? We've got you covered with a curated list of delicious, budget-friendly spots around the city. Dive into our picks for the top cheap eats Melbourne has to offer and discover how to satisfy your cravings without splurging.

Melbourne’s CBD is a treasure trove for bar lovers, home to some of the best in the country. Whether you’re chasing a hidden laneway bar, soaking up the sunset at a rooftop, or settling into a cozy wine bar, there’s something for every vibe. From classic cocktails to cutting-edge creations, Melbourne’s CBD bars have you covered for any occasion—be it a casual knock-off drink, an afternoon aperitivo, or a full-on night out. 

Let's face it, if you don't like camping, you don't like it, that's why glamping in Victoria has skyrocketed in popularity. Who wants to rough it when you can stay in a beautiful bell tent on a winery? There are a lot of fantastic sites across the state, and most of them aren't too far from the city. Here's Urban List's guide to the best spots for glamping Victoria has on offer for 2025.

Beaches in Victoria are a coveted commodity, often guarded and kept hush-hush. From Hampton Beach and the hidden gems of Melbourne to the stunning coasts of the Mornington Peninsula, the Great Ocean Road, Wilson's Prom, Phillip Island, and more, there are spectacular stretches of sand and ocean waiting to be explored.

Go karting is a timeless activity. The almost child-like pursuit of speed and reckless endangerment is a thrill that you can’t (and shouldn’t) get driving to coles. With many tracks and karts around town, all with their own different bends and different levels of engine CC’s, it can be a little difficult to know where exactly you should burn rubber. 

Resting on the edge of the CBD, Richmond is a bustling metropolis of Melbourne. The bar and restaurant rich suburb is easily one of the busiest precincts for drinking and dining, whether it be a pre-match pint and parma before sauntering to the holy grounds of the MCG or a full six-course set menu.

The Lunar New Year is fast approaching and 2025 is the year of the Wood Snake, which symbolises wisdom, transformation, stability and creativity and we're here to learn and grow, and celebrate.

Let’s be honest, when you roll out of bed on New Year’s Day you’re going to want a rather large coffee–preferably made by someone else. Luckily, there are plenty of cafes open New Year’s Day in Melbourne for all your hangover needs. You won’t want to cook your own food either, right? Don’t stress, we’ve got you covered for that too.

Pick plates, rooftops and gluten-free, moody retro venues and lots of small plates: there were some definite themes to new openings this year, and we were there for all of them. This is your 2024 restaurant guide wrapped. 

Melbourne yoga studios have stepped up their game over the years. It used to be you just needed to do some basic stretches alongside some ambient tunes. But now we’ve got Bikram yoga, rooftop yoga, gorgeous Zen palaces and secret rooftop lofts, beer yoga, yoga sound baths and everything in between. If you want to know the best place to get your stretch on in Melbourne, assume Child’s Pose and get reading.

Melbourne’s favourite floating bar, Afloat, is reminding you summer season is about to hit with the annual unveiling of its pool, and this year, it’s an absolute belter. 

In a monumental celebration of contemporary art, NGV International is hosting the largest-ever retrospective of iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Featuring over 180 works, this expansive exhibition spans Kusama’s extraordinary eight-decade career, making it a global first and an unmissable event.

We all have memories of traversing the empty foyer of South Yarra's Jam Factory to head to the cinema, but no more. The iconic precinct has officially closed to make way for a $2.75 billion redevelopment which will see it become a massive shopping and dining hub that will land somewhere between Collins Street in the CBD, and Chadstone Shopping Centre—bougie.

This is our locals, and not-locals guide to everything to eat, drink, see, do and stay on the Mornington Peninsula.

The High Country means something different to every Victorian. Maybe it’s fond memories camping at Sheepyard Flat over Christmas as a kid, or skiing at Hotham when the powder is heaving. Best of all, there's something for everyone so we've put together a solid travel guide and three-day itinerary for your next country escape.

Eight years in the making and Chris Lucas’ mutli-storey CBD is paying homage to regional French cuisine, with a healthy dose of joie de vivre thrown in. Named after a French-style country loaf of bread, Maison Bâtard leans into its namesake and will focus on stripped-back, regional French cuisine. 

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to step up your skincare game—especially with all the beach days, barbecues, and outdoor adventures in the pipeline. Meet M/STR Hydrate + Defense SPF30, your new go-to for protecting and nourishing your skin while keeping it safe from harmful UV rays.

We love Melbourne, but you know ... living in one of the world's best cities comes with a price tag, good thing Urban List has you you covered with a stack of things to eat, drink, do and see all on a shoestring as part of our series Budget Ballin'. This time we've teed up 20 of the best cheap and free things to do in Melbourne to keep both you and your hip pocket happy.

Kookaburras cackle as the clouds slowly drift down Mount Buffalo while we sit, swish a local bottle of saperavi and watch dusk fall on an enchanting spring evening in the High Country. We're at The Buckland Studios, a romantic kid-free getaway with stunning views of Mount Buffalo.

Serving up the perfect twist on French fare, Malin, Carlton North’s new mini fine diner would look more at home in a souk than Rathdowne Street, but it’s not the decor we care about, it’s their beef and oyster tartare, ballotine chicken, and coconut vanilla mashed potato.

Just in: Melbourne’s favourite floating bar and restaurant Arbory Afloat is officially out of hibernation and has returned for its ninth season on the Yarra. This year's theme? An Italian beach club—specifically Capri.

Moving in next door to Hawker Hall, Tombo Den is Chris Lucas’ second Windsor haunt and third Japanese-inspired restaurant in the Lucas Restaurants empire. The restaurant and bar will open 7 September and we reckon Tombo Den will be the more approachable younger sibling to Yakimono and Kisumé with a bumpin’ Tokyo vibe.

Melbourne is breakfast royalty. Our fair city has easily the most elevated cafe game in the country, if not the world. But what happens when you hit peak breakfast? Someone flips the game and you get a spot like Lilijana Eatery in Port Melbourne. It’s brunch done differently. 

From the same crew that brought us So Frenchy, So Chic, tuck into 110 wines from 13 wine regions at Le Grape Escape in St Kilda's historic Town Hall.

The annual holiday celebrating all things Dad is fast approaching with September 1 just around the corner

Big swing, all ding! The suburbs are set for another cracking entertainment venue, this time in the form of an indoor golf simulator. X-Golf is moving into Clyde North on August 21 and will provide a sports entertainment hybrid with a big food and drink offering. 

From all-day casual dining and a coffee window on the ground floor, through to the hatted Restaurant offering a degustation menu on the first floor and finishing with a Rooftop oasis celebrating Gippsland wines, Farmer’s Daughters works collaboratively with artisans and food and wine producers from the region to bring Gippsland to the heart of the Melbourne CBD.

It feels like literally everywhere in Melbourne sells some kind of vape, so what's going to happen when they're banned from next week?