Victoria’s 6 best new culinary experiences

Exciting new dining spots in Melbourne, fresh seafood on the coast and farm-fresh produce lovingly prepared on regional properties. These are the best new additions to Victoria’s food scene.

1  Mr Brownie, Melbourne

Internationally acclaimed Chef-Restaurateur Jessi Singh (co-owner of Mrs Singh, Daughter In Law, Horn Please, Don’t Tell Aunty, Babu Ji NYC, Bibi Ji) opened a Indian-British curry pub on Clarendon Street in South Melbourne in June. Spread across four levels, Mr Brownie Rooftop Hotel is a vibrant, multi-level venue bound in neon.  

2  The Belfast, Port Fairy

From the team behind Gladioli comes The Belfast – which was the riverside settlement’s original name. Tuck into a reasonably priced 3-course tasting menu for $65pp or order a la carte.

3  Tedesca Osteria, Mornington Peninsula

Tedesca Osteria is a fixed menu dining experience based on Mornington Peninsula produce with a kitchen built around a wood fired oven & grill. A typical menu might consist of antipasto, hand made pasta, a seafood course, a meat course and dessert, but this will change with the seasons. 

4  Pier Street, Portarlington

Classic in concept, Pier St. brings a contemporary edge to nostalgic Australiana. Situated on the Bellarine Peninsula – surrounded by an abundance of outstanding fresh seafood, wine and produce – Pier St. proudly sources locally wherever possible.

5   Poodle Bar & Bistro, Melbourne

Home inside a pair of side-by-side Victorian buildings on Fitzroy’s popular eat-street, Gertrude Street, this two-level Art Deco bar is inspired by the tastes of Europe with its own renditions of well-loved, classic dishes to hero local sustainable producers. 

6  Gimlet, Melbourne

McConnell’s newest restaurant references the history and nostalgia of the 1920s heritage building to create a natural backdrop for the European restaurant and cocktail bar. The menu embraces Italian regional cooking, classic elements of French technique, flavours of Spain and the hearty comfort dishes from the British Isles.