Melbourne on Point: Top 6 Bars, Cafés & Restaurants to Visit
Having lived in Melbourne for 17 years and now calling the Port Macquarie region of mid–north NSW home, it’s always a treat to head back and revisit my old haunts. The contrast between an easygoing coastal town and the fast-paced buzz of Melbourne is stark, suddenly you’re surrounded by endless choice, bold flavours, and that unmistakable city energy.
Before diving in, here’s a classic local tip: prepare for four seasons in one day. Melbourne’s weather truly is unpredictable, so pack with all seasons in mind.
What makes the city endlessly appealing is its vibrant bar culture, thoughtfully crafted food menus, and coffee of the highest artisan calibre. Australia takes its coffee seriously, and Melbourne sets the benchmark.
So here are my personal recommendations, shaped by nearly two decades of living in Melbourne and now revisiting this soulful, ever-evolving city.
Sonido, Fitzroy, Melbourne (Open 7 days)
By day, you’ll find a cute little café on Gertrude Street serving delicious Colombian eats and coffee from Todo Good Coffee Roasters. It’s popular, especially on weekends, so snagging a table can be a bit of luck. The good news? You can order ahead for pickup, and Carlton Gardens is just around the corner if you’d prefer to enjoy your food under the lush, shady trees..
I highly recommend the Frijoles Pocket or Plate, a wholesome serve of black beans, feta, guacamole and coriander. And if, like me, you enjoy a spicy brunch, you’ll love the selection of self-serve salsas available on every table..
Don’t skip the Colombian sweets either as the Alfajor is a standout; a shortbread-style sandwich filled with arequipe (dulce de leche) and rolled in coconut.
Todo Good coffee is Colombian coffee roasted by Colombian couple Carolina and Santiago who also run SONIDO! in Fitzroy, Arepa Days in Preston and cafe Todo Good Northcote.
Little Hop, Fitzroy, Melbourne (Little Hop is open seven days from midday until late.)
By night, head to Brunswick Street in Fitzroy for some of the best Mexican tacos in Melbourne. With decks spinning behind the bar and classic Margaritas flowing, this spot is still delivering the goods a decade on..
I highly recommend the smoked mushroom tacos paired with, naturally, a Margarita. If that’s not your vibe, they also serve Sangria on tap, which is just as tempting.
You can take advantage of Taco Tuesday nights and order three tacos for $20.
A short stroll across the road from Little Hop brings you to a true Fitzroy institution, Black Cat. The staff are always warm and welcoming, the music is soulful, the local art is always on display, and the drinks never stop flowing. Black Cat, established in 1982, has evolved through the decades and once a jazz bar, it now leans into featured DJs who keep the decks spinning and the vibes strong.
Oh and it really does have the best beer garden outside and comfy lounge seats inside.
Brunetti (Carlton or City locations), Melbourne (Brunetti is open seven days.)
Another long-standing favourite is Brunetti Classico with its iconic Carlton location and also a city location — a true fixture for all things authentic Italian. The Carlton store has been serving delicious cakes, food and coffee since 1985 and remains a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike..
This time of year, you’ll find the most authentic Italian Panettone, and it truly is the lightest, fluffiest Christmas cake you can get. Choose from Traditional (with dried fruits), Pistachio (with a creamy pistachio filling), Gianduia (chocolate–hazelnut), or the adorable Mini Panettone.
From mini Italian biscuits and petite pastries to large, extravagant celebration cakes, there’s truly something for everyone here. I highly recommend the Tiramisu Cannelloni, but with so much on offer, choosing just one treat is the real challenge.
Pepe’s Italian and Liqueur restaurant.
With exquisite food, wine and cocktails on the menu, this is one restaurant you simply can’t pass up. As their website notes, the venue pays homage to the theatrical dining rooms of mid-20th-century New York and Melbourne — reimagined with a contemporary twist. I highly recommend the Spaghetti Gamberi, though honestly, it would be hard to have a bad meal here.
To kick off the evening, take a short stroll across the road to Three Little Horses. This sherry-focused cocktail bar in Melbourne’s CBD was opened by the team behind the renowned Caretaker’s Cottage, offering expertly crafted drinks in a stylish, intimate setting.
Depending on your itinerary and the time you have available, I hope you get the chance to visit at least one of these spots for delicious food and exceptional coffee. Melbourne offers endless choices, so I hope these tips help you make great picks and inspire you to explore even further.
