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The new-look Dry Dock in Balmain.
14.5/20

This new-look Balmain boozer feels like an entirely new venue. So, how’s the food?

There’s no chicken schnitzel, but there is a juicy pork chop at The Dry Dock. Just don’t wear your thongs.

  • Callan Boys
Cafe and restaurant Tapenade is a taste of France on Commercial Road.

Olive the regulars love French favourite Tapenade − and it’s easy to see why

The owners of this cafe and restaurant, in the base of a shiny apartment block on a busy road, have endeared themselves to locals.

  • Dani Valent
Bar Infinita is a neighbourhood trattoria in a trattoria-less neighbourhood.
14/20

‘Wood-fired Italian joint with oomph’: Why locals are flocking to this Gordon trattoria

Helmed by an ex-Ormeggio at The Spit and Firedoor chef, Bar Infinita has quickly become Gordon’s destination diner.

  • Terry Durack
Brico restaurant and wine bar in Carlton North.
14/20

Is it a restaurant or a wine bar? It doesn’t matter when it’s as friendly and fun as this

The people slurping oysters at the counter reckon they’re in a bar, but the bistro chairs, fine cooking and ability to book a table say “restaurant” to me.

  • Dani Valent
Inside Sydney’s new late-night supper club, The Caterpillar Club.
14.5/20

Arrive early, stay late: Your plan of attack for Sydney’s super popular new supper club

The Caterpillar Club’s very long bar rarely has a free seat. Here’s how to nab one.

  • Callan Boys
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The interior at Maggie’s Snacks and Liquor, Brunswick East.
14/20

This under-the-radar newcomer is one of Melbourne’s best cocktail bars right now

Bloody delicious cocktails. Hyper-elevated bar snacks. Friendly staff. All this wine bar needs is a crowd.

  • Besha Rodell
Mr and Mrs P in Brighton.

From smashed avo to smashing bar snacks, Mr & Mrs P is a very Melbourne love story

The devil is in the detail at this husband and wife’s “special” bayside bar and eatery.

  • Dani Valent
Casa Esquina’s sprawling indoor-outdoor vibe has a special sense of freedom.
14/20

This indoor-outdoor Argentinian-inspired grillfest boasts Balmain-to-Buenos Aires vibes

Casa Esquina’s menu includes 10 different dishes from the parrilla, from Gundagai lamb tomahawk chops to a one-kilo dry-aged Ranger’s Valley Black Market rib-eye.

  • Terry Durack
The decor has barely changed since Supper Club became Kafeneion.
14.5/20

This Greek restaurant is a window into Melbourne’s heart

For more than 25 years, Supper Club has been a haven for night owls. Now, Kafeneion is occupying the space, delivering Greek comfort food and excellent drinks.

  • Besha Rodell
The hotel restaurant looks out over Hyde Park, “a giant lozenge of Victoriana greenery”.
Good Food hat15/20

Why new hotel restaurant Sydney Common is ‘uncommonly good’

Up-and-coming talent Jamie Robertson works with former Sepia chef Martin Benn to create a seasonal menu that’s wood-fired and Japanese-inflected.

  • Terry Durack