Vlado's

In 1964, Melbourne was gripped by Beatlemania, the Demons won the premiership and Vlado Gregurek started serving steaks in Bridge Road. Fifty years on, the restaurant alone remains (almost) unchanged, despite Vlado's death in 2012. The memorabilia-filled cavern is now in the hands of two true believers, his widow Nina and son Michael, along with dedicated staff who worked alongside Vlado for many years. The $93-a-head set menu is still the only option. Guests begin with an appetiser of grilled sausage and a mixed meat plate that includes pork and calf's liver. They're followed by excellent steak, proudly displayed at the table by white-gloved waiters so you can make your selection (eye fillet, rump, porterhouse). It will be cooked precisely as requested over charcoal and accompanied by a simple slaw. Wagyu is available for an extra $46.50. For dessert, there are strawberry crepes with cream or ice-cream. And that's it. The world may have changed since 1964, but not Vlado's.