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Bar

Whitebark wine bar in West Melbourne.
13.5/20

This quiet neighbourhood gem is as DIY as it gets, but you probably won’t mind

Whitebark isn’t a destination but if you’re looking for somewhere small and neighbourly, it might be just the spot.

  • Besha Rodell
The borage-bedecked avocado tart tastes like something fairies would serve at the summer solstice.
Good Food hatGood Food hat17.5/20

Our critic had many expectations for the revamped Vue de Monde. But one thing surprised her

There are a few notable changes at the newly refurbished fine diner, but those spectacular views aren’t one of them.

  • Besha Rodell
The go-to dish: falling-apart lamb barbacoa served with warm flour tortillas.
14/20

To try some of Victoria’s best Mexican food (and margaritas), head for the hills

Forget nachos, sombreros and fishbowl margs. Honcho is delivering good-value modern Mexican dishes cooked over fire.

  • Besha Rodell
Skewers of wagyu rump cap teriyaki-glazed and topped with pickled shallots.
Good Food hat15/20

Why this smart, sleek Japanese-Italian spot had our reviewer saying ‘wow’ out loud

Buzzy, busy Ito in Surry Hills effortlessly combines Italian flavours with a Japanese aesthetic.

  • Terry Durack
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
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Cafe and restaurant Tapenade is a taste of France on Commercial Road.

Tapenade provides a warm and authentic slice of France in an unlikely city setting

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
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