Seven Melbourne restaurant openings to watch this spring

The prospect of exploring new bars and restaurants is a guaranteed way to put a spring in your step. And there's a strong field of newcomers to look forward to as we race into the warmer months.

Copycat (Elsternwick)

What comes After The Tears? Copycat, a cosy new spot arriving post-lockdown, designed with an eye on "date nights" and Classic Cinemas next door. Mammoth cafe owners Nick and Zac Bereens are behind the venture, with food by Kevin Middleton (ex-Donovans) and drinks by Harry Whitelegg (ex-Vue de Monde).

Entrecote (Prahran)

The finishing touches are going on Entrecote's big new Greville Street brasserie, destined to be a southside hangout. With a live pianist, DJs, internal courtyard and several dining rooms, expect plenty of fabulous Frenchness when lockdown lifts.

Good Measure (Carlton)

Lygon Street is about to get a winning all-day venue dealing in smart drinks and simple eats. By day, Mitchell Miller will bring his coffee prowess to the 20-seater; after 5pm, Max Alison and Brandon Jo will step behind the bar. Expect low-waste drinks, craft beer and wine on tap, with fancy hotdogs and other hand-food. The cafe is opening mid-September with the bar to follow.

Manze (North Melbourne)

Melbourne has plenty of wine bars but Manze might be our first Mauritian one. Nagesh Seethiah, a young chef with time at Bar Liberty, is cleverly combining how he likes to eat with the cuisine he knows and loves. Originally slated for September, expect sparks to fly when it does arrive.

Nomad (CBD)

The Melbourne outpost of this mod Middle Eastern Sydney favourite has been almost two years in the making – and that's not including time spent scouting locations. The team is close to revealing the chef and opening date. We're tipping doors will open by October.

Pidapipo Laboratorio (Fitzroy)

By year's end, Melbourne's favourite gelateria will scoop up more good times, just in time for warmer days. Pidapipo's ambitious new iteration at the north end of Brunswick Street will involve rooftop beehives and gardens, and space to make chocolate.

Untitled (Richmond) Swan Street will have a new 90-seat restaurant before 2021 is over, headed by Timothy Martin (The European, Taxi Dining Room) and designed by Flack Studio. The two-level venue, from the team behind cocktail bar The Ugly Duckling, promises three dining spaces united by modern Euro food.