As the culinary capital of Australia, you can bet that eating out in Melbourne doesn’t have to be boring. Known for its innovative approach and unique food scene, the city is full of quirky and unusual dining experiences to appease the hungry appetites of foodies looking for something extra to go with their food.
From dining in complete darkness to feasting in a vintage tramcar, Melbourne’s innovative eateries are redefining what it means to enjoy a meal out. Join us as we explore ten of the most extraordinary dining experiences Melbourne has to offer this year, promising a memorable and mouthwatering journey into the city’s ever-evolving food scene.
Photographed by Alex Cimbal. Image via Shutterstock.
DC3 Flight and Lunch
You may have explored all of the hidden restaurants in Melbourne, but what about those up in the sky? That’s right, with the DC3 Flight and Lunch experience you’ll be able to enjoy a meal and panoramic birds-eye views of Melbourne. Hopping aboard one of the first plane models in the world, the DC3 which was in production from August 1945, you’ll then be transported just over an hour to the very beautiful and exclusively remote King Island. Here you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before savouring local cheeses before the flight home. Truly an unforgettable experience and, quite possibly, one of the most unique restaurants Melbourne has to offer.
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Easey's
Easey’s takes burgers and beers to new lengths on a train carriage overlooking Melbourne’s CBD. That’s right, this unique burger joint can be found five storeys up in an old-school train carriage that is fixed to a roof and decorated with graffiti and classic orange and brown train seats. With a menu boasting indulgent comfort food and well-stocked with local beer, Easey’s provides a relaxed atmosphere, great food and a retro soundtrack making it one of Melbourne’s must-do foodie experiences.
Photographed by Justin Meneguzzi. Image via Visit Victoria.
High Tea Cruise on Yarra River
When it comes to unusual dining experiences in Melbourne, one need not look further than a High Tea Cruise along the Yarra River. Thanks to RedBalloon, you can book into this VIP-worthy degustation featuring plenty of dainty sandwiches, canapes, desserts and fluffy scones with jam and cream. Matched with a complimentary glass of bubbles, as well as all the tea and coffee you could dream of, this is a marvelous must-do foodie experience anyone can enjoy. And did we mention that you get to view the wonders of Melbourne’s CBD from the comfort of your own seat?
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IceBar Melbourne
If Melbourne isn’t cold enough for you, shiver your way into IceBar – one of the top themed bars in Melbourne! Located in the city’s east, this must-do foodie experience is permanently -10 degrees Celsius and serves up your favourite drink of choice – appropriately served in an ice glass of course. Once you’re in IceBar, there is no time limit for your stay; in fact, they ask that you try and stay as long as possible if you want to break their record of eight hours in below freezing temperatures. Don’t worry if you haven’t come prepared for the occasion, IceBar will provide snow capes, ugg boots and gloves if necessary. One of the most fun dining experiences in Melbourne, stay cool at IceBar Melbourne!
Photographed by Josie Withers. Image via Visit Victoria.
Naked For Satan
Meet Naked for Satan: it’s Fitzroy’s answer for a youthful crowd pining for a feisty vodka-pouring, pintxos-serving rooftop oasis. This Basque-inspired bar has a devilish collection of infused vodkas, beers and, of course, Australian wines. Accompanying a stand-out drinks menu is their pintxos, tapas-style appetizers which are more than welcome at seriously cheap prices. Each pintxos is served with a toothpick that doubles as a billing device: when you’re done, just show the waiter your collection and you’ll be charged either $1 or $2 for each toothpick. With stunning views of the skyline, Naked for Satan is the perfect spot for a drink and a nibble for groups looking to dine out in Melbourne.
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Nevksy Russian Restaurant
Flavoursome Middle Eastern restaurants, Chinese eateries and burger joints are staples in Melbourne, but it’s time to get a little adventurous with Russian cuisine. At Nevsky Russian Restaurant, you’ll be served a Russian degustation including a few shots of vodka to wash it all down. Better yet, RedBalloon is offering a 10-course degustation at Nevsky for two, for only $195. Expect Red Caviar, Atlantic Salmon and Duck Legs as part of the feasting journey, which includes a selection of three different vodkas to taste, with a pre-dinner cocktail to get your stomach and mind in the mood.
Image via Visit Victoria.
Overnight Zoo Safari
Get all-natural with this unique Melbourne eatery! Stay overnight at the Werribee Open Range Zoo in a luxury tented accommodation with your significant other, surrounded by the sounds and sights of their zoo collection. The experience includes sunset drinks, an African-inspired dinner and a hearty breakfast. As part of the package, you’ll gain exclusive animal encounters on a fully hosted safari experience, as well as the opportunity to wake up with the primates and mammals of the Werribee Zoo in Melbourne’s southwest. One of, if not, the coolest restaurants in Melbourne!
Image via Visit Victoria.
Puffing Billy Rail Car Luncheon
Outside the confines of Melbourne’s concrete jungle is the Puffing Billy Railway. Surprisingly, this Picturesque Train Ride Experience in Australia also serves a VIP-style luncheon nearly every Friday and Saturday. Chug and feast your way through the Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne, across the historic Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge and through the temperate rainforest. Meanwhile, your friendly host will serve a three-course menu. Expect Colossal Jacket Potatoes, Cauliflower Gnocchi and perhaps some Brandy Snapped Rolls for dessert. All while the luscious jungle steams past your own train window.
Photographed by Melissa Butters Photography. Image supplied.
The Toff
Stationed on the second floor of the iconic Curtain House building, The Toff is not only one of the quirkiest dining experiences in Melbourne, but it’s also one of the Best Live Music Restaurants too. This uniquely themed Melbourne bar is modelled after an art deco train, with lavish interior carriage booths, as well as a moody bar complete with delicious cocktails and a Thai-inspired menu. In between bites and slurps, check out the sensational live music, with everything from smooth late-night jazz to pumping house DJs.
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TRAPT Bar and Escape Room
Are you in search of a thrill-inducing experience? TRAPT Bar and Escape Room is no exception. Located in Melbourne’s CBD, TRAPT is an immersive experience that will help you escape reality with unique adventures to choose from. One of the most unique themed restaurants in Melbourne, here you can follow the yellow brick home in the Wizard of Oz, get rich or die trying in an abandoned gold mine in Cave In, or test out your magical skills in Alchemy. After all that fun, you can cool off after your adventure with TRAPT’s completely licensed bar, boasting cocktails to match each escape room experience, a huge range of martinis and other spirits.
For more quirky places to eat in Melbourne, check out our list of the 10 Best and Most Unique Cafes in Melbourne. Or, discover the city’s best kept secrets at these Top 6 Hidden Speakeasy Bars in Melbourne.
Looking for a unique dining experience in Melbourne? Here is our guide to the must-do foodie experiences in the city!