Sign in

Register

Forgotten your Password?

Enter your email address below and we'll send instructions and a link to reset your password

 

Unlock Melbourne's Hidden Gems

The hottest new places to eat, drink, stay and play.

 
By signing up, you agree to periodic email marketing from Sitchu to the email address you provided. Terms and Conditions. Privacy Policy.

Melbourne Food & Drink News for the Foodies

Here's everything you need to know that's happening across the Melbourne food scene.

Ophelia (Image Credit: Dave Green)

Melbourne is the king of the foodie scene. Every week there's a cool new restaurant, bar or hidden gem popping up around the city just waiting to be discovered. And while it's great for our taste buds (our wallets not so much), it can be hard to keep up with everything that's brand-spanking-new, or all of the events that roll around quicker than the blink of an eye. 

Need a hub to find all your Melbourne food news? That's exactly what this is! Keep reading to find out the latest on our city's food and drink scene.

Yo-Chi

Yo-Chi x Tart Anon Collaboration Comes to Stores

Yo-Chi has done it again...an iconic collaboration that will have (even longer than usual) lines out the door. The cult frozen yoghurt brand has partnered with Melbourne-based pastry shop, Tarts Anon to come together to offer a limited edition topping: Smoked Pecan and Butterscotch Tart.

This is Tart Anon's signature tart, making it the perfect topping for Yo-Chi's signature tart flavour (and one of our personal favourites).

Available from 23rd October until stocks last

Pidapipo x Hector's Deli (Image Credit: Annika Kafcaloudis)

Pidapipo x Hector's Deli Launch Limited-Edition 'The Bee Sting' Gelato

It's an ice cream-themed week! Two iconic Australian food venues, Pidapipo and Hector's Deli have come together to release a limited-edition flavour that's only available until the 10th of November. 'The Bee Sting' features creamy stracciatella gelato, Hector’s Deli hot honey, salted caramel sauce and caramelised sourdough crumb. Not only does it perfectly encapsulate Pidapipo's notoriously creamy gelato, it also highlights the essence of Hector's Deli's popular menu.

This gelato flavour will be available in tubs fit to serve 1-2 people for $9.50, and is exclusively available at all Pidapipo locations and Hector’s Deli Fitzroy and South Melbourne stores.

Green Cup Canteen

Green Cup Introduces Canteen and Dinner Opening Hours

Green Cup has launched their new 'Green Cup Canteen' in South Yarra. The new store, located onyl six stores down from the original Green Cup store, now features not only the acai bowls, smoothies and toasties we know and love, but also a salad bar where they will be making nourish bowls. The store will also be open until 8pm daily to cater for dinner hours. 

579 Chapel Street, South Yarra

Ophelia Opens in Westgarth

Westgarth has a chic new neighbourhood gem. Ophelia, the latest venture from the Yolk Group (known for Tinker, Terror Twilight, and Convoy), has opened its doors. This stylish café-wine bar hybrid is transforming daytime dining with its fresh share-style dishes and a curated wine list. Think morning lattes, midday martinis, and a European-inspired menu featuring seasonal, local ingredients.

The standout feature? An expansive curved bar perfect for sipping their inventive cocktails—like the miso-butterscotch iced latte. Ophelia’s warm, vinyl-spinning vibe makes it an inviting spot for both leisurely breakfasts and laid-back afternoon aperitifs. It's a perfect space for locals and newcomers alike!

85 High Street, Westgarth

YOI x Kōri

YOI x Kōri Announce Collaboration

YOI Indonesian Fusion and Kōri are collaborating on an exciting new project launching on the 29th of October, delivering a cross-cultural dessert collaboration on two exciting sweet treats. The Pandan Dorayaki features Kōri’s signature matcha ice cream, peanut mochi, shredded cheddar, chocolate sprinkles, and matcha milk jam and is available daily. However, the Salted Egg Ice Cream, featuring salted egg custard ice cream, topped with salted egg sauce, crispy fried pastry, and curry leaves honey, will only be available on weekends.

29th October to 10th November (Salted Egg ice cream only available weekends)

1/155 Franklin Street, Melbourne

Winner Kyong Ho (Image Credit: Tommy Debenham)

Winner Announced for the S. Pellegrino Young Chef Academy 2024-25 Regional Final for the Pacific 

KyongHo (Daniel) Choi has taken a major step toward culinary stardom, winning the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy 2024-25 Regional Final for the Pacific. Cooking under Chef Stephen Nairn at Omnia, Melbourne, Daniel wowed the esteemed jury with his signature dish, "Bacon and Cabbage or Pork and Kimchi," a reflection of his Korean-Irish heritage. Competing against nine other promising chefs, Daniel's talent and dedication stood out, which has earned him a place at the Grand Finale in Milan in 2025.

Guided by renowned mentor Josh Niland (of Saint Peter and Fish Butchery fame), Daniel will refine his culinary skills on the road to the finale, where he’ll compete on an international stage.

In addition to Daniel’s win, Joshua Ross (NZ) was awarded both the S.Pellegrino Social Responsibility and Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Awards, while Siriporn Boonsin (NSW) took home the Fine Dining Lovers Food for Thought Award.

The competition culminated in a gala dinner at The Lume, celebrating Australia’s vibrant culinary scene with live entertainment and a four-course meal, including the winning dish from the previous Pacific winner, Robin Wagner.

Stay tuned as Daniel continues his exciting culinary journey toward the Grand Finale in Milan!

Caffe Amatrice (Image Credit: Parker Blain)

Free Coffee at Caffé Amatrice

Caffé Amatrice has just landed in Cremorne, and they’re celebrating in the best way—free coffee with your breakfast until the end of October! Whether you're craving house-made granola with St. David’s vanilla bean yoghurt and rhubarb compote or diving into medley tomatoes ala'amatriciana on toast, their menu is sure to impress.

Inspired by the charming Italian village of Amatrice, this new cosy cafe is the perfect spot for a laid-back brekkie or quick coffee run. Grab your chance to enjoy a complimentary brew with your breakfast while it lasts!

Until end of October

16 Stephenson Street, Cremorne

Cannoleria x Chappy's Chips

A Cannoleria x Chappy's Chips Collaboration

Get ready for an unexpected treat! Cannoleria has teamed up with Chappy's Chips for a limited-edition cannoli.

This flavour-packed creation features sea salt and dark chocolate ricotta in a crispy shell, topped with Chappy’s Chips. It’s the perfect sweet and salty combo, and you won’t want to miss it. 

Available 18th to 24th October

All Cannoleria locations; Carlton, QVM, South Melbourne Market, Preston Market, Highpoint Shopping Centre, UGO Cucina Popolare at Cannoleria HQ

Le Yeahllow

Le Yeahllow Expands

Le Yeahllow is making waves once again, expanding to the iconic former Black Star Pastry spot on Little Bourke Street! Less than a year after its CBD debut, this whimsical dessert haven has been wowing Melburnians with its artistic flair and premium ingredients.

To celebrate the new location, they’re launching the Barre de Chocolat—a hyper-realistic treat inspired by Dubai’s famous chocolate bar, with flavours like White Raspberry, Pistachio Luxe, and more.

Known for creations like the Jeff Koons-inspired Balloon Puppy, Le Yeahllow continues to push boundaries and dazzle dessert lovers with their playful, edible masterpieces.

Shop 4/8 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne

Grant Smillie x Marmont

Grant Smilie Marmont at The Crown

This is set to be one of the hottest new food and drink destinations in Melbourne, and we can't wait for it to open just in time for the summer buzz!

Melbourne is set to welcome a new hotspot, Marmont, thanks to a collaboration between Crown and acclaimed hospitality figure Grant Smillie. Opening this summer, Marmont will be a vibrant, day-to-night venue offering Californian-inspired small plates and a stylish beverage selection.

Located on the Riverwalk, it will boast stunning views of the Yarra River and Melbourne skyline, with seamless transitions from alfresco dining to sunset drinks, and DJ-spun tunes.

After 12 years in LA, Smillie returns to his hometown, bringing his signature LA energy, food favourites, and music curation to this chic new venue.

Bahama Gold

Gássy by Bahama Gold ​Launches

Bahama Gold, Brunswick's beloved bar and wine shop, has released its very own house Prosecco: Gássy. Lightweight, refreshing and perfectly bubbly, this wine has come just in time for Melbourne's warmer weather.

This new wine is 100% King Valley Glera and has been carefully created by co-owner of Neighbourhood Group (Neighbourhood Wine, Old Palm Liquor and Bahama Gold), Simon Denman and Beverage Manager, Gus Gluck. 

Studio Amaro

Studio Amaro Turns One

Windsor's favourite all-day Italian restaurant, Studio Amaro, is celebrating its first birthday this month. And to celebrate, the restaurant is giving back to all of its customers who have dined there within the first year. If you've been a Studio Amaro customer, you'll get a complimentary glass of Prosecco or a crisp Peroni on arrival. It's a party for everyone!

168 Chapel Street, Windsor

Hofbräuhaus (Image Credit: Brian Doherty)

Oktoberfest Celebrations at Hofbräuhaus Kick Off

Don your dirndls and lederhosen, because Hofbräuhaus' Oktoberfest celebrations kick off this weekend.

Running from 21st September for five weeks, the festivities coincide with the official Oktoberfest launch in Germany and are set to welcome over 15,000 revelers. Expect yodelling, polka dancing, stein-sinking, bratwurst-eating, live music from the Haus Band, and traditional German bands. Plus, 100 lucky guests will win free beer for a year!

From 21st September

18-28 Market Lane, Melbourne

Mill Place Merchants

Mill Place Merchants Launch Piccolo Menu

Mill Place Merchants has launched a new piccolo cocktail menu, serving up your favourite drinks in a smaller sized. Sip and savour one of our many original creations such as Pink Lady, Juschu or Cardinale.

Perfect for tasting and sharing, our Piccolo cocktails let you enjoy the creativity of our bartenders without committing to a full-sized drink. It's an ideal way to try even more flavours!

Offer: Piccolo Cocktail – $14, Piccolo Aperitivo - cocktail & snack – $18, Tray of 3 different piccolo cocktails – $38

Tuesday to Thursday, 5.00pm to 7.00pm

Ground Floor/2 Mill Place, Melbourne

Entrecôte

Celebrate French Rosé With a Long Lunch at Entrecôte

Beloved French restaurant Entrecôte is launching a $90 long lunch including four glasses of rosé and a special four course set menu to celebrate French rosé. The long lunch will be offered in the newly launched Conservatoire, which is a tribute to the great courtyards and indoor gardens of Paris - the perfect setting for a long lunch this Spring! The set menu is expertly curated by Head Chef, Timothy Menger, showcasing the finest in French gastronomy and cuisine. Grab your girlfriends and head on over to yap the day away over some rosé!

Half pour $90 per person, full pour $110 per person

142 Greville Street, Prahan

Piccolina

The Piccolina Gelato Project Returns

Piccolina is back with season four of its much loved Piccolina Project. Across eight weeks, Piccolina will see eight chefs come in and create limited-edition flavours that will be rotating weekly. It's the perfect excuse to indulge in a scoop (or three) on a regular basis. What's good for the heart is good for the soul!

From 2nd October

Available at Piccolina stores across Melbourne, see website for location details

il Mercato Centrale

il Mercato Centrale to Open in Melbourne

Much-loved il Mercato Centrale is opening its very first location in Melbourne on the 19th of September. This will be a food haven in Melbourne's CBD from Thursday to Sunday, and involve 23 artisans who will form a collaborative ecosystem, supplying ingredients and produce to one another. Originally founded in Florence, Italy, it's incredibly exciting to have this market that's done so well in numerous Italian states come to Melbourne - the first il Mercato Centrale outside of Italy.

Open from 19th September, 4.00pm

Hello Kitty Pop-Up Cafe

Hello Kitty Pop-Up Cafe Arriving in Chadstone

Starting 20th September, Chadstone will host a charming pop-up Hello Kitty Cafe to celebrate Sanrio’s iconic character’s 50th anniversary. Nestled within The Social Quarter, this sweet cafe promises a delightful experience for fans, foodies, and pop culture lovers alike. Expect Hello Kitty-inspired treats like strawberry sandos, themed bento boxes, iced matcha lattes, cakes, and cookies.

The celebration also features an eye-catching installation by renowned street artist Sofles, limited-edition merchandise, and a vibrant school holiday program.

Visit Chadstone for a fun-filled, nostalgia-rich celebration and indulge in a taste of Hello Kitty’s world with delicious bites and playful vibes!

From 20th September

1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone

Maha East

Maha East Launches 'ARAB'iata $15 Weekly Pastas

We all love a good bowl of pasta, but the experience becomes even better when the bowl is only $15. Maha East is collaborating with several of Melbourne's best chefs including Ben Cooper (seen above), Scott Pickett and Moscha Tropp to bring a $15 weekly rotating pasta series to Melbourne: 'ARAB'iata. Kicking off on the 16th of September, thi8s series will see eight chefs grace the Maha East kitchen with their unique spins on classic Italian dishes, adding in their own personal flair. 

Every Monday to Wednesday, 16th September to 6th November

Walk-ins welcome, bookings can be made here

36 Chapel Street, Windsor

Mulline Wines

Mulline Wines Wins Big at the Halliday Wine Companion Awards 

Mulline, the acclaimed Geelong winery, has just been honoured as Best Value Winery at the Halliday Wine Companion Awards 2025. Crafted by the talented duo Ben Mullen and Ben Hine, Mulline's portfolio is a treasure trove of exceptional wines, including standout Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and their remarkable cool-climate Syrah.

Even with just five vintages under their belt, their 2023 Syrah and Gris are already crowd favourites, while the 2023 Port Arlington Chardonnay, at $60, is a true revelation of richness, creaminess, and complexity. 

Mulline’s dedication to excellence and social responsibility shines through in every bottle, with many wines offering outstanding value under $60.

Discover their exquisite offerings and become a member of their Wine Club, or enjoy their wines at prestigious venues like Longrain, France Soir, or Reine & La Rue.

Little Lon Distilling Co

Whiskey Aged in Old Melbourne Gaol Now Available

Little Lon Distilling Co has released their highly anticipated Little Lon Whiskey. This spirit has quite the story, being aged in Old Melbourne Gaol cell number 13 for the past two years, maturing under optimal conditions and absorbing the essence of its surroundings. The result? A whiskey that's as unique as the city it's made in.

$135

Shop now

The Crafty Squire

The Crafty Squire Temporarily Closes Its Doors

The Crafty Squire will be closing its doors on 10th September, but don't worry, because it's bye for now, not forever. The microbrewery and pub has major renovation plans, and will be turned into a multi-level food and drink destination that will become a hub for people to gather in the heart of the CBD.

The first stage of the renovation is set to be unveiled to the public this summer, with further details to come.

127 Russell Street, Melbourne 

DOC Espresso

DOC Espresso Undergoes Renovations

After 20 years of trading, DOC Espresso has temporarily closed its doors to undergo renovations. This renovation is set to complement their new concept menus, elevating the dining experience and combining both traditional and contemporary Italian food, atmosphere and style. It plans to reopen its new and improved cafe and restaurant in late October.

In the mean time, you can still get your DOC fix right next door at DOC Delicatessan, located at 330 Lygon Street in Carlton.

326 Lygon Street, Carlton

Can't get enough Melbourne food and drink news and want to be in the know of more delicious restaurants, cafes and bars to book? Be sure to take a look at the best dining deals happening this week, or these fancy degustations if you want to dine out in style.

Stay in the loop

Subscribe
LOAD MORE ARTICLES