Melbourne’s ever-evolving dining scene continues to captivate, and 2025 is ushering in a wave of exciting new restaurant openings. From sophisticated fine-dining establishments to casual eateries brimming with Melbourne's signature charm, the latest arrivals promise to deliver an eclectic new crop of flavours and experiences to Victorian shores.
Whether you’re craving inventive contemporary cuisine or a laid-back space to enjoy a long boozy lunch with friends, these new venues are shaping the future of Melbourne’s gastronomic landscape. With an emphasis on atmosphere, innovation, and bold tastes, here’s a look at best new restaurants landing in Melbourne in 2025.
Cordelia
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Opening: May 2025
About: Carlton's bustling Rathdowne street is set to receive a new addition this year, with Cordelia opening up in the heart of the action. The new venture comes courtesy of the husband and wife team behind Dons in Prahran, and is set to put fresh, sustainable seafood at the fore. The name itself, 'Cordelia' was picked for it's Latin meaning: 'Daughter of the Sea.' Bookmark your calendars for May, when what will surely be Carlton's most coveted reservation, officially opens shop.
Maison Bâtard
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Opened: November 2024
About: Maison Batard officially opened its doors in late 2024, but we still think it's worth a mention. From the creative brains of restaurateur Chris Lucas, this French venue spans four stories, and is worth every bit of the hype. The basement is home to a late-night supper club, while the top level turns in Le Terrasse — a slightly more casual dining space. And on the ground floor is the star of the show: a sprawling Parisienne-style brasserie, complete with a custom-built oyster bar.
Le Splendide
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Opened: Late 2024
About: From the team behind South Yarra institution France-Soir comes Le Splendide. The wine bar has officially taken residency next door, in a cosy, chic space perfect for a pre- or post-dinner tipple. There's no kitchen on-site, but there are plenty of French snacks on offer and, of course, a wine list that spans seemingly forever.
Ramen Ako
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Opened: 13 March
About: This 31-seat ramen shop in Brunswick East serves a limited 80 to 100 bowls of ramen a day. It makes sense: the kitchen is a solo operation, run by owner Sho Iijima. He specialises in a refined menu of just three kinds of ramen: signature chintan (clear), chicken broth, and paitan (thickened chicken) broth. And the end product is about as authentic as you can get, with the recipe's adapted from the traditional chicken soup Sho's mother, Ako Iijima, used to make.
Slowpoke
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Opened: 1st march
About: Collingwood's rooftop bar scene has officially grown by one, with the introduction of Slowpoke. Housed on top of a co-working space, the al-fresco bar has instantly become one of the most sought-after bookings in the city, and for good reason. Not only is it expertly fitted-out, but the considered drinks menu has all the makings of a fun night out.
Suze
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Opened: 13 March
About: If you love the likes of Marion and Napier Quarter, chances are you'll be a fan of Suze. The wine bar comes courtesy of ex-Marion restaurant manager Andrew McConnell, and former head chef of Napier Quarter Steve Harry, in a merging of two of Melbourne's greats. At Suze, you'll find small snacks, mains, and intriguing desserts, plus a drinks list that fuses the best of Australian and European wine.
Loku
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Opened: 20 December, 2024
About: Owner and head chef Lanka began cooking when she as just 9 years old, helping her mother in the kitchen. Now, she's showcasing what she learned with Loku, a new venture in Northcote, which puts the flavours and spices of Sri Lankan cooking in the spotlight. Casual, homely, and always delicious, this is one new spot that's worth a visit.
Bar Taralli
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Opened: February 19
About: You'd be forgiven for thinking this North Melbourne haunt was actually a trattoria in the south of Italy. As you've probably gleaned, Bar Taralli is named after taralli — the crunchy, salty snack that's signature to the southern Italian cuisine. Naturally, the menu is also brimming with delicacies from this part of the world, including a moreish orecchiette with a white pork and beef ragu, and char-grilled octopus legs served over a garlicky tomato sauce.
Nori Maki
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Opened: 17 December, 2024
About: When it comes to Japanese cuisine, omakase is about as spectacular as it gets. A menu entirely at the discretion of the chef, this style of dining can typically attract soaring price tags. But at Nori Maki, the food — while still delectable — comes at a refreshingly affordable cost. The menu ranges from $34 to $89, and spans everything from fresh hand rolls to stuffed mochi for dessert.
