1. Victoria by Farmer's Daughters
Take a culinary road trip around the state without leaving Melbourne at Victoria by Farmer's Daughters. Victoria was created by executive chef Alejandro Saravia to celebrate the produce, people and places of our state – from the paddocks of the Western Plains to the fruits of the Murray, the waters of the Great Ocean Road to the vineyards of the High Country.
Corner of Swanston and Flinders Streets, Federation Square, Yarra Building, Ground Floor, Melbourne
2. Aru
Come in out of the rain and be warmed at Aru, where the cuisine centres on a wood-fired hearth, with dishes cooked or finished over the flame. Enjoy oysters, prawns or duck that's been given a hint of smoke and char, and match with cocktails that change with the seasons. The menu spans the ancient seafaring routes between China, Indonesia and northern Australia, and the setting is a beautifully designed space of brick, warm wood and marble.
268 Little Collins Street, Melbourne
3. Tipo 00
Pasta is the name of the game over winter, so you'll be winning with a sought-after table at Tipo 00. Come out of the cold for superlative squid ink taglione, braised rabbit parpadelle, and the playfully named Tipomisu – Tipo's modern revamp of Italy's classic tiramisu.
361 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne