Our Guide To Melbourne’s Most Unique Dining Experiences

YOU ATE WHERE?

Sure, Melbourne’s filled with a world of flavours that excite and delight. But if you really want to tantalise your tastebuds, take your pick from some of the city’s most unique dining experiences. From rainbow cuppas in swing seats to burgers in rooftop train carriages, Melbourne sure knows how to serve up a tasty time. Here are our top picks.

ALL ABOARD

Get a taste of the good old days at the Tramcar Restaurant. You’ll feel like royalty as you climb aboard the historical eatery on wheels. There’s pristine white tablecloths, studded velvet upholstery, and luxurious burgundy curtains. And that’s just the inside. Watch the world go by outside as you cruise though Melbourne in colonial comfort – with all the contemporary trimmings of course, including air conditioning and heating. The set seasonal menu favours local produce, and can be paired with a divine selection of top Australian drops.

To book, visit tramrestaurant.com.au

TAKE IT EASEY’S

In this city, there’s no need to limit yourself to eating on solid ground. Instead, dine in a train perched on a rooftop. You’ll find one of Melbourne’s best burger joints on top of the world in Collingwood. Easey’s goes back to burger basics, with deliciously sweet buns, succulent patties and all the dreamy trimmings. Pair with a cold one, and nestle in while taking in the bustling surroundings. Life’s good at the top. 48 Easey Street, Collingwood, 3066

ISLAND LIFE

Surrounded by the Yarra River on every side, Ponyfish Island is a haven for wonderers and wanderers. Find it floating under the Pedestrian Bridge in Southbank – accessible only by the stairs descending above. Grab a bite and a drink, and admire both the views of the city and the surrounding artworks of exotic flora and fauna. You might even spot the elusive Ponyfish, a mysterious creature apparently seen swimming in the Yarra River. Kiosk Southbank, Pedestrian Bridge, Southbank, 3006

GLAMP OUT

You’ve heard of glamping for camping – well, here’s the bar version. Situated above modern African restaurant PolePole, Glamp is ready for you to sip your night away under canvas safari tent comfort. There’s three spaces to pick from – a roomy seated area, open bar (perfect for a boogie) and the private dining room that you can book ahead of your visit. There’s an African twist on the cocktail list, which includes cute Love Cups. Perfect for two, Potion 1 in this category has Lapsang Suchong tea-infused rum, citrus fruits, chartreuse, Crème Yvette and Prosecco. Pair with a cheese or charcuterie board if you’re peckish after all that dancing. 267 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, 300

OH HAPPY DAY

They’ve dubbed themselves the ‘world’s first happiness centre’, and Serotonin Eatery certainly stand by their word. The Burnley cafe is a sanctuary created to help us escape our fast-paced lives. With the belief that optimal health requires a holistic approach, they fuse their nourishing eatery (brimming with plant-based meals) with an exercise centre. The space exudes happiness, with soothing colours, hexagonal tiles (a nod to serotonin’s chemical structure) and swings for seats. Because there’s nothing like sipping your rainbow-hued latte while rocking back and forth. 52 Madden Grove, Burnley, 3121