Dining by the landmarks: Melbourne’s Flinders Lane and the CBD

We all know Melbourne is famous for its quirky dining precincts and hidden laneways. While Melbourne's CBD is not exactly quirky or hidden, it does pack a punch when it comes to exceptional dining. Without having to wander too far from Federation Square, you can have the full Melbourne dining experience.

The depth of Melbourne’s dining scene is evident in the range of cuisine on offer. If you’re in the mood for Italian, head to Lygon Street in Carlton. Feel like the alternative experience, head to Acland Street in St Kilda or Brunswick Street in Fitzroy. And on Chapel Street in South Yarra, you’ll find slick, modern eateries. 

But if you’re in the CBD and looking for a fabulous lunch or an after-work dinner, you don't need to travel far. Why not start with Flinders Lane?

Not that long ago, Flinders Lane was the hub of Melbourne’s fashion trade where up and coming designers plied their trade. Today, it’s the up-and-coming chefs who have taken over the strip. Flinders Lane has become famous thanks to a host of cutting-edge establishments like Chin Chin, Cumulus Inc and Coda. And there is always something fresh and new popping up. 

Papa Goose on Flinders Lane

A culinary destination in its own right, Flinders Lane is home to one of the shining lights of the Melbourne dining scene, Papa Goose.

This snug, sophisticated warehouse-style restaurant is sure to become your inner-city favourite. The talented team at Papa Goose call the cuisine modern dining with a British twist. Expect to find simple, perfectly executed meals bursting with the flavours of fresh, seasonal produce. Adhering to the philosophy of slow food and meticulous attention to detail, you’ll find traditional British recipes expertly combined with exotic herbs and spices.

For the truly big city experience, why not start the evening with a drink upstairs in the Mary Fortune Bar?

The menu is mouth-watering, to say the least. Some of the standouts are the House-made Gnocchi with Zucchini, Macadamia Pesto, Cherry Tomato and Smoked Ricotta; Pan-Fried John Dory with Asparagus, Salted Grapes, Baby Gem and Verjus; and Aylesbury Duck Breast & Crispy Duck Leg with Borlotti Bean Ragout, Smoked Pear, Caramelised Witlof and Port Reduction.

Just a short stroll from Flinders Lane, you’ll find a couple of Japanese dining gems and you won't even have to leave the CBD.

Japanese dining in the CBD

Kobe Jones
Siddeley Street

At Kobe Jones, the food is easy to eat and designed for sharing. Expect simple Japanese cuisine combined with the flavours of the west.  With a firm belief that ‘grazing’ is the only way to dine, the extensive menu offers plenty of reasons to linger over dinner. Choose from rolls, tobanyaki,  signature dishes, small plates, large plates, tempura, hot rocks, sushi, sashimi and desserts to share with friends.

Whether you’re a regular at Kobe Jones or you’re a first timer to this style of dining, the friendly staff are always on hand to help you order.  It’s hard to choose a dish that showcases the exceptional talent of the kitchen team, but just a few of the signature dishes are: Number One Special, Crab Salad stuffed with Avocado, wrapped in Kingfish and baked with Kobe Jones’s secret sauce; Green Tea Salmon, Three-hour Cold Smoked Salmon, marinated in Green Tea, with Watercress Salad or Panko Soft Shell Crab prepared panko style, with Kobe Chilli Sauce, Aioli and Teriyaki Potatoes. 

Kobe Jones is located on Siddeley Street on the Yarra River and offers dishes to suit everyone from the first-timer to more adventurous diners. 

Hibachi
King Street

In the busy centre of Melbourne, Hibachi is your oasis. Offering a warm, charming setting, you can escape the hustle and bustle with a sake while perusing the delicious menu.

Hibachi serves up authentic Japanese cuisine served amongst traditional, luxurious Japanese decor.

There are four tatami rooms for group dining. Our favourite spot is a seat at the counter to watch the talented team at work at the Robata Yaki Grill. Hibachi is famous for its sushi and sashimi but also offers a full a la carte menu as well as Sukiyaki, Shabu-Shabu and Yosenabe cooking at the table. Expect lots of Wagyu Beef.

Renowned for exceptional service from the wait staff, Hibachi will soon be top of your Melbourne dining list.