Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
Restaurant list

Unique Restaurants to Dine with Your Friends

A photo of Red logo
by OpenTable Team
Updated 03 August 2023

Hungry for a dining experience that's tailor-made for you? We’ve got you covered. Here are our top restaurant picks for your next outing. Bon appétit!

Credit: Kobo

4.7 (638)
$A101 and over
Filipino
Melbourne CBD
When Ross Magnaye and Shane Stafford started Serai, their vision was to create a restaurant that would fit perfectly in the heart of the Philippines. To replicate the spirit, vitality, passion and sense of fun, they knew Serai would become a home from home for our diners.

​At our restaurant, right in the heart of Melbourne, you can watch the chefs prepare and fresh food daily in our open kitchen at the chef’s omakase table or relax in the restaurant and bar with a glass of our hand picked, vin naturel selections or signature cocktails.
Top review
Danielle
Dined 3 days ago
Outstanding value for the quality of food and service. The range of flavours was fantastic.
When Ross Magnaye and Shane Stafford started Serai, their vision was to create a restaurant that would fit perfectly in the heart of the Philippines. To replicate the spirit, vitality, passion and sense of fun, they knew Serai would become a home from home for our diners.

​At our restaurant, right in the heart of Melbourne, you can watch the chefs prepare and fresh food daily in our open kitchen at the chef’s omakase table or relax in the restaurant and bar with a glass of our hand picked, vin naturel selections or signature cocktails.
Top review
Danielle
Dined 3 days ago
Outstanding value for the quality of food and service. The range of flavours was fantastic.
4.4 (505)
$A41 to $A100
Asian
Collingwood
Welcome to Shu, once the name of Sichuan province, southwest China, now home of innovative plant-based cooking in Collingwood, Melbourne

Currently we are offering a 10 course vegan degustation. Inspired by Sichuan cuisine, this plant based set menu is all about innovated Chinese cuisine, embracing the healthy plant eating and showcasing seasonal local Victorian produce. From raw and chilled appetisers to fiery but mouthwatering authentic Sichuan flavours of the street food to complimenting premium wines and cocktails, Shu takes you on an adventurous journey of modern Chinese cooking.
Top review
Richardb
Dined 2 days ago
A great restaurant, the degustation menu was fantastic. Great service well worth a visit
Welcome to Shu, once the name of Sichuan province, southwest China, now home of innovative plant-based cooking in Collingwood, Melbourne

Currently we are offering a 10 course vegan degustation. Inspired by Sichuan cuisine, this plant based set menu is all about innovated Chinese cuisine, embracing the healthy plant eating and showcasing seasonal local Victorian produce. From raw and chilled appetisers to fiery but mouthwatering authentic Sichuan flavours of the street food to complimenting premium wines and cocktails, Shu takes you on an adventurous journey of modern Chinese cooking.
Top review
Richardb
Dined 2 days ago
A great restaurant, the degustation menu was fantastic. Great service well worth a visit
4.5 (187)
$A101 and over
Asian
Sydney CBD
Our menus will take you on a culinary journey throughout Asia, paying homage to our cultures by elevating traditional flavours through modern techniques. Enter underground and indulge in a mouth-watering menu of shared plates and cocktails.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined 7 days ago
Our party of 4 had a fabulous dining experience at Hustlers. This is a very funky place, the service and ambience was fantastic and the food was delicious. Will definitely dine here again.
Our menus will take you on a culinary journey throughout Asia, paying homage to our cultures by elevating traditional flavours through modern techniques. Enter underground and indulge in a mouth-watering menu of shared plates and cocktails.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined 7 days ago
Our party of 4 had a fabulous dining experience at Hustlers. This is a very funky place, the service and ambience was fantastic and the food was delicious. Will definitely dine here again.
4.6 (55)
$A40 and under
Italian
Bondi Beach
An Italian inspired eatery promising to serve as a home away from home. Makaveli provides a warm and welcoming space for a morning coffee, an afternoon bite, or a lively evening out. The carefully curated menu includes a selection of snacks and shareable plates, designed to complement an innovative beverage selection which features locally sourced coffee and creative cocktails. The menu at Makaveli is a tribute to the joy of sharing food, with an emphasis on communal dining. Key menu highlights include Burrata, Kingfish Crudo, and Stracciatella di bufala. Makaveli will also emphasise supporting local, independent wineries, showcasing their unique flavours and craftsmanship.
Top review
Geoff
Dined on 28 Feb 2025
What a great restaurant. The vibe was awesome. The service was perfect. The food was delicious. Highly recommend sitting at the bar to watch the action. Best meal I had at Bondi
An Italian inspired eatery promising to serve as a home away from home. Makaveli provides a warm and welcoming space for a morning coffee, an afternoon bite, or a lively evening out. The carefully curated menu includes a selection of snacks and shareable plates, designed to complement an innovative beverage selection which features locally sourced coffee and creative cocktails. The menu at Makaveli is a tribute to the joy of sharing food, with an emphasis on communal dining. Key menu highlights include Burrata, Kingfish Crudo, and Stracciatella di bufala. Makaveli will also emphasise supporting local, independent wineries, showcasing their unique flavours and craftsmanship.
Top review
Geoff
Dined on 28 Feb 2025
What a great restaurant. The vibe was awesome. The service was perfect. The food was delicious. Highly recommend sitting at the bar to watch the action. Best meal I had at Bondi
4.6 (508)
$A101 and over
Asian
South Yarra
Yugen redefines dining after dark. A promise of an experience where food, drink, and music continue well into the night. A subterranean setting with a refined industrial feel, offering dishes and beverages influenced by the cultural richness of Asia. Tradition met with the intuition of a contemporary flair.




Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined 5 days ago
Ambience is amazing the way the whole restaurant layout has been done is next to none. Service was 10/10 and the food is on the pricy side but worth it. Will be coming back again to try the different options such as the chefs special menu or the sushi. Overall experience was amazing.
Yugen redefines dining after dark. A promise of an experience where food, drink, and music continue well into the night. A subterranean setting with a refined industrial feel, offering dishes and beverages influenced by the cultural richness of Asia. Tradition met with the intuition of a contemporary flair.




Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined 5 days ago
Ambience is amazing the way the whole restaurant layout has been done is next to none. Service was 10/10 and the food is on the pricy side but worth it. Will be coming back again to try the different options such as the chefs special menu or the sushi. Overall experience was amazing.
4.6 (102)
$A101 and over
Australian
Chippendale
Inspired by the dynamic Australian coastline, our menu is always on the move—fresh, seasonal, and never predictable. With Executive Chef Jarrod Walsh at the helm, Longshore serves ingredients from sea and land, creating plates that blend skill, creativity, and a steady stream of spontaneity.

It’s a place where no two days are the same. Every visit brings a new mix of energy, taste, and storytelling. Our vibe is laid- back but electric, with service that’s as thoughtful as it is unpretentious. Whether you’re here to grab a bite or stay for the night, Longshore is a space for discovery and connection.

This isn’t your usual hatted restaurant. We’re committed to keeping things real and sustainable, because the coast is more than just a destination—it’s a way of life. It’s where different flavours, ideas, and experiences find a place to belong. If you’re drawn to the unexpected, you belong at Longshore too.
Top review
AlanVIP
Dined on 1 Mar 2025
Amazing fresh-from the market seafood cooked to perfection
Inspired by the dynamic Australian coastline, our menu is always on the move—fresh, seasonal, and never predictable. With Executive Chef Jarrod Walsh at the helm, Longshore serves ingredients from sea and land, creating plates that blend skill, creativity, and a steady stream of spontaneity.

It’s a place where no two days are the same. Every visit brings a new mix of energy, taste, and storytelling. Our vibe is laid- back but electric, with service that’s as thoughtful as it is unpretentious. Whether you’re here to grab a bite or stay for the night, Longshore is a space for discovery and connection.

This isn’t your usual hatted restaurant. We’re committed to keeping things real and sustainable, because the coast is more than just a destination—it’s a way of life. It’s where different flavours, ideas, and experiences find a place to belong. If you’re drawn to the unexpected, you belong at Longshore too.
Top review
AlanVIP
Dined on 1 Mar 2025
Amazing fresh-from the market seafood cooked to perfection
4.7 (322)
$A41 to $A100
Yakiniku
Burwood
We are a Japanese Yakiniku restaurant in Burwood, serving high quality wagyu and sake.



We are located in a centre of Burwood. It is very close to bus stop and train station, and also this building has a 1 hour 30 minutes free parking. Easy access for the customers.



We have more than 25 years of experiences of Japanese Yakiniku in Sydney. We provide our customers with a great Wagyu experience and fun.
Top review
Linda
Dined on 15 Feb 2025
I got thr premium buffet on a Saturday night, so it was very busy but the service was quick and amazing, This is my second time coming here, first time was OMG Amazing ..!! Like had to be my fav Jap all you can eat.. meat was soft juicy and amazing.. i highly rated it.. But sadly second time I came i was a little disappointed.. wagyu was a little chewy, beef tongue was frozen, but overall I was still happy with it, but not sure now if I'll come back especially for the premium price.
We are a Japanese Yakiniku restaurant in Burwood, serving high quality wagyu and sake.



We are located in a centre of Burwood. It is very close to bus stop and train station, and also this building has a 1 hour 30 minutes free parking. Easy access for the customers.



We have more than 25 years of experiences of Japanese Yakiniku in Sydney. We provide our customers with a great Wagyu experience and fun.
Top review
Linda
Dined on 15 Feb 2025
I got thr premium buffet on a Saturday night, so it was very busy but the service was quick and amazing, This is my second time coming here, first time was OMG Amazing ..!! Like had to be my fav Jap all you can eat.. meat was soft juicy and amazing.. i highly rated it.. But sadly second time I came i was a little disappointed.. wagyu was a little chewy, beef tongue was frozen, but overall I was still happy with it, but not sure now if I'll come back especially for the premium price.
4.9 (54)
$A101 and over
Farm-to-table
Fortitude Valley
Perspective dining is a modern gastronomic tasting menu experience, a closed-door 12-seat chef table dining space, our chefs will take you on a unique culinary journey. Perspective Dining will offer cutting-edge tasting menus seasonally from 3 courses to 9 courses, a plant-based menu as well as a protein-based menu. Perspective Dining will be collaborating with local farmers and suppliers to ensure that our vision of uncompromised, no holds barred excellence and sustainability is showcased in our food.
Perspective | Lunch Thursday to Saturday
12:30pm
Food and wine pairing 140
Just the food 80
Perspective Dinner 9 courses
6:30 pm
Food and Wine pairing 300
Just the food 195
Top review
Glen
Dined on 14 Feb 2025
We loved the Perspective experience so we came to try the Eucalyptus Room for Valentine's Day. We had a wonderful evening. The impeccable standard set by Perspective was replicated and applied to a symphony of sweet (but no too sweet) treats supplemented by a deliciously different cocktail menu. From "bread and butter" start to the "milk and cookies" finale and Chef Andrew's sometimes passionate, sometimes humble and sometimes almost embarrassed explanations it is a thoroughly enjoyable companion experience to Perspective. Our favourite was definitely the "Fruit Cake" but the Golden Gaytime, liquorice all-sorts, fruit soup, peach and Mushroom garden were all superbly executed and so very tasty. The Eucalyptus Room is a less challenging (as in challenging to expectations of just how good certain foods can taste) experience than Perspective because you just know it is going to be good. Both are comforting and welcoming and bring something truly special to Brisbane. A special mention should go to the service team, especially Monica and Hugo who we were lucky enough to interact with both times we have dined with the team. Monica is an absolute delight and has a real talent for engaging with diners and making them feel like instant friends. And she makes an excellent cocktail. I had a very tasty Cumquat Splice and my partner had a supremely tasty pineapple and elderflower drink that almost made me wish I didn't like cumqaut quite so much.
Perspective dining is a modern gastronomic tasting menu experience, a closed-door 12-seat chef table dining space, our chefs will take you on a unique culinary journey. Perspective Dining will offer cutting-edge tasting menus seasonally from 3 courses to 9 courses, a plant-based menu as well as a protein-based menu. Perspective Dining will be collaborating with local farmers and suppliers to ensure that our vision of uncompromised, no holds barred excellence and sustainability is showcased in our food.
Perspective | Lunch Thursday to Saturday
12:30pm
Food and wine pairing 140
Just the food 80
Perspective Dinner 9 courses
6:30 pm
Food and Wine pairing 300
Just the food 195
Top review
Glen
Dined on 14 Feb 2025
We loved the Perspective experience so we came to try the Eucalyptus Room for Valentine's Day. We had a wonderful evening. The impeccable standard set by Perspective was replicated and applied to a symphony of sweet (but no too sweet) treats supplemented by a deliciously different cocktail menu. From "bread and butter" start to the "milk and cookies" finale and Chef Andrew's sometimes passionate, sometimes humble and sometimes almost embarrassed explanations it is a thoroughly enjoyable companion experience to Perspective. Our favourite was definitely the "Fruit Cake" but the Golden Gaytime, liquorice all-sorts, fruit soup, peach and Mushroom garden were all superbly executed and so very tasty. The Eucalyptus Room is a less challenging (as in challenging to expectations of just how good certain foods can taste) experience than Perspective because you just know it is going to be good. Both are comforting and welcoming and bring something truly special to Brisbane. A special mention should go to the service team, especially Monica and Hugo who we were lucky enough to interact with both times we have dined with the team. Monica is an absolute delight and has a real talent for engaging with diners and making them feel like instant friends. And she makes an excellent cocktail. I had a very tasty Cumquat Splice and my partner had a supremely tasty pineapple and elderflower drink that almost made me wish I didn't like cumqaut quite so much.
4.6 (344)
$A101 and over
Pan-Asian
Fortitude Valley
We believe in making ordinary food extraordinary, with our seasonal menu inspired by New York's Chinatown. We aim to highlight fresh, quality ingredients, and presenting them in an approachable yet unique style
through techniques of gastronomy. Our goal is to deliver our guests a gastronomic experience in a warm and approachable atmosphere that features an aesthetic blending of New York's Chinatown restaurants and bars.
Top review
Chris
Dined 3 days ago
The whole experience was great. As soon as you walk in the ambiance is awesome. We were there for their movie night where they project an old movie onto the wall and have the soundtrack running in the background… it was very cute. The service was outstanding all the way through with great recommendations and attentiveness. The food speaks for itself. Loved it. The duck was my favourite but it was all so good. Will defo go back.
We believe in making ordinary food extraordinary, with our seasonal menu inspired by New York's Chinatown. We aim to highlight fresh, quality ingredients, and presenting them in an approachable yet unique style
through techniques of gastronomy. Our goal is to deliver our guests a gastronomic experience in a warm and approachable atmosphere that features an aesthetic blending of New York's Chinatown restaurants and bars.
Top review
Chris
Dined 3 days ago
The whole experience was great. As soon as you walk in the ambiance is awesome. We were there for their movie night where they project an old movie onto the wall and have the soundtrack running in the background… it was very cute. The service was outstanding all the way through with great recommendations and attentiveness. The food speaks for itself. Loved it. The duck was my favourite but it was all so good. Will defo go back.
4.7 (105)
$A101 and over
Japanese
Melbourne CBD
A contemporary Japanese dining experience, Warabi emphasises seasonal ingredients and elevated beverage pairings in an Omakase setting, celebrating the Kappo style of cuisine philosophy.

The Kappo dining experience at Warabi is a set menu that changes at the discretion of the head chef, whose detailed focus is on preparing courses based on the availability of the finest seasonal ingredients. A casual yet refined dining experience, Kappo directly translates to ‘cut and cook' and celebrates the chefs' craftsmanship and precise preparation techniques.

The multi-course 'Impression' menu is guided by the chef and changes daily, where the energy of dishes reflects the seasons and highest quality of ingredients available.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 28 Sept 2023
Service was excellent! Staff were both observant and knowledgeable. Food was average.
A contemporary Japanese dining experience, Warabi emphasises seasonal ingredients and elevated beverage pairings in an Omakase setting, celebrating the Kappo style of cuisine philosophy.

The Kappo dining experience at Warabi is a set menu that changes at the discretion of the head chef, whose detailed focus is on preparing courses based on the availability of the finest seasonal ingredients. A casual yet refined dining experience, Kappo directly translates to ‘cut and cook' and celebrates the chefs' craftsmanship and precise preparation techniques.

The multi-course 'Impression' menu is guided by the chef and changes daily, where the energy of dishes reflects the seasons and highest quality of ingredients available.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 28 Sept 2023
Service was excellent! Staff were both observant and knowledgeable. Food was average.
4.7 (153)
$A41 to $A100
Global, International
South Yarra
In case you haven't travelled with us before, let us introduce ourselves. We are a fine dining restaurant located in the heart of South Yarra.

We first opened our doors in 2016, when a then, 22-year-old Charlie Carrington, decided to create a restaurant that changed cuisine every few months. Dubbed the most "Ambitious Restaurant Opening" of the year, Atlas Dining quickly rose to cult status. Within a month, Charlie became the youngest Australian chef to be awarded a Chef's Hat.

Eight years on, and (now) 25 cuisines later, Atlas Dining continues to be one of the most unique restaurants around.

We offer affordable fine dining, but most importantly, an unforgettable experience that helps guests' tastebuds travel the world.
Top review
Shea
Dined on 18 Feb 2025
Atlas Dining is one of, if not our favourite in Melbourne. It's our go to for relaxed fine dining where you can experience new cuisines and flavours in a great space and with amazing staff. It was our first time eating there in a while just due to life, but it was so good to be back! We love both real Mexican and Tex Mex, and this felt like such a fantastic combination of the two. All the courses were outstanding, but special praise is definitely for the woodfired pecan pie. It was incredible!! Our only complaint is that we could have eaten a couple more each it was so good!!
In case you haven't travelled with us before, let us introduce ourselves. We are a fine dining restaurant located in the heart of South Yarra.

We first opened our doors in 2016, when a then, 22-year-old Charlie Carrington, decided to create a restaurant that changed cuisine every few months. Dubbed the most "Ambitious Restaurant Opening" of the year, Atlas Dining quickly rose to cult status. Within a month, Charlie became the youngest Australian chef to be awarded a Chef's Hat.

Eight years on, and (now) 25 cuisines later, Atlas Dining continues to be one of the most unique restaurants around.

We offer affordable fine dining, but most importantly, an unforgettable experience that helps guests' tastebuds travel the world.
Top review
Shea
Dined on 18 Feb 2025
Atlas Dining is one of, if not our favourite in Melbourne. It's our go to for relaxed fine dining where you can experience new cuisines and flavours in a great space and with amazing staff. It was our first time eating there in a while just due to life, but it was so good to be back! We love both real Mexican and Tex Mex, and this felt like such a fantastic combination of the two. All the courses were outstanding, but special praise is definitely for the woodfired pecan pie. It was incredible!! Our only complaint is that we could have eaten a couple more each it was so good!!
4.7 (751)
$A41 to $A100
Wine Bar
Fortitude Valley
ESSA provides a destination to escape the expected.

Just like the raw interiors in which we reside, our work is simple but considered.

The ethos in the kitchen embraces collaboration with local farmers, hunters and providores, promoting an environmentally conscious approach to the menu. Harvest driven dishes provide the creative parameters for our ever evolving dining experience.

ESSA is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm till late and Friday and Sunday lunch from 12pm.
Top review
julius
Dined 6 days ago
Nduja and beignets, enough said. Great service from Chris and the tastiest of snacks!!!
ESSA provides a destination to escape the expected.

Just like the raw interiors in which we reside, our work is simple but considered.

The ethos in the kitchen embraces collaboration with local farmers, hunters and providores, promoting an environmentally conscious approach to the menu. Harvest driven dishes provide the creative parameters for our ever evolving dining experience.

ESSA is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm till late and Friday and Sunday lunch from 12pm.
Top review
julius
Dined 6 days ago
Nduja and beignets, enough said. Great service from Chris and the tastiest of snacks!!!
4.8 (102)
$A101 and over
Korean
Circular Quay
Kobo is the workshop for Hatted Chef, Jacob Lee, a space for him to demonstrate his love for his homeland of Korea, re-engineering regional dishes onto a contemporary platform, incorporating Japanese and Australian influences for a dining experience like no other.

A solid marble chef’s table is front and centre, seating 8 guests at a time for an intimate chef's table (meaning “I leave it up to you.”), Chef Jacob breaks the menu down into “Episodes” with each episode featuring a core focus on a culinary moment of his life.

Kobo is located in Sydney's new Quay Quarter Lanes, a short walk from Circular Quay station, nestled just behind the historic Hinchcliffe House.
Top review
Gary
Dined on 27 Nov 2024
Exquisite food paired with exceptional soju and wines presented in a refined style and supported by interesting stories of the chef’s childhood that inspired his creations!
Kobo is the workshop for Hatted Chef, Jacob Lee, a space for him to demonstrate his love for his homeland of Korea, re-engineering regional dishes onto a contemporary platform, incorporating Japanese and Australian influences for a dining experience like no other.

A solid marble chef’s table is front and centre, seating 8 guests at a time for an intimate chef's table (meaning “I leave it up to you.”), Chef Jacob breaks the menu down into “Episodes” with each episode featuring a core focus on a culinary moment of his life.

Kobo is located in Sydney's new Quay Quarter Lanes, a short walk from Circular Quay station, nestled just behind the historic Hinchcliffe House.
Top review
Gary
Dined on 27 Nov 2024
Exquisite food paired with exceptional soju and wines presented in a refined style and supported by interesting stories of the chef’s childhood that inspired his creations!
4.8 (398)
$A101 and over
Peruvian
Surry Hills
Nikkei features Japanese-Peruvian styled share plates alongside a 40-strong wine list and Peruvian and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
Nikkei are people from Japan and their descendants that live in a foreign country. It also specifically refers to the cuisine of the Japanese-Peruvians which started more than a century ago when the first Japanese immigrated to Peru in the late 1890s, combining Japanese techniques and flavours with Peruvian produce.
We look forward to sharing Nikkei with you.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 15 Jun 2024
Great food and service, wish it wasn’t closing down.
Nikkei features Japanese-Peruvian styled share plates alongside a 40-strong wine list and Peruvian and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
Nikkei are people from Japan and their descendants that live in a foreign country. It also specifically refers to the cuisine of the Japanese-Peruvians which started more than a century ago when the first Japanese immigrated to Peru in the late 1890s, combining Japanese techniques and flavours with Peruvian produce.
We look forward to sharing Nikkei with you.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 15 Jun 2024
Great food and service, wish it wasn’t closing down.
Explore other cities and regions
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo