This hidden-gem bar, secreted away alongside the historic Federation Wharf vaults, is an intimate Yarra-front venue shines with its unique range of all Australian wine, beer and spirit lists, simple but creative food menu (charcuterie board of wild boar salami, Noix de Jambon,De Palma bresaola, bush spiced chutney, anyone?) and fabulous gin high-tea is the first on our list for you to laze and graze, while taking in one of the best views of the Yarra. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

In an expansive converted horse stable from the 1900s, Scott Pickett’s contemporary Thai restaurant, Longrain, is the communal dining space you’ve been looking for. With share dishes and long banquet-style tables, diners are invited to try betel leaf with prawns, lime, chilli, ginger and peanuts, caramelised pork belly with five spice and pickled mustard greens and sticky tamarind pudding with macerated pineapple, palm sugar and coconut.

Self-described “best pub in Melbourne”, the beautifully restored traditional Australian Orrong Hotel in Armadale is offering cold beers and classic pub-food-with-modern twist. Highly recommend the Creamy Curried Paneer, Potato, Mushroom and Pea Pot Pie with a Furphy Crispy Larger. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

The Melbourne arm of this Aussie dining institution is located right alongside URBNSURF, Australia’s first ever two-hectare surfing lagoon. So while you’re actually just moments from Tullamarine airport, you might as well be gazing over the rolling waves of the Pacific. Enjoy signature Blue Duck favourites like rotisserie chicken and pizzas straight from the oven, all using ingredients sustainably sourced and ethically farmed from the best local producers in Victoria.

Beautiful, quirky and entirely memorable – the best way to describe both the decor and the fare at the very popular Bar Lourinha. Their array of French, Italian and Spanish sharing platters and wines make the intimate spot the perfect venue for a first, or fiftieth, date. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

One of the most exciting openings of last year – not least because of menu items like a half crisp-skinned suckling pig’s head, fringed by leaves and condiments for wrapping and rolling – the the long-awaited sibling to Sunda, Aru, has been credited with bringing a certain fire back to Melbourne dining. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

Classic Italian flavours made with Australian ingredients is what you can expect at this modern cucina in Windsor. Swordfish crudo with orange dressing and macadamia, semolina-fried calamari with fermented chilli and lime mayo and activated charcoal girasoli with Moreton Bay bugs, seaweed butter and spitfire chilli. Settle in and indulge. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

If there’s one restaurant that focuses on produce, and locally sourcing the finest available, then the team at Nomad is it. Working in partnership with regional growers, the food at Nomad is inspired by travels through Spain, Morocco, and the Middle East, with most dishes cooked with fire and smoke. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

Inspired by the steakhouses of North America, Rockpool oozes dark, moody appeal. With a focus on high-quality produce, particularly the meat, an outstanding wine list, and second-to-none service, this stalwart is the place you go to when you know what you want. Simple uncomplicated food meets a refined, relaxed experience.

The sister of Shane Delia’s award-winning Maha Restaurant, this easy-going restaurant and bar is the port of call for those wanting a more relaxed experience, with the same Maha flair. Enjoy Middle Eastern-inspired dishes like Turkish-style chicken wingettes with black lime and sumac salt or cured and charred kingfish with saffron pickled onions and carrots, and whipped cod roe with dill. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

Ever dreamed about dining under a 1.5 tonne floating dragon suspended from the ceiling? Well Melbourne’s biggest hot pot destination, Panda Hot Pot will make it worth your while. This iconic venue hosts a bustling atmosphere and some of the tastiest spicy pork ribs you will ever taste. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

Who doesn’t love a toastie? Oozy, crunchy, almost burn-the-tongue hot. Better yet, who doesn’t love a toastie with some of the best coffee the city has to offer? Head to Token Toasties for a cheesy parcel with a Five Senses Coffee.

The team at San Telmo certainly know how to live and breathe the Argentine ethos that eating and drinking are the most enjoyable aspects in life. And we’re happy to oblige. From midday to late at night, indulge in shared plates of empanadas, chorizo, morcilla (spiced black sausage), premium pasture-fed steak, along with other traditional dishes and vegetables from the grill. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

Another must try are the take-home treats such as the now-legendary bread by Rustica. From their sweet and protein packed seeded whole wheat, to their traditional light rye sourdough, cranberry and walnut to olive with fresh basil – Rustica prides themselves on their slow fermentation process of 36-48 hours depending on the variety of loaf. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.

The bright, clean fitout and dazzling light of this Altona jewel may be very impressive, but it’s the expert Italio-Mediterranean menu that truly shines. The perfect place for a big birthday or special family meal, Saint Germain is a European holiday for your mouth. Proudly part of Shop Small by American Express.