Tucked beneath Russell Street in Melbourne's CBD, Izakaya Miyazaki offers an intimate and refined Japanese dining experience. The subterranean setting exudes a moody elegance, with dim lighting and minimalist décor that transports diners to a Tokyo-style izakaya. The open kitchen adds a dynamic element, allowing guests to witness the meticulous preparation of each dish. Signature offerings include premium Miyazaki Wagyu, celebrated for its rich marbling and tenderness. Seafood enthusiasts can savour seasonal sashimi, featuring fresh selections flown in from Japan's Toyosu Market; another standout is the uni, prized for its creamy texture and briny sweetness. Izakaya Miyazaki blends traditional hospitality with culinary artistry, making it a must-visit destination for discerning foodies.

Zircon Restaurant & Bar on High Street in Northcote offers an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience. The ambience combines modern elegance with traditional Sri Lankan warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere for diners. The venue features alfresco dining, a full bar and live music, enhancing the vibrant dining experience. Signature dishes include the chicken kottu roti, a flavourful stir-fry of chopped roti with chicken and vegetables; the black pork curry, featuring tender pork in a rich, spiced gravy; and the Lamprais, a traditional Dutch Burgher dish of rice, meat and accompaniments, wrapped in banana leaves and baked. Finish sweetly with date cake and caramel sauce; each dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka, crafted with fresh local ingredients and age-old recipes.

Expect an intimate dining experience from a multi-course seasonal menu at Temaki Sushi Melbourne on Little Collins Street in the heart of the city. Paired with a unique selection of sake, Japanese wine and beer, all sourced from small boutique growers, sample the freshest seafood, meat and organic vegetables, served in stylish surrounds of moody lighting and sparkling glassware. Begin by dipping your spoon into a steaming bowl of miso soup with tofu, then devour temaki choices such as wasabi soy-marinated tuna, grated yam and okra, served with rice and nori. Perhaps garlic soy-marinated duck breast and pumpkin purée entice, or kingfish with lotus root chip, garlic oil and coriander leaf; those more adventurous opt for grilled eel and tamagoyaki, finishing with a dessert of hojicha pudding.

Nestled on vibrant High Street in Kew, Kiraku Japanese All You Can Eat is a destination for those seeking to savour premium Japanese cuisine in a warm and stylish setting. Featuring timber floors, marble counters and elegant cherry blossom décor, Kiraku sets the scene for memorable meals shared with family and friends. With a focus on fresh ingredients and authentic flavours, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to elevate the communal dining experience. Guests can enjoy an à la carte selection paired with cocktails, or opt for the popular all-you-can-eat menu - offering more than 70+ options across 120-minute sessions. Signature favourites include melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef, an extensive variety of nigiri and sashimi, yakitori skewers, teriyaki salmon and crisp tempura delights.

Find where locals come to relax, have a drink and a jive at LULU Bar on High Street in Preston. Located on the roof at the rear of Preston Hotel, this Melbourne venue is a hot spot for tapas, cocktails, vibes and sunsets, chill out under umbrellas to enjoy expertly crafted drinks along with a selection of board games, making every moment with friends unforgettable. Graze on plates like grilled chilli and lime calamari with rocket, smoked paprika aioli and lemon; or wrap your hands around grilled chicken sliders with bacon, beetroot relish, mayo, lettuce, Spanish onion and Swiss cheese on a mini brioche bun. Pizza lovers pair a slice of pepperoni, Napoli, mozzarella and cracked pepper with a glass of red, or chow down on Mexican chicken, mozzarella, bacon, spinach, jalapeño and corn salsa.

Bringing the authentic flavours of the Mediterranean to your plate, discover AL MAKAN on Errol Street in North Melbourne for street eats made with heart and soul. Nestled in a cosy corner spot with covered alfresco dining streetside ideal for people watching, this warm and inviting restaurant boasts leadlight windows, arches and columns taking you straight to the azure waters of the Med. Dive right in with starters of char-grilled octopus legs, served with fennel and orange salad and Almakan sauce; before devouring lamb shawarma with Lebanese rice, fattoush salad, dips and bread. Perhaps share a seafood feast with calamari, prawns, salmon, mussels, chips and salad, or wrap your hands around a chicken shawarma wrap with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, garlic sauce, tahini and chips.