Date night

• Recommended
• Brisbane

Supernormal

Melbourne’s iconic laneway venue, now on the Brisbane River.

• Matt Shea

• Review
• Darlinghurst

Wine bar downstairs, restaurant up, this spot from gun sommeliers is revitalising Stanley St

Owners Harry Hunter and Bridget Raffal bring experience from three-hatted Sixpenny, Where’s Nick and Bentley to their new labour of love, which feels a little like the caves à vin of Paris.

• David Matthews

• Review
• Carlton North

Bar Carnation

The white-walled wine bar filling big shoes on Rathdowne Street.

• Review
• Melbourne

Florentino

The institution to rule them all enters a new era of Italianate grandeur.

• Review
• Kew

Chowon

A suburban paragon of value and technique.

• Review
• Balaclava

In a hatted Balaclava restaurant’s back room, you’ll find an ‘astonishing’ bargain

Feast for $69 per person at this candlelit restaurant within a restaurant, which is right now one of Melbourne’s most delightful secrets.

• Besha Rodell

• Review
• Surry Hills

Mishy’s is like a big-hearted dinner party. So why aren’t more people talking about it?

With hand-selected market fare, $600 worth of crystals and a menu reminiscent of Three Blue Ducks, this beautiful, sunlit restaurant has a bright creativity and personality all its own.

• Bianca Hrovat

• Recommended
• Fortitude Valley

Petite

French bistro by the Happy Boy and Snack Man team.

• Matt Shea

• Recommended
• Brisbane

Stan’s Lounge

A beautiful, low-lit lounge and cocktail bar above Stanley.

• Matt Shea

• Recommended
• Melbourne

Melbourne Supper Club

Late-night institution for excellent wine, good food and polished service.

• Emma Breheny