Where there’s smoke, there’s flavour – and Australia’s dining scene proves it in every corner of the country. From the lively streets of North Melbourne to coastal Albany and beyond, these restaurants embrace fire, spice and finesse to deliver unforgettable meals.
Whether it’s premium Korean BBQ grilled to perfection, Modern Australian plates infused with local produce, or vibrant Indian dishes bursting with tradition, each venue offers a unique take on flavour and atmosphere.
Pair breathtaking views with fine wine, or gather around the grill for a hands-on feast – these destinations promise more than a meal, they promise an experience.
If wandering around the Queen Victoria Markets in North Melbourne has you craving an authentic BBQ experience, head across the road to Hallah for premium, charcoal-grilled Korean BBQ. Named after a mountain on South Korea's Jeju Island, this trendy two-storey venue blends traditional warmth with modern comfort.
Whether you're here to fire up the grill or enjoy a classic, Hallah delivers bold flavours in a lively yet intimate setting; savour authentic, top-quality meat, including premium Wagyu Scotch fillet, oyster blade and succulent lamb ribs, grilled to perfection at your table and paired with handcrafted sauces and a variety of authentic Korean sides. Hallah also offers halal-friendly food options and a full à la carte menu, featuring favourites like bibimbap and crispy fried chicken.
Garrison Restaurant & Bar on Forts Road in Albany is perched atop Mount Clarence, offering sweeping views across King George Sound that frame its elegant, yet relaxed dining atmosphere. The restaurant serves Modern Australian and fusion cuisine with menus built for sharing, changing daily in line with the freshest local produce.
A thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail list showcases local wines along with inventive cocktails and craft beers; dive into a memorable meal with yuzu and honey-glazed scallops, potato and Parmesan foam togarashi, ginger and a leek crisp, or hibachi kangaroo, mole and pomegranate molasses. For the main, think pasta plates of pappardelle with lamb ragu and pecorino; steak lovers opt for bavette steak frites with wild tarragon bearnaise sauce and polenta pont neuf.
Every moment feels like a carefree celebration at Desi-Licious on Robinson Road in Ravenhall. Delve into the unparalleled richness of Indian cuisine, where each dish is a masterpiece of authentic flavours, at this well-loved Melbourne dining destination which exudes stylish charm with a curved mosaic-tiled bar, white-clothed tables, leather banquettes and neon lighting.
Embark on a memorable culinary journey with char-grilled Moroccan lamb chops, served with mint sauce, or crispy fried Amritsari fish marinated in Chef’s special spices; before classic curries such as hot and fiery beef vindaloo with sides of steamed rice, garlic naan and papadums. Seafood lovers opt for prawns cooked in garlic, ginger and fresh chilli, or Goan fish curry with chilli, turmeric, coconut and tamarind.
Bringing together award-winning beef and classic Italian flavours, The 203 on the corner of Ann and Marshall Streets delivers a steakhouse experience like no other in Fortitude Valley. As Stanbroke’s flagship restaurant, The 203 showcases the very best of paddock-to-plate ethos with all beef exclusively sourced from the Australian, family-owned beef producers, ensuring unmatched quality from farm to table.
Find a relaxed yet refined atmosphere with a front-row seat to the magic of the kitchen as you delve into plates of grilled half-shell Abrolhos Island scallops, truffle butter, hazelnut, lemon and chives. From the fire come dishes such as pure Wagyu, crispy polenta, truffle crème and caviar; or linguine with lobster, limone, aglio, olio, pepperoncino and basil.
If you have tried Korean barbeque you know there is nothing quite like it and JANGO Korean BBQ Restaurant on Point Cartwright Drive in Buddina continues this great tradition, elevating it into a modern form. Nestled in Kawana Shoppingworld, take a break from retail therapy to refuel and recharge from a tantalising selection of meat and side dishes, coupled with a Westerner-friendly dining experience.
JANGO presents Korean BBQ dining like no other – think everything from rice bowls and cold noodle dishes to hot stone pot bulgogi and bibimbap – perhaps choose to grill Wagyu oyster blade steak, or marinated short rib at your table, with vegetables and rice on the side. Vegetarians opt for a tempura rice bowl, or vegetable bibimbap to appease ravenous hunger.
