Vinesmith

This venue is included in Good Food’s 100 Essential Restaurants list.

Not for Vinesmith the bistro cliches of blackboard menus, Art Nouveau posters and butcher’s aprons. There’s an unmistakable and winning French accent to the food and the service, sure. And if you’re looking for saucisson sec, oysters, tartare and terrine, you’ll find them. But there’s a freshness to the way they’re presented here, and a clarity that sets Vinesmith apart.

Mussels are served in a refined dressing of butternut pumpkin, ’nduja bringing a subtle (and wine-friendly) hum, rather than a wallop. Mandarin, fennel, sea urchin and burnt lemon take a fillet of dory with beurre blanc to a new and delicious place, while a tarte tatin succeeds simply on the merit of classic execution – although creme fraiche and a whole lot of caramel help.

This is a polished, attractively adult proposition with the kind of view and smarts that should make it a standby of CBD dining.

Good to know: Vinesmith is the city cellar door for Blue Pyrenees and Glenlofty Estate wineries.

Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.

Last visited: July 2026

More:

• Melbourne
• Vinesmith
• French
• Accepts bookings
• Tasting menu
• Licensed
• Long lunch
• Date night
• Lunch specials
• Separate bar
• Private dining room
• Pre- or post-theatre
• Restaurant
• Wine bar
• Bottle shop
• Reviews
• Good Food Guide
• 100 Essential Restaurants
• Critics’ Pick