In 2018, this Euro-Japanese fine diner moved from its home in Daylesford to Carlton. We're glad it's made the move to the city. The dishes here, delivered thoughtfully across several multi-course options, are a compelling argument for fusion done the right way.

This place throws together classic Italian-American and Italian-Australian dishes, high quality ingredients, loud music, killer drinks and bizarre pizza toppings (like the Chinese bolognaise). It all works. Really well. And it's a lot of fun.

There's just something about this 40-year-old institution that keeps you coming back. This is the perfect venue for anything from a quick espresso at the bar to a long multi-course meal.

The other side of the Tiamo coin is slightly more pizza focused, but still has a full menu of pan-Italian favourites.

When veteran restaurateur Rinaldo Di Stasio started serving pizza for the first time, people duly took notice. Come for classic Margheritas and luxurious lobster pies in a colourful, artwork-filled space.

This one isn't great for groups – seating is tight and Heartattack is always packed. If it's just the two of you, though, there are few better places on Lygon Street for casual dining. Whether that's for sandwiches like the much-loved porchetta roll during the day, or for cichetti (Venetian-style tapas) in the evenings.

One of the few places on Lygon offering great non-Italian food, this Israeli-influenced pub is all vegetarian or vegan.

The sibling of Neighbourhood Wine is cool and comfortable. Take a seat at the bar, or in front of an open fire, and enjoy the rotating share plates and easy-drinking wines.

Left-of-centre pizzas are the draw at this big, industrial-chic room from the Tipo 00 and Osteria Ilaria crew. Post up at the central bar for snacks and natural wines, or share bistecca and nebbiolo at a bistro-style table.

Tucked beneath an apartment block, an ex-Kisume and Nobu chef perfects the Japanese art of robatayaki using a charcoal-powered parrilla grill. Take a seat at the bar overlooking the small but efficient kitchen for yakitori served every way and a diverse selection of sake by the glass.

Blending elements of Melbourne cafe, European wine bar and Tokyo-style “listening bar”, this buzzing spot hosts vinyl-only DJs five nights a week, with no cover charges. It’s one of the best places in town to hear recorded music.

If you forget to book at this cosy neighbourhood restaurant, grab a seat at the bar, order a spritz and picture yourself in the streets of Palermo as you wait for a table. You’re in for home-style Sicilian fare, nostalgic Italian desserts and a welcoming vibe.

Twin brothers Antoine and Bechara Taouk serve up Lebanese soul food, just like their grandma did at home.

Family favourites from a Lebanese home cook.

A small Lebanese bakery with a local home delivery service.

Burgers, booze and bands – that’s been the brief at The Beast since day dot. Years on, it still delivers with hefty two-handers (including respectable plant-based options), cheeky and creative cocktails, and plenty of local music.

A hyperactive restaurant that serves mammoth-sized, affordable Thai food.