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Best Australian Restaurants in Essendon

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174 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Lincolnshire Arms Hotel restaurant
1. The Lincolnshire Arms Hotel
4.5
Awesome(147)
Price: Moderate
• Australian • Essendon
Booked 4 times today
The Lincolnshire Arms Hotel, known and affectionately loved as “The Linc” is an iconic Essendon hotel. We like to think that it offers all things to all with great facilities for entertainment, TAB, great food and a safe and friendly social environment to meet and interact with others. The Linc food has been satisfying the locals for decades and continues as a strong drawcard for our patrons.
A photo of TOTE Bar & Dining restaurant
2. TOTE Bar & Dining
4.6
Exceptional(242)
Price: Expensive
• Australian • Moonee Ponds
Booked 5 times today
A contemporary bar and restaurant, serving modern-Australian dishes with seasonal eating in mind.Channelling the timeless allure of 1930's design, the interior boasts rich oak panelling, emerald hues, decadent leather and bronze finishes. The space offers three intimate dining areas, known as The Northern Terrace, The Dining Room and The Cellar - our Private Dining Room. The main feature of TOTE is casual dining with premium quality food from well sourced high quality and sustainable produce.It features a contemporary offering from coffee, craft beer and creative cocktails to carefully curated local & imported wines and spirits.The bar itself is modelled to the development’s quintessential roots – the racecourse – and is aptly shaped in an oval form to mirror it.
A photo of Bistra restaurant
3. Bistra
4.9
Exceptional(117)
Price: Expensive
• Australian • Carlton
Booked 18 times today
Bistra in Carlton is a quintessential Australian bistro that masterfully blends the flavors and techniques of British, French, and Italian cuisine. Known for its “exceptional food and service,” Bistra stands out with its commitment to using seasonal ingredients, resulting in “generous, memorable plates” that keep guests coming back for more. Diners rave about the beautifully curated wine list and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that the “friendly, knowledgeable staff” provide. One review highlights the “best dry martini in Melbourne,” underscoring Bistra's knack for creating a delightful dining experience. Ideal for those seeking authentic bistro cuisine, Bistra is truly “an instant classic.”
A photo of North&COMMON restaurant
4. North&COMMON
4.4
Awesome(313)
Price: Expensive
• Australian • Coburg
Booked 10 times today
Nestled in the heart of Coburg, North&COMMON stands out for its exceptional Bistro cuisine, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience. Praised for its "amazing food and lovely atmosphere," this restaurant delivers an inventive menu that seamlessly blends global flavors with creative twists. Diners rave about the "spectacular service" and the "generous portions" that leave them satisfied without being overwhelmed. The seasonal menu keeps the offerings fresh and exciting, while the extensive wine selection ensures a perfect pairing for every dish. With its stylish décor and welcoming ambiance, North&COMMON is a hidden gem that promises a memorable culinary adventure.
A photo of Cross Keys restaurant
5. Cross Keys
4.3
Awesome(256)
Price: Moderate
• Australian • Essendon
Booked 8 times today
The Cross Keys in Essendon is a true gem for Pub cuisine enthusiasts, offering a delightful dining experience that has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike for over 150 years. This beloved establishment serves up “delicious food at very reasonable prices,” making it a perfect spot for families and friends to gather. The bistro is renowned for its “impressive selection of pub favourites and seasonal specials,” catering thoughtfully to seniors and kids. With a lively atmosphere and “exceptional service” from friendly and attentive staff, The Cross Keys guarantees a memorable meal, ensuring you’ll “definitely come back again and again.”
A photo of Ascot Vale Hotel restaurant
6. Ascot Vale Hotel
4.6
Exceptional(325)
Price: Moderate
• Australian • Ascot Vale
Booked 8 times today
The Ascot Vale Hotel welcomes everyone to experience a relaxed and comfortable corner pub that has been taken back to its former glory. This 1875 gem caters for everyone, whether you are hopping off the tram for a quick glass, impressing a loved one or celebrating an event with close friends or family. Here’s Luck to seeing you soon!
A photo of The Courthouse Hotel restaurant
7. The Courthouse Hotel
4.8
Exceptional(299)
Price: Moderate
• Australian • North Melbourne
Booked 21 times today
The Courthouse Hotel in North Melbourne is a quintessential Gastro Pub, celebrated for its authentic and top-quality offerings. Nestled near the iconic Queen Victoria Market, this charming pub delights with its warm ambiance, accentuated by multiple fireplaces. Diners rave about the "fantastic vibe and even better food," with many highlighting the exceptional service and delicious menu that showcases local, seasonal produce. The Courthouse is praised for its "consistently good pub food," where dishes like the lamb and tomato pie and the chicken schnitzel leave a lasting impression. With its perfect blend of ambiance, service, and culinary excellence, it's a must-visit destination for Gastro Pub enthusiasts.
A photo of Mona Castle Hotel restaurant
8. Mona Castle Hotel
4.7
Exceptional(249)
Price: Moderate
• Australian • Seddon
Booked 18 times today
The Mona Castle Hotel is a historic pub in the heart of Melbourne's West, serving locals for over 150 years. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, it offers a diverse menu featuring classic pub favorites alongside modern Australian dishes. Guests can also enjoy a wide selection of drinks, including beers, wines, and cocktails. The Mona Castle Hotel is the perfect spot to relax and share a meal with friends or family.
A photo of Sporting Club Hotel restaurant
9. Sporting Club Hotel
4.7
Exceptional(132)
Price: Moderate
• Australian • Brunswick
Booked 23 times today
Hosting cosy vinos by the Public Bar fire, delicious get-togethers in the Dining Room, cocktails in the leafy Laneway and sun soaked pints on the Deck with the dog; Sporting Club Hotel is Brunswick’s newest all rounder! Whether you’re looking for your new regular watering hole or a location for a special blow-out; we’ve got you covered.
A photo of Royal Oak Hotel restaurant
10. Royal Oak Hotel
4.7
Exceptional(272)
Price: Moderate
• Australian • Fitzroy
Booked 19 times today
The Oak has quickly become the crowd favourite amongst Fitzroy locals. Providing a wonderful atmosphere to enjoy one of our delicious meals and indulge in an array of tasty beverages. By the fire in winter or basking in the sun on Freeman Street. We are your local pub, a place for all to gather and celebrate conviviality

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Dan
    Melbourne •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Simply one of the best venues in Carlton. Excellent all round
    More info
    BistraPrice: Expensive• Australian• Carlton
    •
    4.9
  • Tony
    Melbourne •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 6, 2025
    As a group we left discussing the quality of service. Every staff member was professional, well informed & courteous. What stood out was the serving staffs communication & willingness to help. Everyone enjoyed their meals, (everyone being, 2 x Boomers, 2 x Gen X & a couple of kids cheeseburger meal eaters). Definitely be back
    More info
    Cross KeysPrice: Moderate• Australian• Essendon
    •
    4.3
  • Annabel
    Melbourne •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 28, 2025
    A choices of casual and private dining experience. Excellent service and delicious food. Just simply amazing place to celebrate special day.
    More info
    TOTE Bar & DiningPrice: Expensive• Australian• Moonee Ponds
    •
    4.6
  • Joe
    Melbourne •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 5, 2025
    Great atmosphere. A great asset in the Ascot Vale/Essendon/Flemington area. 👍
    More info
    Ascot Vale HotelPrice: Moderate• Australian• Ascot Vale
    •
    4.6
  • Denise
    Melbourne •4 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Dec 12, 2024
    It’s been a while since I’ve been there, & I was pleasantly surprised. Warm welcome, friendly staff,food portions were generous & cooked freshly, with an interesting menu that included pub favourites, with twists on other menu offerings. Can highly recommended the beef stir fry!!-delicious. Prices aren’t exactly cheap, but it’s good value for what you get in regard to quality,freshness & portions. Ambiance is low light moodiness and surprisingly quiet considering its on such a busy road.
    More info
    The Lincolnshire Arms HotelPrice: Moderate• Gastro Pub• Essendon
    •
    4.5

Discover best Australian restaurants in Essendon

Discover the best of Australian dining in Melbourne's vibrant Essendon, Inner City North area. Our carefully curated selection of restaurants showcases the rich diversity and innovative spirit of Australian cuisine, offering something for every palate. Experience the unique blend of traditional Aussie flavors with modern twists, all served in welcoming settings that embody the laid-back yet sophisticated ambiance of Melbourne. Essendon's dining scene is a hub for culinary enthusiasts seeking high-quality Australian fare. These eateries not only emphasize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients but also excel in creating a memorable dining experience with exceptional service and attention to detail. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Aussie BBQ, seafood delicacies, or vegetarian delights, the restaurants in this locale promise an enjoyable and satisfying meal. Perfect for both casual diners and gourmet aficionados, these establishments cater to all occasions, from family gatherings to intimate dinners. With a focus on creating a people-first dining experience, these restaurants in Essendon's Inner City North stand out as top choices for residents and visitors alike. Make your reservation today and indulge in the best Australian cuisine Melbourne has to offer.

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