Lume

Since opening in 2014, Lûmé has frequently topped ‘the best places to eat in Melbourne’ lists with its sophisticated approach to fine dining. It’s changed quite a bit since the early days; as of 2020 Elijah Holland has taken the reins, scrapping the bold 14-courses and introducing four or nine-course tasting menus. Found in South Melbourne, the space is still as innovative when it comes to eating, foraging ingredients in Victoria to create dishes that traverse the region, from the sea urchins and clams in the Port Phillip course to native grasses and goose in the Victorian Volcanic Plain course.

Interiors are equally as dreamy, with wooden floorboards, muslin cloths hung from ceiling rafters, and patches of exposed brick and plastered walls. The real show stopper, however, is the open kitchen - try and nab a seat near the space to watch the chefs work their magic.