When it comes to fine dining, few chefs have as much global influence as Gordon Ramsay. Known for his fiery personality and Michelin-starred expertise, Ramsay has traveled the world tasting the very best cuisine from every corner of the globe. And when he visits Melbourne, one of Australia’s most vibrant food cities, you can be sure he knows exactly where to eat.
Whether you’re looking for high-end fine dining or a hidden gem that serves unforgettable flavors, here’s a look at some of Gordon Ramsay’s favorite restaurants in Melbourne—places that have earned the approval of one of the world’s toughest food critics.
1. Attica – Melbourne’s Most Celebrated Fine Dining Experience
When Ramsay visits Melbourne, Attica is always high on his list. Helmed by chef Ben Shewry, this award-winning restaurant in Ripponlea is consistently ranked among the best in Australia—and for good reason. Attica focuses on native Australian ingredients, many of which are foraged, grown, or sourced locally. The tasting menu is an adventure, featuring dishes like emu liver parfait, saltwater crocodile ribs, and hand-picked bunya nuts.
Ramsay has praised Shewry’s innovative approach to food, calling Attica “a restaurant that truly respects Australia’s native produce.” If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, this is the place to book.
2. Gimlet – The Ultimate Modern European Brasserie
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Gimlet at Cavendish House is another Ramsay-approved restaurant. With its grand interiors, plush booths, and art deco charm, it offers an elegant dining experience that blends classic European flavors with contemporary creativity.
Ramsay has been spotted here indulging in the wood-fired seafood dishes and perfectly aged steaks. The lobster vol-au-vent and the dry-aged duck are highlights, but the star of the show might just be the expertly crafted cocktails. If you want a meal that feels as sophisticated as a night out in Paris or London, Gimlet delivers.
3. Flower Drum – The Gold Standard of Cantonese Cuisine
A Melbourne institution, Flower Drum is the city’s most famous Cantonese fine dining restaurant. Established in 1975, it remains a favorite for food lovers who appreciate impeccable service and world-class Chinese cuisine.
Ramsay has often spoken highly of traditional Cantonese techniques, and at Flower Drum, those skills are on full display. The Peking duck is legendary, the mud crab noodles are divine, and the XO sauce is one of the best in the world. If you’re looking for a restaurant that embodies luxury and precision, this is the place.
4. Vue de Monde – A Sky-High Culinary Experience
When in Melbourne, Ramsay has also been known to enjoy a meal at Vue de Monde, a restaurant that delivers breathtaking views and an unforgettable dining experience. Situated on the 55th floor of the Rialto Tower, Vue de Monde offers a modern take on Australian fine dining, with dishes that showcase the country’s best ingredients.
From decadent caviar-topped creations to wagyu beef cooked to perfection, the menu here is a testament to chef Shannon Bennett’s creativity. Ramsay has called the restaurant’s attention to detail “incredible” and has praised its ability to balance luxury with innovation. If you want to dine with a view while experiencing some of the best food in the city, this is the place to go.
5. Chin Chin – Melbourne’s Most Iconic Thai Fusion Spot
Not every Ramsay-approved restaurant is high-end. When the celebrity chef is in the mood for something more casual yet full of bold flavors, he heads to Chin Chin, one of Melbourne’s most popular modern Thai eateries.
With its energetic atmosphere and vibrant dishes, Chin Chin is a go-to for anyone who loves Southeast Asian cuisine. Ramsay is known to enjoy their signature kingfish sashimi, spicy pork and crab dumplings, and melt-in-your-mouth beef rendang. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so expect a wait—but according to Ramsay, the food is well worth it.
6. Embla – A Hidden Gem for Wine and Wood-Fired Perfection
For a more laid-back but equally impressive experience, Ramsay has been known to visit Embla, a wine bar and bistro that specializes in rustic, wood-fired dishes. Located in Melbourne’s CBD, this cozy yet stylish spot offers an exceptional selection of natural wines paired with simple, expertly executed food.
Dishes like charred octopus, slow-cooked lamb, and freshly baked sourdough have made Embla a favorite among Melbourne’s top chefs—and Ramsay is no exception. He has praised the restaurant’s ability to “let ingredients speak for themselves” while delivering rich, satisfying flavors.
Conclusion: Follow Gordon Ramsay’s Footsteps for the Best Dining in Melbourne
When it comes to food, Gordon Ramsay doesn’t settle for anything less than excellence. His favorite restaurants in Melbourne reflect the city’s diverse culinary scene, offering everything from refined fine dining to bold, flavorful street food.
If you’re a food lover looking to experience Melbourne’s best eateries, take a page from Ramsay’s book and visit these top-tier restaurants. Whether you want innovative Australian cuisine, world-class Cantonese, or the best Thai flavors in the city, these spots have all earned the stamp of approval from one of the world’s greatest chefs.
