List of 2 & 3 Hatted Restaurants in Melbourne [2024]

In Melbourne's vibrant culinary scene, restaurants are awarded "hats" based on their excellence, with 3 hats being the highest honour. Within this vibrant tapestry of flavours, achieving three hats symbolises the pinnacle of achievement, signalling a commitment to extraordinary dining experiences. In this article, we will list prestigious 2 and 3-hatted restaurants in Melbourne awarded by AGFG for 2024. Additionally, we'll delve into the nuances between 2 and 3 chef hats, offering insights into the esteemed chef hat awards.

2 Hat vs 3 Hat Restaurants

The distinction between 2 and 3 hats restaurants in Melbourne lies in their levels of culinary mastery, service quality, and overall dining ambience. While both categories offer exceptional dining experiences, 3 Hats restaurants represent the pinnacle of excellence, showcasing unparalleled innovation and creativity in their culinary offerings. 

Australian Good Food Guide (AGFG) awards chef hats every year. Restaurants that score 16 and 17 are considered 2 hat restaurants whereas 18 & 19 out of 20 are considered 3 hat restaurants. This grade represents these restaurants are one of the best in the nation and present excellent food, quality of service and dining experience. 

List of 3 Hatted Restaurants in Melbourne

The only three 3 hat restaurants in Melbourne are: 

1. Vue de Monde
2. Amaru
3. Attica

Vue de Monde: 

Where cuisine meets skyline, experience Vue de Monde's elevated dining atop Melbourne's Rialto Tower.

Vue de Monde is not just a restaurant; it's an elevated dining experience that transcends expectations. Perched atop Melbourne's iconic Rialto Tower, it offers breathtaking views that perfectly complement its exquisite culinary offerings. Under the visionary leadership of chef Shannon Bennett, Vue de Monde crafts dishes that are not only visually stunning but also push the boundaries of taste and texture. The attentive service and meticulous attention to detail elevate the entire dining experience, making it a true masterpiece of gastronomy.

Amaru: 

Explore culinary passion at Amaru, celebrating seasonal flavours in the heart of Armadale.

Amaru is derived from words that loosely translate to "A beautiful place to love". Amaru is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Armadale, where each visit is a journey of culinary exploration. Chef Clinton McIver's passion for seasonal, locally sourced ingredients shines through in every meticulously crafted dish. The intimate setting and personalised service create an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality, inviting guests to savour every moment of their dining experience. Amaru's innovative approach to Australian cuisine, combined with its commitment to sustainability, makes it a standout destination for discerning food enthusiasts.

Attica: 

Transform your palate at Attica, where Chef Ben Shewry crafts innovative dishes inspired by Australia's diverse landscape.

Attica is more than just a restaurant; it's a destination for culinary pilgrims seeking a transformative dining experience. Chef Ben Shewry's creative genius is on full display in every dish, which celebrates the unique flavours and ingredients of Australia's diverse landscape. From the moment guests step into the intimate dining room in Ripponlea, they are transported on a culinary journey unlike any other. Attica's commitment to sustainability and community engagement adds depth to its culinary offerings, making it a beacon of excellence in the global dining scene.

List of 2 Hatted Restaurants in Melbourne

There are only six 2 hat restaurants in Melbourne for 2024: 

1. IDES
2. Navi
3. Gaea
4. Minamishima
5. Ishizuka
6. O.MY Restaurant & Bar

IDES: 

Experience creativity at IDES, where Chef Peter Gunn's dynamic menu surprises and delights in Collingwood.

IDES is a culinary playground where Chef Peter Gunn's creativity knows no bounds. Tucked away in Collingwood, this restaurant offers a dynamic dining experience that surprises and delights with every course. The ever-evolving tasting menu showcases Chef Gunn's ingenuity and culinary prowess, while the intimate setting fosters a sense of connection between diners and the kitchen. IDES is a testament to Melbourne's vibrant food culture, where innovation and tradition come together to create unforgettable dining experiences.

Navi: 

Discover local gems at Navi, where Chef Julian Hills showcases the best of Yarraville's produce.

Navi is a hidden gem in Yarraville, where Chef Julian Hills invites guests on a culinary journey of discovery. The intimate dining space exudes warmth and charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Each dish on the seasonal menu reflects Chef Hills' commitment to showcasing the best of local produce, with creative flavour combinations that tantalise the taste buds. Navi's relaxed atmosphere and attentive service make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of Melbourne's vibrant food scene.

Gaea: 

Taste nature's bounty at Gaea, where Chef Mo Zhou celebrates Australian produce in the heart of Fitzroy.

Gaea is a culinary haven where Chef Mo Zhou elevates the dining experience to an art form. In this intimate setting that seats only 16 guests, each dish is a celebration of nature's bounty, meticulously crafted to showcase the rich flavours and textures of Australian produce. Inspired by the rhythms of the seasons, the menu reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, ensuring every ingredient tells a story of harmony between food and the environment. With its elegant ambience, exceptional service, and a degustation menu that sings the praises of nature's diversity, Restaurant Gaea stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, inviting discerning diners to embark on a journey of taste that is as conscientious as it is delectable.

Minamishima: 

Savour sushi perfection at Minamishima, where Chef Koichi Minamishima's omakase takes you on a journey to Japan.

Minamishima is a temple of sushi where Chef Koichi Minamishima's mastery takes centre stage. Located in Richmond, this restaurant offers an authentic omakase experience that transports diners to the streets of Tokyo. Each piece of sushi is a work of art, crafted with precision and reverence for tradition. The intimate setting and traditional Japanese decor create a sense of tranquillity, allowing guests to savour every moment of their dining experience. Minamishima is a testament to the timeless allure of Japanese cuisine, where simplicity and elegance reign supreme.

Ishizuka: 

Indulge in refinement at Ishizuka, where Chef Tomotaka Ishizuka's kaiseki menu offers a symphony of Japanese flavours.

Ishizuka is a culinary oasis in Melbourne's CBD, where Chef Tomotaka Ishizuka invites guests on a journey of culinary discovery. This exclusive kaiseki restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that showcases the finest ingredients and techniques of Japanese cuisine. Each dish is a symphony of flavours and textures, meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of harmony and balance. The serene ambience and impeccable service create an atmosphere of refinement and sophistication, making Ishizuka a destination for discerning diners seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

O.MY Restaurant & Bar: 

Experience farm-to-table freshness at O.MY Restaurant & Bar, where every dish celebrates community and craftsmanship.

O.MY Restaurant & Bar is a labour of love from Blayne Bertoncello- Head Chef / Farmer and Chayse Bertoncello- Wine Waiter, who are dedicated to showcasing the best of farm-to-table dining. Located in Beaconsfield, this restaurant offers a seasonal menu that highlights the flavours of their own farm and local producers. The commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing is evident in every dish, which bursts with freshness and vitality. The rustic charm of the dining space and the genuine hospitality of the staff create a welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to linger and savour the simple pleasures of good food and company. O.MY Restaurant & Bar is a testament to the power of connection through food, where every meal is a celebration of community and craftsmanship.

These restaurants not only excel in their culinary offerings but also create unforgettable experiences for their guests, making them cherished destinations in Melbourne's vibrant dining scene.

Chef Hat Awards: What is a Hat Award?

The Chef Hat Award is a prestigious accolade in the Australian culinary scene, functioning as a benchmark for dining excellence. Analogous to the Michelin star system, the Hat Awards are distributed to restaurants that meet and surpass stringent criteria in food quality, innovation, service, and ambience. This distinction is part of esteemed dining guides like The Age Good Food Guide and the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, which annually assess and honour the finest dining establishments across Australia.

Restaurants can earn one to three hats, with each level representing a higher tier of culinary achievement. A one-hat rating indicates a high-quality dining experience, two hats denote outstanding creativity and execution, and three hats are reserved for an unparalleled dining experience, often making the restaurant a destination in its own right. The scoring system, based on a 20-point scale, is rigorously applied by anonymous reviewers, ensuring impartiality and consistency in the evaluation process.

The Hat Awards spotlight excellence in the Australian dining landscape, guiding patrons to exceptional culinary experiences. Winning a hat not only elevates a restaurant's prestige but also celebrates its commitment to culinary arts, creativity, and the highest standards of hospitality.

Culinary Bliss: Indulge and Enjoy Your Dining Experience in Melbourne!

Melbourne's culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of innovation, excellence, and diversity, showcased by the multitude of 2 and 3 hatted restaurants lining its streets. These establishments not only epitomise the city's steadfast dedication to culinary mastery but also stand as sources of inspiration for food lovers globally. With its rich array of flavours, Melbourne continually enchants and delights diners from all walks of life, cementing its status as a premier destination for culinary exploration and enjoyment.

Similar Article: 3 Hatted Restaurants in Sydney