Melbourne’s premium restaurants take distinct approaches. Some design menus for passing dishes around the table, others centre everything on quality beef cuts, and certain venues prioritise speed without compromise. The dining approach matters just as much as the cuisine.
Where to Eat Share-Style in Melbourne CBD
Spice Temple at Crown Complex builds menus for communal ordering. Executive Chef Andy Evans presents dishes from multiple Chinese provinces: dumplings, cumin lamb cutlets, and Wagyu brisket with eggplant. These arrive at the table to share, not as individual servings. Order several plates and pass them around as the meal unfolds.
The Melbourne venue’s wine list runs to 100 bottles, selected for varying spice levels. Sommeliers guide pairings across multiple dishes, while Zodiac cocktails complement the bold flavours. Private rooms accommodate groups up to 50. When considering where to eat at Crown Complex Melbourne for banquet-style dining, this sharing format underpins the entire experience.
Japanese dining follows its own share-style traditions at Saké Restaurant & Bar at Hamer Hall. Steamed prawn shumai and popcorn shrimp with yuzu mayonnaise work well for passing between people, while seasonal ingredients rotate through the menu based on availability. Order multiple plates and let them circulate as the meal progresses.
Where to Eat Steak in Melbourne CBD
Rockpool Bar & Grill at Crown Complex has secured a prestigious #12 ranking for steakhouses in 2025. The Melbourne location ages beef in dedicated rooms and handles all butchery in-house before cooking over wood-fire grills. Professional service matches the international standing. The wine program spans over 1,200 bottles, with sommeliers available for pairings.
Not all steak restaurants operate on that scale. 7 Alfred keeps things intentionally streamlined, showcasing a single star attraction: a 220g O’Connor scotch fillet sourced from Gippsland. It’s served with crisp tallow-fried chips and a house-made sauce that enhances the beef’s natural flavour. A fresh green salad provides contrast, and a classic New York cheesecake delivers a timeless, indulgent finale.
Where to Eat Quick Meals in Melbourne CBD
7 Alfred delivers full service within 30 minutes of being seated. The single-dish format removes ordering delays and keeps the kitchen moving efficiently. Sauce options include chimichurri, peppercorn, and mushroom. Happy hour runs from 3:30-5:30 pm daily, with classic cocktails served alongside the steak plate.
Choosing Your Dining Style
Banquet dining brings people together over shared plates and extended conversation. Steakhouses focus on quality beef and expert preparation. Quick formats deliver reliable standards when time matters. Whether you share generously or stake your claim, Melbourne has the table for it.
Book Spice Temple for regional Chinese banquet dining at Crown Complex.
*Spice Temple practices the responsible service of alcohol. Drink responsibly.
