1. Baby Pizza
Who doesn't love pizza, baby? Chris Lucas (Chin Chin) has done it again with Baby Pizza, an authentic Italian spot noted for its pink neon signage, alfresco seating under umbrellas and an easy-going neighbourhood vibe. Tasty toppings are hand-sourced and seasonal.
2. Noir
French bistro Noir
brings a certain chic to Swan Street. Pop the top on a bottle of French wine or Champagne, or stay with local Aussie drops. Say oui to a snack with your drink or linger longer over a sophisticated tasting menu.
3. I Love Pho 264
The name says it all: I Love Pho 264 does simple and honest Vietnamese food you'll want to keep coming back for – just like the crowds of other adoring fans. Slurpers love the fragrant broth, fresh choice of meats and tofu, and swift service.
4. Public House
The Public House elevates the pub experience to a new level – literally, on the sought-after two-tiered panoramic rooftop, and figuratively, with the inventive global menu. Grab a snack, or soak up another round of drinks with something filling. The booze list is, naturally, copious.
5. Moon Dog Craft Brewery
Keep it casual at the OG Moon Dog site, where locally made craft beer is served in low-key surrounds, pizzas are fired in the caravan out the front, and the menu sports more than a dash of cheeky humour. Roof-free in summer, trivia nights for fun, and plenty of party tunes.
6. Jeow
Keen for Loatian cuisine? Get thee to Jeow, where chef Thi Le is serving up all kinds of delicious dishes. Choose from the likes of briny oysters, steamed dumplings made of tapioca pearls, wood-grilled fish, spiced sausages and warm tofu pudding. Can't choose? Settle in for the set menu, or show up for Sunday lunch.
7. Minamishima
Special occasion? Don't go past a chef's-hatted Japanese omakase experience at exquisite Minamishima. Allowing the chef to lead the experience over 15 courses, watch as they prepare each delicate nigiri sushi dish before you at the chef's table. It's simplicity that is just perfection.
8. Top Paddock
So named for its close association with Victorian farmers and producers, Top Paddock brings restaurant quality, local, seasonal fare to breezy cafe surrounds near the Botanic Gardens. Bring a friend (or a book) and settle in for the fresh and flavour-filled all-day brunch menu.
9. Onda
We're rather fond of Onda, where – as the saying goes – 'It's all bueno' . And indeed it is all good: this colourful South American bar and eatery melds warm hospitality with beloved flavours, from ceviche to Peruvian chicken, and tops it off with a bottomless brunch on Saturdays.
10. New Quarter
In a nod to Richmond's Vietnamese heart, New Quarter sets a gloriously modern spin on an already delicious traditional cuisine. Dishes are elevated, full of fun, and darn tasty – a sure recipe to have you craving your next meal as soon as you leave.
