Six Must-Book Restaurants in Melbourne (and Beyond), as Recommended by Shane Delia

We caught up with the renowned chef behind established diner Maha to find out where he’s dining when he’s off the tools.

Article by Hollie Wornes

Renowned chef Shane Delia. Photograph courtesy of The Delia Group.

In 2008, the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired restaurant Maha quietly opened its doors in Melbourne’s CBD. Fifteen years later, under the leadership of top chef and restaurateur Shane Delia, it has become one of the city’s most sought-after destinations. With a heartfelt origin story — named after Delia’s wife — it makes for the perfect spot for special occasion dining. Expect top-notch hospitality in an inviting space adorned with traditional artworks, creating the kind of atmosphere where you can linger over a banquet-style feast featuring whipped hummus, slow-roasted meats, and signature baklava ice cream sandwiches.

Maha’s success led to the founding of the Delia Group, the umbrella that houses Maha’s sibling venues, including Maha East, Maha North, and Jayda — all showcasing their own Middle Eastern flare.

T Australia caught up with Delia, the managing director of Delia Group, to ask where he dines when he’s off the tools. Below, find his recommendations for the best restaurants in Melbourne and beyond.

Maha
The Glenmorangie Signet Room at Maha. Photograph courtesy of Maha.

Lake House Restaurant, Daylesford

“It’s an industry icon, a family run business that has stood the test of time. There is nothing like it in Victoria. It’s a business of passion and every detail is considered. It’s Maha and I’s favourite place to celebrate whether it be a birthday or milestone, it’s our retreat for a quick getaway.”

Brae, Birregurra

“What Dan Hunter does at Brae is very unique to Victoria, showcasing Victorian produce, with Bellarine produce at its height. The passion and skill in Dan’s cooking is what sets him apart from the other chefs in the state. “

The Botanical Hotel, South Yarra

“A Melbourne icon, in my opinion has the best wine list in Victoria, there’s depth and variety showcasing not only Australian wine but wine from Italy and Burgundy. Rabih Yanni is the best operator, anyone opening a pub or hotel knows it’s is all about who runs it. Rabih has a deep understanding of Melbourne and the community he services, I think it’s criminal he is not celebrated in the way he should be. His service and what his team offer is far superior to many celebrated restaurants in Victoria.

Laksa King, Flemington

“A lot to be said about a good local restaurant that keeps it simple and doesn’t change with fads and understands exactly what its customer wants. Laksa King would be my most frequented restaurant as its always consistent and delivers exactly what I am looking for.”

Pho Kim Long, St Albans

“A small family run Vietnamese restaurant that has been doing the simple things right for over 30 years. This multi-generational business provides the cheapest and most vibrant pho I have tasted in Australia.”

Tipo 00, Melbourne

“I’m not unveiling any big secrets here everybody knows how good Tipo 00 is, it’s long been a favourite of Maha and I. I don’t think there’s a better spot being perched up at the bar, taking advice from the Sommelier matched with whatever Andrea has cooking up in the kitchen, it’s one of the few places that I have never had a bad experience.”