food-culture
Image Credit: The Vault
For first (or fiftieth) dates.
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Image Credit: The Vault
For first (or fiftieth) dates.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commision.
Whether you’re happily partnered, casually dating, single, or somewhere in between, a good date night spot recommendation is always worth saving for later. Our team is comprised of some true foodies and wine connoisseurs, so I picked their brains for the city’s most-loved date night spots, including wine bars, all-rounders, and even great venues for a night out with friends.
The obvious choice for any type of date, but particularly those nerve-inducing first dates, is a cute wine bar. Thankfully, Melbourne is spoilt for choice when it comes to this category of date night spot. Naima, our Head of Socials, raves about Collingwood bar The Moon. “Gorgeous wine, beautiful lighting, and very good people-watching. What more could you want?” she tells me.
Ruby, the host of Inherited, swears by The Alps in Prahran, describing it as “A cozy wine bar that’s perfect for two! Oh, and the pizzas are a must!”. I’d wager I’ve been on more first dates than anyone in our office – I was single and in the trenches for a looong time ladies! – but the upside of this is having a plethora of great wine bar reccos, ideal for any type of date. For a first date, I’d opt for The Alderman in Brunswick East. It’s my local, and the ambience and wine list are unmatched, with a roaring fire inside and a plant-filled courtyard outside.
If you’re after a CBD venue, I’d suggest Kirk’s Wine Bar. It’s a classic for a reason, and sitting at the tables on the street during the summer will make you and your date feel like you’re in Paris (j’adore). I’d also recommend Bar Bellamy in Carlton – it’s very vibey and has a delicious selection of small plates and wines.
For Georgina, our Partnerships Executive, Don’s in Prahran takes the cake for a date night-approved wine bar. “Don’s cozy yet light atmosphere makes it a perfect date night spot all year round. Plus, they have really good focaccia.”
Image Credit: The Vault
Image Credit: The Vault
Sex and the City got many things right, but I’d argue one of its most important legacies is the way it depicted date nights with the girls as an essential and life-affirming activity. I love Public Wine Shop in Fitzroy for a cocktail-fuelled catch-up with my favourite ladies, and if I’m southside I’ll opt for Lenny’s or Gracie’s Wine Room – both perfect spots for a few hours of catching up and gossiping.
Cindy, our Senior Partnerships Manager, tells me Bar Magnolia in Brunswick is an underrated girl’s night spot. “I had a date night with a couple of girlfriends here recently, and it was the best! It’s so cosy. We shared a bottle of red and ate our way through the French bistro menu from top to tail, with a side of XXL pommes frites of course.”
Georgina’s girlie go-tos are Toorak Cellars and Neighbourhood Pizza, both located in Armadale. “Toorak Cellars is an all-time southside favourite for the girls and me. It’s our go-to when we want to split a bottle of orange and chat for hours on end. You can also order food from next door’s Neighbourhood Pizza directly to your table (which is also a great choice on its own!).”
Now, for the best all-rounders that will always deliver, no matter what type of date you’re embarking on. Personally, after years of dating, my failsafe venues are Capitano in Carlton for a gorgeous Italian dinner date (the vodka pasta cannot be beaten) and Bahama Gold in Brunswick for when you’re wanting something casual but cool. Incidentally, it’s where my boyfriend and I had our first ever date, so maybe it’s lucky!
Georgina tells me Embla in the city is always a good choice, and I concur. “They’ve got great food if you’re looking for a meal, or otherwise it’s a perfect cozy vibe for a casual wine or two.”
For our Co-founder Zara, Lagotto in Fitzroy North takes the cake. “I went to Lagotto the evening before I got married (just with my partner) and it’s the perfect date night spot IMO. It’s not too big with great food and wine.”
