Australia’s dining scene is sprinting into the second half of 2025, with a wave of restaurant openings across Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. From bold cultural cuisine to sustainably‑driven fine dining, here are some of the standout spots that are worth booking now.
A Snapshot of What’s Standing Out
A mid‑year roundup by Broadsheet highlighted “Australia’s 12 Best New Restaurants of 2025 (So Far)”.
Meanwhile, city‐specific guides like Time Out Sydney’s “best new restaurants” list have spotlighted newcomers in Sydney.
This surge shows three clear themes:
- Global flavours are front and centre (Malaysian, Turkish, Ukrainian among others)
- Sustainability, local produce and narrative matter more than ever
- Interiors and ambience are getting as much attention as the menu
Top Picks (Across Australia)
• Sakura House – Sydney
Located in a basement on Elizabeth St, this late‑night izakaya from the team behind The Waratah serves Japanese‑inspired small plates and standout cocktails. Expect a vibrant but refined atmosphere — perfect for post‑show dining or spirited evenings out.
• Bar Bouni – Melbourne
Set in Southbank, this jewel‑toned restaurant brings “Lebo‑Terranean” heritage (Arabic + Mediterranean) to Melbourne. With rotisserie meats, a warm bar scene and regional flair, it’s one of the most talked‑about openings in Melbourne this year.
• Marmelo & Mr Mills – Melbourne
From chef Ross Lusted, this large, stylish venue blends coastal European flavours with Australian produce. Woodfired dishes, impressive interiors and a basement bar (Mr Mills) make it a full‑evening destination.
• OZIN – Adelaide
Opening in Adelaide’s East End, OZIN is a fusion restaurant featuring charcoal‑cooked global dishes (from Asia to Mexico) using premium South Australian produce. A promising pick for those exploring Adelaide’s evolving food scene.
• Bert’s City Beach – Perth / WA
In Western Australia, new openings like Bert’s City Beach are showing that Perth’s dining scene is no longer just seen as remote — it’s having its own moment.
Why These Are Worth Booking
- Fresh menus, less crowded: Since they’re new, you’re likely to get a booking more easily than some long‑established “hot” restaurants.
- Cutting‑edge flavour & concept: Many of these spots are taking creative risks: new cultural influences, high‑quality produce and immersive dining environments.
- Dining as experience: Interiors, drink lists and service matter just as much as the food.
- Support emerging talent: By visiting early, you’re backing chefs and restaurateurs building their reputations.
Tips for Booking Smart
- Check if the venue offers early seating or “first release” bookings (often easier).
- Go mid‑week or for lunch if you want a less formal experience.
- For places with strong concept/scene (e.g., Bar Bouni, Marmelo), book ahead for weekends — they’ll fill.
- Ask about dietary options: many new restaurants are stronger than ever with veggie/vegan/gluten‑free menus.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s restaurant scene in 2025 isn’t just about reviving pre‑pandemic momentum — it’s about reimagining what dining can be. The newest venues show ambition, locality, world‑flavours and design-minded dining. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth, these fresh‑face restaurants are a great place to start exploring this year.
