
10 Feb 2023
In Melbourne we’re spoiled for choice which is why we’re here to help. We’ve rounded up five of the best places to get the most memorable cut of beef this city has to offer.
The Railway Club Hotel serves up steak old school with a side of class. History runs deep here, the hotel dates back to 1875 and for the last 40 years the restaurant has been one of Melbourne’s busiest. For dinner book ahead and expect it to be vibrant and loud.
The revamped space is sleek with white linen, dark polished wood, and brick walls and archways. The outdoor seating pod is a pandemic-era design that adds another layer to this storied institution.
Choose your own steak from the display fridge unless you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, which is also excellent. There’s something for everyone here with great value to be had in the front bar specials, otherwise we suggest indulging in something exceptional.
Dish Cult’s top pick: 250gm Gippsland pure black Wagyu porterhouse with hand cut chips ($60)
Entrecôte will have you pretending you’re in Paris as you work your way through cheeky cocktails, caviar ‘bumps’ with Champagne or classic French dishes such as the Signature steak frites. The new Prahran location offers heaps of seating in its elegant courtyard (adaptable to Melbourne weather), the more intimate dining room or the vibrant brasserie.
To begin your meal, warm your soul with favourites like the Escargots à la Bourguignonne or the Soupe à l’oignon gratinée (pardon my French) before moving on to the aforementioned steak frites or the almost-seductive beef tartare which comes adorned with an egg yolk and micro mustard and is accompanied with smoked tomato crisps. Ooh la la!
Don’t miss out on dessert either, the Crème brûlée is a good idea with its large caramelised crust and rich and creamy base. C’est magnifique!
Dish Cult’s top pick: Signature steak frites – Cape Grim pasture-fed porterhouse, chips and secret herb sauce (part of the $79 two-course set menu)
Downstairs in a basement, in the middle of the CBD, lies a dimly lit restaurant which, as the name suggests, is dedicated to all things meat. Meatmaiden is a hotspot for high-quality steak and American barbecue. The dark vibe and a bourbon-heavy cocktail list make it feel like the prohibition has arrived in Melbourne.
A custom built grill and a wood-burning smoker enable chef Tom Johnson’s crew to enhance any cut of beef and achieve bold flavours. The dry-aged rib eye or Southern Ranges eye fillet are appropriate ways to honour your appetite. If too many delicious options are giving you pause, opt for Maiden’s Mood and let the chefs choose three entrees, two mains and three sides on your behalf. Non-steak favourites include the lobster mac, smoked wagyu brisket and the burnt ends.
Dish Cult’s top pick: 400gm dry-aged grass-fed O’Connor rib eye ($78)
Nothing much has changed at Vlado’s since it opened in Richmond in 1964. You will feel like you’ve entered a time warp when seated amongst its antiquated decor and walls of old photographs. Generations later this family-run restaurant still prides itself on carefully sourcing and expertly cooking mouth-watering steaks.
Everything is old fashioned here, from the seasoned service staff to the four-course set menu which only ever changes in price. But that’s part of the charm at Vlado’s, this small establishment exudes big personality. The spirit of Vlado, its original founder, lives on here, as do its outstanding charcoal-grilled steaks and we hope that never changes.
Dish Cult’s top pick: Classic dinner, four-courses ($115)
While this may be the new kid on the block Grill Americano feels like a manifestation of the past. From the imagination of restaurateur Chris Lucas comes an Italian steakhouse reminiscent of mid-century Manhattan while remaining quintessentially Melbourne. The elegant interior with its royal blue leather seating and a 14-metre long white marble bar sets the stage for some classy dining.
The cocktail and wine list here are outstanding – we couldn’t decide between the smoked Negroni or the signature Americano so we got both. A sophisticated food menu also offers plenty of choices as it showcases a mixture of fine Australian and Italian ingredients, fresh seafood, handmade pasta and, of course, a selection of specialty steaks. It doesn’t end there, however, if you’ve saved space Grill Americano’s desserts are as delicious as they are eye-catching.
Dish Cult’s top pick: 1.2kg Riverina black Angus Florentine-style t-bone steak ($165)