This year, some of Fitzroy’s most beloved restaurants are getting involved, offering special menus, wine pairings and unique dining experiences to mark the occasion. From seasonal feasts to inventive takes on classic dishes, there’s plenty to enjoy right here in the heart of the inner north. Fitzroy dining is always dynamic, but during the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival local restaurants really take things up a notch, bringing an extra layer of excitement, creativity and flavour to the table. And while we’ve rounded up the best of what’s happening in Fitzroy, there are exciting events taking place all over Melbourne, making it the perfect time to eat, drink and celebrate the city’s incredible food scene.
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Breaking Bread at 75 Reid Street
A celebration of bread like you’ve never seen before, Breaking Bread brings together some of Melbourne’s most innovative chefs and Victorian winemakers for a one-night-only degustation dedicated to this staple of dining cultures worldwide. Set in a beautifully restored 100-year-old church in Fitzroy North, this Melbourne Food & Wine Festival event explores the history, artistry and endless possibilities of bread—served across seven inspired courses.
The lineup of talent is just as impressive as the concept: expect dishes that reimagine bread in creative ways, from savoury plates to a surprising sourdough ice cream with bread caramel. Hosted by MasterChef judge Sofia Levin and Jay Bessel, this Fitzroy dining event is a must for lovers of food, culture, wine and carbs.
21 March | 75 Reid Street, Fitzroy North | melbournefoodandwine.com.au
French Flair: Bon Ap’ at Eau de Vie
As a special one-night event to remember, Fitzroy dining meets Parisian sophistication at Eau de Vie, as Bon Ap’ Petit Bistro brings its French flair to Melbourne’s iconic cocktail bar. In celebration of International Francophonie Day, this fabulous fête is all about indulgence—think expertly crafted canapés, luxurious grazing stations and classic French flavours with a Melbourne twist.
The drinks are just as impressive as the food, with Eau de Vie’s bartenders serving up five signature cocktails, plus a Champagne tower and absinthe fountain for a touch of theatre. Live jazz will set the mood as guests sip, mingle and dance the night away. Whether you’re a lover of cocktails, a fan of French cuisine or simply looking for an excuse to dress up and enjoy a glamorous evening, this night will be one to savour. Quelle soirée!
21 March | 1 Malthouse Lane, Melbourne | eaudevie.com.au
An Ode to Autumn at Pinotta
With autumn’s finest ingredients taking centre stage, An Ode to Autumn is a celebration of the season’s rich flavours, hosted at Pinotta as part of the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. Chef Philippa Sibley curates a menu inspired by the forest floor, with dishes featuring artichokes, chestnuts, game, pigeon, yabbies, figs and blackberries—some foraged, all transformed into beautifully crafted dishes.
Taking place in the warm and intimate space of Pinotta, this five-course feast will be paired with wines from Alex Byrne, making for an immersive Fitzroy dining experience. Perfect for those who appreciate seasonal produce and the beauty of long, lingering afternoons over exceptional food and wine, this is one event not to miss.
22 March | 32 Best Street, Fitzroy North | pinotta.com
A Ligurian Feast at Alta Trattoria
Fitzroy dining takes a trip to the Italian Riviera as Alta Trattoria presents a four-course feast inspired by the coastal cuisine of Liguria. Chef McKay Wilday, who honed his craft at Michelin-starred Balzi Rossi in Ventimiglia, brings a menu rich in history, flavour and tradition. Delicate trofie al pesto, pansotti al preboggion, cappon magro and coniglio alla Ligure take centre stage, all prepared with Victoria’s finest produce.
Pair your meal with Ligurian wines carefully selected by the Alta Trattoria team, and soak in an evening celebrating the simple, honest flavours of one of Italy’s most beloved food regions. This elegant dining experience, right here in Fitzroy, is a must for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine and those seeking a taste of coastal Italy without leaving Melbourne.
23 March | Ground Floor, Rear 274 Brunswick St, Fitzroy | altatrattoria.com
Steaks with Mates at Cinder
Settle in for a night of top-quality steaks, fine wine, and great conversation at Cinder in North Fitzroy. Hosted by Melbourne Football Club legend Jordan Lewis, this four-course feast will showcase prime cuts of Robbins Island Tasmanian wagyu, expertly prepared and paired with wines from Lewis’s own DML VIN winery and craft beers from award-winning Mountain Culture. As you dine, Lewis will share stories from his football career and his unexpected journey into winemaking.
Hosted at Cinder, a venue known for its premium wood-fired cooking, this event blends great food with camaraderie, making it a perfect way to experience Fitzroy dining with family or friends. Enjoy an evening of bold flavours, fascinating insights and the kind of relaxed atmosphere that turns a great meal into a memorable occasion.
25 March | 18 Brennand St, North Fitzroy | cinder.melbourne
Emilia with Friends at Lagotto
Fitzroy dining takes a deep dive into the rich food traditions of Emilia-Romagna at Lagotto, where chef Matteo Fulchiati brings the region’s iconic flavours to life over two special nights. Known as the food bowl of Italy, this northern region is the birthplace of Parmigiano-Reggiano, prosciutto di Parma, and some of the world’s most beloved pasta dishes. This five-course feast highlights the ingredients and techniques that make Emilia-Romagna’s cuisine legendary.
To complement the meal, guests will enjoy carefully chosen wines from the region, ranging from classic to modern styles that showcase Emilia-Romagna’s winemaking innovation. Whether you’re a lover of Italian cuisine or looking to experience some new flavours, this dining experience promises an unforgettable evening of flavour, tradition and culinary craftsmanship. Buon appetito!
25–26 March | 1 York St, Fitzroy North | lagottofitzroynorth.com.au
Into the Vines: Iberia at The Rochey
For one night only, The Rochey and Añada team up to bring the vibrant world of Iberian wines to Fitzroy as part of the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting to explore, this event promises a fun and interactive tasting experience, with Victorian winemakers and top importers showcasing a selection of unique wines from Spain and Portugal. Guests can look forward to exploring a diverse selection of wines, a handy glossary to guide them, wine-themed conversation starters and the chance to rate their favourite drops as they sip their way through the evening.
Enjoy grazing board nibbles, or savour a standout Fitzroy dining collaboration between The Rochey and Añada, featuring Spanish-inspired dishes like chicken ragù canelones with squid ink and fermented chili. Those looking to deepen their knowledge can opt to partake in a masterclass led by sommelier Jay Bessel of City Wine Room will pair expertly selected wines with delicious bites, offering insights into terroir, food pairings and how local wines compare to their Iberian counterparts. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase wines directly from the makers.
27 March | 202 Johnston Street, Fitzroy | therochey.com.au
Brat at Cutler
One of London’s most celebrated fire-driven restaurants is coming to Fitzroy for two nights of unforgettable dining. Acclaimed chef Tomos Parry is bringing his signature smoky, wood-fired cooking to Cutler in a highly anticipated Melbourne Food & Wine Festival event. Inspired by the food traditions of the Balearic Islands and Basque Country, Parry’s cooking has captivated London diners—now, Melbourne has its turn.
Set in the refined surrounds of Cutler, this exclusive event promises an evening of bold, autumn-inspired flavours. Expect top local produce elevated through open-fire cooking, with dishes like braised lobster, wood-roasted game birds and sweetbreads with leeks. With Parry at the helm, this rare culinary experience is set to be a festival highlight, offering Melbourne diners a taste of his legendary approach to open-fire cooking.
27–28 March | 55–57 Gertrude St, Fitzroy | cutlerandco.com.au
