City Wine Shop

14/20Critics' PickUpdated October 12, 2026,first published October 27, 2025This venue is included in Good Food’s 100 Essential Restaurants list.Step into the ultimate all-rounder. How many weary Melburnians have stood hopefully upon the wooden stair of this timeless wine bar, praying their favourite perch is available?Whether you’re a people-watcher at a pavement table bathed in the glow of the Princess Theatre or a fixture at the green-tiled bar inside, if you’re here, you understand the magical formula that keeps City Wine Shop abuzz, year after year.Ice-cold martinis help, and unruffled staff play their part, deftly handling one-glass catch-ups or more languorous visits that mine the impressive cellar amassed from near and far. Polenta chips are bouncy and light. Grilled snapper comes with high-wattage vadouvan curry butter, pickled guindilla chillies and shredded fennel.Chicken schnitzel is always there, juicy and golden, while steak tartare and plump gnocchi are as reliable as the hours this place keeps. Stopping by – whatever the occasion – feels like slipping on a favourite jacket.Best for: Those in-between moments when it’s past lunch, too late for dinner or simply time for a glass and a snack.Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox.Sign upGood Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.Last visited: April 2026More:MelbourneCity Wine ShopEuropeanAccepts bookingsGood for solo dinersLicensedDate nightPre- or post-theatreWalk-ins onlyOutdoor diningVegetarian-friendlyGluten-free optionsGood for groupsLong lunchLate-night diningBottle shopWine barReviewsGood Food Guide100 Essential RestaurantsCritics’ PickFrom our partners