11 top spots for a late night feast

When Melbourne’s night life gets in the way of dinner, it is reassuring to know that a fuss-free feast is never far away no matter how late it is. Forgoing the fast-food outlets near Flinders Street Station for something a little more sophisticated will be rewarded at these late night restaurants and bars that are frequented by chefs, bar tenders, DJs and night owls in equal measure. While some serve an extensive menu into the wee hours, others offer a limited late-night selection – either way, a bite to eat at any of these establishments is a pleasant prelude to a good night’s sleep.

Choo Choos at the Toff in Town Train carriage-like booths run down the centre of this popular city bar making for an appealing place to while away the wee hours, especially when  in need of a late night feed. The kitchen, Choo Choos, is open until 3am on weekdays and 5am on the weekends, with Thai dishes available almost all night. It’s the perfect option for those finishing up a gig at The Toff’s stage room, adjacent, which plays host to Australian and international performing artists. 2/252 Swanston St, Melbourne, +61 3 9639 8770

Le Bon TonWith all-night oysters, champagne and absinth on offer at this Collingwood crowd-pleaser, it is hard not to let the good times roll well into the early hours. The kitchen is open until 5am on Friday and Saturday nights, and 10pm on weeknights, serving up a selection of dishes inspired by the American South – from New Mexico to Alabama. 51 Gipps St, Collingwood, +61 3 9416 4341

The Melbourne Supper ClubThis classic Melbourne institution lays claim to the city’s longest wine list and a menu of tasty morsels. Located above The European, its red leather sofas, dark timber tones and attentive service create the atmosphere of an old-fashioned, high end club for ladies and gentlemen. Upstairs, rooftop bar Siglo provides a swift change of scenery, with cool night air and city views. Both serve delicious bites until 3am on weekends. 161 Spring Street, Melbourne, +61 3 9654 6300

Nieuw AmsterdamInspired by the city that never sleeps, it is only fitting that this New York-style bar-come-eatery serves its sophisticated American cuisine until the sun is almost dawning. Housed inside an old hardware factory, the dinner menu is available until 11pm and a pared back version, including pumpkin donuts and cheese burgers, is on offer until 5am on Friday and Saturday. 106-112 Hardware St, Melbourne, +61 3 9602 2111

Bar AmpereBringing a touch of Paris to a very Melbourne laneway, Bar Ampere has plenty of absinthe, vermouth and amaro on offer to get the party started, with a menu of bar food to keep the party going into the wee hours. Food and drinks are available here until 3am every night of the week. The adventure continues at the adjacent hidden bar, Swamp Room, which can be accessed via a secret doorway. 16 Russell Pl, Melbourne, +61 3 9663 7557

MamasitaThis Mexican-inspired restaurant up the top end of town has earned its reputation as a local favourite. At peak meal times, there is often a queue but night owls are rewarded as it becomes easier to get a table closer to midnight. The full menu is available until 10.45pm Monday-Saturday and the bar menu is available ‘until late’. 1/11 Collins St, Melbourne, +61 3 9650 3821

Bar LourinhãIberian-inspired food and a cosy atmosphere make Bar Lourinhã a sweet spot to while away the night or stop on the way home. With a menu of dishes designed to share and a top-notch selection of wine, it is not hard to see why it features in the top 100 of the Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards. Open until 1am. 37 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, +61 3 9663 7890

Magic Mountain SaloonThe latest venue from the team behind popular night spots Cookie, Toff in Town and Boney, Magic Mountain Saloon serves up Thai inspired dishes until 1am on Friday and Saturday nights and midnight Sunday-Thursday. This two level restaurant-come-bar is as popular for its noodle dishes as it is for its cocktails, which can be enjoyed at the bar or in a more intimate booth setting. 62 Little Collins, Melbourne, +61 3 9078  0078

ShujinkoInspired by Tokyo’s all night ramen bars, Shujinko serves up noodles and beer 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round. It is small intimate space with authentic Japanese touches and friendly Japanese staff. 225 Russell St, Melbourne, +61 3 9654 0989

Supper InnTucked away down one of Chinatown’s laneways, Supper Inn is a Melbourne institution that entices diners at all times of day and night. Serving its full Cantonese menu until 2am every night, it is the perfect option for those after a quick and tasty Chinese meal. 15 Celestial Avenue, Melbourne, +61 3 9663 4759

StalactitesThis family run long-time Melbourne favourite is located in the heart of the city’s Greek precinct in Lonsdale Street. It serves a range of traditional Greek cuisine 24/7 – from midnight snacks of freshly made dips to a late night souvlaki or something more hearty. 177 – 183 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne +61 3 9663 3316