Looking for a dining experience a little left of centre? Look no further, as we've deep-dived into the best themed restaurants in Melbourne.

Whether you're planning a fun family outing, a quirky date night, or just want to spice up your usual dining routine, Melbourne is packed with unique restaurants and one-of-a-kind dining experiences that promise more than just great food.

From rooftop train carriage burger joints to hidden Greek caves serving up authentic lamb gyros, and even playful spots inspired by childhood favourites, Melbourne's themed restaurants offer the most fun you can have while eating dinner out with the family.

10 Unique Themed Restaurants in Melbourne (2026 Guide)

1. Panda Hot Pot

China's famous Panda Hot Pot, known for its authentic Sichuan cuisine, has now brought an exclusive dining experience to downtown Melbourne.

From the detailed facade of the two-story building to the elaborate traditional decor and nightly performances, from music performances to family-friendly Panda Shows, the venue has been transformed to showcase not only the region's spectacular food but also its vibrant culture. The tradition of cooking hotpot at your table DIY-style is also a fun novelty.

Inspired by Wuxia — China's cult martial arts heroes  — and adorned with trademark red lanterns, hand-crafted Chinese-style interiors, and a striking steel dragon watching over the grand staircase, Panda Hot Pot is a fun themed restaurant in Melbourne to add to your list.

Location: 100 Victoria St, Carlton
Cuisine/theme: Sichuan hot pot cuisine with a hint of Chinese martial arts
Age suitability: Recommended for ages 4 and above — Hot pot involves bubbling soup at the table, open heat, and lots of small dishes, so close supervision is essential. The experience can also be long for little ones.
Good to know:  We recommend choosing non-spicy or split broths if dining with kids. Go earlier in the evening for a calmer, more family-friendly atmosphere. Expect a longer dining time than normal — hot pot is meant to be slow and social. Always supervise younger children closely around the hot pot.

2. Denis the Menace Cafe

We know it's not your usual themed restaurant, but it works! Denis the Menace Cafe in Cremorne is a whole lot of fun. 

The huge, light-filled open warehouse is home to food with a sustainability focus and an in-joke-filled menu that you can't help but giggle at. Why not try the Avo, We've Met Before, Oh Shit-ake, Wild Child or Running Late Roti. The kids' menu options include eggs, muesli, toastie cheese, and chips.

Location: 106-108 Chestnut St, Cremorne
Cuisine/theme: Like Dennis himself, the cafe embraces a playful, child-friendly theme inspired by the idea of letting kids be kids. There's a strong focus on outdoor, garden-style dining with a laid-back feel — less "sit still and be quiet," more "eat, play, and enjoy".
Age suitability: All ages welcome
Good to know: The relaxed layout and outdoor focus make it easier for families than many inner-city cafes. The garden area is the most family-friendly spot, especially if your kids want to move between bites.

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3. Fordham's Milk Bar

Step into Fordham's Milk Bar and feel like you've time-travelled straight back to the golden days of Aussie corner stores — but with seriously good coffee and brunch.

This Camberwell favourite has an old-school milk bar vibe, blending nostalgia, comfort, and modern café culture in a way that's effortlessly cool. Vintage roots are evident throughout, with classic milk bar signage, old-fashioned counters, and nostalgic packaging. This is a place that reminds parents of childhood corner shops — icy poles, lollies, simple treats — while still serving up great café food for today's crowd.

The menu balances café favourites with comforting, familiar food, making it easy for both adults and kids to find something they'll happily eat. The casual setting means families feel welcome, not worried about a bit of noise or movement — always a win with little ones.

Location: 116 Fordham Ave, Camberwell
Cuisine/theme: Old-school soda shop vibe serving modern dishes, and homemade cakes and ice creams
Age suitability: All ages welcome
Good to know: Milkshakes are a must — it's a milk bar, after all! They're dog-friendly, so bring your furry friends.

4. Stalactites Greek Restaurant

 

One of Melbourne's longest-established and best-known Greek restaurants, Stalactites stands out for its bright, friendly atmosphere and its famous stalactite-covered ceiling visible from the street.

Go old-school traditional with your eats and grab souvlaki (lamb, chicken or mixed), or vegetarian souvlaki with a bunch of mouthwatering toppings to customise your meal. They also offer excellent platters, dips, seafood, a grill section, breakfasts, desserts, and homeland favourites like cabbage rolls, gemista, moussaka, and homemade beef konkinisto, with most of those options available in kid-sized portions from the children's menu.

Location: 177/183 Lonsdale St, Melbourne
Cuisine/theme: Classic Greek comfort food in a vibrant, slightly theatrical setting. The ceiling is designed to resemble cave stalactites — a nod to the restaurant's name — giving the space a unique, old-world feel that stands out from typical city dining spots.
Age suitability: All ages welcome, but note that it can get very busy and crowded later in the evening. 
Good to know: This is a buzzing city restaurant, not a quiet dining space — kids who like lively environments will do well. Kids often love the casual vibe and big, satisfying portions. The space can feel tight during busy periods, so earlier visits are smoother with little ones.

5. Johnny, Vince & Sam's Ristorante

 

If your ideal themed restaurant in Melbourne for kids involves loud laughter, oversized pasta bowls, and the comforting feeling that someone's Nonna is about to tell you to eat more, Johnny, Vince & Sam's Ristorante is your spot. This Melbourne icon doesn't do sleek or trendy. It does old-school Italian chaos, and honestly, that's the magic.

Walking in feels like crashing a big family dinner you were never formally invited to — except nobody questions it and you're immediately part of the action. The interiors are warm, a little retro, and packed with personality, with cosy lighting, vintage touches, busy tables, and the kind of buzzing, slightly chaotic energy that only happens when good food and big groups collide. It's nostalgic without trying too hard. No minimalist plates, no tiny portions — just full-blown Nonna energy! As for the food? This is comfort food territory. Expect rich, saucy pastas, slow-cooked ragù, cheesy parmigiana, seafood, risotto, and desserts that feel like they came straight from a handwritten family recipe book. Portions are generous (read: huge), flavours are bold, and sharing is basically mandatory.

Location: 306-308 Lygon St, Carlton
Cuisine/theme: It's Nonna's house — loud, lively, and churning out traditional, old-school Italian cooking.
Age suitability: All ages welcome
Good to know: Dinner before 6.30 pm is easier with younger kids. Portions are big, and carbs are plentiful. Book your next birthday or celebration dinner — this place thrives on occasions (just like Nonna!).

6. Easey's

Burgers in a train because, well, normal is boring! At Easey's, the best of Melbourne's art, music, transport, people, food, and drinks converge atop the End to End building on Easey St, Collingwood. The views from this themed restaurant in Melbourne are phenomenal, and the food portions are large and delicious.

Easey's fully commits to their retro theme. You're dining inside real, retro train carriages parked on a rooftop, wrapped in colourful graffiti and surrounded by city views. It's gritty, playful, and unapologetically Melbourne

What's on the menu? Easey's is burger territory, and they do it properly. Indulge in juicy burgers, hot dogs, mac and cheese, crispy fries, tater tots, dim sims, chicken wings and doughnuts before coming back down to earth.

Location: 48 Easey St, Collingwood
Cuisine/theme: Retro diner menu served in real retro train carriages
Age suitability: All ages are welcome, but note that the stairs, rooftop setting, and busy atmosphere may suit older children better.
Good to know: Ask for a train carriage seatin — that's the whole vibe after all! Not the most pram-friendly venue given the stairs, so plan accordingly. 

7. Rice Queen

When you want good Asian food and plenty of it in funky-coloured surroundings, step into one of the best themed restaurants in Melbourne, the kitschy Rice Queen. 

Rice Queen does a playful, neon-drenched, retro-Asian diner aesthetic beautifully. With glowing signs, moody lighting, and pops of colour, it's a space that lands somewhere between a late-night street food bar and a quirky Melbourne hangout. It's vibrant, a little theatrical, and definitely not trying to be subtle.

The menu is designed for sharing, so dishes are small but delicious, and there is a wide range of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Try the baby banh mi, san choy bao, grilled king oyster mushrooms with eggplant puree, their ultra-famous KFC (Korean Fried Chicken, or spring for the vegetarian cauliflower version), steamed dumplings, DIY Korean tacos, veggie curry, or their salad or noodle dishes. You will absolutely not leave here hungry! 

If you're looking for something to do after dinner, why not hit their karaoke room? It seats 15 at the back of the diner and is available in 90-minute slots.

Location: 389-391 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Cuisine/theme: Modern Asian fusion with strong Vietnamese influences
Age suitability: All ages are welcome, but the darker lighting (at night) and busy vibe might suit older children more.
Good to know: Their flavour combinations can be bold, so choose milder dishes alongside punchier ones if dining with kids. 

8. Mjølner

Calling all Viking fans to step into Mjølner, a luxurious Viking-inspired haven nestled in the heart of Melbourne's CBD.

This themed restaurant is a tribute to Thor himself, blending contemporary Scandinavian design with historic Viking elements across its sprawling two-level space. Dive into an award-winning dining experience that offers more than just a meal — it's a complete escape.

Mjølner excels in both modern and traditional cooking techniques, turning every dish into an indulgent feast. The menu is complemented by a world-class beverage selection, featuring over 600 whiskies from around the globe, a robust collection of Australian craft beers, and expertly crafted cocktails.

Location: 106 Hardware Street
Cuisine/theme: Norse mythology and Viking feasting culture, so expect premium meats cooked over fire, slow-roasted dishes, rich sauces and rustic sides
Age suitability: A great fit for tweens and teens who enjoy immersive themes, loud spaces, and trying new foods.
Good to know: Portions are generous, and the feast-style menu is designed for serious appetites. The menu is meat-heavy, but alternatives can be arranged. Birthdays, celebrations, date nights, and memorable dining experiences shine here.

9. Munich Brauhaus

Guten Tag! It's all German all the time at Munich Brauhaus on the South Wharf. Paying homage to all things pork in their menu, you'll feel like you stepped right into a Bavarian bier hall without ever leaving Melbourne. 

The food features pretzels and pickles aplenty, as well as wiener, pork knuckle, schnitzel, steak, burgers, and desserts, alongside an extensive beer menu and excellent kids' choices such as mac and cheese balls, schnitzel, frankfurter, fries, and gelato. 

Location: 45 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf
Cuisine/theme: Oktoberfest energy, all year long! Traditional German dishes include pretzels, schnitzels, and wieners.
Age suitability: Perfect for groups, celebrations, outgoing families with older kids, and anyone who enjoys personality over polish.
Good to know: There's a strong social feel here, especially with the long communal tables. Strangers sit near each other, tables fill fast, and the room hums with chatter, clinking glasses.

10. Witches in Britches

Get ready for a night of spellbinding fun at Witches in Britches, the ultimate themed restaurant in Melbourne for anyone who loves witches, Halloween vibes, and dinner theatre all rolled into one!

This lively musical-theatre restaurant has been casting spells over Melbourne with its delightfully kitschy Halloween atmosphere since 1990. Prepare to be entertained by a troupe of talented actors and actresses who bring the stage alive with comedy, cheeky pop culture nods, and plenty of adult laughs. The lineup at Witches is ever-changing, featuring everything from magic and illusion shows to tribute acts celebrating icons like Michael Jackson and Cher.

Location: 84 Dudley St, West Melbourne
Cuisine/theme: Live dinner theatre that's a dark, theatrical, witchy universe
Age suitability: We recommend this enchanting evening for guests aged 16 and up, due to some sexual references and salty language.
Good to know: This is not a quiet dinner. Expect music, laughter, dramatic moments, surprise interactions, and a room that feels alive from start to finish. While the performances are saucy and vibrant, rest assured, there's no nudity, though the humour is a bit adult.

FAQS

Make dining out at one of Melbourne's themed restaurants for families easy-peasy with these helpful FAQs:

1. What makes a restaurant themed?

A themed restaurant is about much more than just the food — it's the full experience. They typically feature immersive décor, unique settings, interactive elements, and a strong atmosphere that transports you elsewhere. From dining inside a train carriage to Viking feasts or theatrical dinner shows, themed restaurants create a sense of fun, storytelling, and escape that goes beyond a typical meal.

2. Are themed restaurants in Melbourne worth visiting with kids?

Yes, many of these restaurants are popular with families because they offer a full dining experience. The excitement of unusual settings, interactive elements, and lively atmospheres keeps kids engaged and entertained. Family-friendly options include Easey's (burgers inside a rooftop train), Stalactites (lively Greek dining), and Johnny, Vince & Sam's Ristorante (cosy, old-school Italian with a welcoming vibe for families).

3. What should families know before visiting themed restaurants in Melbourne?

Many themed venues can be lively, busy, or theatrical, so consider your child's comfort with noise and crowds. Book ahead when possible, allow extra time for wait periods or longer dining experiences, and check accessibility — some venues have stairs, low lighting, or tight seating. For younger children, earlier sittings are usually calmer and easier.

4. When is the best time to visit themed restaurants in Melbourne?

For families, quieter times are best. Weekday evenings, early dinner sittings, or off-peak hours tend to be less crowded and more relaxed.

5. Which themed restaurants in Melbourne are best for younger kids?

Younger children tend to prefer bright, relaxed venues that are not too intense. Great options include Johnny, Vince & Sam's Ristorante (welcoming, family-style Italian restaurant), Fordham's Milk Bar (family-friendly diner), and Denis the Menace Café (playful, relaxed setting with an outdoor space). 

6. Are there themed restaurants suitable for teenagers?

Absolutely — teens often love venues with novelty, social energy, and strong visual themes. 

7. Do themed restaurants require bookings?

Many popular themed restaurants do require bookings, especially on weekends, school holidays, and evenings. Places like Easey's, Mjølner, and theatrical dining venues can fill up quickly, so reserving in advance helps avoid long waits or disappointment.

8. Are themed restaurants noisy or crowded?

It depends on the venue and time of visit. Some restaurants are lively and energetic, while others are more relaxed. Expect higher noise levels during peak dining hours, especially in social venues like beer halls or theatrical restaurants. 

9. Are there budget-friendly themed restaurants in Melbourne?

Yes — while some themed dining experiences are premium, there are more affordable options too, such as Easey's, Stalactites, Rice Queen, Fordham's Milk Bar, and Johnny, Vince & Sam's.

10. Are Melbourne's themed restaurants suitable for birthdays or special occasions?

Yes! These spots are perfect for celebrations because of their lively atmosphere and memorable settings. Great options include Mjølner (dramatic feast experience), Witches in Britches (fun, theatrical dinner show), and Munich Brauhaus (festive, group-friendly dining). 

More Restaurants in Melbourne

If themed dining has inspired your appetite, Melbourne offers plenty of other family-friendly food experiences worth checking out. Here's where to go for the Best Dumplings in Melbourne, Melbourne's Yummiest Chocolate Cafes, and Melbourne's Top Burger Joints.

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