Take a turn down a quiet, dusky lane in Melbourne and you’ll find yourself on the doorstep of something truly remarkable. Nestled underground in what feels like a secret you’ve just been deemed worthy of knowing is Nomad Restaurant. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience steeped in fabulousness, high flavour, and Melbourne’s distinct flair for style.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a buzzing room of diners who share the same purpose as you—indulging in one of Melbourne’s most lavish dining treasures. It’s all sophistication and electric energy, exactly the kind of place where moments become memories and every bite whispers fabulous.
A Beginning Worth Toasting
The “ultimate” dining experience begins the moment you sit down, martini in hand. Yes, darlings, Nomad knows how to set the scene with a martini that’ll cradle you into the perfect vibe with its citrusy kick and, dare I say, palpable elegance. Rest assured, the cocktail game here knows no rivals—it’s extraordinary indulgence from sip one.
We opted for the chef-curated shared dining experience, complete with wine pairings and it was well worth it.
The Culinary Odyssey Begins
What sets Nomad apart is how every dish feels like a carefully-crafted love letter to your taste buds. Each plate is a story in itself, narrated eloquently by a sommelier who introduces not just the food but the wine tailored to elevate it. These are no generic pairings, sweetie—they’re match-made masterpieces that’ll leave you breathless.
Starters That Seduce
We kicked off with the smoked king salmon basturma, a luscious play of velvety fish, crisp apple, and cheeky bursts of salmon roe. It’s a dish that dances on your palate, chased quickly by the fresh, briny oysters of the day—cue cleansing your spirit in ocean glory. Yes and Yum!
The Flatbread of Dreams
Then, there’s this wood-fired flatbread. Don’t be fooled dear; this isn’t your average carbs moment. Warm, pillowy, and kissed with za’atar spice—it’s pure seduction. Pair it with the hummus with spiced lamb, adorned with a sprinkle of pepitas and sumac. You’ll want to eat it with no shred of decorum (we certainly did). Of course, the Nomad charcuterie selection deserves its own applause, serving bold, cured flavours that truly signal, “You’ve arrived.” The textures! The depth! Perfection on a platter. The Wagyu charcuterie is out of this world, and neither of us wanted it to end.
This was the course that was not so sure about on the menu in the end it blew me away. The bread with the Hummus mixed with the charcuterie selection was so simply elegant with what is the best hummus we have ever tried. Show stopper dears made even more amazing with the wine selection!
Fresh, Flirty, and Fabulous
Enter the second act with raw Yellowfin tuna, broad bean tahini, and wood-roasted citrus, a dish that’s as bright and crisp as a Melbourne spring morning. Then Skull Island tiger prawns hit the table—plump, charred, and draped in a charcuterie XO sauce that’ll have you visibly swooning. This is the kind of flavour you recall long after the last bite.
Well the raw Yellowfin tuna let me tell you, was another moment for us that we just did not want to end. It brought a huge smile to us with each bite. The delicate texture of the tuna mixed with tahini citrus was just nothing short of spectacular.
The Big Showstopper
Brace yourself for the 600g dry-aged ribeye, a carnivorous masterpiece that’s perfectly cooked, astronomically juicy, and elevated with smoked tallow gremolata and caramelised white onions. Sharing is recommended—but only with people you love truly, madly, deeply.
By its side sat a bowl of Fried Maris Piper potatoes slathered in hawaji butter that’s sinful in the best way. Potatoes done this fabulously should be illegal. Every morsel felt luxe, like a regal feast in the heart of Melbourne’s culinary crown. It was stepped up with a sexy Shiraz from the Barossa Valley that just tipped it over the edge in the most spectacular way!
Sweet Final Notes
To close out this gastronomical opera? A pommie granite granita. It’s light, tangy with a silky sweet texture, and utterly refreshing after all that decadence. Like a gentle reminder that you’ve been on a whirlwind, and it’s time to savour the final notes. The silky and sultry dessert wine served is with this dish is utterly naughty let me tell you, but heaven in a glass and finishes the dish spectacularly.
Why Nomad Feels Unlike Anywhere Else
But it isn’t just the food that makes Nomad shine. It’s the whole vibe—they’ve nailed that balance between sophisticated dining and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s elegant without pretension, making it perfect for everyone from giggling groups of friends to a romantic date night with your fabulous partner. And yes, it’s wonderfully gay-friendly. Raise a martini to that.
The sommelier? A star all their own, guiding you through an impeccable wine list that celebrates Australian and global varietals. Each glass not only enhances the dish but broadens the experience entirely. It’s like going on a globe-trotting flavour tour… while seated.
The staff energy? Impeccable. They move through the room like hosts at their own dinner party, anticipating your every whim while keeping the vibe approachable, fun, and just a touch cheeky.
Final Thoughts from the Lavish Underground
Nomad Restaurant isn’t just about food—it’s an entire event wrapped up in fabulousness. Whether you’re a travelling foodie, a local Melburnian, or someone simply looking for a night worthy of the ‘gram, Nomad is your answer. They don’t just serve dinner; they orchestrate a celebration of culinary craftsmanship and stylish dining.
Have a little splurge, darling—it’s called “treating yourself,” and frankly, you deserve it.
