Higher Ground, Melbourne

highergroundmelbourne.com.au

It’s not just breakfast at Higher Ground, the bigger-than-BenHur production from the group behind Melbourne’s famed Top Paddock. It’s occasion dining. It’s architectural statement (the former power station is now a spectacular split-level dining room that capitalises on its excellent bone structure). It’s a place to see and be seen, though it also has private nooks. And great coffee from Square One roasters is backed by a menu that switches insouciantly from the wholesome yet delicious (steamed fish in Japanese noodle broth) to the not-so-wholesome but still delicious (Berkshire bacon sarnie with sauce gribiche).