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If you’re searching for the best restaurant in Melbourne CBD, Ginger Olive should be at the top of your list. Known for its premium dining experience, it’s not just the best steak restaurant in Melbourne CBD, but also a top choice for anyone seeking an exquisite grill-focused menu. Whether you're craving a perfectly cooked steak, a unique Mediterranean-inspired dish, or simply a memorable evening out, here’s everything you need to know about Ginger Olive before you go.

Introduction to Ginger Olive

The Concept and Ambiance

Ginger Olive is one of the top contenders for the best restaurant in Melbourne CBD, thanks to its stylish yet inviting atmosphere. It strikes the perfect balance between casual dining and an upscale culinary experience. The contemporary design, combined with the warm and welcoming environment, makes it an ideal spot for anything from a laid-back dinner to a more formal occasion.

The ambiance at Ginger Olive is versatile, which is why it’s a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re seated inside with the chic decor or outside enjoying the fresh air, the atmosphere is always buzzing with energy. If you're on the hunt for the best grill restaurant in Melbourne CBD, Ginger Olive’s fusion of modern and traditional styles makes it stand out.

Location and Accessibility

Located conveniently in the heart of the city, Ginger Olive offers easy access for both locals and visitors. Being positioned centrally means it's a go-to option for anyone searching for the best restaurant in Melbourne CBD. Ample parking and nearby public transport make it an even more attractive option, ensuring that you can enjoy your night out without worrying about the hassle of getting there.

Menu Highlights at Ginger Olive

Ginger Olive’s menu is a testament to modern Australian cuisine, featuring a range of dishes that cater to different tastes. The restaurant specialises in grilled meats, seafood, and hearty mains, establishing itself as the best grill restaurant in Melbourne CBD. Let's take a closer look at the standout items on the menu.

Starters and Entrées

Ginger Olive’s starters are crafted to set the tone for an exceptional dining experience, featuring flavours that span fresh seafood to vegetarian delights.

Signature Tasting Platter (For 2 Persons) – $44.9: A perfect sharing option with BBQ chicken, crispy prawns, grilled calamari, grilled cheese kransky, Asian slaw, and more. It's a feast of flavours to kick off your meal.r.
Grilled Calamari Agilo e Olio – $21.9: Mediterranean-inspired with baby lettuce, fennel, and a citrus vinaigrette, this dish is a favourite for seafood lovers.

The Signature Platters

For those looking to share or indulge in a variety of flavours, the signature platters are a must-try. These are great for groups or those wanting to sample Ginger Olive's finest offerings.

Ginger Olive Platter (For 2 Persons) – $99.9: Includes slow-cooked beef short rib, BBQ chicken and pork, cured prawns, seared barramundi, and grilled calamari.
BBQ | Ribs Snag Platter (For 2 Persons) – $99.9: A hearty selection of BBQ pork ribs, BBQ free-range chicken, slow-cooked beef short ribs, and snag sausages, making it perfect for meat lovers.
Melange of Seafood – $129.9 for two / $64.9 for one: A premium seafood platter with local oysters, scallops, grilled calamari, barramundi, prawns, and more, paired with a light citrus beurre blanc sauce.

Premium Chargrilled Steaks

As the best steak restaurant in Melbourne CBD, Ginger Olive offers an array of high-quality, chargrilled steaks, all served with a curated side dish, leaf salad, and sauces like Café de Paris butter and jus.

Wagyu Sirloin Steak Ranger Valley (GF) – $79.9: 360g, Grass-fed, delivering an exquisite marbling and rich flavour.
Rib Eye Steak Aged Riverine Premium Black Angus (GF) – $65.9: A 350g cut, known for its tenderness and robust flavour.
Porterhouse Steak Southern Ranges Black Angus (GF) – $62.9: A 300g Vic Farms Grass-fed cut, perfect for those who prefer a leaner steak.
Scotch Fillet Black Angus Premium (GF) – $65.9: 300g, a classic steak cut with a fine balance of marbling and flavour.

BBQ, Ribs, Seafood & Mains

For fans of grilled meats and seafood, Ginger Olive's BBQ and mains section is where the restaurant truly shines as the best grill restaurant in Melbourne CBD.

Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs – $49.9: Marinated in rich herbs and spices, slow-cooked for 9 hours, and served with a curated side dish.
BBQ Baby Back Pork Ribs (GF) – $48.9: A signature dish, these ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, tender and smothered in BBQ marinade.
The Reef & Beef – $47.9: A combination of slow-cooked short ribs, seared barramundi, and crispy prawns for a delightful surf and turf option.

Risotto, Pasta, and Noodles

If you’re craving Italian-inspired dishes, Ginger Olive also offers an enticing selection of pasta and risotto.

Seafood Linguine – $39.9: Prawns, calamari, local mussels, scallops, and salmon come together in a garlic, white wine, and extra virgin olive oil sauce.
Wild Mushroom and Truffle Essence Risotto (V GF) – $39.0: A vegetarian option packed with rich flavours and the earthy aroma of truffle.
Pappardelle Bolognese (V) – $35.0: A classic, rich beef ragu made with San Marzano tomatoes, paired with fresh pappardelle pasta.

Drinks and Cocktails

Pair your meal with one of Ginger Olive’s expertly crafted cocktails or a selection from their extensive wine list. The Ginger OliveSparkle is a popular house special, or you can opt for something classic like the Aperol Spritz or Negroni.

Why Ginger Olive Stands Out

Exceptional Service and Staff

Service is a key factor in Ginger Olive’s reputation as the best restaurant in Melbourne CBD. The staff are known for their attentiveness, offering personalised service that makes every dining experience memorable. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a regular, the team ensures that every aspect of your meal is perfect, from the moment you walk in to the final bite of dessert.

Special Events and Offers

What makes Ginger Olive the best grill restaurant in Melbourne CBD isn’t just the food and service – it’s the additional perks like seasonal offers and themed dining nights. Whether it’s a happy hour deal or a special event featuring live music, Ginger Olive offers more than just a meal. These events add an extra layer of enjoyment to your night out, making it an ideal destination for special occasions.

Booking and Reservation Tips

Peak Times and Table Booking

Given its popularity as the best steak restaurant in Melbourne CBD, it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially for dinner on weekends. The restaurant tends to fill up quickly during peak hours, so booking in advance guarantees that you’ll get the table and time you prefer.

Special Requests and Group Dining

Ginger Olive is an excellent choice for group dining, whether it's a birthday celebration, corporate event, or family gathering. The staff are more than happy to accommodate special requests, such as dietary restrictions or personalised menus for larger groups.

What to Expect in Terms of Pricing

Value for Money

Ginger Olive offers excellent value for money, especially considering the quality of food and service. As one of the best restaurants in Melbourne CBD, the prices reflect the premium dining experience, but the portions are generous, and the ingredients are top-notch. You’re paying for more than just a meal – you’re investing in an unforgettable evening.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re dining on a budget but still want to experience one of the best restaurants in Melbourne CBD, there are plenty of affordable options on the menu. The lunch specials offer a great opportunity to sample Ginger Olive’s offerings at a more wallet-friendly price, and the smaller plates and shared starters provide great value.

Final Thoughts on Ginger Olive

Ginger Olive truly stands out as the best steak restaurant in Melbourne CBD, but it’s much more than that. From the expertly grilled steaks to the welcoming ambiance and attentive service, every aspect of the dining experience is designed to impress. Whether you're dining with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to a fantastic meal, Ginger Olive is the perfect choice.

Be sure to make a reservation, especially during peak times, and come prepared to enjoy an evening of exceptional food and drink. If you’re seeking the best grill restaurant in Melbourne CBD, Ginger Olive should be at the top of your list.