In Melbourne in a few weeks for a trade show. I'm taking an Aussie friend out for dinner. She's a gorgeous ocker lass so I want something nice and a good substantial meal, but not pretentious, that sells decent wine. I was thinking seafood.

I'm staying on Collins St. by the way.

Does anyone have any recommendations?

There's a nice seafood restaurant on the southbank, never been there but i've heard good things about it and it will jus be a short walk for you.

This place is fabulous. The food is amazing and the atmosphere is really ambient. There are also tonnes of bars around the area so you can go for an after dinner drink. (Let me know if you need a guide )

I've just found this

http://www.melbournerestaurants.com.au/

Now I'm bloody starving

Sorry didn't notice that you were looking for a seafood restaurant. This place probably has the best seafood in Melbourne.

Depends on what you want to pay. I would recommend Vue De Monde www.veudemond.com.au but it is very expensive. Also very good is Botanical www.thebotanical.com.au (excellent list), Donovans or the Stoke House (upstairs). In the city for a more informal meal and one of my favourite places is MoVida Tapas Bar www.movida.com.au

I have tried to get a reservation there (MoVida) umpteen times!! Who do you have to know???

Thanks everyone. Those all look great. It doesn't have to be seafood, Deer, just thinking that would be nice, but it's not essential.

Now that would be telling!! - Just book a few weeks in advance for the evening sitting. I usually get a seat there for lunch without booking.

I was taken to Breezes at Crown Casino (level3) a few weeks ago. Got glass windows that look straight over the flames and then onto the river. Absolutely divine food, good wine selection too!! Was a fab evening!

Sounds interesting! Cheers.

I recommend getting the Age's cheap eats 2006 guide - a great book with top meals in Melbourne for under $20 (the book is also about $20) - a great book

Maybe I'm reading too much into your comments but if you are wanting to get into her knickers you probably do want too substantial a meal other wise she might not be up for it. Surely something with smaller portions so the booze takes more effect might highten your chances ? Or did you say seafood to get a plate of oysters down her neck ? Unless she's guaranteed to put out just take her somewhere cheap, you don't want to be shelling out loads of cash and getting nothing back, or can you claim this meal back on exxies ?

You do know that IPom is a woman and a married?

Should keep quiet IPom could of had a field day with the guy - or was it a girl??