RESIDENCE at the Potter — Restaurant in Melbourne

Tucked away inside the elegant surrounds of the Potter Museum, Residence at the Potter delivers an experience that seamlessly merges art, atmosphere, and culinary craftsmanship. The décor is a standout—strikingly understated, with a minimalist approach to lighting that allows the space’s natural elegance to shine. The thoughtful layout balances intimacy and openness, with a beautifully fluid connection between the open kitchen and dining area. A long communal table anchors the room, creating a warm, convivial feel while paying homage to the sense of community that great hospitality fosters.

From the moment service begins, it’s clear that this is a team operating at the top of their game. Every dish arrived at the perfect temperature—neither tepid nor too hot—underscoring a level of precision often promised but rarely delivered. The menu reads like a tribute to both comfort and refinement. The Mum’s roast chicken consommé was delicate yet deeply flavourful, enriched by lemon thyme that lifted each spoonful. House-made bread rolls with cultured cream deserve special praise—they may well be the best in Melbourne: crusty on the outside, feather-light within, and made unforgettable by that tangy, silky cultured cream.

The Sydney Rock Merimbula oyster rarebit was a clever, briny twist on tradition, while the scallop with almond and saffron sabayon brought a luxurious, nutty sweetness that paired perfectly with the shellfish. A complimentary entrée of soused sardines with cucumber and mezcal added a bright, smoky interlude—thoughtfully executed and full of personality.

For mains, the hanger of beef and ox tongue delivered richness and depth, brought alive by a punchy green peppercorn sauce and the sharp contrast of pickled onions. It’s a dish that’s bold, balanced, and deeply satisfying.

This is Melbourne hospitality done right—refined, yet relaxed; thoughtful, without ever feeling contrived. Residence is driven by a clear vision, thanks to the passionate leadership of Cameron Earl and Nathan Doyle, with an exceptional front-of-house team, and the inspired kitchen led by Executive Chef Jasper and Head Chef Robbie Noble. Their commitment to craft, detail, and hospitality ensures that Residence at the Potter isn’t just a meal—it’s a statement. A bold, beautiful one that celebrates everything Melbourne dining can and should be.

Looking forward to many more seasonal visits and a perfect restaurant for culinary...

The Bloke from Yorkshire can cook. I’ve just had lunch at Residence, the new restaurant that’s part of the Potter Museum of Art.

Dining solo, I sat at the bar and I ordered the roast lamb rump, pink in the center, succulent, tender with a thin layer of fat, crisp on the edges. Underneath was a bed of artichoke, spiced with cumin and red cabbage on the side. As a former, long-time vegetarian accustomed to cumin-flavored vegetables, the familiar spice was a delight with lamb and artichoke.

I paired it with a Heathcote Granache. Fine Heathcote wine never disappoints!

Next, the rhubarb and custard with brandy snap wafers for dessert was to die for! Chef Robbie Noble, a personable Yorkshire bloke, hands me the dessert, telling me his hometown of Yorkshire is known as the Rhubarb Triangle. The rhubarb is slightly crunchy with that unmistakable mix of sweet tartness when the ingredients are subtly balanced. Complemented with a light, creamy custard and brandy snaps it evoked the nostalgia of being a child in the seventies – the brandy snaps close to the memories of my culinary heart.

I relished every moment of this wholesome, country-style fare coupled with warmth and an edge of sophisticated refinement. Fine food, wine and art - take a friend, take yourself, take a visitor to...

Highly recommend this restaurant. We had the most lovely meal here recently. Thoughtfully prepared. Lovely flavours. The service is exceptional as well. And the setting is beautiful with high ceilings, large windows looking over trees and greenery. They said they’d try to have a couple of tables outside in the courtyard in summer for a drink as well. It’s been set up and run by some very experienced hospitality professionals and it shows. The place feels very cared for, built and curated with great care and intention, by professionals who take real pride in their work.

Do yourself a favour and head along for lunch, dinner, or even just a glass of wine or cocktail and a couple of their...