So you want to have a small intimate wedding, you want just those who mean the most to you. ‘Micro-Weddings’ are becoming more and more popular, people are wanting connection with their guests. Don’t get me wrong I also love the joy that larger weddings bring. For the purpose of this article I am going to talk about restaurants in Melbourne for small intimate weddings.
Melbourne is well known for its restaurant scene. With hundreds of options that offer a charming and intimate atmosphere that are perfect for small weddings. It can be hard to choose a space that’s right for you.
What if you want a smaller venue with the best atmosphere and food, or open-air restaurant to celebrate your wedding? I’ll discuss some of my favourite restaurants in Melbourne to have a small intimate wedding at. I’ll also talk about the atmosphere you should look for, plus provide a cost breakdown to help you plan your budget.
Atmosphere for a small intimate wedding
When it comes to planning a small intimate wedding in a restaurant, atmosphere is key. You want a venue that feels cozy and welcoming, where you can relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Melbourne’s restaurants offer a variety of settings, from trendy rooftop terraces to elegant dining rooms with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a modern or traditional setting, a casual or formal environment, or something in between.
Something to consider, is the level of privacy offered by the venue. If you’re looking for a truly intimate experience, it’s important to choose a restaurant that offers a private dining room or secluded area. This can help create a more intimate atmosphere, allowing you and your guests to enjoy the celebration without distractions.
Cost Breakdown.
Budgeting for a small intimate wedding at a restaurant in Melbourne, there are several factors to consider. These factors can include the venue hire fee, food and beverage costs, and any additional costs such as decor or entertainment. Here is a rough breakdown of what you can expect to spend.
*Note that these costs are indicative only, and prices can vary depending on the time of year and day of the week. It’s always a good idea to discuss your budget with the venue in advance to ensure that you are aware of all the costs involved.
so what Melbourne restaurants for small intimate weddings are the best? Yes yes I’ll get on with it! Here’s my favourite spots that I’ve been to personally or photographed weddings at. Most importantly these places are memorable to me and I’ve eaten the best food and drinks.
1. Nick and Nora’s Cocktail Bar
Nick and Nora’s Cocktail Bar is a stylish venue located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. The bar is named after the characters in Dashiell Hammett’s iconic novel, “The Thin Man”, and the venue has a 1920s Art Deco vibe. Nick and Nora’s is an excellent option for couples looking for a unique and intimate venue to host their wedding.
The bar features a range of spaces that can be customised to suit your wedding style and size. The Champagne Lounge is a small private room that can accommodate up to 12 guests, making it perfect for a small and intimate wedding ceremony. The Main Bar can accommodate up to 100 guests, while the outdoor terrace offers stunning views of Melbourne’s skyline.
Nick and Nora’s is known for its exceptional cocktail menu, which features classic cocktails and creative concoctions inspired by the Golden Age of Cocktails. The bar also offers a range of catering options, including canapes, share plates, and sit-down meals.
Cost breakdown for Nick and Nora’s Cocktail Bar
Budgeting for a wedding at Nick and Nora’s Cocktail Bar, the venue hire fee and food and beverage costs will be the main expenses to consider. Here is a rough breakdown of what you can expect to spend:
Venue hire fee:
- Champagne Lounge: $200-$300
- Main Bar: $2,000-$3,000
- Outdoor Terrace: $500-$1,000
Food and beverage:
- Canapes: $50-$70 per person
- Share plates: $70-$100 per person
- Sit-down meal: $100-$150 per person
2. Seamstress Restaurant
Seamstress Restaurant is a hidden gem located in the heart of Melbourne’s Chinatown. The restaurant is housed in a historic building that was once a sewing factory, and it features a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
The space can accommodate up to 80 guests, making it a great option for small to medium-sized weddings. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and a cozy fireplace.
The restaurant offers a range of menu options, including set menus and a la carte options. The cost for a wedding at Seamstress Restaurant starts at around $100 per person, which includes a set menu and drinks package.
3. Old Palm Liquor
Old Palm Liquor is a trendy and stylish restaurant located in Fitzroy North, and it is an excellent choice for a small intimate wedding. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s décor is rustic and charming, with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, and soft lighting creating a warm and intimate ambiance. The space can accommodate up to 50 guests for a sit-down dinner, or up to 80 guests for a cocktail-style event.
Old Palm Liquor offers a range of wedding packages that include a selection of canapes, entrees, mains, and desserts, as well as beverages. The packages can be tailored to suit your preferences and dietary requirements, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold flavors.The cost for a wedding at Old Palm Liquor starts at around $120 per person, which includes a set menu and drinks package.
Whether you choose a formal sit-down dinner or a more relaxed cocktail-style event, the food at Old Palm Liquor is sure to impress.
4. Post office hotel
The Post Office Hotel is a charming and historic venue located in the heart of Melbourne. It is a great choice for couples who want a traditional wedding setting.. The hotel offers a range of unique spaces for wedding celebrations, including an intimate dining room and a beautiful outdoor courtyard.
The dining room can accommodate up to 50 guests for a sit-down dinner. The Post Office Hotel prides itself on using fresh, seasonal ingredients and local produce. Their menu showcases the best of modern Australian cuisine.
In addition to the dining room, The Post Office Hotel also has a beautiful courtyard that’s perfect for a pre-dinner drinks reception or a casual cocktail-style event. It’s spacious and airy, with plenty of room for mingling and socialising.
The cost at The Post Office Hotel starts at around $110 per person, which includes a set menu and drinks package.
5. Golden Fleece Hotel
Golden Fleece Hotel is a historic and stunning venue located in South Melbourne. It is an excellent choice for couples who want a unique and memorable wedding setting. The hotel has a fabulous Mexican fresh vibe with amazing cati scattered around.
The restaurant has a number of different spaces to choose from, including a private dining room and a rooftop terrace. The cost at Golden Fleece Hotel starts at around $100 per person, which includes a set menu and drinks package.
6. Panama Dining Room
Panama Dining Room is a chic and modern venue located in Fitzroy. It is an excellent choice for couples who want a trendy and sophisticated wedding setting. The main feature of Panama is the stunning arch windows that look out over Fitzroy and the surrounds.
The cost at Panama Dining Room starts at around $130 per person, which includes a set menu and drinks package
7. Etta
Etta is a beautiful and elegant restaurant located in Brunswick East. The restaurant features a modern and minimalist design, with beautiful wooden accents and an open kitchen. The space can accommodate up to 70 guests, making it a great option for small to medium-sized weddings. The atmosphere is warm and intimate, with soft lighting and a cozy fireplace.
The restaurant offers a range of menu options, including set menus and a la carte options. The cost for a wedding at Etta starts at around $120 per person, which includes a set menu and drinks package.
8. La Luna Bistro
Located in the inner-city suburb of North Carlton, La Luna Bistro offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for a small wedding celebration.
The restaurant itself is warm and welcoming, with exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and comfortable seating. There are two private dining rooms available, which can accommodate up to 30 guests each. These rooms offer a more intimate setting for your wedding celebration, allowing you and your guests to enjoy the occasion without any distractions.
La Luna Bistro offers a range of menu options that showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold flavours. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best of what’s available, and can be tailored to suit your preferences. The restaurant also offers a carefully curated wine list, featuring a range of local and international wines.
In terms of pricing, La Luna Bistro offers a set menu for wedding celebrations, which starts at $95 per person. This includes a selection of canapes, entrees, mains, and desserts, as well as tea and coffee. There are also beverage packages available, which range from $45 to $85 per person depending on your selection of wines and spirits.
9. Neighbourhood Wine
Neighbourhood Wine is a cozy and intimate wine bar located in Fitzroy North. The restaurant features a warm and inviting atmosphere, with beautiful exposed brick walls and a cozy fireplace. The space can accommodate up to 40 guests, making it a great option for very small weddings.
The restaurant offers a range of menu options, including set menus and a la carte options. The cost for a wedding at Neighbourhood Wine starts at around $80 per person, which includes a set menu and drinks package.
Last little bit….
There you have it, a detailed list of Melbourne restaurants for small intimate weddings. These restaurants are what I consider my favourite, most cost effective, delicious and excellent staffing! It’s also worth noting that many of these restaurants offer additional services, such as wedding planning and styling.
Roughly, the cost for a small intimate wedding at a restaurant in Melbourne can range from around $80-$200 per person, depending on the venue, menu options, and additional services included. It’s important to do your research and compare pricing across different venues to find the best option for your budget.
In terms of Melbourne restaurants for small intimate weddings mentioned earlier, here’s a breakdown of the estimated cost per person for a small intimate wedding:
- Nick and Nora’s Cocktail Bar – starting at around $150 per person – https://nickandnoras.com.au/melbourne/
- Seamstress Restaurant – starting at around $100 per person – https://www.seamstress.com.au/
- Old Palm Liquor – starting at around $100 per person – https://oldpalmliquor.com/
- The Post Office Hotel – starting at around $120 per person – https://www.thepostofficehotel.com.au/
- Golden Fleece Hotel – starting at around $100 per person – https://goldenfleecemelb.com.au/
- Panama Dining Room – starting at around $150 per person – https://thepanama.com.au/
- Etta – starting at around $120 per person – https://ettadining.com.au/
- La Luna – starting at around $95 per person – https://www.lalunabistro.com.au/
- Neighbourhood Wine – starting at around $80 per person – https://neighbourhoodwine.com/
It’s important to note that these prices are estimates and may vary depending on the specific menu options and services selected.
With a bit of planning and budgeting, you can create a special intimate event you and your guests will treasure forever.
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About the Author
Jennifer MacDonald at Liminal Wonderland loves anything sci-fi and re runs of Gilmore girls. Loves baking and Champagne. Jennifer spends her free time hanging out with her husband and toddler that keeps her active. Jennifer is a wedding photographer based in Melbourne, Vic. She specialises in capturing artistic portraits paired with unique storytelling moments to produce natural, emotional wedding photography for fearless lovers.
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