Amaru is chef-owner Clinton McIver's restaurant on High Street in Armadale, a small open-plan dining room seating a maximum of 34 guests. McIver opened it in 2016 as his first venue, and in the 2026 Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat Awards it scored 19 out of 20, the highest score given to any Melbourne restaurant.
The kitchen cooks a seasonal tasting menu built around Australia's native ingredients and local producers, using techniques drawn from cuisines around the world. Two formats are offered. The Sensory Menu is the full progression, and guests should allow at least three hours. The shorter Insight Menu is available at lunch only.
Chefs, waiters and sommeliers all bring courses to the table, explaining ingredients and pairings as the meal moves along. Drinks come from an extensive cellar alongside house-made infusions and ferments. For a closer view, the Chef's Counter seats guests beside the kitchen, with chefs presenting selected courses in person. Counter bookings require one of the curated beverage pairings.
Dinner runs Tuesday to Saturday, with lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. The restaurant is fully licensed with no BYO, smart casual dress is recommended, and dietary requirements need advance notice, although vegan diets cannot be catered for. Sister venue Auterra Wine Bar, open seven days, is the place for a drink before dinner. Armadale Station is a six-minute walk away.
Visit WebsiteMenu Not Available!
