American Express Delicious Month Out (DMO) is back this May, and for the first time, has expanded to include Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Best of all, despite Amex being the primary sponsor, everyone – not just cardmembers – are invited.
DMO is known for collaborating with the city’s best or up-and-coming restaurants to create some great deals. It’s been a tough year for hospitality, so it’s the perfect excuse to support the industry and local businesses while treating yourself to something special and exploring your city.
If you’re in NSW, almost all of these deals allow you to use your Dine and Discover vouchers, too, so that’s already $25 off right away.
This year, there are over 200+ offers across restaurants, cafes and pubs. All the offers are listed on their official website, but with so much good stuff on offer, it can be overwhelming.
Don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you. To help plan your month, here’s our pick of the best deals and venues across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane – as well as free online masterclasses – you must check out.
Sydney
Nomad
This casual fine dining favourite in Surry Hills sources the best produce from small growers to create a menu inspired by travels through Spain, Morocco and the Middle East. The menu is cooked with fire and smoke to create some pretty inventive flavours that is simple yet complex. The mood here is relaxed and attentive, so it’s perfect for a working lunch or dinner catch-up with friends.
This May, you get to try a bespoke lunch set menu plus a glass of wine for $55pp. Start with a wood-roasted eggplant with toasted olive seeds, burnt butter and flatbread, followed by the barbecue spatchcock with harissa, toum and guindilla. And for dessert, the Macadamia and orange blossom baklava. All with a glass of Nomad by Gilbert Family Wine – one of our top picks for a Mudgee roadtrip!
Tequila Mockingbird
This hidden gem tucked away in the backstreets of Paddington is a must. Billed as a Modern Australian menu, this place is a unique blend of Mayan, Aztec, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese and Afro Caribbean flavours. Honestly though, call it whatever you like, this place has such a fun vibe and perfect for date night or catch-up with friends.
For DMO, Tequila Mockingbird has put together a three-course, five-dish set menu for $50pp. Start with a Peruvian-Japanese fusion “Raw” selection, followed by a Central-American ‘street’ bite before heading into mains of Argentinain-style parilla grill and sides – all capped off with a special dessert to finish.
Kid Kyoto
We’ve been a fan of this Japanese Izakaya ever since their take-home menus during lockdown. Hidden in plain sight on Bridge Lane, this Australian twist on Japanese casual dining has been a hit with Sydneysiders. Relaxed, cool and perfect for sharing a night with friends, Kid Kyoto is definitely a worth a visit.
To celebrate Amex Delicious Month out, Kid Kyoto is offering a bottomless spritz + Omakase lunch every Saturday in May. This two-hour feast is $82pp and includes four courses and bottomless chu-hai spritzes. American Express cardholders will also be upgraded to the Deluxe Omakase
The Gantry
From harbour to peer, The Gantry probably has one of the best views in Sydney among this list. Being right on the wharf on Hickson Road, it’s a great spot for afternoon drinks. You can even order a picnic hamper to go – including a special doggie degustation selection to enjoy with your pooch – and sit by the wharf or Conservatory Hill nearby.
As part of DMO, The Gantry is a specially-curated vegan four-course tasting menu for $99pp. The hero dish features pine mushrooms freshly foraged from the forests of the Southern Highlands and is practically built for instagram.
Sergeant Lok
We all know that The Rocks is steeped in colonial history, but did you know it was also the site of Australia’s first unofficial Chinatown known as “little canton”? Sergeant Lok, located in the heritage-listed No 4 Police Station is Modern Chinese inspired by the local underworld of secret casinos and opium dens of the 1880s. You can even have cocktails and dinner in one of the original jail cells.
Their signature dish is the Opium Squid – a modern twist on the classic salt and pepper squid using a dehydrated squid ink batter. For DMO, they’re offering a lunch special which includes a steamed lotus-wrapped rice with mareema duck & onsen egg, a side vegetable dish, plus the opium squid for just $28, or $38 with a glass of wine.
Mejico Sydney
Speaking of all-you-can-eat, we had to include Mejico Tequila Bar. Located on Pitt St in the heart of Sydney CBD, this local hotspot has brought late-night Tacos and authentic flavours from the Yucatan Peninsula to the sydney foodie scene.
If you haven’t been here before, this May you are in for a treat. Mejico is hosting a 1.5h bottomless classic margaritas and signature share plates menu for just $99pp every Sunday from 11am-4pm. Now that you know where it is, sign up for their expert Tequila Masterclass too, which includes 5-6 tequila tastings and 2 traditional chasers of sangrita and berdita from just $65pp.
Sheraton Grand Sydney
Buffets come and go, but the Sheraton’s Seafood Buffet is a Sydney institution. Think all-you-can-eat Sydney Rock Oysters, king crab, fresh sashimi… then add in fresh, seasonal dishes, scrumptious roasts, pork crackling… and top it all off with an equally large selection of the best handmade desserts. Need we say more?
Well, this May, you’ll get all this plus complimentary soft drinks whilst dining for just $69pp. Run, don’t walk.
Tayim
For something off the beaten path, pay Tayim a visit. This stylish Middle Eastern fusion is a relatively new addition to The Rocks and is inconspicuously tucked away in the historic Nurse’s Walk. With bold, exotic share plates, it’s perfect for a night with friends, and we love the atmosphere among the stunning sandstone interiors.
Quote “delicious” to get 20% off your food bill tuesday-thursday, and be sure to try the18-hour lamb shoulder on the bone or the Tajima beef cheek. Bring along your friends or family to help out though, because these dishes are designed to share, and you don’t want to miss out on the variety of share plates on offer, too.
Jackpot Hot Pot
There’s plenty to love in Darling Square, but Jackpot Hot Pot is one of our favourites. Jackpot is a Macau-style restaurant serving the region’s unique variation on China’s famous hot pot. Unlike the original which can be full of oil & MSG (no shade), Macau-style broths are focused on fresh ingredients in seven different flavours and made daily from scratch, and includes plenty of vegetarian-friendly options, which is rare. Most of all, the interiors are designed “casio-meets-local” themed, so it feels like you’ve stepped into the streets of Macau. Who said you need to leave Sydney to travel?
Jackpot Hot Pot is known for their premium ingredients – you should try the lobster hot pot broth. For DMO, they have put together a $58 Premium Wagyu Hot Pot Experience for two, and it’s the perfect way to try out this new local favourite for yourself.
Chuuka
If you’ve been on Instagram for any amount of time lately, you would have seen the trend of foodies holding a potato rice cracker topped with a mound of gorgeous orange roe. That’s Chuuka’s signature “Luxury On A Plate”.
Chuuka is The Star’s East-meets-East offering, combining Chinese and Japanese cuisine at its best, and the Ultimate Roe Service is its flagship dish. Featuring Ikura Salmon Roe, Cashew cream, shallots, chives, soft tea eggs and a specially-created potato rice cracker to add a satisfying crunch, the Roe Service is worth a visit. For the month of May, it is only $45, so it’s the perfect time to check it out for yourself.
Melbourne
The General Assembly
On the outside, this south wharf pub looks like any other aussie offering, but one glance at the menu you know there’s something special. The pub boasts a charcoal oven, and is rightly proud of its beautifully grilled meats.
To show it off, General Assembly is offering a shared BBQ meat platter, including slow-cooked ribs and charcoal-grilled beef and chicken – all with two hours of free-flowing beer for just $79pp. Grab your mates and get ready for a good feed.
Pilgrims Bar
For a waterfront dining experience of a different speed, check out Pilgrims Bar. This hidden gem is located alongside the historic Federation Wharf vaults, right in the heart of Melbourne. They’re famous for their seasonal grazing plates made from local produce and wineries with a farmer-to-plate philosophy.
Experience Pilgrims Bar at its best with a two-hour bottomless G&Ts and Tapas while taking in one of the best views of the Yarra for just $69pp.
Cutler & Co.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion in May, then be sure to check out this deal. Cutler & Co. has been a Melbourne Foodie institution. For more than 12 years, Cutler & Co. has been located in an old metalworks factory in Fitzroy and it is fine dining at its best – refined and skillfully designed and prepared menus, without the attitude.
This May, Cutler & Co. has designed a menu to celebrate “the most delicious season of the year”. As the water temperatures begin to drop, King George whiting, snapper and murray cod along with Blue swimmer crabs, squid and garfish all make for excellent fishing. So they’ve dedicated a five-course menu for just $150pp to showcase the ocean’s best bounty. It’s available for dinner Thursday – Sunday and at Sunday lunch for the entirety of May, and it’s worth every penny.
Saké Restaurant and Bar Hamer Hall
For an unforgettable foodie gift/experience, Saké Restaurant & Bar Hamer Hall is offering a bespoke Sushi Masterclass and Omakase dinner or Izakaya-style dinner.
On May 20th, the Sushi Masterclass + Izakaya dinner is $139pp. Learn to make your own sushi with chef Yosuke Hatanaka, followed by a relaxed dinner with matching beverages sponsored by Suntory Toki Whiskey. On May 21st, the Sushi Masterclass + Omakase Dinner includes the masterclass, but is followed by a “chef’s choice” sushi menu matched with premium beverages. We’ll see you there.
Chancery Lane Bistro
This new addition to the Melbourne CBD scene is a touch of opulence and indulgence we’ve all been waiting for. Housed in the historic Normanby Chambers building, this European-inspired bistro has an old world charm with a modern heartbeat.
For DMO, treat yourself to a half dozen East 33 Sydney rock oysters and a glass of champagne in their leafy atrium for $30pp. Available from 5pm to 7pm, it’s the perfect spot for a date night or after-work gossip with the co-workers.
Three Blue Ducks
Even without the masterchef fame, this farm-to-table goliath of the Aussie food scene needs no introduction. For the month of May, Three Blue Duck’s Melbourne outpost is putting on a Sunday roast from 5pm. For $45, receive a drink on arrival, entree and main, and enjoy live music from local bands. A vegetarian option is also available so there’s something for everyone.
Brisbane
Will and Flow
Looking for something a bit more decadent? We’ve got you. Sticking with the riverside theme, Will and Flow is Brisbane’s newest overwater venue. It’s sleek yet breezy, with indoor and outdoor seating with spectacular views of South Bank. Locals will know it as a sunday session favourite, and their cocktails are rightly legendary.
This May, Will and Flow is offering a seafood platter for two and a bottle of Moet & Chandon for $150. So book a table and get ready for one of the best sunset views in style.
Otto Osteria
An absolute waterfront view of Brisbane river, beautiful Italian styling and amazing pastas and wine list – no wonder Otto Osteria is always boasting about “la dolce vita”. Every visit here is indeed living “the good life”.
To celebrate Delicious Month Out, Otto Osteria is offering a bespoke two-course sharing-style menu with priority seating and a glass of wine of your choice for just $65pp. Start with chargrilled local tiger prawns, followed by your choice of pasta – honestly, whichever you pick, it’ll be excellent.
The Long Apron
For a foodie adventure outside of Brisbane, The Long Apron is one of the most-awarded restaurants on the Sunshine Coast. Located at Spicers Clovelly Estate, Montville – itself a gorgeous wedding venue – this hatted restaurant is perfect for a weekend away or a mini break. The Long Apron serves a french-inspired fine dining menu known for its elegance and inventiveness, while showcasing the best in local produce.
From Fri-Sun between 12-2pm in May, get a complimentary glass of Sparkling Rose on arrival, your choice of entree, main and dessert from $85pp. Grab a seat on the terrace or, for the best tables in the house in our opinion, dine alfresco on the timber veranda overlooking the estate.
Black Hide by Gambaro at Treasury Brisbane
For something a little more substantial, head over to this iconic CBD steakhouse. Black Hide has one of the most extensive selections of Australian Wagyu and Angus steak cuts, and the chops to cook it right.
For DMO, Black Hide is offering a three-course lunch for $79pp, featuring a choice of wagyu skirt steak, wagyu rump cap or grilled market fish as main. If that’s not enough, they’re also offering a dinner degustation from just $199pp. Dinner includes Rock Oysters and Angus Eye Fillet tartare to start, and mains including Wagyu Eye fillet or sirloin – all served amongst the gorgeous old-world atmosphere of the Treasury Brisbane for a truly exquisite dining experience.
Stanley Restaurant
Brisbane is home to many excellent Cantonese chefs, but Stanley’s Head Chef, Louis Tikaram is a standout. Stanley’s philosophy combines the best, locally-sourced produce, especially seafood, with traditional Canontese flavours and techniques to create something that excites new and traditional diners.
Stanley’s menu is designed to be enjoyed family-style, and their DMO offering is a great way to experience it for the first time. The banquet dinner at dusk is available 7 days per week from 5pm to 6:30pm. The menu is every-changing, but typically contains signature dishes like steamed dim sum, moreton bay bug spring rolls, sweet n sour free-range pork and more.
The Balfour Kitchen & Bar
In the heart of New Farm is this hidden gem with a stunning view of the Brisbane skyline. The locals love it for quiet cocktails to start the night before heading to Fortitude Valley, but stay a while and discover the excellent fusion vietnamese menu. Once a month, they also hold a high teach on the verandah or the frangipani-filled courtyard that shouldn’t be missed.
This May, The Balfour Kitchen is offering a three-course weekend lunch special for $65pp. Choose from appetisers of baked scallops or drink chicken, followed by sticky beef brisket or barramundi with sauteed greens and finish with their signature banana marshmallow that is equal parts strange and exciting.
WET Deck, W Brisbane
The weather might be getting cooler, but it’s always a tropical oasis at WET deck. This poolside rooftop bar at the top of the W has an unbeatable view of the river and interiors that’s giving us endless summer vibes.
As part of DMO, WET deck is offering two glasses of Veuve Clicquot and two lobster rolls for $70, along with live DJ beats from 3pm-6pm every Sunday. Get your filters and outfits ready because this deal is practically made for the ‘gram.
Discover the full event list and participating restaurants here.
Want to read more? Check out the most drool-worthy brunch spots and breakfast in Perth’s CBD here.
Looking for something a little on the cheaper side? Check out our student guide to cheap places to eat in Adelaide here.
