Darling Group
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Experience Unforgettable Hospitality with the Darling Touch.

The Darling Group has been redefining casual dining since 2003, blending meticulously crafted beverages and dishes with an atmosphere of laid-back luxury.

The Darling Group has become a cornerstone of Melbourne hospitality, known for innovative experiences and exceptional service. We take pride in our deep roots and continual evolution, always pushing the boundaries to deliver the very best to our guests. Your next visit could be the start of a new tradition.

ABOUT US
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Housed in a heritage listed former powerhouse in the heart of the CBD. Higher Ground is an all day dining destination known for it's evocative menu. Six connected levels wrap around the perimeter of the original brick building to create a suite of intimate tiered platforms. An evocative, inventive, and highly curated menu offers guests the very best that Melbourne has to offer.

  • stands 250
  • Seats 150

Notable Features

  • AV Hire
  • Disability Access
  • Microphone
  • Wi-Fi
  • Dance Floor
  • Dietary Requirements
  • DIY theming
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Establishing itself as a Richmond icon, Top Paddock is located on bustling Church Street. Surrounded by lush greenery, rich timber, detailed glass work and distinctive wall panelling, the world-class café offers a unique experience on all aspects. Enjoy a mouth-watering, produce-driven menu that changes with the seasons in a vibrant, yet relaxed atmosphere.

  • stands 180
  • Seats 120

Notable Features

  • AV Hire
  • Disability Access
  • Microphone
  • Wi-Fi
  • Dance Floor
  • Dietary Requirements
  • DIY theming
Explore

Located in the unrivalled setting of Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens, a true Melbourne icon is revitalised – a conservatory by an ornamental lake. Equal parts romance, Australiana, cool botanica and modern grandeur, The Terrace is a place for every occasion, every celebration of life, from the ritual of morning coffee and hot scones to long lunches and unforgettable, world-class events.

  • stands 350
  • Seats 200

Notable Features

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Flexible Seating
  • Natural Light
  • AV System Available
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Darling Cafe in South Yarra is a favourite catch up spot for both locals and those in the know. With a seasonal menu focusing on quality, locally-sourced ingredients alongside specialty coffee and an extensive range of pastries, smoothies and drinks.

  • stands 60
  • Seats 30

Notable Features

  • Wifi
  • Disability Access
  • DIY Styling
  • AV Setup
  • Dietary Requirements
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With a contemporary fit-out, our crowd pleasing menu takes you from breakfast to dinner with elevated classics and a more-ish wok menu inspired by Southeast Asian flavours.

  • stands 120
  • Seats 80

Notable Features

  • All Day Dining
  • Wok Menu
  • Disability Access
  • Wifi
  • Breakfast Menu
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Experience the opulent, classic design of our heritage-listed 1880s terrace house combined with state-of-the-art, modern architecture and design inside. With every detail carefully considered, from expertly brewed specialty coffee to a sophisticated menu using only the finest local produce, The Kettle Black offers an unparalleled dining experience.

  • stands 120
  • Seats 70

Notable Features

  • AV Hire
  • Disability Access
  • Microphone
  • Wi-Fi
  • Dance Floor
  • Dietary Requirements
  • DIY theming
Explore

Our menu champions the brilliance of the freshest umami flavours from across Asia. Enjoy the raw, spicy, skewered, and chargrilled flavours, washed down with signature cocktails, sakes and best-in-glass wines.

  • stands 180
  • Seats 150

Notable Features

  • Open Kitchen
  • Sashimi Bar
  • Private Dining
  • Extensive Wine List
  • Bar
  • Charcoal Grill
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Featuring exquisite hawker-style Asian plates, an innovative cocktail list and clusters of communal dining areas, Bambu is an Asian Eating House designed to take guests on a modern journey through South East Asia.

With a passion for authentic Asian flavours and a commitment to using the freshest locally sourced ingredients, get ready to embark on a tantalising journey of taste.

  • stands 120
  • Seats 80

Notable Features

  • All Day Dining
  • Wok Menu
  • Disability Access
  • Wifi
  • Breakfast Menu
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Trading from breakfast to dinner, the next era of Stringers Sorrento is here. A menu inspired by seasonal Italian flavours and local produce incorporating an Italian-inspired deli and grocer, authentic wood-fired Neopolitan pizza, freshly churned gelato and cocktail bar – this next chapter is where tradition meets the unexpected.

  • stands 120
  • Seats 80

Notable Features

  • All Day Dining
  • Wok Menu
  • Disability Access
  • Wifi
  • Breakfast Menu
Explore

Cheri invites you to savor European flavours, from morning pastries to leisurely lunches and afternoon aperitivo. Experience refined bites, vibrant cocktails, and an atmosphere that brings a taste of Europe to every moment.

  • stands 200
  • Seats 160
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Our venues

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Higher Ground

Housed in a heritage listed former powerhouse in the heart of the CBD. Higher Ground is an all day dining destination known for it's evocative menu. Six connected levels wrap around the perimeter of the original brick building to create a suite of intimate tiered platforms. An evocative, inventive, and highly curated menu offers guests the very best that Melbourne has to offer.

Notable Features

  • AV Hire
  • Disability Access
  • Microphone
  • Wi-Fi
  • Dance Floor
  • Dietary Requirements
  • DIY theming
  • Seats 150
  • stands 250
Explore
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Cheri: Now Open in South Melbourne

All day eatery & patisserie. Cheri is your invitation to eat and drink all things European, right in the heart of South Melbourne.

Now open and taking bookings, visit Melbourne's newest all day dining hotspot located right across from the South Melbourne Market.

Check it out
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With craft, dedication, and some of Australia's finest chefs. We believe hospitality should be truly experiential.

Established in 2003. We know a thing or two about Melbourne hospitality. We're dedicated to offering our guests the very best food and service. We are innovative at our core and excited to welcome you.

OUR VENUES
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Unique event spaces 
for any occasion.

Besides great hospitality, we also know a thing or two about how to throw a party!
 Our distinct venues offer private dining rooms ideal for intimate gatherings or can be exclusively booked for larger celebrations.

Whether you want to host a corporate event at Higher Ground, celebrate a birthday at Top Paddock surrounded by family and friends or tie the knot at The Terrace amidst the breathtaking Royal Botanic Gardens, our venues are versatile to suit your event needs.

With a genuine love for hospitality, we are dedicated to ensuring that your event goes off without a hitch. Our events team are available and excited to chat about your next event.

ENQUIRE NOW
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Gift Vouchers

The perfect gift. Darling Group gift vouchers are available for all of our restaurants and venues.

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Careers

Working with our group offers the best training an huge opportunity for career growth.

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Contact

We operate a diverse portfolio of restaurants across Victoria, of all sizes and cuisines.

Get in touch