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Cognoscenti Food & Wine, Belgrave, AU-VIC

Cognoscenti Food & Wine

4.8
4.8
335 Reviews
$41 to $100
Modern Australian
Cognoscenti is a cosy neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar nestled in the Dandenong Ranges, 50 minutes from the CBD.

Dine with us and be treated to exquisite food and intimate service, while exploring our carefully curated selection of local and international wines. We are passionate about cooking with local, seasonal produce in our wood-fired oven; celebrating the simplicity of each ingredient.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 6 times today
Experiences are available.

Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Cuisines

    Modern Australian, Modern European, Wine Bar

  • Hours of operation

    Lunch Sun 11:30 am–2:30 pm Dinner Wed–Sun 5:30 pm–11:00 pm

  • Phone number

    (03) 8203 8490

  • Payment options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress code

    Smart Casual

  • Executive chef

    Kevin Cerquiglini

  • Neighborhood

    Belgrave

  • Cross street

    Cognoscenti Food & Wine is located on Burwood Highway next to Cameo Cin

  • Parking details

    Public Lot

  • Public transit

    There are two carparks located on either side of the restaurant. Alternatively, there is a carpark behind Woolworths, across Burwood Highway.<br />Belgrave train station is only a few minutes away from Cognoscenti.

  • Additional

    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Beer Garden, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Vegan, Wine

Gift card

Gift card

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Experiences

  • Chef's Menu

    A$70.00 per person

    Multiple dates available
    We can accomodate larger groups up to 12 guests. Our Chef’s Menu is required for all group 7+ guests. The menu offers a selection of entrées, main, sides and dessert for the table to share. Please advise of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking. Menu Sample: Wood-fired house made focaccia, Mt. Zero olive oil Mt. Zero olives marinated with lemon, chili, garlic, rosemary Sweet corn & cheddar croquette, confit garlic aioli Shaved wagyu beef pastrami, horseradish cream, spiced walnuts Smoked tomato risotto, dill & crispy capers Slow cooked lamb shoulder Mixed leaves salad, baby radish, mustard & shallot vinaigrette Crispy potato chips, vinegar salt, garlic aioli Wood-fired Basque cheesecake, roasted strawberries
  • Sunday Roast

    A$60.00 per person

    Multiple dates available
    Some of our fondest memories are long Sunday lunches, spent at the table with family, friends, and flowing wine. Every Sunday we are offering a set menu for lunch at $60 per person, featuring a weekly rotating roast with accompanying sides, entrées and desserts. Our Sunday Roast Menu is required for all group 7+ guests. Visit our website to check out our rotating menus. Please advise of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking.

What 335 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.8Food
  • 4.9Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.5Value

NoiseEnergetic

Loved For

  • Victoria

    Great for fine wines

  • Victoria

    Good for special occasions

  • Victoria

    Modern Australian

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Best Overall

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Best Food

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Best Service

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Best Ambiance

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Best Value

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Healthy

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Neighborhood gem

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Great for fine wines

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Good for special occasions

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Vegetarian-friendly

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Lively

  • Yarra Valley Ranges

    Most Booked

Sort by

  1. CassandraH

    Victoria

    8 reviews

    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What an amazing spot. The staff are so lovely. The food is creative and absolutely delicious. The wine list is concise, with some interesting picks. We had to try the Sunday roast, but couldn't resist ordering some extra snacks. The wood-fired oysters with "crunchy bits" were simply divine and unlike anything I have ever tasted. The wagyu skewer was so tender and full of flavour. The mixed grain salad on the Sunday roast menu was probably the item I was least excited to try, but it ended up being my favourite dish, it was an amazing textural dish and so balanced in its flavours. The house made focaccia, perfection. The baked Roman gnocchi with wagyu bolognese was phenomenal. The gnocchi were so pillowy and light. The slaw with truffle honey was so fresh and such a welcome change from creamy slaws and a perfect accompaniment to the roast pork. The pork was a tiny tad dry, but I feel that this is more to do with the lean cut of the pork rather than the way it was cooked, it was flavourful otherwise and the jus was perfect. Dessert was the "Mille-feuille" caramelized puff pastry with vanilla pastry cream and it was light and crispy and just the perfect way to finish this meal. We will definitely be back!
  2. DylanS

    Berlin

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing experience. Service was perfect and food was even better. Would highly recommend.
  3. JennaD

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food4service5ambience4
    Fantastic restaurant, attentive and friendly staff. Great at accomodating allergies with a wonderful knowledge of the menu and substitutions available. A wonderful variety of dishes to choose from.
  4. KZJB1967

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    As a local, we experienced Cognoscenti for the very first time!! We were astonished. The food was incredible and very good value for money. The service was definitely next level compared to other restaurants in the area. Thoroughly enjoyable evening after an afternoon movie at the Cameo. Will definitely be back.
  5. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Really gorgeous food! Everything we ate was delicious!! The service was faultless. Cognoscenti has a warm and inviting atmosphere - we completely loved it and will be back!
  6. KarenS

    Melbourne

    6 reviews

    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall4food3service4ambience4
    We have dined at Cognoscenti a few times and it's usually lovely, friendly, and the food is always delicious. We enjoyed it a little less than usual as there was only one main course (lamb) we could eat, but I have to say it was very tasty. I was also pleasantly surprised by a little birthday treat (I had noted it was a birthday booking when I made the reservation) and the staff are always friendly and accommodating when possible.
  7. CallanW

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was beautiful. Staff were friendly & attentive
  8. MinS

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was delicious the service was outstanding. Warm and relaxing, would highly recommend. We will be back!
  9. LisaD

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Lovely restaurant that is always a delight. Lovely staff and beautiful food.
  10. AnitaH

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 25, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Have eaten here a number of times, and each time the service and standard of food has always been of a high standard. Friendly staff, great wine choice.
  11. KatelynR

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We're locals to the region and opted to go to Cognoscenti F&W for my partners birthday. The ambiance was so lovely and warm. The restaurant was quiet despite the fact that it was quite full when we arrived at 7pm. The food was sensational. Everything we ordered was delicious and well prepared. Highlights were the wagyu skewer, the wood-fired oysters, and the miso eggplant. The creme brule was to die for as a finisher! The drinks too were delightful. I recommend the Peach cocktail. Definitely a wonderful special occasion restaurant and will be back.
  12. NaideneA

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food and service was outstanding. The atmosphere was wonderful.
  13. Noah

    Melbourne

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I was the perfect place to celebrate our anniversary. Thanks so much for the wonderful experience
  14. OpenTable Diner

    Melbourne

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing as always! Went to celebrate our anniversary and cannot fault anything at this place. Food is outstanding and service is impeccable!
  15. AR123

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had four different selections for dinner and they were all delicious! The crème brûlée was spectacular.
  16. KatW

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 17, 2023

    overall5food4service4ambience4
    Always great food. Never disappointed as the staff go above & beyond to ensure everything is perfect.
  17. smouch67

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This was a wonderful surprise. The service was professional. Wine list was enormous and caters for ALL! The Bar was incredibly stocked with the usual and unusual. The menus is small and simple. No Pizza (not a complaint). But... the food all my family had was sublime. I found not only was the lamb or pork belly super tasty and cooked to perfection, I really enjoyed the sauces and the way the veggies were cooked and presented. Deserts didn't let us down either. Madelines were fresh and hot with a lemon curd. Warm and comforting. Raspberry brûlée superb. Even the Chips and garlic aioli were as good as I have had anywhere. Worth a visit. Next to Cameo Cinema Belgrave. We will definitely come back.
  18. Frank

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Awesome place. We keep going back. The staff are excellent and the food is amazing.
  19. MattA

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fantastic food in a lovely setting. Great attentive staff who make sure you have an enjoyable evening.
  20. ErinC

    Melbourne

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing as usual! Beautiful food and relaxed atmosphere.
  21. melodyh

    Melbourne

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Simply beautiful food, excellent service. Will definitely be back
  22. PaulP

    Melbourne

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fabulous food as always. New menu items such as Wagyu skewers, Brussel sprouts and hassleback pumpkin were standouts. Basque cheesecake with a glass of Sauternes to finish. Not cheap for a suburban restaurant but very good food, wine and service.
  23. DOMENICA

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Best fine dining we have experience anywhere in the area. Music and ambience is fine - just the bass boom coming through from the cinema next door is annoying but I understand that when the restaurant is crowded then this may be less of an issue.
  24. Sheila

    Melbourne

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on April 30, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience5
    The food was awesome. Couldn't make it to dessert. The service was awesome. Thank you.
  25. ElizabethK

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Cogniscenti is an outstanding restaurant - highly recommended.
  26. StewartM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Superb food , ingredients so deftly handled ,prepared and presented. A truly memorable meal .⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  27. Connor

    Melbourne

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    How do I put exceptionally high quality food and excellent fast paced service into words? Just did. Couldn't fault the lot. Food was well presented and portion size didn't make me feel like i'd overeaten, this is on top of the fine tastes coming from quite a varied menu. Tipped my hat and wallet to the service, it was so quick I didn't even notice some of my dishes had been cleared. Do yourself a favour if you go, get a cocktail. Would 100% recommend to anyone looking for a fine dining experience.
  28. KatieD

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing! I can’t believe this gem was so close to home and we had never been. I have been telling everyone all day how beautiful our dinner was!!!
  29. SueC

    Exclusive

    38 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    38 reviews

    Dined on April 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A fabulous lunch once again. Catered for a wheat intolerant customer beautifully. Great roast.
  30. SSBb

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Lovely restaurant next to cameo cinema. Delicious food and great service
  31. Kentm1

    Los Angeles

    13 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A hidden gem in Belgrave. Always going to be successful when you couple attentive service and great tasting food. Everything on the menu is delicious and beautifully prepared.
  32. Dushan

    Melbourne

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Worth a trip to Belgrave - cosy, comforting and tasty
  33. BruceK

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent staff, great wine list, great food.
  34. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A fave of ours in the hills. So lucky to have it here. Amazing food. I had the most delicious wood fired oysters and the risotto was the best I’ve had. Adrian and the staff are always attentive. Service is 5 star! A beautiful selection of wine and cocktails too. Always on hand to recommend.
  35. MicaelaB

    Melbourne

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    From when we started building our house in Belgrave two years ago, we knew Cognoscenti would be our 'special occasions' restaurant, and it did not disappoint. The Happy Anniversary plate, at the end of the evening, was a cute touch. We'll definitely be back.
  36. JonnyWill

    Melbourne

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Cognoscenti is a terrific restaurant in Belgrave and my fiancé and I eat there often. Last night we took my parents, who loved the food and the atmosphere. The staff are always really helpful and friendly. Highly recommend!
  37. NeridaB

    Melbourne

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 13, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    A perfect evening out. Charming restaurant, superb food, divine wines and impeccable service as always. The best restaurant on the mountain.
  38. KateM

    Victoria

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Such a delightful evening, with incredible food, delicious wine and thoughtful recommendations. They even surprised our table with a complimentary 'happy birthday plate' to celebrate a double-40th birthday, replete with candles. Definitely recommend, what a local gem.
  39. Margaret

    Victoria

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We felt so lucky to have this wonderful restaurant in Belgrave. The food is original and surprising, but always excellent. The service couldn't be better.
  40. Designwellness

    Melbourne

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on April 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I loved this intimate place. The service was friendly & not overwhelming. Great food & wine with a good selection for vegan diners. Most impressed. I am from Sydney but will return when next up this way!

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Staff is vaccinated

FAQs

Cognoscenti Food & Wine is rated 4.8 stars by 335 OpenTable diners.

Cognoscenti Food & Wine does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 6 times today
Experiences are available.
Google Map for Cognoscenti Food & Wine

1628A Burwood Hwy, Belgrave, AU-VIC 3160

Additional information

  • Cross street

    Cognoscenti Food &amp; Wine is located on Burwood Highway next to Cameo Cin

  • Neighborhood

    Belgrave

  • Hours of operation

    Lunch Sun 11:30 am–2:30 pm Dinner Wed–Sun 5:30 pm–11:00 pm

  • Cuisines

    Modern Australian, Modern European, Wine Bar

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Dress code

    Smart Casual

  • Parking details

    Public Lot

  • Public transit

    There are two carparks located on either side of the restaurant. Alternatively, there is a carpark behind Woolworths, across Burwood Highway.Belgrave train station is only a few minutes away from Cognoscenti.

  • Payment options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Executive chef

    Kevin Cerquiglini

  • Additional

    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Beer Garden, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Vegan, Wine

Gift card

Gift card

Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

Send a gift card
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