Located in the buzzing and eclectic heart of High Street, Northcote, when you open the door to Danté Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, you enter a world of class and sophistication reminiscent of Parisian 1930s. Dimly lit, split level splendour with an opulent wall lined cocktail bar. While having the “seduisant” of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the menu consists of Greek cuisine with a modern twist.

Awarded Sustainable Restaurant of the Year (Melbourne) 2025 and Luxury Cocktail Bar of the Year 2024, the critics agree that Dante is not only a venue of distinction in taste, it also raises the bar in sustainable business.

What makes Danté so special for us NoLo Lifers is that non-drinkers are catered for as VIPs, with every decadent cocktail listed being available in non-alcoholic form. And, if none of those listed appeal, tell their master cocktail architect, Jacob, what you love and he’ll create something unique especially for you.

While celebrating Dante’s second year in business last month, our founder, Karina Joyce, was able to sneak co-owner Tas Pantotis aside for a quick interview.

1.  Tell me about Danté and why you opened in Northcote.

Danté is a modern Greek restaurant with a focus on fresh, seasonal, locally-sourced produce and a deep commitment to sustainability. We opened Danté in Northcote because it’s a suburb with a strong sense of community, creativity, and a real appreciation for good food done with care. The people here value local, ethical, and sustainable businesses, and that aligned perfectly with what we wanted to create. Northcote felt like the right place to build a restaurant that wasn’t just about great meals, but about giving back to the neighbourhood and being part of something bigger.

2. What are your most popular dishes?

Our most popular dishes are:

• Grilled feta, Beechworth honey, wrapped in filo pastry, sesame seeds (vg) 
• Slow-cooked lamb shank, red wine sauce, Greek yogurt, ancient grains
• Papoutsaki Moussaka – Eggplant, beef Bolognese, bechamel sauce
• And our Fish of the Night — made with local seafood, changes regularly, and is always a hit.

3. What are your most popular AF (alcohol-free) drinks?

We’ve put a lot of thought into our AF menu, and it’s been so well received. The favourites are:

• Blueberry Voir: House-Made Blueberry Soda, Lime Juice, blue pea butterfly Tea Syrup, Egg White
• Honey Ginger on Fire: Smoked AF Bourbon, Honey Syrup, Ginger
• Prince Pine: AF gin, Pineapple Juice, Mint, Lime, Honey Syrup, Ginger syrup
• And our Chios Spritz: House-Made AF Mastiha, AF Prosecco, Grapefruit Juice, Lemon Juice, Soda

4. What makes Danté special?  

It’s the heart behind it. Danté isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a reflection of our values, our family’s food traditions, and our commitment to sustainability. We source locally, minimise waste, and run a zero-waste cocktail and kitchen program. Beyond that, it’s our connection to the community — we work with local growers, compost with nearby gardens, and support initiatives that make Darebin a better place. It’s a place where you can enjoy beautiful, honest food and know it’s made with care for both people and the planet.

If you’re looking for a truly special experience, book a night at Danté and tell them NoLo Life sent you, for extra special VIP treatment!

Danté Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, 308-310 High Street, Northcote VIC 3070