"Chef Shannon Martinez dreamed up Smith & Daughters in 2014 as an antidote to the virtuous vegan fare she found elsewhere in Melbourne. Her zesty, calorific Latin-American menu was an instant smash, and her recent turn towards Italian cuisine has been similarly acclaimed—even by devoted carnivores. Located in Melbourne's boho inner north, Smith & Daughters draws a mostly local crowd who seem to have adopted the place as their de facto living room. Quiet nights are a rarity, but the vibe remains respectful. The best dishes here are the unashamedly vegan ones, such as pillowy gnocchi with broccoli-rabe pesto and earthy baked eggplant with complex cashew cheese." - Dan F. Stapleton