Become a BEST partner Swap to NZ

The Best Restaurants in Docklands

By Best Restaurants
Published 16 February 2026
Fof Blog Photo 2 1536X1024
Photography: Courtesy of Friends of Fire

Docklands often flies under the radar, but for those in the know, it’s one of Melbourne’s most underrated dining pockets. With sparkling marina views, open-air promenades and a growing collection of restaurants, this waterfront suburb brings a refreshing sense of space and calm to the city’s dining scene. Whether you're planning a leisurely weekend lunch, a pre-event dinner at Marvel Stadium or a scenic date night, Docklands restaurants have plenty on offer.

Expect a mix of modern Australian menus, Mediterranean flavours, fresh seafood, Asian fusion hotspots and relaxed eateries perfect for grazing by the water. Many restaurants lean into the coastal atmosphere, serving bright, vibrant dishes that pair beautifully with a sunset backdrop. Others dive into comfort food with generous portions and warm service, exactly what you want after a long day.

Docklands’ charm lies in its contrast: city convenience with a resort-like feel. Wide walkways, sea breezes and slow-paced dining create a welcome escape from the CBD’s hustle without losing access to excellent food.

Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Docklands?

To help you explore this evolving culinary hub, we’ve rounded up the best restaurants in Docklands where you can settle in, sip something refreshing and enjoy a meal with views that make everything taste even better.

  • Steakhouse 66

    66 NewQuay Promenade, Docklands
    It's perfect for steak nights where you'll drool over the sheer beef spectacle.
    You need to try the wagyu rump, Angus tenderloin or rib-eye—priority meat zone.
    Look out for floor-to-ceiling windows spilling waterfront views like extras in every selfie.

    Those in search of prime beef cuts cooked to perfection flock to Melbourne's Steakhouse 66 at NewQuay Docklands. Located right on the water, guests can choose to dine indoors or out in a casual atmosphere with breathtaking views of the harbour. As expected, steaks are the highlight of the grill menu but there are also a range of seafood and vegetarian options for those so inclined.

    Read more
    Buy a gift card for Steakhouse 66 Buy
  • Cargo

    55A Newquay Promenade, Docklands

    Cargo offers waterfront dining with a laid-back vibe and a menu built for grazing, sharing and enjoying Melbourne sunshine. Expect woodfired pizzas, generous salads, juicy burgers and classic crowd-pleasers, all served alongside a strong cocktail list. With its breezy outdoor seating and marina views, it’s the kind of restaurant where long lunches accidentally roll into dinner. Indoors, the space is fun and modern, perfect for groups, families and casual catch-ups. Cargo nails that balance of easy, tasty and reliably good.

    Read more
  • Friends of Fire

    Marvel Stadium, 740 Bourke St , Stadium Square Gate 3, Level 1, Docklands
    It's perfect for casual nights where fire-grilled flavours and shared plates rule
    You need to try the legendary Boa Burger - a juicy, messy masterpiece that keeps everyone talking
    Look out for the open-fire grill and flames that add some theatre to every meal

    Blending Asian spice with Melbourne pub spirit, Friends of Fire redefines casual dining with a menu built around flame and flair. Dedicated charcoal grills infuse every plate – from sizzling meats to wok-tossed seafood – with smoke, heat and depth. On Level 1 of the Marvel Feature Bar, this vibrant venue is all about the energy, anchored by a copper-tank bar pouring fresh craft beer and cocktails designed to match the burn. Perfect for group gatherings, long lunches or nights out, Friends of Fire proves that where there’s smoke, there’s serious flavour.

    Read more
    Buy a gift card for Friends of Fire Buy
  • Platform 28

    82 Village Street, Docklands

    Docklands' Platform 28 is a funky pub and eatery, great for group dining or large functions. As part of a former railway goods shed the restaurant is a fabulous mix of colourful modern interiors with vintage touches. The dining area serves modern pub dishes and features an exclusive cellar menu of its top-drops alongside tap-beers and a number of wines by the glass from the bar.

    Read more
  • Butcher's Prime

    42 Newquay Promenade, Docklands

    Butchers Prime in Docklands is a paradise for meat lovers, delivering premium steaks cooked with precision and serious respect for produce. The menu showcases top-quality cuts, slow-smoked specialties and rich sides that complete the feast from creamy mash to charred greens and buttery sauces. The room feels masculine yet refined, blending moody lighting with polished finishes. Service is knowledgeable and confident, helping guests navigate the many tempting cuts and cooking styles. It’s a go-to for celebrations, business dinners or anyone who appreciates a steak done properly.

    Read more
  • Berth Restaurant

    45 New Quay Promenade, Docklands

    Situated over the water at Docklands, Berth offers floor to ceiling windows capturing spectacular city views at night. This multi-purpose venue spans over two levels with three open dining areas and an outdoor deck.Whether you arrive by tram, train, car, foot or ferry, Docklands eatery Berth Restaurant has something for everyone with views to take your breath away.

    Read more
    Looking for more restaurants with a view?
  • The Espressonist

    108 River Esplanade, Docklands

    The Espressonist offers chic dining with modern Australian fare and stunning harbour views. Enjoy specialty coffee and a contemporary brunch menu seven days a week. Indulge in signature dishes like the chorizo and hash brown benedict or try other enticing options like soft shell crab tacos and smashed avocado with charred corn salad. Quick takeaway options include the superfood salad and sweet chilli chicken wrap. Located on the Yarra river near the South Wharf food precinct, it's the perfect spot to savour delicious food in a beautiful setting.

     

    Photography: Courtesy of The Espressonist

    Read more
  • Archer's @ The District Docklands

    3-43 Waterfront Way, Docklands

    Archer’s, restaurant in the Melbourne Marriott Docklands has drawn inspiration from Circa 1960's New York restaurants . The boutique setting is emphasised by its vault like design aesthetic, demanded a destination concept, where hotel guests stayed in to eat and Melbournian’s travelled in to experience. Archer’s is quickly becoming a standout restaurant in Docklands delivering five star restaurant quality. Enjoy a Melbourne style breakfast, long lunch till the very last minute, or settle in and spend an evening.

    Read more
  • Renzo's Cafe Bar Italiano

    46 New Quay Promenade, Docklands
    It's perfect for waterfront date nights that taste like a mid‑budget Italian fantasy.
    You need to try wood‑fired pizza or tiramisu that earned local awards, front row to harbour lights.
    Look out for scenic Docklands views and outdoor seating vibes that flirt with romance.

    Docklands' own Renzo's Cafe Bar Italiano provides wholesome Italian fare in a buzzing atmosphere. This light and open restaurant can accommodate a crowd, serving traditional dishes of pizza and pasta, best matched to a bottle picked from the wall-to-wall display. There's also a covered terrace overlooking the water, perfect for an apertivo or cocktail at any time of the day or night.

    Read more
    Buy a gift card for Renzo's Cafe Bar Italiano Buy
  • The Wine Room

    Marvel Stadium, 740 Bourke st Stadium Square Gate 3 Level 1, Docklands
    It's perfect for intimate dinners or a classy catch-up over a glass of something special
    You need to try the pork loin with caramelised cauliflower and a pedro hermenez glaze
    Look out for event spaces that transition seamlessly from fine dining to casual wine bar

    At The Wine Room, mood and mastery converge. This quietly luxurious Docklands venue delivers a refined dining experience shaped by exceptional wines and thoughtful detail. A glass-walled cellar anchors the room, setting the tone for evenings of connection, conversation and flavour. Bespoke menus are crafted to complement its globally sourced wines, while warm, attentive service ensures every occasion feels curated. From small gatherings to private events, The Wine Room is where wine, design and understated hospitality meet in perfect balance.

    Read more
    Buy a gift card for The Wine Room Buy

You may also like

Buy a gift card

We'll send the gift directly to their email. Add their mobile number for optional SMS delivery. Be sure to check all details are correct.