The Best Restaurants in Docklands
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.
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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.Read more
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.
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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.
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It's perfect for casual nights where fire-grilled flavours and shared plates ruleYou need to try the legendary Boa Burger - a juicy, messy masterpiece that keeps everyone talkingLook out for the open-fire grill and flames that add some theatre to every mealRead more
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Looking for more restaurants with a view?Explore our list of the best spots along Melbourne’s Yarra River for sunset drinks.
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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
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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.
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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.Read more
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.
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It's perfect for intimate dinners or a classy catch-up over a glass of something specialYou need to try the pork loin with caramelised cauliflower and a pedro hermenez glazeLook out for event spaces that transition seamlessly from fine dining to casual wine barRead more
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.