The Best Restaurants in Southbank
Southbank is where Melbourne puts on a show, not just in the theatres and galleries, but on the plate. Stretching along the Yarra with glittering skyline views, this cultural precinct has become a destination for dining that’s as stylish as it is delicious. Whether you’re heading out before a performance, celebrating a special occasion or simply chasing a meal with a view, Southbank’s restaurants deliver atmosphere, drama and seriously good food.
The area offers a mix of high-end culinary icons, contemporary fusion hotspots, modern Australian kitchens and sleek international restaurants that celebrate global flavours. Think delicate sashimi overlooking the river, wood-fired dishes served in architecturally stunning spaces, bold Asian-inspired menus and indulgent multi-course experiences that make a night out feel like an event.
Southbank is also home to relaxed riverside restaurants where you can graze on shared plates, sip a glass of something cold and watch the world go by. The combination of waterfront energy, thoughtful hospitality and beautifully executed food makes it one of Melbourne’s most versatile dining neighbourhoods.
Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Southbank?
To guide your next meal by the river, we’ve curated the best restaurants in Southbank, venues where flavour, ambience and impeccable service align for a night you won’t forget.
-
Read moreLeft Bank brings together great food and premium products in the vibrant Southbank promenade on the bank of the Yarra River. Left Bank is a spacious, stylish and contemporary space. Offering a free-flowing atmosphere with the ability to flex and encompass every social occasion, from late weekend breakfast through to midweek lunch to an intimate evening tryst, this is one of Melbourne's best city locations with a river outlook and spectacular evening city views.
-
It's perfect for luxe riverside dinners, power lunches or stylish nights with friendsYou need to try a Monte wagyu or dry‑aged rib‑eye and treat yourself to the truffle mac and cheeseLook out for wood‑panelled walls and three levels of Afro‑centric design overlooking the YarraRead moreIn keeping with its international presence, The Meat & Wine Co. Melbourne has spared no expense in creating its impressive Southbank steakhouse restaurant. The three-level dining room features new and rustic design elements and offers views of the Yarra River and the city skyline. The impressive open kitchen dishes up the restaurant's signature flame grilled skewers, ribs and premium steaks.
-
It's perfect for dining that doubles as an Instagram filter—seafood and skyline side by side.You need to try seasonal seafood and steak—elegant, local and great with that Yarra view.Look out for river‑front vibes that scream “Melbourne, but make it luxe”.Read moreSet along Southgate's river promenade, Waterfront is a fine seafood and grill restaurant that is truly Melbourne. With expansive views of the Yarra River and city you can take in in the stunning Melbourne skyline whilst enjoy sumptuous seafood. The addition of two raw bars lining the kitchen allows diners to witness Waterfront's 'sea to plate' focus. All seafood is sourced directly from Australia's best seafood producers. Waterfront Southgate is the perfect restaurant for a corporate lunch, dinner or a great choice for a family celebration.
-
Read moreSitting right on the Yarra River is where you'll find Yarra Botanica, a 2 level floating eatery and bar boasting a seasonal menu of local food and Victorian drinks. Thanks to heaters and awnings, you can enjoy the city views at Yarra Botanica all year round, perfect for a casual catch up anytime.
Open Monday-Thursday 12pm-late and Saturday-Sunday 11.30am-late
-
Read moreRockpool Bar & Grill at Crown Melbourne guarantees an uncompromising focus on excellent produce in particular the beef that is sourced from Australia's very best producers. Add an an outstanding wine list this is a dining venue that offers a refined yet relaxed experience in a room that could be classified as luxurious. Their private dining spaces offer a range of sophisticated experiences for diners, from views overlooking the Yarra River and city skyline to a small classic setting with high ceilings, an impressive contemporary chandelier and a large boardroom style table that stretches the length of the room.
-
Read moreEureka 89 is a premier event space located on the highest floor of the impressive CBD residential building, Eureka Tower. At 300 metres above sea level, the restaurant combines sleek design with amazing views across Melbourne, through floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase 360 degree views of the city. This state of the art venue boasts stylish Modern Australian cuisine, plus a five or seven course degustation menu on selected nights.
-
It's perfect for Italian dining with views that make your phone immediately reach for “post”.You need to try garlic pizza or calzones—and yes, you’ll brag about the tiramisu later.Look out for long‑standing staff, dreamy balconies, and Yarra River snapshots every which way.Read moreNestled amongst riverside treetops on Southgate's mid level, La Camera boasts two balconies with stunning views over The Yarra River and iconic Flinders Street Station. La Camera Italian Restaurant Southgate offers an array of authentic Italian dishes including unique Roman-style pizzas, authentic Gnocchi oxtail from Trastevere, Rome and by far the most delectable Tiramisu in town. The emphasis is on quality ingredients, and fresh, seasonal produce.
-
It's perfect for steak-night flexing when you’re seriously hungry and feeling slightly vintage.You need to try whole‑carcass wonders like brisket, ribs or terrine—they’re nose‑to‑tail brag‑worthy.Look out for New‑York‑style swagger, wall‑to‑wall bar, and skyline views with your sizzle.Read moreLocated on the Left Bank in Melbourne's Southbank, The Breslin Steakhouse pays homage to the classic New York-style steakhouses, complete with a large wall-to-wall bar that proudly mixes up the classics. Beyond steak, Breslin promotes nose-to-tail dining, so expect plenty of sausage, pate and terrine on the menu the perfect fare for this vintage-inspired restaurant. Sit outside for views of the Yarra and Melbourne CBD skyline, or on chilly days the very inviting interior.
On the hunt for the best steak in town?Check out our guide on where to find the best steak in Melbourne, from the classic grills to the best cuts.
-
It's perfect for pre‑theatre carb-loading that feels more chef’s hug than plate.You need to try wood‑fired pizza or seafood linguine—classic comfort with a chic Southbank twist.Look out for riverside charm, friendly service, and menu variety that caters to everyone.Read moreFrom a delicious selection of antipasti to traditional Italian wood-fired pizza and amazing pasta dishes, Teatro caters to all guests. Whether it is a quick drink before a show at the Arts Centre, a wine or cocktail with the river view or lunch before heading to the National Gallery of Victoria or the Queen Victoria Gardens, Teatro is the perfect choice.
