Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best food and restaurants in South Melbourne! South Melbourne is a vibrant and bustling suburb with a thriving restaurant and food scene. Known for its diverse range of eateries, the area offers you a culinary journey across the globe, ensuring there’s something to tantalise every taste bud. From cosy cafes serving up delicious brunches to innovative fine-dining establishments, South Melbourne has it all. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through South Melbourne’s culinary scene!
Golden Fleece Hotel South Melbourne
Golden Fleece Hotel, 120 Montague St, South Melbourne.
Golden Fleece Hotel is a cool, laid-back pub that you should definitely check out. It’s got a traditional, cosy vibe with a mix of modern touches. The atmosphere is super friendly, and the staff are always welcoming.
They’ve got a fantastic menu with a great variety of dishes to choose from, including some pub classics like fish and chips or burgers, but also some more adventurous options. The food is always delicious, and the portions are generous, so you definitely won’t leave hungry!
Railway Hotel South Melbourne
Railway Hotel South Melbourne, 280 Ferrars St, South Melbourne.
Railway Hotel is a well-known local pub and dining destination, offering a fantastic selection of craft beers and a menu that features traditional pub grub, as well as gourmet options. They are known for their unique décor and scrumptious meals.
Bambu South Melbourne
Bambu South Melbourne, 92/116 Cecil St, South Melbourne.
Bambu is a trendy Asian fusion restaurant, known for its modern and innovative menu. With a focus on using fresh, local ingredients, Bambu is perfect for sharing plates with friends and family. Make sure you check out their stylish interior and tasty dishes when you’re in the area.
Hector’s Deli South Melbourne
Hector’s Deli South Melbourne, 253 Coventry St, South Melbourne.
Hector’s Deli is a cosy, neighbourhood spot serving up freshly made American-style sandwiches and coffee. Known for their high-quality ingredients and friendly service, this deli is a favourite among South Melbourne locals. Go and check out their inviting space and appetising menu items.
Peko Peko South Melbourne
Peko Peko South Melbourne, 190 Wells St, South Melbourne.
Peko Peko is a beloved Japanese eatery, offering a range of delicious and authentic dishes. From sushi and sashimi to flavorful rice bowls, this restaurant will transport you straight to Japan. Peko Peko features a minimalist décor and delectable food!
St Ali South Melbourne
St Ali South Melbourne, 12-18 Yarra Pl, South Melbourne.
You’ve got to check out St Ali when you get a chance. It’s an amazing specialty coffee shop and café in Melbourne that you’ll absolutely love. The vibe there is super cool – it’s got this industrial-chic look that makes it a really unique spot to hang out. Plus, the staff are friendly and make you feel right at home.
Now, let’s talk about the coffee because it’s seriously next level. They’re known for their expertly brewed coffee, and they really take the art of coffee-making seriously. You can try all sorts of different blends and single-origin beans that they roast in-house. If you’re into coffee, this is definitely the place for you.
Hunky Dory Fish & Chips South Melbourne
Hunky Dory Fish & Chips South Melbourne, 252 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Hunky Dory Fish & Chips is where to go if you’re in the mood for some awesome fish and chips. It’s a casual seafood joint that has a really relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. It’s perfect for a quick bite or a chill meal with friends.
One of the best things about Hunky Dory is their commitment to quality and sustainability. They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the fish they serve is sustainably caught, which is a big plus. Plus, their menu has heaps of options, so there’s something for everyone.
Of course, their fish and chips are the star of the show. They offer different types of fish, like barramundi, flake, and even grilled options for a healthier twist. The chips are crispy and perfectly seasoned, and you can’t miss their tasty homemade tartare sauce!
Rising Sun Hotel South Melbourne
Rising Sun Hotel South Melbourne, 2 Raglan St, South Melbourne.
Rising Sun Hotel is a classic pub with a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on delicious, seasonal dishes. Offering an extensive range of beers and wines, this spot is ideal for a laid-back meal or a catch-up with friends.
Taco Bill South Melbourne
Taco Bill South Melbourne, 375 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Taco Bill is a vibrant and colourful Mexican restaurant, serving up mouth-watering classics like tacos, burritos, and fajitas. With a lively atmosphere and a menu full of flavour, Taco Bill is perfect for a fun night out, just don’t drink too many of their giant margaritas!
Mr Brownie South Melbourne
Mr Brownie South Melbourne, 343 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Mr Brownie is a unique Indian-English gastropub, offering an eclectic menu that combines traditional Indian flavours with classic British pub fare. This quirky spot is perfect for a relaxed meal or a fun night out.
Rosa Mexicano South Melbourne
Rosa Mexicano South Melbourne, 293 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Rosa Mexicano is a lively and colourful Mexican restaurant, offering an extensive menu of traditional dishes and modern interpretations. The atmosphere is vibrant and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a lively catch-up with friends or a family meal.
The menu at Rosa Mexicano is packed with mouth-watering options, from tacos and enchiladas to quesadillas and fajitas. They use fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, so you know you’re getting the real deal. One of their standout dishes is the slow-cooked pork carnitas – it’s seriously amazing!
Not only is the food top-notch, but they also have a fantastic selection of drinks. Their margaritas are a must-try – they come in different flavours, and they’re absolutely delicious. Plus, they have a range of Mexican beers and other beverages to suit everyone’s taste.
The South Melbourne Bakery
The South Melbourne Bakery, 356 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
South Melbourne Bakery is a traditional bakery offering a variety of freshly baked goods, from bread and pastries to pies and cakes. This charming bakery is perfect for grabbing a delicious treat on the go or enjoying a leisurely breakfast.
Emerald Hill Cafe, South Melbourne
Emerald Hill Cafe, 208 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
The Emerald Hill Cafe is a cosy and inviting spot, known for its excellent coffee and delicious all-day breakfast and lunch options. The menu at The Emerald Hill Cafe offers a great variety of dishes, with something to suit everyone’s taste. They serve up classics like eggs Benedict and smashed avocado on toast, as well as some more unique options that you’ll love trying. They even do catering! The food is always fresh and well-presented, making for a truly satisfying meal.
One of the best things about this cafe is their coffee – it’s absolutely delicious! They know how to brew a proper cup, and it’s just the thing you need to start your day or give you a boost in the afternoon.
The atmosphere at The Emerald Hill Cafe is warm and welcoming, with a laid-back vibe that makes you feel right at home. The pressed metal walls are especially chic. The staff are really friendly, and they’re always happy to help with any questions you might have or offer recommendations on what to try.
In short, The Emerald Hill Cafe is a fantastic little find in South Melbourne. With its delightful atmosphere, tasty food, and top-notch coffee, it’s definitely worth a visit. Next time you’re in the area, be sure to pop in for a meal or a coffee – you won’t be disappointed!
The George Hotel South Melbourne
The George Hotel, 139 Cecil St, South Melbourne.
The George is a historic pub and dining destination, offering a menu of modern Australian dishes. It’s a classic, stylish spot with a lovely atmosphere, making it perfect for a relaxed catch-up with friends or a cosy dinner with the family.
The George offers a great selection of pub favourites as well as some more contemporary dishes, so there’s something for everyone on the menu. You can expect to find delicious options like fish and chips, burgers, and steaks, as well as some tasty vegetarian dishes. Everything is well-prepared and full of flavour, so you’re in for a treat.
One of the best things about The George is its fantastic drinks selection. They’ve got a wide range of beers on tap, as well as an impressive wine list and a variety of creative cocktails. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a drink after a long day or to toast the weekend with your mates.
Emerald Hotel South Melbourne
Emerald Hotel South Melbourne, 415 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Emerald Hotel is a stylish and contemporary hotel with an on-site restaurant, serving a diverse menu of modern Australian cuisine. With a relaxed atmosphere and an extensive wine list, this spot is perfect for both hotel guests and locals.
Grill’d South Melbourne
Grill’d South Melbourne, 278 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Grill’d is a popular Australian burger chain known for its delicious, high-quality burgers made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With a focus on sustainability and health, Grill’d offers a range of options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
Lume South Melbourne
Lume South Melbourne, 226 Coventry St, South Melbourne.
Lume is an upscale restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on modern Australian cuisine. It’s a bit on the fancier side, but the whole experience is absolutely worth it. It’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or impress someone with a fantastic dining experience.
The food at Lume is top-notch, and the dishes are like little works of art. The menu is creative and full of unique flavour combinations that you probably haven’t tried before. They offer a seasonal tasting menu, which I highly recommend, as it gives you the chance to try multiple dishes and experience the full range of their culinary expertise.
The presentation of the dishes is also exceptional – it’s almost too beautiful to eat! You can tell that the chefs put a lot of thought and care into each plate. The staff are really knowledgeable about the menu, and they’re happy to answer any questions and help you make a perfect choice.
Lume also has a fantastic wine list, with an impressive selection of both local and international wines. The staff can recommend the perfect pairing for your meal, which really elevates the whole experience.
Oporto South Melbourne
Oporto South Melbourne, Shop G18A, 265 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Oporto is a well-known Australian fast-food chain, specialising in Portuguese-style flame-grilled chicken and burgers. With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavours, Oporto is a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Pizza Hut South Melbourne
Pizza Hut South Melbourne, 203 Clarendon St South Melbourne.
Pizza Hut is a globally recognized pizza chain, offering a variety of classic and specialty pizzas, as well as sides and desserts. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Pizza Hut is a convenient option for a casual meal or takeaway.
Schnitz South Melbourne
Schnitz South Melbourne, 111 Cecil St, South Melbourne.
Schnitz is an Australian fast-casual chain specialising in handcrafted, pan-cooked schnitzels. With a range of tasty schnitzel options, wraps, and salads, Schnitz is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Misschu South Melbourne
Misschu South Melbourne, 111 Cecil St, South Melbourne.
Misschu is a Vietnamese street food-inspired restaurant. It’s a casual place with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a laid-back meal with friends.
The menu at Misschu is full of delectable Vietnamese dishes, with a focus on street food-inspired cuisine. You’ll find delicious options like rice paper rolls, pho, and banh mi, as well as a variety of other tasty dishes. The food is always fresh and packed with flavour, and the portions are generous, so you won’t leave hungry!
What we love about Misschu is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and making everything from scratch. They even cater to different dietary requirements, so if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, you’ll still find plenty of options to choose from.
The atmosphere at Misschu is relaxed and inviting, with a bit of a modern twist. The staff are super friendly and always happy to help with recommendations or any questions you might have about the menu.
Nandos South Melbourne
Nandos South Melbourne, 270 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Nandos is a popular international chain, known for its flame-grilled peri-peri chicken dishes. With a variety of options to choose from, including burgers, wraps, and salads, Nandos is perfect for a casual meal or takeaway. We love a cheeky Nandos, as the saying goes.
Nine Yards South Melbourne
Nine Yards South Melbourne, l228-230 Dorcas St, South Melbourne.
Nine Yards offers a great variety of dishes, ranging from small bites to share, like arancini and sliders, to more substantial meals like steaks and pasta. The food is absolutely delicious, and the presentation is top-notch. You can tell they’ve put a lot of thought into crafting a menu that’s both interesting and satisfying.
One of the highlights at Nine Yards is their impressive drinks menu. They’ve got a wide range of craft beers, wines, and creative cocktails to choose from. I particularly enjoyed their signature cocktails – they’re definitely worth trying if you’re in the mood for something a bit different.
The atmosphere at Nine Yards is warm and inviting, with a touch of industrial chic that gives it a unique edge. The staff are friendly and attentive, making sure you feel welcome and well looked after throughout your visit.
Simply Spanish South Melbourne
Simply Spanish South Melbourne, 116 Cecil St, South Melbourne.
Simply Spanish is a lively and authentic Spanish restaurant, offering a range of traditional dishes like tapas, paella, and churros. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Simply Spanish is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family.
Etto Pasta Bar South Melbourne
Etto Pasta Bar, G10/261 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
The main focus at Etto Pasta Bar is, of course, pasta! They offer a fantastic selection of fresh, homemade pasta dishes, and the best part is that you can customise your meal. You get to choose your preferred pasta type, sauce, and any additional toppings or ingredients. So whether you’re in the mood for a classic spaghetti bolognese or something a bit more adventurous, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
The food at Etto is absolutely delicious, and you can tell that they use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The portions are generous, and the prices are really reasonable, making it an excellent option for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
Aside from pasta, they also offer a selection of tasty antipasti, salads, and desserts. Their drinks menu includes a range of Italian wines, beers, and soft drinks to complement your meal.
Lamaro’s Hotel South Melbourne
Lamaro’s Hotel, 273-279 Cecil St, South Melbourne.
Lamaros is full of mouth-watering dishes that strike a perfect balance between classic pub favourites and more contemporary options. You can expect to find everything from burgers and fish and chips to delicious seafood and meat dishes. The food is expertly prepared, and the presentation is lovely – you can really tell that they take pride in their culinary offerings.
One of the things that stood out to me at Lamaro’s was their fantastic drinks menu. They have a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Plus, they often feature local craft beers and wines, which is a nice touch.
Marko South Melbourne
Marko South Melbourne, Shop 99/116 Cecil Street, South Melbourne.
Marko is an elegant Mediterranean restaurant, offering a range of flavorful dishes inspired by the cuisines of Greece, Italy, and the Middle East. With a sophisticated atmosphere and a focus on fresh, local ingredients, Marko is perfect for a memorable dining experience.
Mister Margherita Pizza South Melbourne
Mister Margherita, 1/52 Park St, South Melbourne.
Mister Margherita Pizza is a popular pizza joint known for its delicious, handcrafted pizzas made with fresh, quality ingredients. With a range of classic and gourmet options available, Mister Margherita Pizza is perfect for a casual meal or a mouth-watering takeaway.
O’Connell’s South Melbourne
O’Connell’s South Melbourne, 407 Coventry St, South Melbourne.
O’Connells is a contemporary pub offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, along with a diverse menu of modern Australian dishes and a wide selection of beers and wines. With its inviting ambience, O’Connells is perfect for a leisurely meal or a night out with friends.
Pondok Nasi Bakar South Melbourne
Pondok Nasi Bakar, 354 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Pondok Nasi Bakar is a casual, family-run eatery with a friendly and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to grab a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with colleagues.
The menu at Pondok Nasi Bakar is full of delicious Indonesian dishes that are packed with flavour. One of their signature dishes is the Nasi Bakar itself, which is grilled rice wrapped in banana leaves, served with your choice of meat or vegetables and a variety of tasty side dishes. The food is always freshly prepared, and the portions are quite generous.
In addition to their namesake dish, they also offer a variety of other Indonesian favourites like satay, rendang, and gado-gado. If you’re not familiar with Indonesian cuisine, the staff are more than happy to help you navigate the menu and make recommendations based on your preferences.
The atmosphere at Pondok Nasi Bakar is cosy and laid-back, with simple but welcoming decor. The service is friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door.
Palace Hotel South Melbourne
Palace Hotel, 505-507 City Rd, South Melbourne.
Palace Hotel is a classic pub and dining destination, offering a comfortable atmosphere alongside a menu of modern Australian dishes. With an extensive range of beers and wines, Palace Hotel is perfect for a leisurely meal or a night out with friends.
South Melbourne McDonald’s
South Melbourne McDonald’s, Cnr City Rd & Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
South Melbourne McDonald’s is a branch of the globally recognized fast-food chain, offering a range of classic menu items like burgers, fries, and shakes. With a familiar and family-friendly atmosphere, McDonald’s is a convenient option for a quick and satisfying meal.
The Kettle Black South Melbourne
The Kettle Black, 50 Albert Rd, South Melbourne.
The Kettle Black offers a fantastic range of dishes, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They’ve got some great options for breakfast like their signature chilli scrambled eggs or their renowned ricotta hotcakes. For lunch, you can choose from a variety of salads, sandwiches, and more substantial meals. The food is always beautifully presented, and the flavours are simply delicious.
Of course, a visit to The Kettle Black wouldn’t be complete without trying their amazing coffee. They serve expertly brewed coffee from a selection of local roasters, as well as offering a range of teas and other beverages. It’s the perfect spot to grab your morning caffeine fix or enjoy a leisurely weekend brunch.
The atmosphere at The Kettle Black is bright and airy, with a touch of modern sophistication. The staff are friendly and attentive, making you feel welcome and well looked after during your visit.
Golden Gate Hotel South Melbourne
Golden Gate Hotel, 238 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Golden Gate Hotel is a historic pub offering a warm and inviting atmosphere, along with a diverse menu of modern Australian dishes and a wide selection of beers and wines. With its classic charm, Golden Gate Hotel is perfect for a leisurely meal or a night out with friends.
Olive Tree South Melbourne
Olive Tree South Melbourne, 19 Park St, South Melbourne.
Olive Tree is a lovely Greek restaurant in South Melbourne. It’s got a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a delicious meal with colleagues or friends.
The menu at Olive Tree is full of authentic Greek dishes, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. You’ll find a variety of delicious options, including classics like moussaka, souvlaki, and dolmades, as well as a range of seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes. The food is always well-prepared and full of flavour, which makes for a really satisfying dining experience.
Chevapi Grill South Melbourne
Chevapi Grill South Melbourne, 283 Clarendon St, South Melbourne.
Chevapi Grill is a Balkan-inspired eatery, specialising in chevapi, a type of grilled sausage made from minced meat. With a range of tasty options, including burgers, wraps, and platters, Chevapi Grill is perfect for a casual meal or a flavorful takeaway.
As you can see, South Melbourne boasts a diverse and exciting food scene, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. There really is something for everyone in this bustling suburb. This list provides a snapshot of some of the most popular food places in the area, but be sure to explore the local scene for yourself and discover even more culinary gems.
