South Melbourne’s ever-evolving landscape continues to be a magnet for new ventures, and new arrivals bring flavour and vitality to the streets. Boutique hotels, Euro bistros, and craft bars are just a few of the trendiest new entries to the ‘hood, and following is a list of the trendiest new openings in the neighbourhood, with opening dates and links for more information.
Pizzateca Lupa – Opened March 2025
In March 2025, Pizzateca Lupa opened its doors at South Melbourne Market, dishing Roman-style street food with panache. Run by the brothers Lino and Gabriele Torre, formerly of D.O.C. Gastronomia Italiana, the restaurant dishes up three forms of pizza: pizza teglia, pizza tonda, and freshly prepared pasta. The restaurant also dished out Italian wine and espresso at a picturesque corner of Cecil and Coventry Streets.
Read more at South Melbourne Market
Kirbie – Opened October 2024
Kirbie, a 40-seat cozy bistro, opened in October 2024 at 323 Clarendon Street, which was last held by Korean-Australian diner James. Furnished by local restaurateur Kirbie Tate, the venue is inspired by European wine bars and local cafés. Menu highlights include meatballs in sugo and braised lamb shoulder pasta, all served from within a cozy, neon-lit dining space.
Hyatt House South Melbourne – Opening July 1, 2025
Hyatt House South Melbourne will launch on July 1, 2025. Located near the Royal Botanic Gardens and Melbourne Arts Precinct, it will be the launch of the first Hyatt House hotel in Australia. The hotel has been constructed with 97 rooms and apartment-style amenities to suit independent travellers, remote workers, families, and corporate travellers looking for longer or shorter-term stays.
Read more at The Hotel Conversation
Pirate Life Brewery – Opened March 14, 2024
Pirate Life Brewery launched its first Victorian location on March 14, 2024, in a renovated garage at 139–145 Market Street, South Melbourne. The establishment has a vast selection of craft beers, including the unique “Market Street Lager” which has been brewed exclusively for the establishment, and a food menu with South American and Greek flavours blended together in harmony. Chefs Marua Delengas and Nicolas Lopez direct the kitchen.
These openings showcase the ongoing vitality of South Melbourne’s hospitality and business culture, offering locals and visitors alike new destinations to dine, stay, and socialise.
