7 New Reasons to Unwind in Southbank This Summer

This summer, Southbank is reimagining itself as one of Melbourne's most exciting destinations, blending sophistication with vibrant energy. Once overshadowed by the CBD, it now pulses with fresh dining and drinking spots, each offering bold flavours and immersive experiences.

At its heart, Crown Melbourne has undergone a stunning resurgence, aligning with the city's evolving scene. With a reinvigorated food offering and riverside views, it’s more than just a place to eat—it’s a culinary playground.

Beyond food, Southbank’s cultural precincts hum with artistic flair, inviting you to linger longer. Here are 7 new restaurants in Southbank we’re toasting to this summer—and beyond.

Kolkata Cricket Club

Step into the world of Kolkata Cricket Club, where India’s rich heritage meets bold culinary innovation. Chef-owner Mischa Tropp’s latest venture captures the heart of Bengali and pan-Indian cuisine, served across a sports bar brimming with old-world charm and a refined white-tablecloth dining room. Indulge in dishes like marinated lamb tomahawk and the butter chicken Tropp hails as the “best you’ve ever eaten.” With every bite, you’re transported to a vibrant, flavourful tableau that lingers long after the last morsel.

Casino, Crown Melbourne, Level 1/8 Whiteman Street, Southbank

Marmont

Bask in the decadent glow of Marmont, a glamorous ode to ’80s Hollywood excess. With its lipstick-red booths, a sweeping 20-metre mural evoking a wild awards night, and a menu celebrating seafood indulgence, this Grant Smillie creation feels like stepping into a cinematic masterpiece. Sip on artful cocktails as this Southbank restaurant hums with energy, transforming from chic daytime spot to an electric night-time haven. It’s Southbank with a touch of California cool—and it might just crown your summer.

Ground Level, River Walk/8 Whiteman Street, Southbank 

Hacienda

Hacienda elevates the art of Mexican gastronomy to unparalleled heights. This vibrant new Southbank eatery invites you to savour bold, authentic flavours with a creative twist, making it the ideal destination for both intimate gatherings and lively celebrations.

The grilled oysters are a revelation, while the tuna tostada and pescado provide exquisite, flavour-packed experiences for the discerning palate. Hacienda’s dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine shines through every dish, blending tradition with innovation in a setting that pulses with energy and charm.

28/3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank

Ghost Donkey

For a truly electric night out in Southbank, make your way to Ghost Donkey at Crown Melbourne. This mezcal and tequila haven serves up bold, smoky cocktails with a Mexican twist—think zesty Margaritas, mezcal-infused Palomas, and punches of spice. Pair your drinks with tasty Mexican-inspired bites in a lively, bustling atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of Mexican hospitality. It’s a must-visit for those craving vibrant flavours and good times in the heart of Southbank.

Crown Melbourne, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank

Le Martini

Le Martini at Crown Melbourne is a polished ode to the art of cocktails. Bathed in luxurious blue velvet and home to the city’s first Grey Goose bar, this intimate gem is where elegance and flair meet. The expertly curated martini menu offers everything from the timeless dry martini to daring, inventive twists, each sip a velvet-smooth indulgence. With every drink crafted to perfection, it’s a place where style and substance collide, making it the ideal spot to elevate any evening with a dash of sophistication and a touch of class.

Crown Riverwalk, 8 Whiteman Street, Southbank

NGV Garden Restaurant

Lose yourself in the brilliance of Martin Benn’s inspired menu at the NGV Garden Restaurant, where art and gastronomy collide. Drawing from the mesmerising Yayoi Kusama exhibition, Benn crafts dishes that are as thought-provoking as the art itself. By day, savour an exquisite set menu; by night, indulge in a five-course symphony of flavours paired with exclusive gallery access. This limited-time experience is a poetic dance of creativity, offering a taste of genius as fleeting and unforgettable as Kusama’s luminous world.

Until 16th February

NGV Melbourne, 180 St Kilda Road, Southbank 

Afloat Capri

Euro summer has landed on the Yarra with Afloat Capri, the latest iteration of Arbory Afloat. Inspired by the enchanting island of Capri, this floating bar exudes Italian beach club vibes with striped umbrellas, vibrant cocktails, and an elevated menu of share plates, Neapolitan pizzas, fresh pasta, and indulgent desserts.

Sip Aperol spritzes and Zoncello as you soak in river views, or join the fun at the Aperol Pool Bar & Deck. With events like pizza-making parties and a floating photobooth, Afloat Capri is Melbourne’s ultimate summer escape.

2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne

This summer, Southbank pulses with life, offering top dining spots like Marmont and Kolkata Cricket Club, alongside cultural treasures and riverside allure. For more seasonal inspiration, explore Victoria’s best beaches and our must-do picks in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, where unforgettable moments await at every turn.