When you think of summer you don’t usually think of Melbourne, and to be honest, we don’t blame you! But we are the food capital and after you visit some of these incredible bars and restaurants you will be rethinking those initial thoughts.
As the warmer weather approaches, we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate the summer days basking in the sun with a refreshing cocktail in hand, surrounded by great company!
Exchange Beach Club
Port Melbourne
Want to soak up some sun, grab a bite, and an icy cold cocktail post-beach volleyball game with all your mates? It’s time to check out Exchange Beach Club this Summer. Not only is it free to enter (YAY!) but it’s also pooch-friendly so bring all those furry friends along!
What To Drink: Espresso Martini
What To Eat: Vegan Burger
Marko
South Melbourne
Just a stone’s throw away from the renowned and popular South Melbourne market, Marko includes an extensive range of tasty and not your average natural ingredients food items and that includes their night menu! And they have just recently teamed up with Four Pillars Gin for a new outdoor Gin-Spritz Garden in South Melbourne because what’s summer without some refreshing gin spritz?!
What To Drink: Limoncello Spritz
What To Eat: Prime rib of pumpkin
Arbory Afloat
CBD
What’s summer without a visit to Melbourne’s most chic floating bar, Arbory Afloat. After hibernating through Melbourne’s bitter winter, they are now back just in time to provide all the fun, summer goods! Lay back, relax and be transported to Mediterranean paradise whilst sipping on their extensive list of refreshing cocktails.
What To Drink: Amaro Pimms Cup
What To Eat: Green Salad
Captain Baxter
St Kilda
An iconic St Kilda rooftop bar overlooking the shores of St Kilda beach, definitely a very popular spot during the warmer months. Escape this summer in their blue and bright white Santorini-themed interiors whilst enjoying a mix of Asian and Mediterranean style dishes, washing it all down with a classic cocktail.
What To Drink: Pampelle Spritz
What To Eat: S & P tofu salad, sesame, charred snake beans, sugars
The Provincial Hotel
Fitzroy
The renowned Fitzroy pub is off the hustle and bustle of Brunswick street. Although a little Fitzroy secret, once words are out, it’s everyone’s go-to drink spot. Pair one of their hearty meals with one of their fun cocktail that screams #instagrammable so be prepared to get that camera out to snap away!
What To Drink: Margarita cocktail
What To Eat: Eggplant Parma
Johnny Green Room
Carlton
A long-time Carlton classic with a 360-degree view of Carlton, this Rome-style rooftop scene is where you wanna be this summer. With a splash of neon, terrazzo along with great tunes, it’s always a good time at Johnny Green Room. Relax after work or late afternoon and enjoy a slice of Italy in one hand, cheeky cocktail in the other.
What To Drink: Negroni
What To Eat: Verde Pizza
Golden Fleece Hotel
South Melbourne
Try not to be fooled once you step foot into this heavenly hotel and think you’ve escaped to the Greek islands. Surrounded by magical Santorini stone-look style and experience delicious pasta and pizza paired with one of their many exquisite house cocktails and drink options.
What To Drink: Sleeping Serpent house cocktail
What To Eat: Vodka Agro dulce Rigatoni
The Espy
St Kilda
Another hit spot in St Kilda, The Espy always comes to life during the summer season and the grande white seaside hotel is hard to miss. They serve all the pub classics, stone-baked pizzas, burgers and drinks in a rustic bricked and white aesthetic space overlooking St Kilda beach.
What To Drink: Watermelon Margarita cocktail.
What To Eat: Coal Grilled Eggplant w. King Brown Mushrooms + Bean Curd
Imperial
South Yarra
Located in the heart of Chapel Street, this vibrant and energetic restaurant is all about bringing good vibes. The menu is contemporary with fresh, local and seasonal produce in mind as you sip your way through their many delicious cocktails and drinks.
What To Drink: Coconut Margarita
What To Eat: Plant-Based Burger
Naked in the Sky
Fitzroy
A Fitzroy classic and a go-to rooftop bar since 2010, Naked in the sky never disappoints. Enjoy killer cocktails and drinks, impressive menu options, and of course Melbourne’s best view all under the twinkling lights.
What To Drink: Pretty in Pink cocktail
What To Eat: Roasted Baby Cauliflower
