Hi! Welcome to FunEmpire 👋
We take pride in finding the best local experiences, activities and services. We only recommend what we love, and hope you love them too. Learn about our story.
Best Outdoor Dining Melbourne
You want to embrace and get into the flow of the city or town vibes every now and again. Tourists and locals alike may enjoy a one-of-a-kind gourmet experience. Outdoor eating allows you to go outside your door and dine at your favorite restaurant for a refreshing and novel experience. Eating outside has its own charm as well as some spectacular sights. Diners will love being outdoors when the sun is shining and the weather is nice, and it will seem much more comfortable. This is why you should be aware of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
1. Da Guido La Pasta
| Key Services | Italian Cuisine, Outdoor Seating, Available for Functions, Vegetarian Friendly |
| Website | https://www.daguidomelbourne.com/ |
| Address | 130 Lygon St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 8528 4547 |
| info@daguidomelbourne.com | |
| Operating Hours | 6PM – 10PM Mondays – Fridays | 12PM – 2:30PM, 5PM – 10PM Saturdays – Sundays |
Indulge your taste buds with their delectable tagliatelle, maccheroni, fusilli, and spaghetti, just to name a few of their specialties. Pasta is made from scratch every day with the kind of care and attention to detail that can only come from Italy. Their menu was developed around their fresh, daily-prepared pasta made from all-natural ingredients. They utilize only the finest Italian and hand-picked Australian ingredients. All of the meals are made by Italian chefs who were educated in their restaurant in Italy to assure authentic Venetian flavor and flair. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- all-natural ingredients
- hand-picked Australian ingredients
Customer Testimonial:
“The food was superb! Perfectly sized portions, flavourful, good menu and wine selection. Our waiter Valerio was excellent! He is very energetic and knowledgeable.”
Milena Teteris
2.Terminus Hotel
| Key Services | Pub Food, Modern Australian Cuisine, Full Bar Available, Dance Floor, Nightlife, Craft Beer, Outdoor Seating |
| Website | https://terminus.com.au/ |
| Address | 605 Victoria St, Abbotsford VIC 3067, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9427 0615 |
| bookings@terminus.com.au | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 10PM Sundays, Tuesdays – Thursdays | 12PM – 1AM Fridays – Saturdays |
If their walls could speak, they would tell numerous stories about how the Terminus Hotel has been an integral part of the Fitzroy North community for nearly 150 years. As a community gathering spot since its inception, their classic Australian pub has long been a favorite destination for locals in search of good times, tasty eats, and refreshing beverages. The Terminus was built in the middle of the 1800s. In recent years, it has gone through a lot of renovations and now has a large beer garden, many small craft beer pubs, sidewalk cafes, and a high-end restaurant. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- historical landmark
- community gathering spot
- outdoor seating
Customer Testimonial:
“Really nice renovated space, with large beer and wine list & delicious food. Family friendly, always a good place to hang out for a few hours.”
Patrick Baker
3. Movida Aqui
| Key Services | Spanish Cuisine, Tapas, Sangria, Cocktails, Wine, Seafood, Dessert, Drinks, Outdoor Seating |
| Website | https://www.movida.com.au/aqui/ |
| Address | Rear, 500 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9663 3038 |
| info@movida.com.au | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 3PM, 5PM – 10PM Mondays – Tuesdays, Saturdays | 12PM – 3PM, 5PM – 10:30PM Wednesdays – Fridays |
Aqui is a large open area with a large open kitchen that is doing the things Frank always wanted to do in Hosier Lane but never had the space to: imagine beautifully rustic paella for large gatherings or perfectly cooked entire joints of meat over charcoal. With its Spanish atmosphere, Movida Aqui provides a refuge from the rush of the city. It is spacious, airy, and offers a fantastic outdoor eating space. For food, there are large whole joints cooked to perfection over charcoal and slow-braised beef cheeks that are great for sharing in the outdoor eating area. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- Spanish atmosphere
- whole joints of meat cooked over charcoal
Customer Testimonial:
“My wife and l had the set menu. Amazing food that was well spaced so we could enjoy each dish. The beef cheeks were the highlight. Highly recommended.”
Brendan Barfoot
4. The General Assembly
| Key Services | Casual Dining, Scenic View, Latest Food Trends, Local Artists, Street Art Installations |
| Website | https://www.thegeneralassembly.com.au/ |
| Address | 29 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9682 6007 |
| info@thegeneralassembly.com.au | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 8PM Mondays – Thursdays | 12PM – 10PM Fridays – Saturdays | 12PM – 6PM Sundays |
Explore Melbourne’s ancient laneways from the comfort of their riverside pub on South Wharf. If Melbourne’s weather lives true to its moniker, there is no need for concern since The General Assembly offers all four seasons in a single day. Explore the mouthwatering menu, which incorporates Melbourne’s current food trends, while sipping a variety of beverages and listening to acoustic performances by local artists. Check out the street art pieces outside the venue by local artists such as Blender Studios, Loui Jover, and Brenda Meynell before you leave. The General Assembly acknowledges the land’s traditional guardians. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- views of the river
- local artists
- traditional guardians
Customer Testimonial:
“Very nice location on the riverside, spacious inside. Young staff offered friendly helpful service for a lunchtime trio. Enjoyable fish and chips, and pannacotta was delicious. S we were driving we didn’t try the extensive drinks choice.”
Chris DBer
5. Pilgrim
| Key Services | Pub Food, Modern Australian Cuisine, Full Bar Available, Outdoor Heating, Vegan Options |
| Website | https://www.pilgrimbar.com.au/ |
| Address | 15-19 Federation Wharf, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9654 9575 |
| info@pilgrimbar.com.au | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 8PM Fridays – Sundays |
The Pilgrim is a cozy waterfront establishment in the centre of Melbourne, located next to the famous Federation Wharf vaults and the Yarra River. They take pride in engaging producer authenticity by offering a wide variety of 100% Australian wines, beers, and spirits. Their seasonal share plate recipes, which are meant to be nibbled on, are driven by the involvement of their producers. Everything in their laid-back bar is authentic, from the winery, distillery, and brewery where it was born; to the glass in which you’re sipping it; to the farmer who grew the ingredients for your dish. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- waterfront location
- Australian wines, beers, and spirits
- seasonal share plate recipes
Customer Testimonial:
“We had the greatest experience here. Staff atmosphere and service was top tier. Erin is so lovely and warm, and the gentleman who seated us and explained the menu was amazing too! 10/10 recommend. Can’t wait to go back. Thank you!”
Ellie Arnall
6.Slate Restaurant & Bar
| Key Services | Business Meals, Outdoor Eating, Bar Bites, Covered Rooftop Terrace |
| Website | https://www.slaterestaurantbar.com/ |
| Address | 9 Goldsbrough La, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9670 4311 |
| info@slaterestaurantbar.com | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 9PM Tuesdays – Thursdays | 12PM – 12AM Fridays |
Slate, situated in the central business district of Melbourne, pays homage to European hospitality by highlighting its cuisine, service, and environment. The objective of Slate Restaurant Bar is to provide a high-quality space for city employees to escape the rat race. With two dining rooms and three patios, you are certain to find the appropriate atmosphere, whether you are eating with colleagues or having a few drinks with friends. Their protected and heated rooftop terrace will provide the best dining and drinking experience outside throughout the year. The owners of Slate have thirty years of hotel industry experience. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- European cuisine
- two dining rooms and three patios
- heated rooftop terrace
Customer Testimonial:
“1st time visit for a private function, finger food was excellent, nice ambience and staff were very good. Would recommend if you’re looking for a function place for a special occasion.”
Tom Kotzamanis
7. Northcote Social Club
| Key Services | Vibrant Bar Scene, Outdoor Eating, Popular Live Music Venue, Pub Food, Australian Cuisine |
| Website | https://northcotesocialclub.com/ |
| Address | 301 High St, Northcote VIC 3070, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9427 1158 |
| bar@northcotesocialclub.com | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 12AM Mondays – Fridays | 12PM – 2AM Saturdays – Sundays |
The legendary Northcote Social Club has been a renowned live music venue for many years, but it has also become a popular spot to eat and have a drink on High Street. Whether you’re meeting up with friends in the front bar, eating a meal from their contemporary pub-inspired cuisine on their fully heated terrace, or organizing a special event or function in the Old Bottle Shop or recently refurbished Treehouse, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. Northcote Social Club is a great place for anyone who wants to have a unique event in a casual and friendly setting. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- live music
- contemporary pub-inspired cuisine
- special event and function space
Customer Testimonial:
“Great spot to catch live music. They are so supportive of the local scene. Great bar staff, friendly service and lots of parking to the rear of the venue. Great to see them stocking non Alc options like heaps normal for the drivers in us!”
Bennis Dennis
8. Platform 28
| Key Services | Modern Australian Cuisine, Bar Food, Impressive Lounge and Outdoor Arenas, Impressive Selection of Beers, Wine and Cocktails |
| Website | https://www.platform28.com.au/ |
| Address | 82 Village St, Docklands VIC 3008, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9670 9933 |
| info@platform28.com.au | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 10PM Sundays – Thursdays | 12PM – 1AM Fridays – Saturdays |
In the heart of Docklands, Platform 28 is a modest restaurant and bar serving contemporary Australian food. This venue, which was formerly a railway goods shed, remains true to the site’s background and offers a rustic historical charm that is certain to win the hearts of the locals. This famous Docklands site, situated under the historic Goods Shed North, offers a wonderful combination of old and new. This is one of the best new places to meet, with delicious food, a calm atmosphere, and a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- historical charm
- contemporary Australian food
- great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails
Customer Testimonial:
“This place was unjustifiably quiet on a Saturday, albeit one without football on at Docklands. We enjoyed some great food and beers, served by great staff.”
Chris Hill
9. Dr. Morse Bar & Eatery
| Key Services | Bar Food, DJ, Good for Groups, Outdoor Area, Licensed |
| Website | https://drmorse.com.au/ |
| Address | 274 Johnston St, Abbotsford VIC 3067, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 9416 1005 |
| functions@drmorse.com.au |
The entrance bar provides magnificent views of Johnston Street and is situated near the venue’s entrance. Low, comfy seating, together with a polished concrete bar and bar stools, This venue is great for long, leisurely meals and dining events. Their courtyard garden is a lush urban jungle that serves as an informal and convivial area. From Thursday through Sunday, they provide DJs, events, and live music. The Jimmy’s Room, situated in the heart of the venue, is suitable for semi-formal meals as well as informal standing and seated drinks gatherings. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- urban garden
- live music and DJs
- Jimmy’s Room for semi-formal meals
Customer Testimonial:
“Great service, great strong coffee and almond croissant. The lovely staff this morning even warmed up the croissant and gave us lightly sparkling water with our coffee.”
Daniella Trajcevska
10.Republica
| Key Services | Live Music, Seaside Dining, Modern Australian Menu, Weekend Breakfast |
| Website | https://republica.net.au/ |
| Address | 1A-1D, 10-18 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia |
| Phone | +61 3 8598 9055 |
| info@republica.net.au | |
| Operating Hours | 12PM – 10PM Mondays – Fridays | 12PM – 12AM Saturdays – Sundays |
Republica is one of the few beach bars in Melbourne, opening directly onto St. Kilda Beach and surrounded by palm trees and artificial grass. Skip lunch and arrive in the late afternoon or evening for sunset cocktails, cocktail lounging, and the odd flirtatious glance. Republica, one of the best bars in St. Kilda, is appropriate for any event. Ideal are their beachside business lunches, St. Kilda lunches, St. Kilda evenings, dating nights, first dates, and gatherings with friends. Their wine bar provides an outstanding assortment of both Australian and foreign wines. This is why they are one of the finest outdoor dining Melbourne has to offer.
Key Differentiators:
- outdoor seating
- beachfront location
- great selection of wines
Customer Testimonial:
“Great food to accompany the lovely view. The green pea risotto was surprisingly super tasty, the barramundi and crispy pork belly also a definite must try.”
Berenice Ethel Chua
Outdoor Dining Melbourne
Overall, being outside, especially in settings with plants, might help individuals feel better. Patios may be pet-friendly, which promotes additional business from dog owners. Parents with small children may feel more comfortable bringing their children to an outdoor eating place since they don’t have to worry about noise levels. Outdoor dining has a long history and is currently more popular than ever. We hope this information assists you in finding the finest outdoor eating Melbourne has to offer.
If you’re looking for more recommendations, you can check out our other posts below:
