The ultimate guide to outdoor dining in Melbourne

Afloat Yamas Greece

Melbourne's iconic floating bar is back, with a taste of Greece this time. Get in early to stake out a prime poolside position at Afloat. Sip ouzo frozen Cokes and baklava negronis while feasting on mezze plates. Grab dips, dolmades and saganaki. Or something more substantial, like chicken gyros and slow roasted lamb shoulder.

Riverland

Sprawling along a scenic stretch of the Yarra, Riverland Bar is an unexpected escape. Spend a sunny session listening to local DJs and feasting on no-fuss pub grub. Order the classic American cheeseburger or chicken parma. Or go for pizza and shareable sides like fried calamari. Stick around for $10 happy hour specials from 4 to 6pm on weekdays.

Marmont

Transport yourself to sunny California at Marmont – Melbourne’s popular riverfront restaurant. Take a leisurely stroll along Southbank, grab a table under the sun umbrella and order a round of fruity cocktails. Try snack plates like rock oysters, Baja fish tacos and buttermilk fried chicken. Coming with a group? You can’t go past the set menu. It has with a selection of the chef's greatest hits including lamb shoulder, sashimi and more.

City Wine Shop 

Escape the sun and enjoy a glass of wine in the shady outdoor dining area at City Wine Shop. It specialises in both local and imported wines. Order a selection of starters like polenta chips, oysters or saganaki. Or grab bigger plates of steak, gnocchi pomodoro and grilled market fish. Did we mention that it's dog-friendly too?

Johnny, Vince & Sam's Ristorante

Soak in the atmosphere of Melbourne’s Little Italy on Lyon Street and ask for an outdoor table at Johnny, Vince and Sam’s Ristorante. This retro-style diner pays tribute to Nonna’s house with its nostalgic decor and authentic homestyle menu. Enjoy parmesan-crusted schnitzel, slow-cooked beef meatballs, arancini and more while you sip on summery spritzes.

Tiamo

If you’re after generous servings of pasta and classic Italian pizzas head to Tiamo. This iconic favourite spills out onto Lygon Street's famous outdoor dining strip, seven days a week. Load up on big bowls of pasta. Or cast your eyes over the little specials blackboard for something different.

The Terrace

Find Royal Botanic Gardens' leafy cafe hidden among the trees. This stunning spot serves refined breakfast dishes, cult-status strawberry hotcakes, fresh summer cocktails and top-tier iced coffee. Pull up a seat in the sun-soaked courtyard and enjoy a meal by the stunning Ornamental Lake. You can't go past the iconic scones with jam and cream.

Pepe's Italian & Liquor

Pepe’s provides the perfect serene summer setting in a red brick courtyard with giant umbrellas. By night, the fairy lights create a glowing garden escape. Enjoy generous plates of vodka rigatoni, or wood-fired pizzas. Indulge in classic cocktails then finish with the world-famous lemon cheesecake.

San Telmo

Settle in and enjoy the sunny outdoor dining at San Telmo. You'll find this vivacious and welcoming bohemian restaurant along Meyers Place. From midday to midnight San Telmo offers authentic Argentinian flavours. Try empanadas, ceviche, morcilla (spiced black sausage), and premium steak off the grill.

Yarra Botanica

Yarra Botanica is the ultimate golden hour spot in Melbourne. The two-level floating bar is in the heart of Southbank and celebrates seasonal local produce. From artisan cheeses and sustainable seafood, to farm-fresh fruit and vegetables. With an all-local line-up of drinks, Yarra Botanica is an Insta-worthy visit this summer.

Dikstein's Corner Bar

Is this old-school bar one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets? Dikstein’s is a narrow and cosy wine bar with a casual pub vibe. Be transported when you dine alfresco in the European-inspired laneway. You’ll find it in a Victorian terrace on the corner of Bank Place and Little Collins Street. Dig into a bowl of pasta and pair it with one of the beers on tap.