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Melbourne knows how to put on a good feed, but when you’re keen to park yourself outside with a bevvy and a cracking meal, the city really steps it up. From riverside spots where you can watch the world go by to rooftop bars with killer views, there’s no shortage of outdoor dining spots in Melbourne.
And even when winter rolls in, this city knows how to keep things cosy with heaters, blankets, and warm drinks that keep you planted outdoors no matter the chill. So, whether you’re after a few pints with your mates, a long lunch that rolls into dinner, or just somewhere to kick back with good food and even better company, here’s our pick of the best outdoor dining in Melbourne you can visit year-round.
Best Outdoor Dining in Melbourne at a Glance
Our list of the best outdoor restaurants goes like this.
- The best outdoor restaurant in Melbourne overall: Hotel Esplanade
- If you’re looking for a great view: Pilgrim Bar
- If you’re booking for a large group: Naked for Satan
- If you want to sit waterside: Arbory Bar and Eatery
Now we’ve had a look at our favourites, let’s check out the complete list.
Complete List of Best Outdoor Dining in Melbourne
1. Arbory Bar and Eatery
Arbory Bar and Eatery is a spot where you rock up for a quick drink but somehow end up staying for hours. Smack bang along the Yarra River, right next to Flinders Street Station, it’s a long, open-air bar that’s perfect for sinking a few beers while watching the boats cruise past. There’s plenty of space to sprawl out, and even when Melbourne’s weather pulls one of its classic mood swings, they’ve got heaters and cover to keep you cosy.
The food? Solid pub-style feeds. The double cheeseburger is a winner ≠ juicy patties, crispy fried onion, melted cheese, and a heap of crinkle-cut chips on the side. If you’re into chicken, the Southern fried chicken burger with smoky chipotle packs a decent punch. Keen on seafood? The lobster roll is a crowd favourite, and if you’re there on a Thursday, the $2 oyster deal is a no-brainer. There’s plenty of share plates too – think fried wings, calamari, and arancini balls to keep the table happy.
And let’s not forget the drinks. The beer’s cold, the spritzes are flowing, and if you’re in the mood for something stronger, the Negroni and spicy margarita will do the trick. Plus, the $25 steak night with a pint on Wednesdays is hard to pass up. With good food, cold drinks, and prime riverside views, it’s easy to see why Arbory is one of the best outdoor dining spots in Melbourne.
- Address: 1 Flinders Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Hours: Sun-Wed 11am-11pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-1am
- Phone: (03) 9614 0023
Check out Arbory Bar and Eatery Arbory Bar and Eatery Menu
2. Bombabar
Sitting five floors above Lonsdale Street, Bombabar gives you a cracking look over Melbourne’s city skyline and Chinatown, which is why it’s definitely one of the best outdoor dining spots in Melbourne. You get a perfect mix of urban buzz and open-air space, with plenty of seating and lush greenery hanging around. Plus, they’ve got a retractable roof and heaters, so no matter the weather, you’re sorted.
The food leans into Spanish flavours with a proper share-friendly menu. Kick things off with a charcuterie board stacked with top-tier jamón, wagyu cecina, and spicy chorizo. The tapas are hard to beat – corn ribs dusted with paprika, chickpea fritters with rich romesco sauce, and chorizitos paired with punchy aioli. After something bigger? The braised beef with cauliflower and peppers is spot on, and the fritto misto (loaded with calamari, scallops, and mussels) goes down perfectly with a cold drink.
The cocktail list is a crowd-pleaser – zesty margaritas, boozy Negronis, and fun options like the Breakfast in Oaxaca (yep, mezcal mixed with beer and orange marmalade… sounds odd, but it works). If you’re into wine, there’s a solid mix of Aussie and Spanish drops, plus plenty of beers for those keen on something simple.
- Address: 103 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Hours: Tue-Sat 12pm-12am, Sun-Mon 5pm-12am
- Phone: (03) 9650 5778
3. Naked for Satan
Naked for Satan is the spot to go when you want great outdoor dining in Fitzroy. Sitting high above Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, this rooftop bar serves up some of the best views going. You’ve got sweeping sights over Melbourne’s skyline, and on a clear day, you can even catch the Dandenong Ranges in the distance.
Food-wise, there’s a focus on share plates with a Spanish-Basque twist. You’ll find everything from crispy croquettes and chargrilled prawns to lamb skewers and baked camembert dripping with honey and thyme. If you’re keen for something more substantial, the lamb shoulder or saffron ravioli will sort you out. It’s a menu made for grazing (while knocking back a few drinks).
Speaking of drinks – their house-infused vodkas are a must-try – flavours like watermelon-mint or chilli-pack a punch—and the cocktails are on point. A Royal Peach or Juicy Melon spritz goes down a treat on a warm day, and there’s plenty of beer and wine to choose from.
Whether you’re there for a Sunday sesh a midweek catch-up, or just chasing those epic Melbourne views, Naked for Satan has you covered.
- Address: 285 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
- Hours: Mon-Thur 12pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-1am, Sun 12-6.30pm
- Phone: (03) 9416 2238
4. Pilgrim Bar
Pilgrim Bar is one of the best outdoor dining spots to park yourself along the Yarra. Tucked under Fed Square, it’s right on the water with front-row seats to Melbourne’s river views. Perfect for an afternoon session, but even when the temperature drops, they’ve got heaters and blankets to keep you warm while you keep the drinks coming.
Food-wise, you’ve got garlic prawn skewers with herb labneh, bourbon BBQ chicken drumettes that hit just right with a beer, and a beef carpaccio that’s got just enough anchovy kick to keep things interesting. The lamb merguez sausage roll? It’s like your local bakery sausage roll, but levelled up. If you’re hungry, grab a pizza. And for those who reckon cheese is a food group, the antipasto platter’s stacked with cured meats, olives, and a fresh-baked focaccia that won’t last long on the table.
In terms of drinks, Pilgrim backs local, so the wine list is packed with Aussie drops. Beer drinker? There’s plenty on tap, and the cocktail menu’s got your bases covered too. The Tropical Guava Slushie goes down dangerously easy, while the Summer Negroni gives that classic hit with a bit of a twist. Plus, happy hour runs from Thursday to Sunday with $9 drinks, so you won’t break the bank while you’re soaking up the riverside atmosphere.
With the river glistening, drinks flowing, and good food within arm’s reach, Pilgrim delivers. Simple as that.
- Address: 15-19 Federation Wharf, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Hours: Thurs 4pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12-10pm, Sun 12-8pm
- Phone: (03) 9654 9575
5. The General Assembly
Just next door to the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, The General Assembly is great for some outdoor dining in Melbourne. Sitting right on South Wharf, the outdoor area is massive and perfect for sinking a few pints while watching the boats cruise along the Yarra. On a sunny day, it’s packed with people soaking up the rays, and on weekends there’s live music and DJs too.
The menu’s got all the pub classics. If you’re just after a quick snack with your beer, grab the pork and fennel sausage rolls or the fried calamari. If you’re hungry, the Southern fried chicken burger with green chili slaw is a winner, and the steak sandwich is stacked and hits the spot.
Drinks? There’s a great range of beers on tap, plenty of Aussie wines, and a cocktail list that covers all bases – from refreshing spritzes to boozy classics like the espresso martini. Happy hour deals during the week are easy on the wallet, and the $22 steak sandwich Thursdays are reason enough to swing by.
- Address: 29 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006
- Hours: Sun-Thur 12-9pm, Fri-Sat 12-11pm
- Phone: (03) 9682 6007
Check out General Assembly General Assembly Menu
6. Da Guido La Pasta
Da Guido La Pasta sits smack bang in the heart of Carlton on Lygon Street – Melbourne’s unofficial Little Italy. It’s the perfect outdoor dining spot to soak up the street’s buzz, and people watch for hours on end. There’s just something about eating pasta alfresco with the hum of Lygon Street around you, especially when the sun’s out and you’ve got a cold drink in hand!
The food is as good as you’d hope for in this part of town. The antipasto platter, loaded with prosciutto, salami, cheeses, and fresh bread, is perfect for picking at while you sip on a cocktail or a glass of wine. But let’s be real – you’re here for the pasta. The Rigatoni alla Carbonara is rich and creamy, with just the right amount of saltiness from the guanciale, and the Ravioli Wagyu is pure comfort food.
The drinks list has something for everyone, from classic Espresso Martinis to refreshing options like the Garden Spritz. Sitting outside with a drink and a big bowl of pasta, it’s easy to lose track of time – especially as Lygon Street comes alive in the evening with people heading to and from nearby bars and gelaterias. Definitely add this spot to your list of must-visit outdoor dining spots in Melbourne.
- Address: 130 Lygon Street, Carlton VIC 3035
- Hours: Mon-Sun 12-3pm & 6-10 pm
- Phone: (03) 8528 4547
Check out Da Guido La Pasta Da Guido La Pasta Menu
7. Marion Wine Bar
Marion is a go-to spot when you’re after an incredbile feed and a cracking glass of wine. Sitting pretty on Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, it’s always packed (it made our list of Melbourne’s best wine bars for a reason). Getting an outdoor table isn’t always easy (this place books out fast), but if you manage to snag one, you’re in for an amazing experience. Sitting outside, wine in hand, and watching Fitzroy’s characters pass through – it doesn’t get much more Melbourne than that.
The food is simple yet elegant. For example, the whitebait sandwich – it sounds simple but absolutely hits the spot. Or, opt for the octopus on toast with a kick of chilli oil. With other options like half roast duck or baked pipe rigate in vodka sauce, you’re guaranteed to have a good meal.
Plus, Marion’s got one of the best lists in town, from chilled reds perfect for an arvo session to interesting whites you won’t find at your local bottle-o. And if you’re more of a cocktail person, they’ve got you covered there too.
Once you’re done, you’re perfectly placed to kick on at one of the many nearby bars – Napier Hotel’s not too far away if you’re after a pub vibe, or you can walk a couple hundred metres to The Catfish for some banging cocktails.
- Address: 53 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
- Hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-10pm
- Phone: (03) 9419 6262
8. Hotel Esplanade
If you’re talking about iconic Melbourne outdoor dining venues, The Espy in St Kilda is unbeatable – and it’s our top pick for the best outdoor dining in Melbourne. Sitting right on the foreshore, this place is an absolute institution. You don’t just head here for the food and drinks (though they’re pretty spot on), you come for the atmosphere, the people-watching, and those killer beach views.
The Espy’s got a few outdoor spots to choose from, depending on how you’re feeling. The Main Bar & Terrace is prime real estate if you want to park yourself with a pint and take in the views of St Kilda Pier –plus, it’s got a retractable roof, so you’re covered rain or shine. The Sunroom is perfect if you’re chasing a sunny arvo on the deck, and the Balcony Bar? Let’s just say sipping a beer while looking out over St Kilda Beach is hard to beat.
Food-wise, you’re covered with everything from solid pub classics – like a proper chicken parma or beer-battered fish and chips – to pizzas, burgers, and some share plates too. Grab a seafood platter, sink a cold one, and you’re set. And the drinks list? Cocktails, local beers on tap, wines – it’s all there.
Things can get a bit rowdy as the night rolls on (it’s The Espy, after all), so if you’re after a quieter session, hit it up earlier in the evening. But if you’re keen for a big one, stick around – there’s live music pumping, plenty of spots to explore inside, and you can always roll into one of the nearby St Kilda bars after.
- Address: 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182
- Hours: Mon-Wed 12pm-10pm, Thurs 12pm-11pm, Fri & Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-1am
- Phone: (03) 9534 0211
9. City Wine Shop
Right across from Parliament House on Spring Street, you don’t get more quintessential outdoor Melbourne dining than City Wine Shop. The wine list is, as you’d expect, golden. It’s a wine shop first and foremost, so you’ve got shelves of bottles to choose from – just grab one at retail price and pay a small corkage fee to drink it there. Whether you’re after a bold Aussie red or something from Europe, they’ve got plenty of options. And if you’re just after a quick glass, the rotating by-the-glass options are always spot on.
Food-wise, City Wine Shop keeps things simple but bloody good. Think European bistro vibe – —pigs head fritti with gribiche, escargot with crusty baguette, and one apparently of the best chicken schnitzels going around. The steak frites is a winner too if you’re in the mood for something filling. Or just graze on a few small plates – marinated olives, salumi, polenta chips – and let the drinks do the talking.
It’s always popular, especially on sunny afternoons or when knock-off drinks roll around, so get in early if you’re eyeing an outdoor table. Once you’ve wrapped up, you’re in a prime spot to explore nearby bars, or take a stroll through the city.
- Address: 159 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Hours: Sun-Thurs 12pm-11pm, Fri & Sat 12pm-12am
- Phone: (03) 9654 6657
10. Hotel Jesus
Hotel Jesus in the heart of Collingwood is the place to go when you’re chasing good times, great tacos, and a serious hit of mezcal. Housed in what used to be a traditional Melbourne pub, it’s been transformed into a colourful, no-fuss taqueria with laid-back outdoor seating perfect for soaking up the Collingwood atmophere. The outdoor tables are always packed – especially during happy hour when tacos and margaritas go for a tenner – so get in early if you want a spot in the sun.
The menu features Mexican street food essentials: elote corn slathered in chipotle mayo, crunchy chilaquiles, and tacos that range from classic pork carnitas to crispy Baja fish. If you’re feeling game, the confit duck flautas or the beef brisket tacos are solid picks. Drinks-wise, the margaritas are punchy and there’s an impressive range of tequila and mezcal that could keep you there all afternoon (and into the night if you’re not careful).
Being right in Collingwood means you’ve got plenty of options after your meal – head down Smith Street to grab some Messina, which is only a hundred metres away, or walk a little further to Marquis of Lorne to keep the beers going.
- Address: 174 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066
- Hours: Mon-Thurs 5pm-9.30pm, Fri-Sun 12pm-9.30pm
- Phone: 0412 450 766
Honourable Mentions
- Hochi Mama: Vietnamese street food with a twist. Grab some crispy pork, chicken banh bao and a cocktail packed with lemongrass or coconut. The outdoor seating is perfect for a sunny arvo.
- Howler: Converted warehouse, garden vibes and plenty of drinks. Kick back with a cocktail or catch a live gig or DJ set. Never a dull moment here.
- Bridge Road Hotel: Classic Melbourne pub with cobblestones and plenty of outdoor spots. Cold beer, solid pub grub and room to settle in for the afternoon.
- Garden State Hotel: Four levels, two beer gardens and a killer drinks list. Grab a pint, order some croquettes and soak up the laid-back vibes.
How Man of Many Chose the Best Outdoor Dining in Melbourne
With an editorial team full of foodies, Man Of Many has had the unique opportunity to directly sample and experience some of the best outdoor dining spots in Melbourne. Our list is primarily based on experience, in-depth research and customer reviews of these venues. It’s our job to guide readers between competing products and services. For this article, we’ve provided our independent opinion in formulating these selections. Our editors have taken into account food, price, quality and atmosphere. You can read our review policy on how we maintain our independence in our editorial lists.
Updates to this article
- 25 Feb 2025: We removed Her, Portsea Hotel, Siglo, Uncle, Slate Restaurant & Bar, Garden Restaurant at NGV, Lona and Terminus Hotel, either because these spots have closed or we felt there were fresher, newer additions to replace our top 10. We added Marion Wine Bar, The Espy, City Wine Shop, and Hotel Jesus. We also update restaurant opening hours.
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