New restaurants, bars and cafes in St Kilda and Southside

There's a heap of new restaurants, bars and cafes in St Kilda and Southside just waiting to be discovered. From expertly crafted cocktails to cosy brunch joints, must-try Italian and the Thai everyone is talking about, break the routine and explore something new.

New restaurants and bars

Charlong, St Kilda

It has not been open long, but contemporary Thai restaurant Charlong is already one of the Southside dining scene's most talked-about new additions. Step into a warm, inviting space filled with tantalising aromas and a bright mural-covered feature wall by local artist era1dog. Ex-Longsong, BangBang and Rice Paper Scissors head chef Alex Kaew heads up the kitchen. Feast on a menu inspired by family recipes, full of authentic Thai flavors and the finest Australian produce. Think flavor-packed prawn betel leaf, Kaffir lime-cured Hiramasa kingfish sashimi with caviar, salt and pepper crispy silken tofu, and smoky eggplant green curry—perfect comfort food for a cold winter’s night.

Don’t miss the Thai Ceylon Tart (Thai tea pannacotta, brown butter crumble, whipped coconut) for the perfect finish.

Loudmouth upstairs renovated and reopened

Big things are happening at the old Big Mouth site, now reinvented as Loud Mouth bar. The crew from recently closed Bunny Bar on Fitzroy Street has just revamped and reopened the upstairs space, tranforming it into a new diner, bar, and late-night club. Think 70s discotheque-meets-vintage-cocktails interior, with plush chaise lounges, booths overlooking Acland Street, free pool– and a well-stocked bar. Plus a brand new menu with decadent St Louis-style pizzas, old school buffalo wings and a Thursday steak night featuring a perfectly cooked $25 porterhouse. Open Thursday to Sundays.

The Fifth Province's new whiskey bar

One of St Kilda's busiest Irish joints, The Fifth Province, has just opened a sleek new whisky bar on Fitzroy Street.

An eye-catching space with a warm, golden glow, bar seating and tables are ready to welcome serious drinkers. There's a huge range of whiskies from around the world, plus tasting flights and cocktails, and food from the Fifth Province menu. The new bar is part of a major overhaul to the venue, which has also includes a new outdoor Verandah, perfect for sunnier weather.

Shelanous

Shelanous is more than just a restaurant; it's a dazzling, multi-sensory experience that takes elevated dining to a new level of spectacle. Originally starting as a pop-up, the venue opened its doors in Port Melbourne in February, and offers just 22 seats per sitting. Guests are taken on a immersive culinary journey, exploring Melbourne's 'four seasons in one day', over 10 superbly crafted courses and matched beverages. Exuding theatrical flair at every moment, it's a treat for all five senses - and you will not experience anything else like it in Melbourne. Think fiery tricks, dazzling lights, a bespoke soundscape and a dessert-themed Winter wonderland.

The Clarendon

The team that behind Mirror Mirror Rooftop Bar, have just expanded their South Melbourne footprint to include a new restaurant on the ground floor of the historic Clarendon Hotel. The Clarendon is an upmarket dining experience with an Asian Fusion culinary experience, along with a globally-focused wine list. The ground floor has been transformed into an glamourour space, with eye-catching ceiling lights evoking a moody, intimate atmosphere.

Jekyll and Hyde

The old Veludo space on Acland Street is buzzing again with the recent opening of the new bar, Jekyll and Hyde. Downstairs, Dr Jekyll’s Tavern recreates a British pub experience with a wide range of beers, regular sports broadcasts, and a weekly trivia league. The menu features classic comfort foods that homesick expats yearn for, such including scotch egg with black pudding, three varieties of stuffed Yorkshire pudding, and a classic Sunday roast. There's plenty of outdoor seating to take in the St Kilda sunshine on warmer days. Coming soon upstairs is Mr Hyde’s Garden Bar and Nightclub - watch this space.

D.O.C., St Kilda

Newly opened on St Kilda's Upper Esplanade, D.O.C. offers authentic Italian cuisine against a picturesque bay backdrop. The warm indoor space has cosy tables, banquet seating and bar to perch on, while outside there's iconic St Kilda views of palms, sea, and sunset. Their Neapolitan pizzas, widely loved by Melburnians, are a huge draw but the menu extends to much broader territority. Choose from favourites such as home-style lasagna and classic tiramisu to more contemporary options including bucatini neri alle vongole with pipis and seaweed or campanelle with duck and Montenegro ragu and truffle Reggiano foam. And save room for antipasto plates including Grilled Skull Island prawns, baby burrata with zuccini agrodolce, and truffled beef tartare.

Lucia, South Melbourne

The team behind suburban gems Riserva, Baia Di Vino and San Lorenzo, has just opened Lucia, a new Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar in South Melbourne. Located in the Eleven Building on Eastern Road, expect warm, old school hospitality, seasonal dishes and 400+ bottle wine list. The elegant dining space accommodates up to 80 people and there's also marble-clad bar, perfect for casual drop-ins. Headed by Jordan Clavaron, formerly of Cutler and Co, the kitchen presents a diverse menu, from snacks to share plates, from Fremantle octopus skewer with red pepper sauce, beetroot ravioli to a 1 kilgram dry-aged rib-eye steak with chimichurri.

Saint George, St Kilda

Saint George is latest venue from chef Karen Martini, the creative mind behind St Kilda venues Mr Wolf and legendary ‘90s bar Melbourne Wine Room. Freshly opened in the iconic Saint hotel site on Fitzroy Street, expect a summer clubhouse vibe and an Italian-inspired menu, with lovingly handmade pasta and playful renditions of Australian pub classics.

Brewmanity, South Melbourne

Brewmanity, a new artisan brewery and rooftop bar, has just opened in South Melbourne . Sip on a locally crafted ale while taking in panoramic views on the Next Level rooftop, which accommodates up to 400 guests. With a retractable roof, it is also completely weather proof. On the ground-floor, their industrial-style Beer Hall offering a closer glimpse of the brewing process. The drinks list includes 12 house-made brews and two blenders on tap, Australian wines and classic cocktails. The contempoary food menu caters to a wide range of dietaries with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. But it's not just about beer and views. Giving back is also an essential part of Brewmanity's mission. A portion of all beer sales goes towards Fight MND, while their 'Sip and Sizzle' initiative offers fundraising opportunities for local community groups. Cheers to that!

Pirate Life , South Melbourne

Acclaimed South Australian brewer, Pirate Life, has just unveiled its first Melbourne location, around the corner from South Melbourne Market. Housed in a revamped mechanics’ garage with exposed bricks, greenery and industrial finishes, it has room for up to 220 patrons. There's 14 house brews on tap to try, ranging from the popular South Coast Pale Ale to limited releases like Vanilla Malt Thickshake Nitro IPA. The menu highlights fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, offering market fish, prime meat cuts sold by weight, and bar snacks including wood-fired flatbread, fresh Pacific oysters, and pickled octopus carpaccio.

Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge, South Melbourne

A new rooftop bar, Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge, has just opened above the historic Clarendon Hotel. The ambiance is impeccable, offering stunning views of the city skyline. A selection of Snow White-themed gin and rum-based cocktails on the drinks list has high novelty value - they're also really good. Get started with the the Evil Witch Spritz (Creme de violette, Campari, lemon, gin, prosecco) or The Huntsman (Bacardi white rum, ginger liqueur, lime and apple). Pair your drink with Asian-inspired dishes such as soft-shell crab, pork dumplings, or the pan-grilled barramundi in Thai-style chili dressing. There's a retractable roof and warming heaters to keep the winter's chill away/

The Walrus, St Kilda

Breathing new life into the old Mr Wolf site on Inkerman Street, new wine and oyster bar The Walrus is a neighbourhood favourite in the making. With an intimate atmosphere and friendly service, it’s perfect for after-work drop ins and close-to-home weekend catch ups. Visit for premium European and Australian wines, including around 20 by the glass, daily pinxtos and a rotating menu of fresh oysters from around Australia. Jazz-inspired favourites on the in-house turntable adds to the ambiance.

Bayroute, Port Melbourne

Newly opened bayside bar and grill, Bayroute offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a modern Australian flair. With an idyllic location overlooking Port Melbourne Beach, it's perfect for sunset views, with both outdoor and indoor dining options. Sip on handcrafted cocktails paired with freshly caught mussels, fish tartar and salt and pepper calamari. Dive into mouth-watering mains like Moroccan chicken with homemade spice rub and pear couscous, blue swimmer crab linguini and aged blue cheese risotto. Or explore the grill menu, with tempting choices such as Riverine grain-fed sirloin or the New Zealand Lamb Rack. Port Melbourne brewer CBCo and local distillery Stalward Whiskey both feature on the drinks list, alongside a selection of Victorian wines.

Rosie's Bar, Elwood

A new secret watering hole, Rosie's Bar, has opened behind Johnny's Coffee Roasters in Elwood. Venture through an unmarked door on Ormond Road to discover a leafy beer garden with a relaxed, summery vibe. Expect vinyl tunes, laid-back drinks, and friendly staff. With no website, and barely any social media, it's the new local you'll want to keep to yourself. Doors swing open Fridays and Saturdays from 3 pm, and Sundays from 1pm. Hunt them down at the back of 157 Ormond Road.

Mondo di Pasta, Balaclava

New Balaclava pasta and wine bar Mondo di Pasta just opened its doors in February on Carlisle Street. Their menu offers a myriad of choose-your-own pasta and sauce combinations with most dishes priced at around $20. The value continues with $8 beer and wine options on the drinks list, alongside a selection of Aperol Spritzes. It's the perfect stop for a working lunch, takeaway or quick after work dinner. Their cute outdoor courtyard at the back of the venue is a perfect for sunny days.

New cafes and brunch spots

Dickens Street Grocer

New Elwood café and grocer Dickens Street Grocer has just opened in an old milk bar on Barkly Street. Dive into a mouthwatering array of house-made goodies including Basque cheesecakes, cinnamon crullers, fluffy olive and basil focaccia, and supersized childhood treats like lamingtons and honey joys— and lolly bags for kids of all ages. There’s plenty of farm-fresh produce, gourmet deli items and staples to top up your pantry. Think Peter Bouchier Cape Grim Porterhouse steaks, Daylesford Condiment Co. strawberry jam, Barossa Valley Cheese Co. camembert, Melbourne-made Posh Crumpets. Plus a just-launched range of pre-made meals and must-have merch—totes, aprons, mugs, and T-shirts. Swing by for a morning coffee + mixed berry granola or grab a triple-cheese toastie, or house-made pie for lunch (treats for your fur babies coming soon). All this and it’s just a five minute walk to St Kilda Botanic Gardens or the Elwood foreshore.

Savion cakes and bagels

An old-school bagel, cakes and coffee spot, Savion Cakes and Bagels, has just opened on Carlisle Street. Drawing from Ukraine baking traditions, Savion Cakes and Bagels owners Sergiy and Ina make everything in-house, including 10 types of bagels from classic sesame and poppy seed to unique flavours like vegemite and cheese, blueberry and choc chip. There's also an extensive range of beautiful cakes and pastries, including a $7 cake and coffee special for when you're craving that mid-morning sugar hit. The delicious dine-in menu features breakfast favourites like truffled omelette with seasonal mushrooms and shakshuka eggs, and lunches including tuna niçoise, crispy barramundi and potato gnocchi.

Au Naturale, St Kilda

Located at 6 Acland Street, just a couple of doors up from The Prince, Al Naturale offers a fresh take on natural, healthy cuisine, using ingredients from sustainable and ethical Victorian suppliers. From house-made granola to freshly baked almond croissants, many dishes are crafted in-house. The coffee hails from Coburg roaster St Remio. Before they were a cafe, the business got their start selling a range of Melbourne-made almond milk at South Melbourne Market. Renowned for its highest almond percentage in Australia (20 percent), nuts are sourced from Victorian farmers without pesticides. The Al Naturale milk range, which also includes hazelnut and walnut variations, and a signature chai mix, is also available for purchase on-site.

Arlo, Elwood

Visitors might miss Arlo's narrow shopfront on Ormond Road, but for locals, the word is already out. For over month they've been smashing out coffee, breakfast and lunches to enthusiastic crowds. Step into the inviting wooden interior, bathed in natural light from the plant-covered outside feature wall. The Canadian maple toasted granola, bursting with seasonal fruits, acai, and goji berries, is a flavour-packed brunch option. Or try the bacon benny with toasted thick-cut brioche and sriracha hollandaise. But you can't go past the smashed avo. Made with a generous serving of avocado, feta, red chilli and pomegranites on sourdough, it's breakfast perfection. The menu caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with adaptability for some dishes.

Ugo Burrata Bar, South Melbourne

Newly opened at South Melbourne Market, Ugo Burrata Bar is a must-visit for foodies craving the classic Italian delight from Puglia – burrata, a creamy blend of mozzarella and cream. Options include burrata with toast (served with avocado, bacon jam, chilli), a bagel (heirloom tomato, chili), or focaccia (eggplant caponata or porchetta). If you prefer burrata as the star, standalone combos like Finnochia (fennel salami, rockmelon, capers, parsley salsa) and Peperonata (braised peppers, basil, breadcrumbs) are also available.

Hello Sparrow, Balaclava

Recently opened at the former Garage site on Chapel Street, Hello Sparrow is quickly becoming a local favorite for coffee and brunch. Crafted by Chef T, whose culinary journey spans Auckland and Queenstown, the menu features freshly baked pastries and hearty brunch options, all made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Almond milk smoothies and fresh juices are on offer in addition to coffee. For a unique twist, try the peanut butter choc or strawberries and cream protein shakes.

Coming soon

Juju's Deli, South Melbourne

Northside coffee and foccacia fave Juju's Deli is opening a Southside location, around the corner from South Melbourne Market. Doors are due to open in spring. Keep an eye on their insta for updates.

Cafe Di Stasio comeback

Big things are on the way for iconic St Kilda restaurant Cafe di Stasio, which is set to relaunch soon.

A new gallery space, Spazio Di Stasio, devoted to a new art work from renowned Australian artist Shaun Gladwell will open above the restaurant. The reopening of Cafe Di Stasio and Bar Di Stasio, semi-dormant since the pandemic, will coincide with the gallery's launch. Bar Di Stasio will undergo a Neapolitan transformation, offering street food like palle di riso and hand-held folded pizza, while Cafe Di Stasio will revive classics and introduce new dishes.