Southgate’s Riverside Revelry: Plates, Pints, and Perfect Views on the Yarra
Southgate Melbourne, with its riverside locale and impressive lineup of eateries, puts on a show with every dish, drink, and city view. Recently, we took a media tour through the centre, sampling a vibrant range of flavours across a series of must-try spots – and let’s just say, Southgate left an impression.
Place mentioned
Southgate
Waterfront Southgate kicked things off in style with a menu that showcases fresh seafood alongside bubbles. This seafood spot is all about classics done well: think plump oysters, seafood platters stacked with prawns, scallops, and mussels, or buttery lobster that melts in the mouth. The Champagne pairing makes for an experience as refined as it is satisfying, especially with Melbourne’s nightscape glistening just beyond the table.
From there, we wandered over to BearBrass, a lively eatery right on the water with a knack for sprucing up Australian favourites. The Elderflower Spritz was a refreshing start, perfectly paired with two of their signature small plates. First, the Tuna Tataki – seared to perfection, with a subtle, tangy dressing that complemented its buttery texture. Then there’s the Arancini, crispy on the outside, with a creamy centre that delivered a hit of flavour without being too heavy. BearBrass has managed to strike a balance between easy-going and refined – the perfect spot for drinks that lead into dinner.
For a hearty, Irish-inspired detour, P.J. O’Brien’s Irish Pub welcomed us with the famous Irish Spice Bags, a fan-favourite for good reason. These crispy fried chicken pieces and thick-cut chips come seasoned with the familiar flavours of Ireland’s street food scene. Paired with a frothy pint of Guinness, it’s the kind of comfort food that works just as well for a casual lunch as it does for late-night bites. P.J. O’Brien’s isn’t shy about its Irish roots, and the experience brings an authentic pub feel that’s all about the food and atmosphere.
Our next stop was Hacienda, a Mexican haven where chilli margaritas and bold plates bring a whole lot of spice to Southgate. Hacienda’s margaritas are not just refreshing – they pack a pleasant heat that balances out the tang of fresh lime. On the plate, dishes like ceviche and tacos deliver a fresh, vibrant experience, with flavours that range from smoky to zesty. The upbeat energy, paired with the vivid colours and aromas, makes Hacienda an ideal spot for anyone after Mexican fare that doesn’t hold back.
Lastly, the evening rounded out at Waterslide Bar, where cocktails are crafted with care and creativity. Waterslide is all about atmosphere – its cosy, stylish interior invites you to linger, and the drinks menu makes that decision easy. Classics like Old Fashioneds and Negronis are given inventive twists, while new creations showcase the bartenders’ knack for balancing bold and subtle flavours in a single glass.
Southgate Melbourne makes for an ideal outing, offering tastes from every corner of the globe, whether it’s seafood, pub favourites, or cocktails with a creative twist. Big thanks to Sandie Sieger for guiding us through this flavourful experience, proving Southgate’s reputation as a riverside gem with something delicious at every turn.
Southgate Melbourne, with its riverside locale and impressive lineup of eateries, puts on a show with every dish, drink, and city view. Recently, we took a media tour through the centre, sampling a vibrant range of flavours across a series of must-try spots – and let’s just say, Southgate left an impression.
