Alfresco dining destinations in Melbourne
Officina Gastronomica Italiana
Address: 532–534 Malvern Road, Prahran VIC 3181
Distance from CBD: Approximately 4.5 km
Cuisine: Italian
Bookings: Online reservations and phone bookings accepted
Officina Gastronomica Italiana has expanded its outdoor dining area following the installation of a newly upgraded pergola. As a result, alfresco capacity has increased while maintaining year-round usability. The covered space now supports breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.
Originally opened in 2014, the venue began as an espresso bar, Officine Zero. However, it doubled in size in 2023 to operate as a full-service café and restaurant. The kitchen is led by Turin-born Head Chef Gabriele Coniglio, with a menu focused on traditionally prepared, house-made pasta. Meanwhile, the beverage offering features Italian artisan wines curated by owner Claudio Casoni, alongside speciality espresso.
Farmer’s Daughters
Address: 80 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Distance from CBD: Approximately 0.5 km
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Bookings: Online reservations required
Farmer’s Daughters operates across multiple levels within the 80 Collins precinct. Notably, the venue includes a rooftop dining area integrated into its broader farm-to-table concept. Produce is sourced from regional Victoria, with a strong emphasis on Gippsland suppliers.
Above street level, the rooftop functions as both a dining and bar space. Consequently, it supports seated service alongside seasonal menus and a structured drinks list. The restaurant forms part of a wider hospitality group operating several Victorian produce-led venues.
Waterfront Southgate
Address: Shop 20, 3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank VIC 3006
Distance from CBD: Approximately 0.7 km
Cuisine: Seafood and steak
Bookings: Online bookings and phone reservations available
Waterfront Southgate is positioned along the Yarra River on the Southbank promenade. Accordingly, outdoor seating runs parallel to the water with uninterrupted river views. The alfresco area operates across lunch and dinner service.
In addition, the menu focuses on seafood and grill-based dishes. These include oysters, whole fish, and premium cuts of beef. The venue has traded at Southgate for decades and remains one of the precinct’s longest-standing restaurants.
Chocolate Buddha
Address: Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
Distance from CBD: Approximately 0.6 km
Cuisine: Japanese
Bookings: Online bookings and walk-ins accepted
Chocolate Buddha occupies a prominent position within Federation Square. Importantly, it features a large outdoor terrace spanning two sides of the venue. The alfresco seating operates under permanent umbrellas throughout the year.
Meanwhile, the menu covers a broad range of Japanese staples, including sushi, ramen, and bento-style meals. The venue is fully licensed and trades extended hours. As a result, it supports both dining and casual bar service.
Goldy’s Tavern
Address: 66 Gold Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
Distance from CBD: Approximately 3.1 km
Cuisine: Pub dining
Bookings: Walk-ins accepted; group bookings available
Goldy’s Tavern operates from a restored Collingwood pub. Notably, it includes a substantial outdoor beer garden that functions as a primary seating area during warmer months. The alfresco space trades across lunch and dinner service.
Food offerings focus on classic pub meals, supported by rotating specials. At the same time, the drinks list highlights Australian craft beer and cocktails. The venue has received national hospitality recognition and continues to operate as a neighbourhood-focused pub.