Our Expert Guide to South Melbourne
We have compiled a list of our favourite South Melbourne destinations. We highlight the best places to eat, drink, shop, and play in the area. We guarantee that you’ll have an exceptional time visiting and experiencing each of these fantastic locations.
- By Gamuda Land
- 23 November 2022
Wedged between the CBD and Albert Park, South Melbourne has risen to become one of Melbourne’s most desirable places to live. With world-class dining, boutique retailers, and an array of places to play, South Melbourne is a neighbourhood that is certain to keep you occupied and satisfied. Here are our favourite places to visit in the area; we’re sure that they’ll soon become your favourites as well.
South Melbourne Market, by Tim O’Connor
South Melbourne Market
Providing the local community with delicious treats and the freshest produce since 1867, South Melbourne Market acts as the anchor for the entire community. Individuals, couples, and families come from all over Melbourne to do their weekly grocery shopping at the markets.
Visitors are greeted with a hive of activity upon entering the markets. Here you can find an astonishing array of gourmet eateries and cafes, both within and around the market. Cuisines from every corner of the globe are on offer with diners truly being spoiled for choice. We can guarantee that there is something for everyone.
The South Melbourne Market is also a great place to purchase a souvenir or gift. Local artisans and craftspeople sell their wares at fantastic prices, ensuring you get an heirloom-worthy piece that is both high-quality and affordable.
Park Street Pasta & Wine Bar, by Tim O’Connor
Places to eat and drink
South Melbourne’s finest food is not restricted to the market. One of our favourite places to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and breakfast is in the beautifully designed café The Kettle Black. The friendly staff here serve you an array of delicious meals from an expertly curated menu. You truly experience all that is great about Melbourne café culture when you pay a visit to The Kettle Black.
If you are more inclined towards a sandwich, fresh or toasted, then Hector’s Deli is a must-visit destination. Serving extremely flavourful “sangas”, this Coventry Street staple is the perfect place to visit for lunch. Our expert tip is to get in early and beat the queues which start to ramp up around midday each day.
When it comes to dinner time you can’t look past a visit to either Half Acre or Park Street Pasta & Wine. Half Acre offers diners a refined take on Australian pub classics all served in a gorgeous naturally illuminated courtyard. Park Street Pasta & Wine, as the name suggests, specialises in classic Italian dishes with a modern interpretation. Don’t let their concise assortment of wines fool you, here the selection is certainly quality over quantity.
Places to shop
South Melbourne is a fantastic place to shop for something truly unique. As we mentioned earlier, the market provides a wide array of superb craft stalls and shopfronts, but South Melbourne’s main thoroughfare Coventry Street is where the suburbs’ retailers shine.
Vincent Design Supply stocks an exceptional selection of Scandinavian furniture and décor brands. This family-run business recently launched its in-house brand, The Every Day range, stocked with living essentials that evoke the unending passion the family has for artisanal homewares.
If you are more inclined to eclectic fashion and styling, a visit to Pomegranate should be on the cards. Those who enter the store are greeted with a wide variety of products that reflect the shopfront’s commitment to individuality.
For those who love Japanese ceramics and tableware, Made In Japan is the place for you. Tucked away on Wynyard Street, it may take some effort to find the boutique but once you do find it, you’ll see that it is worth the sleuthing. The family-run business provides shoppers with a charming array of small-batch ceramics purchased directly from Japanese ceramicists. Each piece has been crafted to ensure they are of the highest quality all the while being truly unique.
South Melbourne Beach, by Tim O’Connor
Places to play
Beyond the shops, restaurants, and cafes, South Melbourne provides residents and visitors with plenty of places to get some fresh air and exercise. For those brave enough, you can take a dip in the chilly waters and join the Port Melbourne Icebergers who swim 365 days a year. Alternatively, you can simply walk along the beach pathway and take in the breathtaking bay views. Plus, did we mention that it is a favourite place to visit for dog walkers?
On the fringes of the area is the renowned Albert Park. This multi-use precinct has a wide variety of sporting and recreational areas. You can take a stroll around the lake, play a round of gold on the Albert Park golf course, or use one of the sporting facilities. The Albert Park precinct and South Melbourne truly have it all.
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