Best Melbourne restaurants with a view

The beauty of dining at St Kilda’s Stokehouse is that you don’t have to worry about requesting a table with a view. With floor-to-ceiling windows that span the entire dining room, you’re guaranteed a view of the glistening ocean regardless of where you’re sitting. It’s more than just scenery here though: the menu is on the finer side, yet leans into the salty surrounds through additions like saltbush and vinegar potato cakes (a menu mainstay) and sea perch ‘fish and chips’ with triple-cooked potatoes and a classic tartar. Be it a special occasion or a little treat yo' self moment, Stokehouse won’t disappoint. 

The Continental Hotel in Sorrento could be one of the most ambitious venues any chef could take on, and sure enough, Scott Pickett (Smith St Bistro, Estelle, Chancery Lane) rose to the challenge when he put fine-diner Audrey’s on the top floor. Aside from the breathtaking sea views, the seafood-only degustation menu ($150 per person) is top-notch, with equally impressive service to boot. It’s fancy without being stiff, and an absolute delight for both the eyes and the palate.

If it's the wow factor you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Located on the 40th floor of Oakwood Premier Melbourne, Strato is a sleek and sophisticated venue that's home to a modern Australian restaurant, two VIP function areas, a bar and an outdoor lounge. And yes, if there's one thing this sky-high space delivers on, it's spectacular views across Port Phillip Bay, the Yarra River and the CBD skyline.

If you can snap up a window seat at the Espy’s colourful Cantonese restaurant Mya Tiger, then do. You’ll enjoy bay views and soak up the best of both the vibe and flavour worlds. The large menu features many Chinese classics, as well as other additions that have a West-leaning twist. Start with the crunchy sesame prawn toast before moving onto a half-roast Peking duck served with all the accoutrements. Then, roll on downstairs and find your next adventure.

For those who prefer land to sea, Rare Hare’s position overlooking the vineyards in Merricks is a sight for sore eyes. The casual diner of Jackalope Hotel, Rare Hare is filled with communal wooden trestle tables and wood-fired ovens that make you want to take a seat and feast all day while enjoying the incredible vine-laced backdrop. Stroll on over from the cellar door and devour a seasonal menu that has something for everyone. Don’t leave without ordering the famous wood-fired chocolate chip cookie and malt ice cream – you won't regret it.

If you’re hitting up the Bellarine, be sure to make a pit stop at Fisho’s. The casual Torquay spot may be a fish and chip shop, but it’s not just any fish and chip shop. Consider it a low-key dine-in restaurant that anyone who knows, knows, and flocks to at any opportunity. The menu changes with the sea, so dishes like Bass Strait pineapple-cut squid or Port Phillip Bay sardines with nduja oil may make an appearance. If you’re more of a traditionalist, the battered fish is about as good as it gets, with hand-cut Mount Prospect potato chips that are a true labour of love. Top it off with a view of the beach and it’s well worth the detour.

You’ll head to Foxeys Hangout for the wine, you’ll stay for the food, and you’ll return time and time again for the view. This modest winery is one you could spend hours at, overlooking the hills and the vines, sipping on a fresh Mornington Peninsula drop and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere that comes with it. Winemaker Tony Lee’s skills don’t stop at the grapes – as a qualified chef they extend to dreaming up seasonal dishes made from local produce that complement the wines. At only $38 per person for the impressive set menu, it’d be rude not to.

City slickers, this one’s for you: Her Rooftop gives you the New York City-esque views and vibes, without the hefty fare ticket. By day you can catch the sunshine and city views, whilst by night you get the shimmering lights of the city surrounds. Whether you’re popping in for a midweek catch-up or a leisurely weekend lunch (care of Thai eatery BKK downstairs), it has solidified its place as one of the hottest rooftop bars in Melbourne, and we’re fairly sure the sweeping CBD vistas have a thing or two to do with it.