Melbourne's best beachside restaurants

What is it? At Donovans, the menu remains as familiar as the sandstone fireplace.
 And that, in essence, is why this beloved restaurant on the St Kilda foreshore still counts.

Why we love it: Donovan's first opened its doors in 1997 in a bathing house that was built in 1928, and it's remained a reliable seaside stalwart ever since. Its sunny, Med-leaning food isn’t threatening to push any envelopes – but sometimes comfort and reliability outpace the shock of the new.

Time Out tip: Bookmark this one for a special occasion.

Address: 40 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda, VIC 3182

Expect to pay: Around $100-130 per person, plus drinks

What is it? This seafood institution's luxe beach house charms have had us spellbound for decades – and like a fine wine, it's only getting better with time.

Why we love it: Excellent seafood is the name of the game at this sustainability-driven restaurant, and it's the sort of place where you feel compelled to dress up, gather your loved ones and dine out for a real celebration. Live your best life with the seafood platter or go all out with a whole rock lobster. Fun fact: on the back of a dinner review, Stokehouse won our Legend Award in 2023. Read our interview with executive chef Jason Staudt here.

Time Out tip: If you're after something just as classy but a little more low-key, Stokehouse Pasta and Bar downstairs has you covered for a relaxed beachside Mediterranean meal.

Address: 30 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda VIC 3182

Expect to pay: Snacks and starters $8-42, mains $59+, plus sides, drinks and a dessert (alternatively, Stokehouse's four-course set menus cost $185-215 a head)

What is it? Elwood Bathers is an all-day diner championing Victorian produce along the Elwood foreshore, seven days a week, from 11:30am until late.

Why we love it: The all-day menu features seafood heavily in dishes like kingfish crudo, frutti di mare linguine and the obligatory fish and chips next to an easy-going, New World wine list. Book a table on the terrace during summer for views all across the beach.

Time Out tip: After a wine that wows? This restaurant was awarded a prestigious three wine glasses in the Australia's Wine List of the Year awards in 2023.

Address: Elwood Park & Elwood Foreshore Reserve, 15, Elwood VIC 3184

Expect to pay: Snacks $9-28, starters $28-39, mains $44-88, plus drinks

What is it? Pipi's is a contemporary Aussie bistro on the Albert Park foreshore with an adjoining bougie kiosk for takeaway.

Why we love it: This spot is backed up by some serious hospo pedigree. Chef Jordan Clay has worked in Paris' Le Chateaubriand), and the co-owner and sommelier is wine whiz Tom Hunter. The venue champions sustainable and locally sourced seafood, done simply and done well. Sit in for a luxe four-course chef's selection menu or check it out for a casual a la carte experience, where you can feast on refined delights like snapper crudo, duck leg confit with root veggie cassoulet or the perfectly pan-seared John Dory fillet with Champagne cream sauce.

Time Out tip: Grab some fish and chips from the kiosk on your next stroll down the foreshore – we reckon it could just be some of Melbourne's finest.

Address: 129A Beaconsfield Parade, Albert Park VIC 3206

Expect to pay: Chef's selection menu $110

What is it? This cruisy seaside Sydney export offers fun, flavour-packed Italian fare that doesn’t take itself too seriously, with a glam roll call of cocktails and wood-fired flatbread that’s so good it’s gone viral on social media. 

Why we love it: While the ocean views and service deliver on the wow factor, it’s the food you’ll be back for. The pastas and fresh seafood dishes all hit the mark, and the generous antipasti plates certainly don't play second fiddle.

Time Out tip: Rather eat your dessert on the beach? There's a Neapolitan ice cream sandwich you can get in a takeaway box if you prefer. Enjoy it while you wiggle your toes in the sand and feel like a kid again.

Address: 30 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda VIC 3182

Expect to pay: Antipasti $10-26, mains $35-195, pasta $33-40, plus sides and a cocktail

What is it? There are plenty of reasons to pay Fisho's a visit next time you're down in Torquay: stunning beach views, fresh (and frozen, if you like) Margaritas and frosty pints of local craft brews – and last but not least, some of the freshest, best-cooked seafood you can find along the Great Ocean Road.

Why we love it: From the scallops and oysters to crispy traditional-style fish and chips, expect high-quality, locally sourced seafood that's best enjoyed in the sun. Owners and long-time friends Luke Edwards and Luke Dalton spent years working in bars and restaurants out in Victoria's ski fields before the bright idea to open a fresh seafood joint in their hometown was born. 

Time Out tip: Be sure to pair your meal with one of the excellent locally produced beers and wines on offer.

Address: 36 The Esplanade, Torquay VIC 3228

Expect to pay: Mains around $25, plus a drink

What is it? St Kilda locals have been blessed with their very own DOC restaurant for lip-smacking Italian eats and Negronis on the Esplanade.

Why we love it: Anyone who lives in Melbourne and loves Italian food is well aware of the DOC Group. The new venue offers the same authentic Italian dining experience as the OG Carlton destinations in a luxurious space that seats more than 100 diners. Blow in a nice sea breeze from the St Kilda foreshore and you get the picture. Freshly made pizza will feature (and trust us when we say it's some of the tastiest and you can try in town), with a selection of antipasti, primi and secondi rounding out the menu.

Time Out tip: This group's Lygon Street restaurant (formerly known as DOC Espresso) got a glow-up last year to become DOC Osteria. Get the scoop.

Address: 14-16 The Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182

Expect to pay: Pasta and pizza $28-55, plus antipasti and drinks

What is it? This St Kilda mega-pub, eating house and historic gig institution (certified rock 'n' roll royalty) boasts several distinct dining and drinking areas so that you can choose your own adventure.

Why we love it: What's not to love about the laidback, legendary and lil' bit wild Espy? There's something for everyone. Just want a bowl of chippies or a burger with your ice-cold pint? The Main Bar has you covered. If you're feeling saucy for an American-style Italian feast, make a booking at Louey's. And then there's Mya Tiger for all your yum cha and Cantonese food cravings. Oh, and the outdoor terrace area in summertime is the perfect spot for striking up a chat with a stranger.

Time Out tip: Did you know you can make a booking in a hidden upstairs area at the Espy? The immersive space is called the Ghost of Alfred Felton. Alfred Felton was an entrepreneur, chemist, philanthropist and art collector, and was once a resident of the Espy, and so this part of the pub is styled with unique antiques found all around the world.

Address: 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda VIC 3182

Expect to pay: Starters $21-28, most mains $32-38, plus a few drinks (at the Main Bar)

What is it? Here's that glitzy Aussie beach club you thought only existed in Sydney, where tans, talons, and crisp Polo shirts abound. That's not to say you have to dress up. St Kilda's backpackers mingle with the glamour set, all united by the desire to be sat next to sand, the Sea Baths (downstairs) and a bar. 

Why we love it: In the height of summer, Captain Baxter is the place to be. On weekends, the rooftop deck comes alive with DJs and a dancefloor. Have a boogie or simply sip and admire the views over stunning Port Phillip Bay. But don't overlook the food! Here, you can snack on beer-friendly snacks like prawn dumplings, kimchi-spiced fried chicken or duck sausage bao, or sit down to a multi-course meal. We can personally vouch for the banana fritters dessert.

Time Out tip: Hosting a gathering? We recommend booking a beach bungalow package, which includes your own private space, Spritzes or wine and snacks, plus the option to upgrade to Veuve Cliquot Champagne. Find out more here.

Address: 10-18 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda VIC 3182

Expect to pay: Around $50 per person for a chef's selection to share, plus drinks

What is it? The family-friendly Cerberus Beach House serves modern Australian food with a focus on locally sourced produce.

Why we love it: Tucked away in Half Moon Bay, this venue is an idyllic spot to while away a sunny afternoon. Think hearty portions, quality ingredients and good vibes at the sit-down restaurant, or grab some well-priced fish and chips from the kiosk to eat on the sand. Bonus points: Half Moon Bay is an epic spot for watching a sunset, so here you can set the scene for that perfect romantic moment – preferably over a lavish seafood platter for two ($160).

Time Out tip: Just note that seagull-ian locals may require a chippie tax.

Address: Boat shed, 16 Cerberus Way, 212 Half Moon Bay, Black Rock VIC 3193

Expect to pay: Starters $25-27, mains $45-62

What is it? Sebastian in Williamstown serves Basque-style food and culture, complete with the requisite beachside view. 

Why we love it: Take a trip to San Sebastián without the 24-hours of travel. Flavoursome, charred delights are on the menu, with a focus on share plates. During November to March, they offer alfresco dining (weather permitting); however, the inside dining room is so gorg you won't mind staying inside.

Time Out tip: If you're dining inside, be sure to specify that you'd like a window table.

Address: 26 Esplanade, Williamstown VIC 3016

Expect to pay: Set menus $75-115, plus drinks

What is it? Baia Di Vino, or Wine Bay, serves Mediterranean fare at its un-fussy best. 

Why we love it: You'll be transported straight to the Amalfi Coast while you nibble on the thoughtful small bites or gorge on the crowd-pleasing pasta. Hit the carbs too hard? Sandringham Beach is a stone's throw away for an after-dinner passeggiata.

Time Out tip: The same owners of Baia di Vino recently opened swanky contemporary European diner Lucia in South Melbourne. Check it out!

Address: 1 Melrose St, Sandringham VIC 3191

Expect to pay: Small plates $10-24, pasta $38-42, mains $48-60, plus wines

What is it? This award-winning Port Melbourne chippie has all the greats: fried dimmies, potato cakes, burgers and battered hot dogs – plus ice cream, burgers and beer. 

Why we love it: For traditionalists, there's a wide variety of seafood available, and all of it can be cooked in your preferred style. Enjoy it at one of the inside or outside tables, or get it takeaway and eat it right on the sand. Those tranquil views over the water are lovely.

Time Out tip: Can't eat gluten? D'Lish Fish offers an extensive variety of gluten-free fish and chips that are totally celiac-safe (yet still delicious). The gluten-free batter is made with all-natural ingredients

Address: 105 Beach St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207

Expect to pay: Seafood and snack packs $18-24