Over the years, Southgate has drifted from my consciousness as a culinary, artistic and cultural touchstone of Melbourne.
While many of my happiest childhood memories feature the riverside stretch – especially the beloved Bluetrain restaurant, where my grandparents would always take my sister and I for dinner after an exciting excursion to Scienceworks – the passing years have seen me lose touch with the area. Instead of a destination, it somehow became nothing more than a quick pit stop for coffee and/or a sushi hand roll on busy days in the city.
But after venturing back for the #YourSouthgate campaign, I’m happy to announce that Southgate is just as lively, diverse and delicious as my wildest childhood recollections. #YourSouthgate aims to showcase the precinct’s vibrance, with the idea that there’s truly something for everyone on offer. Southgate is more than a pitstop; it’s a gateway to the arts with a beating culinary heart. I was lucky enough to join a few other Melbourne food critics on a bespoke tour of the area’s most popular haunts in honour of the campaign, and it rewrote the script entirely.
After a beautiful boat tour on the Yarra River for a fresh and unique perspective, we arrived at our first stop; Waterfront. With a luxe interior and impeccable views of the river, the restaurant is a well-loved location for sophisticated sunset pours and romantic date nights. Upon arrival, we were greeted with fresh flutes of Moët (how divine!) and a truly awe-inspiring seafood spread. I tried my first oyster at the ripe age of 27 and, although it was a shock to the system, found it quite delicious with the help of some lemon juice and Tabasco.
Next, we made our way to Bearbrass, a laidback waterfront bar with the air of casual Friday knockoffs. The tomato and parmesan arancini balls with romesco were the perfect palate cleanser, while the elderflower spritz rounded it out with a touch of sweetness. I really loved the relaxed atmosphere, and the service was exceptional.
Our next location was PJ O’Brien’s, Melbourne’s most iconic Irish pub. The interior makes you feel like you’ve just stepped foot into Dublin; all dark mahogany and rich ambient lighting. I’m not sure if it’s just my algorithm, but I’ve been on ‘spice bag Tik Tok’ for quite a while, so was excited to try a ‘curry on a Saturday night.’ PJ didn’t disappoint, with spice bags to share, mini beef and Guinness pies, Celtic tasting plates and, of course, pints of Guinness all around. The spice bag was a marvel; rich and salty and just the right sort of hot. I was sad to leave, but on we strode to our final restaurant of the night; Hacienda Cocina Mexicana.
Even I know Hacienda is hype right now, and for good reason. The second-storey views of the river were stunning, while the interior felt slick and modern. This spread was by far the most impressive; crispy fried fish fillet with plantain and seafood salsa, clay-baked beetroot with cashew mole, poached chicken with burnt pineapple and pico de gallo, cucumber and apple salad, homemade guac and plenty of hot chips. Every dish was as delicious as the next, and the spicy margaritas were to die for. I’d definitely make the trip to Hacienda again, not just for the views but for the mouthwatering meals and friendly wait staff.
And so the night came to a close, but not before we indulged in a nightcap at Waterslide Bar. Hidden behind a secret door at the rear of Southgate Melbourne, it felt like we were stepping into another world where anything was possible. The drinks menu at Waterslide is extensive, with treats like The King’s Flip (banana rum and peanut butter whiskey mix) and Luxuria (coffee tequila and cream concoction) on offer. It felt like the perfect place for intimate pre-theatre cocktails with friends or a prelude to girls’ night.
I love being proven wrong. With my foray back into Southgate Melbourne complete, I can admit wholeheartedly that it’s not just a place to pass through as I thought. It’s a buzzing network of good food, great drinks and even better people.
So next time you’re waiting for a show at the Arts Centre or meeting with a friend, give Southgate a spin. I’m sure that, like me, you’ll be delighted.
Image credits: @sandisieger.co
