Southbank is one of Melbourne’s most popular dining precincts, with its stunning riverside views, bustling promenade, and plenty of options for every taste. But when you’ve got kids in tow, not every restaurant is easy to navigate.
The good news? There are lots of family-friendly restaurants in Southbank Melbourne that make eating out with kids a breeze. Think high chairs, space for prams, relaxed service, kids’ menus and – most importantly – food the whole family will enjoy.
If you’re exploring the Yarra, heading to the Arts Centre, or catching a show at Southbank Theatre, this list of the best family restaurants in Southbank (and nearby South Wharf) will help you plan your next meal out with kids.
What Makes a Family-Friendly Restaurant in Southbank?
When we’re choosing a place to eat out in Southbank with kids, these are the things we look for:
- Easy access for prams and strollers
- Space to move without feeling cramped
- High chairs available
- A varied menu that appeals to both adults and kids
- Bonus points: change tables, colouring sheets, or a spot nearby where kids can stretch their legs
Like the CBD, timing is everything. Southbank gets busy at peak meal times, so going early for lunch (11/11:30am) or dinner (5/5:30pm) can make for a much calmer experience with children.
Best Family-Friendly Restaurants Southbank
1. Baci
A Southbank institution, Baci is known for its welcoming atmosphere and Italian comfort food. With hearty pastas, wood-fired pizzas and kid-sized portions, it’s a hit with families. Outdoor seating along the promenade means there’s plenty of space for prams, and kids can watch the boats go by while waiting for their meal.
Baci Restaurant, Crown Riverwalk, Crown Melbourne, 21/8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
2. Hophaus
Nestled along the Yarra, Hophaus Southbank combines delicious food with stunning views. Enjoy generous meals and weekly specials, including their famous rotisserie roast in a vibrant yet tranquil setting.
Conveniently located near cultural hotspots, it’s a perfect stop for a leisurely lunch or a cosy dinner with the kids.
Hophaus Southbank, Mid Level, MR5, Southgate Restaurant & Shopping Precinct, Southbank VIC 3006, (03) 9682 5900
3. Waterfront Southgate
Perfect for a special occasion, this riverside restaurant serves up fresh seafood and steaks with spectacular views of the Yarra. While it’s more upmarket, the spacious dining room and accommodating staff make it family-friendly.
Waterfront Southgate, Southgate Precinct, Shop 20/3 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
4. La Camera
This Italian favourite offers classic, kid-approved dishes like spaghetti bolognese and margherita pizza. It’s pram and wheelchair accessible, and the big windows overlooking the river give little ones plenty to look at while they eat.
La Camera, MR2/3 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
5. Kitchen Workshop, Crown Melbourne
Crown Melbourne is known for its impressive dining options, and Kitchen Workshop is a family favourite thanks to its all-you-can-eat buffet at a very reasonable price. This spacious, casual restaurant inside Crown offers a huge self-serve spread – think hearty hot dishes, fresh salads, roasts, and a dessert bar that kids will love.
During the school holidays, we often take advantage of their buy one adult meal, get one kids’ meal free deal and managed a feast for just $35 in total!
Related post: Family-Friendly Feasts: 9 Of Melbourne’s Finest Buffet Breakfasts
6. Teatro Southbank
An Italian restaurant right on the promenade, great for pre- or post-show dining. The menu has pizzas, pastas and gelato, and staff are welcoming to kids and groups.
Teatro Southbank, Hamer Hall Tenancy A, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006
7. Red Emperor Chinese Restaurant
A long-running Chinese restaurant in Southbank, great for families who want dumplings, noodles or banquet-style dining. Plenty of room for groups and prams.
Red Emperor Chinese Restaurant, M10/3 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
8. Tutto Bene
Known for risotto and handmade Italian dishes, Tutto Bene is one of our top family-friendly picks while still offering a touch of sophistication. Pram-friendly and high chairs available, with Yarra views.
9. Melba Restaurant, The Langham Hotel Melbourne
One of our favourite family restaurants in Southbank Melbourne, has to be the renowned Melba Restaurant at The Langham Hotel Melbourne. This luxurious venue is famous for its extravagant buffet, which covers cuisines from around the world. Expect everything from a made-to-order egg station with all the trimmings, to French toast, pancakes and waffles, plus gyoza, spring rolls and much more.
For families, Melba is a winner thanks to its wide selection (even the fussiest eaters will find something they like) and attentive service. Children under 3 dine free, and kids aged 4–12 eat at half price – great value for a five-star hotel setting. Just note that buffet breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays is reserved for hotel guests.
Melba Restaurant, The Langham, Melbourne, 1 Southgate Avenue Southbank VIC 3006, 1800 641 107, rest.res@langhamhotels.com
More Family-Friendly Spots in Southbank Melbourne
Southbank has no shortage of casual eateries that welcome families. Other options our readers recommend to check out include:
- Criniti’s Southbank – Part of a popular chain, Criniti’s serves hearty Italian food with an extensive menu (pasta, pizza, ribs, burgers). Southbank Promenade, Shop MR2, Crown Entertainment Complex, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
- Conservatory, Crown Melbourne – Iconic buffet offering seafood, Asian dishes, European classics and desserts. Spacious and pram-friendly for families. Level 1, Crown Towers, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006
- P.J. O’Brien’s Irish Pub – Warm, casual pub with comfort food favourites like pies, schnitzels and roasts. Family-friendly during the day and early evening. Southgate Complex, Shop G16, 3 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
- Lindt Chocolate Café Southgate – Indulgent hot chocolates, ice creams, cakes and chocolate treats perfect for a sweet family stop. Shop 11, Southgate, 3 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006
Family-Friendly Restaurants in South Wharf
Just a short walk along the river from Southbank, South Wharf is another great spot for family dining. It’s spacious, pram-friendly, and offers plenty of casual options perfect for kids.
Here are some South Wharf favourites for families:
10. BangPop
Bright, colourful and full of energy, this Thai restaurant serves street food classics like pad thai and fried rice – perfect for sharing with kids who like a bit of flavour and fun.
BangPop, 35 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006
11. Munich Brauhaus
A lively Bavarian beer hall with giant pretzels, schnitzels and sausages. The kids’ menu is hearty and there’s always a festive atmosphere, so no one will notice if your little ones are a bit noisy.
Munich Brauhaus, 45 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006
12. Plus 5
Laidback and right on the river, Plus 5 is known for its pizzas, tapas and share plates. Great for families who like to mix and match dishes.
Plus 5, 37 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006
13. Meat Market
This South Wharf favourite offers BBQ and grill plates with plenty of variety. The spacious layout and casual service make it suitable for families.
Meat Market, 53 South Wharf Promenade, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
Final Tips for Dining in Southbank with Kids
- Go early: Southbank fills up quickly, so aim for off-peak times.
- Look for riverside seating: The promenade gives kids a view and space to watch the action.
Mix it up: Southbank has everything from quick bites to sit-down meals, so you can find something to suit the occasion (and the patience level of your kids!).
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