Food & Dining

Restaurants to visit in St Kilda and South Yarra

Written by Times Media

Here are six highly-recommended restaurants split between the seaside suburb of St Kilda and the stylish inner-east locale of South Yarra, Melbourne — perfect if you’re planning a food-lovers outing. I’ve included details about what makes each spot special, plus tips on vibe, bookings and what to order.

🍽️ St Kilda Picks

1. Stokehouse St Kilda

Location: 30 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda VIC 3182.
Why go: Described as “Australian beach luxe” with relaxed fine dining, a seafood focus and a strong wine list. stokehouse.com.au+1
Tip: Ideal for a special occasion or dinner after a stroll along the foreshore. Book a window or seaview seat if possible.

2. Rufio

Location: 188 Carlisle St, St Kilda VIC 3182.
Why go: A newer rooftop-ish spot focussed on Latin-fusion food, and notably vegan-friendly and gluten-free. rufio.co
Tip: Great if you’re with a mixed dietary crowd, want lively energy and cocktails afterwards.

4. Cicciolina

Location: 130 Acland St, St Kilda VIC 3182.
Why go: A longstanding favourite (since 1993) offering Italian/Mediterranean fare—think house-made focaccia, stracciatella & anchovies, chicken liver parfait. Time Out Worldwide+1
Tip: For a date night or cool evening — the ambience leans sultry and relaxed.

4. Republica St Kilda Beach

Location: 1A-1D/10-18 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda VIC 3182.
Why go: Beach-front location, stylish interior, good for socialising and casual dining with a view. Republica
Tip: Because of the prime beach-front view, expect higher pricing. For a relaxed drink + vista, this is a solid pick.

South Yarra Picks

5. Yan Melbourne

Location: 22 Toorak Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141. yanmelbourne.com.au+1
Why go: An Asian smokehouse concept where dishes are infused with smoke and bold flavours — think smoked king prawn, beef short rib with sansho pepper. Time Out Worldwide+1
Tip: Perfect for a dinner that feels modern and a bit special. Good for groups who like sharing.

6. Caffe e Cucina

Location: 581 Chapel St, South Yarra VIC 3141. Broadsheet
Why go: A well-regarded Italian trattoria-style spot (since 1988) on Chapel Street, offering classic pastas, steaks, and the vibe of an Italian café. Suzie Scribbles+1
Tip: Great for a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends. For celebrations, ask for their “Romeo & Giulietta” balcony space.

St Kilda	Stokehouse St Kilda	Modern Aussie / Seafood	Special occasion dinner
St Kilda	Cicciolina	Italian/Mediterranean	Date night, refined but relaxed
St Kilda	Rufio	Latin-fusion, vegan friendly	Lively group dinner & cocktails
St Kilda	Republica St Kilda Beach	Beach-front stylish dining	Views, drinks + dinner
South Yarra	Yan Melbourne	Asian smokehouse concept	Modern, bold dining experience
South Yarra	Caffe e Cucina	Traditional Italian	Casual lunch or dinner outing

✅ Tips Before You Go

Bookings: For dinner time especially on weekends, it’s wise to book ahead — many of these spots fill up or have premium tables (especially those with views).
Dietary needs: Rufio and Yan both mention accommodating vegan/gluten-free options; worth confirming when booking.
Budgeting: Some of these spots (especially with beachfront views or premium concept) will carry higher price points—expect premium pricing for location/view.
Ambience: St Kilda gives a more relaxed beach-town vibe; South Yarra leans more upscale and inner-city chic. Choose location based on the feel you want.
Transport & parking: Both suburbs are well-connected by tram in Melbourne; if driving, check parking options especially in South Yarra on busy nights.