With winter upon us, it can be challenging to find winter friendly, warm activities. Look no further than Southgate for a full evening of fun. With stunning views, waterside eateries, and shopping options, it’s the perfect solution for hours of warm indoor entertainment.
Southgate invited us to a progressive winter feast showcasing some of the best restaurants and bars at Southgate. The evening began with Champagne as we ogled the amazing Melbourne city views and ballroom at Metropolis.
We moved to ENA Greek Street Food for entrees and old fashioned Greek entertainment! The kitchen dished out five courses of entrees ranging from Greek salads, to roasted beetroot wrapped in prosciutto and poached figs, and a warming chicken lemon soup, all whilst being serenaded by a greek band!
Dinner was served at Pure South where we were guided through a raw fish cooking demonstration. The head chef explained that the restaurant’s fish and produce is sourced from local fishermen, farmers, and artisans from Tasmania, King Island, and Flinders Island, hence the name “Pure South”. Teriyaki marinated raw kingfish, grilled octopus with chorizo and pesto, King Island sticky beef short ribs, and crispy chicken wings were all on the menu!
With bellies full, we waddled upstairs to Tutto Bene for dessert and coffee. I was instantly greeted with a tiramisu and lemon soufflé the size of my head. Oh the sweet decadence!
The evening concluded with cocktail tasting at Waterslide Bar. It has a dimly lit, intimate atmosphere with retro furniture, a heated outdoor patio, and stunning views of the Yarra River. The most entertaining part of the night was Waterslide Bar’s cocktail menu.
You know it’s serious when the menu comes with a map highlighting where to find the sweet, sour, and strong cocktails. Each cocktail has a creative name: The Tinder Date, The Fitzroy Hipster, The Third Wheel. My favourite was the Hens Night – ordered by an unsuspecting male guest, and served with a penis straw!
– Ember
Ember is an American turned Aussie. Her love affair with Melbourne goes back five years, and she still can’t get enough of this city! Discovering new hideouts and hidden gems around Melbourne is her hobby. Marketing Strategist by day, spontaneous adventurer, brekky enthusiast, and aerial acrobat by night.
Southgate is located along the south bank of the Yarra River in Melbourne.
The venue is wheelchair accessible.