A Taste Of Melbourne By The River

If you find yourself staying in Melbourne’s inner-city and want to mix relaxed riverside indulgence with gourmet fare, the precincts of Southbank and Docklands deliver beautifully. With the shimmering Yarra River as a backdrop, both neighbourhoods offer distinctive places to eat, drink and simply unwind — whether you’re after a casual coffee, a refined dinner, or a laid-back bar experience. And if you’re staying a little while, the serviced apartments offered by Corporate Keys in Southbank offer a home-away-from-home base that places you within walking distance of all the action.

Eat: Dining Highlights in Southbank

Start with the food: Southbank has developed into one of Melbourne’s most accessible and versatile dining hubs.

• At the premium end, the dining precinct at Crown Melbourne offers a collection of world-class restaurants. Whether you’re after Japanese, steak, seafood or modern Australian, you’ll find it here.
• If you prefer something more relaxed, the directory of “Where to Eat & Drink in Southbank” shows dozens of cafes, bistros and eateries that keep things comfortable without sacrificing quality.
• Looking for local favourites: places like Rockpool Bar & Grill Melbourne and D.O.C Pizza & Mozzarella Bar Southbank round out the options, from steak to pizza to fine steaks and seafood.

Tip: Arrive early for river-view seating at dinner — the Yarra riverside adds atmosphere, especially as the sun begins to set.

Drink: Bars & Vibes by the River

When it’s time to unwind with a drink, Southbank again doesn’t disappoint.

• The riverside bar scene is rich with choice: from floating bars like Ponyfish Island perched beneath a bridge over the Yarra, to waterfront bars offering cocktails and views.
• At Southgate, bars like BearBrass and The Deck combine good food with an even better drinks scene.
• For something a little different, find a cocktail bar specialising in local spirits and a relaxed atmosphere rather than full on club mode. Hidden City Secrets lists some of the best.

Tip: If you’re staying nearby, grab your drink and find a bench along the Yarra promenade — the light reflecting off the water makes for a lovely, low-key evening.

Unwind & Explore: Docklands Delights

Just a short stroll or tram ride away lies Docklands — a newer precinct with waterfront appeal and a more relaxed tempo than the bustling city centre.

• The area offers laid-back waterfront dining and bars, ideal for a less frenetic evening out.
• While the atmosphere is quieter than Southbank’s central bustle, that can be a bonus if you’re after a leisurely drink or dinner without the crowds.
• If you’re staying in the area, it’s a nice option for an alternate mood: stroll the promenade, watch boats on the water, and pick a venue with views.

Stay: Why Corporate Keys Worked for Us

When planning your stay, consider the ‎fully-furnished apartment solution offered by Corporate Keys in Southbank. Here’s why it makes sense:

• Their listing for “1508/1 Freshwater Place, Southbank 3006” states the apartment is fully furnished, includes utilities, a fully-equipped kitchen (so you can self-cater), washer/dryer and other home comforts.
• Corporate Keys emphasises savings: “up to 40% cheaper than booking a hotel or serviced apartment” for longer stays.
• Reviewers mention that the apartments are well-located for restaurants, cafes and transport.

Staying in one of these apartments means you can treat evenings out as relaxed — you’re in a nice space, you’re near the riverside action, and you don’t have to rush back to a hotel lobby wilting after the fun.

Final Word

Southbank and Docklands are excellent choices when you’d like to eat well, drink smart, and unwind by the river in Melbourne. Whether you want an elegant dinner, a casual drink with friends, or simply a peaceful walk along the Yarra after a good meal, both areas deliver. And staying in a serviced apartment from Corporate Keys in Southbank gives you the flexibility to make your nights as leisurely as you like.