A stunning new two-level outdoor pontoon bar is coming to Southbank

Enjoy a sun-drenched drinking session with stunning views of Melbourne's skyline at Yarra Botanicals, a brand new pontoon bar arriving on the Yarra River this March. Perhaps better characterised as a floating botanical garden, the bar will be brimming with lush greenery like native plants and Indigenous aquatic vegetation. 

For those who've had an itch to enjoy an outdoor bev on one of Melbourne's notorious bad weather days, the two-level bar has been designed to withstand year-round weather conditions. Think outside tables on the second floor with market umbrellas and daybeds perfect for soaking up the sun, plus an abundance of indoor seating along the glass-windowed walls of the venue and standing areas under the cover of awning. 

The food and drinks menus feature 100 per cent Aussie suppliers and produce. As a result, the menu will frequently change based on seasonal availability and will aim to champion our Victorian farmers. The exact menu offerings are still under development, but you can expect a range of share plates, tasty pub-style snacks, wood-fired pizzas and dishes with fresh seafood. Bonus: you can garnish your drinks with fragrant herbs from the on-board herb gardens. 

Yarra Botanicals opens in March from 10am until late every day. Keep an eye on the Yarra Botanicals website for further updates. 

Looking for more bars with great views? Here are the best rooftop bars in Melbourne.