Best German Restaurants in Melbourne to Celebrate Oktoberfest

Image: Munich Brauhaus, Melbourne

Melbourne, it’s time to dust off your lederhosen and dirndl, because Oktoberfest is upon us! Officially taking place from 21 September until 6 October, the jolly German festival is a great excuse to get the gang together and feast on giant pretzels and pork knuckles the size of your head.

From traditional beer halls to contemporary German dining with a twist, here are the best German restaurants in Melbourne to get into the Oktoberfest spirit. Prost!

Hofbräuhaus Melbourne

If you're after the full authentic Oktoberfest experience, Hofbräuhaus Melbourne in Chinatown is where it’s at. This place has been serving up Bavarian culture since 1968, so they know a thing or two about how to celebrate Oktoberfest. Walk through the doors, and you’ll instantly feel like you’ve been transported to a traditional Munich bier hall, with long wooden tables, rustic decor, and that unmistakable Bavarian charm.

Kicking off with an epic Oktoberfest Opening Party on 21 September, Hofbräuhaus will be cranking up the fun for six whole weeks with live German bands, hearty Bavarian fare, and of course, plenty of beer flowing from their signature steins. Their Oktoberfest platter is a meaty feast featuring juicy pork knuckles, bratwursts, schnitzels, and all the trimmings like sauerkraut and pretzels the size of dinner plates. Pair it with a traditional Hofbräu lager, and you’re in for a German gastronomic adventure you won't soon forget!

Munich Brauhaus, South Wharf

When it comes to all-out Oktoberfest extravagance, Munich Brauhaus in South Wharf knows how to throw a party. This sprawling beer hall is packed with Bavarian flair, from the staff in lederhosen and dirndls to the rows of long communal tables designed for feasting, drinking, and dancing on after a stein or two!

Oktoberfest here means one thing: major fun. Expect live Oompah bands, German games, and stein-holding contests where you can prove your Oktoberfest worth. Food-wise, you’re spoilt for choice with crispy pork belly, sizzling sausages, or Bavarian pretzels—their menu is designed to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. Don’t forget to grab an Oktoberfest tasting paddle so you can sample the best German beers.

Hophaus

Perched alongside the Yarra River, Hophaus is a modern German-inspired bar and restaurant that is all about great beer, good vibes, and stunning scenery. Hophaus takes the traditional German beer hall and gives it a contemporary twist—think sleek decor, an open-air terrace with river views, and a menu that mixes classic Bavarian dishes with modern flair.

For Oktoberfest, Hophaus will feature limited-edition German craft beers, which pair perfectly with their delicious and hearty food—think schnitzels, wursts, and delicious flammkuchen (German flatbread). Indulge to your heart's content while soaking up one of the best views in Melbourne.

The Hof Downtown

If you’re after a more laid-back Oktoberfest experience, The Hof Downtown offers casual Bavarian dining at its best. Located in Docklands, The Hof offers all the German essentials without the hustle and bustle of a massive beer hall.

With its open, airy space and contemporary Bavarian decor, The Hof Downtown serves up all the German classics you know and love, alongside an impressive beer selection. You can also tuck into their signature Munich Dunkel, a rich, dark lager that’ll have you toasting "Ein Prosit!" after every sip. Whether you're there for a casual stein with mates or a full-on Bavarian feast, this is the place to get your Oktoberfest fix without the rowdy crowds.