The 5 Best Restaurants for Solo Dining in Melbourne

Located in South Wharf, BangPop is sure to add some excitement to your next solo adventure. Drawing on the excitement of a Bangkok based hawker stand, BangPop is a colourful Thai bar and eatery nestled in the heart of Melbourne. Forget a holiday overseas, BangPop will sweep you away with their authentic Thai dishes and quirky selection of cocktails. The venue itself is extremely eclectic, led by a team of welcoming staff. The Twice Cooked Master Stock Aylesbury Duck is an absolute must

If you’re searching for a restaurant that is sophisticated in taste but casual in vibes, let your tastebuds melt away with Chocolate Buddha. Found in Federation Square, this express sushi and Japanese eatery is perfect for Melbourne soloists thanks to their communal-like seating arrangements. Open for lunch and dinner every Wednesday to Sunday, Chocolate Buddha’s menu includes the likes of Kingfish Jalapeno Sashimi, Soft Shell Crab Roll, steamed eggplant Nasu Dengaku, Spicy Pork Ramen and plenty of desserts, sake and Japanese beer to keep you busy.

Take your next feast to new flights with Prahran’s Firebird. This Vietnamese eatery is vibrant, authentic and the one of the best restaurants for solo diners in Melbourne. Featuring a wood fire oven, retro decor and a thriving atmosphere, Firebird sets your tastebuds alight with their charcoal cooking. Not to mention the creative array of cocktails available too. For your visit we recommend the $59 Endless Lunch which includes market oysters, fries, a flat pressed baguette, grilled squid, free-range chicken with burnt chilli and a papaya salad to soothe the senses.

Going solo? Then grab a seat at Gimlet, a gorgeous modern Australian restaurant that graciously sits on Russell Street. Housed within Cavendish House, Gimlet is a fine establishment that blends classic European charm with Australian produce. The menu is mindfully and seasonally designed, with a heavy focus on small-scale producers and growers. One of the best restaurants for solo diners thanks to their bar and intimate booth seating options, their Roast Corn-Fed Chicken will have you returning in no time.