Best Group Dining Spots in Melbourne CBD Near Southern Cross

Finding a great restaurant in Melbourne CBD is easy. Finding one that can comfortably fit a group of six to eight people on a busy Friday night, has a menu that satisfies everyone, and is within walking distance of your accommodation is a much bigger challenge.

When you stay at Havenly Escape at West Side Place, you are positioned in one of the most accessible areas of the city. Located directly opposite Southern Cross Station, your group is surrounded by fantastic dining options.

To make your group trip coordination easier, here are the best group dining Melbourne CBD spots near Southern Cross Station that are perfect for groups.

1. Higher Ground (Directly Opposite)

Vibe: Chic, industrial-cathedral aesthetics, premium cafe dining.
Best For: Group breakfasts, long weekend brunches, or casual dinners.
Why Groups Love It: Housed in a beautifully converted heritage power station, Higher Ground features soaring ceilings and multiple levels. Because of its scale, it is much easier to seat larger groups here compared to Melbourne’s typical tiny laneway cafes. They also offer a superb group sharing menu.

2. Cargo Restaurant (Docklands)

Vibe: Casual waterfront dining, lively atmosphere, craft beers.
Best For: Post-game footy meals, large group celebrations, or relaxed afternoon drinks.
Why Groups Love It: A short, pleasant walk or tram ride from your apartment brings you to Docklands. Cargo is built for groups, offering a massive outdoor terrace overlooking Victoria Harbour. The menu features sharing plates, pizzas, burgers, and extensive drinks options, making it a crowd-pleaser for any group.

3. plus 5 Cocktail Bar & Dining (South Wharf)

Vibe: Vibrant riverfront cocktails, wood-fired sharing tapas, live music.
Best For: Girls' night dinners, pre-concert drinks, or late-night bites.
Why Groups Love It: Located a short tram or walk across the Yarra River, Plus 5 offers a fantastic riverfront setting. Their wood-fired pizzas and grazing boards are designed to be shared, and the cocktails are outstanding. It’s an ideal spot to sit, chat, and share food.

4. The Woolshed (Docklands)

Vibe: Gastro-pub style heritage barn, waterside terrace, premium steaks.
Best For: Corporate group dinners, birthday celebrations, or family dinners.
Why Groups Love It: A historic woolshed converted into a spacious restaurant and bar. It offers plenty of room for groups, excellent harbor views, and a menu that focuses on premium local meats and seafood. It’s relaxed yet feels like a special occasion.

The Advantages of Having an Apartment Kitchen

While dining out is a core part of the Melbourne experience, having your own kitchen at Havenly Escape gives your group unmatched flexibility:

Pre-Dinner Platters: Prep a grazing board and chill some wine in your full-sized refrigerator before heading out.
Easy Breakfasts: Cook up some eggs or brew fresh coffee in your apartment kitchen, saving your group a costly breakfast tab.
Late-Night Snacks: Heat up leftovers or enjoy late-night snacks in your private dining space.

Keep the group happy, the food delicious, and the travel logistics simple.

Book your group stay near Southern Cross Station at Havenly Escape.