There’s nothing quite like seeing a city from above—whether by plane, parachute, or the summit of its tallest building. But when that breathtaking view is paired with an exceptional dining experience, the moment is elevated to an entirely new level.
Towering 300 meters above sea level, Eureka 89—the highest restaurant and bar in the Southern Hemisphere—delivers unparalleled 360-degree views of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks, from the MCG and Rod Laver Arena to Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, and beyond to the Dandenong Ranges.
It’s as if the city’s map has come alive, with keen-eyed diners even able to spot their own hotel from above. The juxtaposition of Melbourne’s shimmering glass skyscrapers against the sprawling coastline is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
A Melbourne Icon
Named after the Eureka Stockade, a defining rebellion of the Victorian gold rush in 1854, Eureka Tower stands as one of the tallest residential buildings in the world. The top ten floors are plated in 24-carat gold, continuing the theme with Richard Stringer’s stunning installation at the tower’s base—an artwork resembling a beehive, with golden bees encased in a white box, a tribute to Melbourne’s urban charm.
Elevated dining experience
Cosy yet spacious tables set the scene for a relaxed evening, whether it’s an intimate date night or a celebratory gathering with friends. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the dining room with natural light, making the space feel open, airy, and effortlessly elegant. The ambiance is chic yet unpretentious, striking a balance between fine dining and adventurous discovery.
But at Eureka 89, it’s not just about the view—the cuisine is just as impressive. True to its name, “Eureka”, which translates to a cry of joy upon discovery, the restaurant delivers dishes that captivate and delight. Under the guidance of award-winning Executive Chef Renee Martillano, the menu showcases regional ingredients paired with some of Australia’s finest wines. Service is warm, knowledgeable, and deeply passionate, transforming the meal into a truly special occasion.
Feast for the senses
Dining options range from a 6-course or signature 8-course tasting menu to a 3-course à la carte selection—the latter of which we opted for. We began with Hervey Bay scallop crudo and heirloom beetroot—so delicious that we wished we could bring the recipe home. Each plate was impeccably presented, a visual delight as much as a culinary one.
For mains, the choices were as tantalising as ever: Infinity Blue Barramundi and Southern Ranges beef rillette. The barramundi, known as Australia’s native seabass, was expertly cooked, accompanied by confit leeks, bouillabaisse, and a refreshing radish salad. The beef rillette was melt-in-your-mouth tender, with confit kipfler potatoes, earthy mushrooms, and a rich bordelaise sauce enhancing its deep, full-bodied flavour.
To close the meal on a sweet note, a delicate mille-feuille arrived, accompanied by a personalised “Happy Holiday’s” message written in white chocolate—an elegant and thoughtful touch that left a lasting impression.
Beyond the plate
As a bonus, all restaurant bookings include complimentary access to the Melbourne Skydeck and VR experience. Spanning an entire floor, the Skydeck offers panoramic city views—breathtaking by day and absolutely mesmerising at night.
For an added thrill, Eureka Skydeck 88 features two must-try experiences: The Terrace and The Edge. The Terrace is an open-air deck offering stunning views over Port Phillip Bay, while The Edge is a one-of-a-kind experience—a moving glass cube that extends three meters out of the building, leaving guests suspended 300 meters above Melbourne. When you first enter, the cube is opaque, but as it moves outward, the glass turns transparent, revealing a heart-stopping, vertigo-inducing view beneath your feet.
Virtual journey through Melbourne
We rounded off our evening at the award-winning Voyager Theatre, an immersive virtual reality experience that transports guests through 16 iconic Melbourne and Victorian landmarks. From the thrill of riding Luna Park’s historic rollercoaster to the electrifying atmosphere of a packed MCG stadium, the experience is brought to life with 6D motion—3D high-definition visuals, motion, wind, vibration, sound effects and even scent sensations. It’s a perfect introduction for first-time visitors to Melbourne or a nostalgic journey for locals who want to see their city in a whole new light.
Standout destination
Dining at Eureka 89 is not just a meal—it’s an unforgettable sensory experience that combines stunning city views, exquisite cuisine, and thrilling attractions. Whether you’re a local looking for a fresh perspective on your city or a traveller seeking an extraordinary night out, this is one Melbourne experience that should not be missed.
