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CBD & Inner › Southbank › The Meat & Wine Co Southbank
The Meat & Wine Co SouthbankB+Worth Trying
Freshwater Place, 3 Queens Bridge St, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia
· Steak house, Australian restaurant, Bar & grill
· 4.4/5 Google (4411 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Upscale steakhouse with standout meats and desserts, lively riverfront vibe, but inconsistent doneness and service; great when it clicks, costly when it does not.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The Meat & Wine Co Southbank delivers competitive quality with excellent steaks and desserts and a stylish riverfront setting that appeals to celebration diners. However, recurring inconsistency in steak doneness and service pacing on busy nights prevents a higher grade, and mixed recent reviews show no clear quality improvement. It's a solid neighborhood steakhouse worth visiting for special occasions, though expectations should account for occasional execution gaps.
Restaurant Summary
Set on Southbank’s riverfront, this spot feels classy yet comfortable with dim lighting, booth seating upstairs, and a lively hum from the bar. Service ranges from warm and attentive to a bit hurried during peak times. One diner summed it up: "Steaks can be sublime, but the room can run on a fast clock on busy nights." In the kitchen, it is a premium steakhouse with South African accents and a few Asian touches. When the grill is dialed in, steaks are excellent; starters like Szechuan calamari and the wagyu tartare impress, and desserts such as the chocolate fondant often win the night. Still, multiple guests report inconsistent doneness and occasional rigidity on custom requests, so expectations should match the price and the busy setting. Families fare well here thanks to a dedicated kids’ menu with cheeseburgers and chicken tenders. Chips, simple salads, and mild mains offer safe picks, though adventurous items like kangaroo or spicy dressings may suit older kids. Portions vary by dish, so asking about sizes helps avoid surprises.
At a Glance
- Excellent steaks and desserts when execution is on point
- Lively riverfront setting with classy decor and booths
- Inconsistent steak doneness and pacing on busy nights
- Dietary guidance for gluten-free is hit and miss
- Premium pricing with reported surcharges; confirm before ordering
What Sets It Apart
- Southbank river views
- Steak program with basting signature
- Dessert finishing touches for celebrations
What People Love
- Juicy, well-basted steaks
- Tender Szechuan calamari
- Thoughtful birthday touches
- Decadent chocolate fondant
- Warm, professional service at best
Points of Concern
- Steak doneness inconsistency reported across multiple visits
- Service can feel rushed with time-limited seatings and table moves
- Mixed allergy handling; gluten-free knowledge inconsistent
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (A$42+ mains, sauces extra) and surcharges may apply
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostA$85-120 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair steak with veal jus; verify sauce pricing (some sauces extra).
- For seafood lovers, consider Barramundi (A$49) or scallop ceviche (A$34).
- Kids can choose A$16 cheeseburger or grilled chicken tenders with chips.
Perfect For
- Celebration dinners with a view
- Date nights centered on steak and wine
- Business meals needing a polished setting
- Families wanting a kids menu at an upscale venue
Location Insights
Area: Vibrant riverfront dining precinct popular with office crowds, tourists, and pre-theatre diners.
Safety: Busy, well-lit promenade with steady foot traffic; generally safe into evening.
Nearby: Near Crown Entertainment Complex, arts precinct, riverwalk bars, and CBD offices.
SouthbankSouthbank is a bustling neighborhood popular for its high-end restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions like the Arts Centre and National Gallery of Victoria. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking quality food and vibrant nightlife.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–21:30
Tuesday12:00–21:30
Wednesday12:00–21:30
Thursday12:00–21:30
Friday12:00–22:30
Saturday12:00–22:30
Sunday12:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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