Melbourne, known for its vibrant food scene, is home to an incredible array of fresh seafood. As one of Australia’s major coastal cities, it’s no surprise that seafood takes centre stage in local dining. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of options for indulging in the freshest, most delicious seafood around. From the crisp oysters to the sweet, succulent lobsters, Melbourne offers some of the best seafood dishes that you absolutely can’t miss. Here’s your guide to Melbourne’s must-try seafood and the perfect pairings to elevate your dining experience.
Top 5 Must-Try Seafood in Melbourne
Melbourne offers a variety of exceptional seafood, each dish showcasing the best of local and coastal catches. Here are five must-try seafood dishes every seafood lover should experience.
- Moreton Bay Bugs – Melbourne’s Signature Seafood
What is it?
- The Moreton Bay Bug is a type of slipper lobster, known for its sweet, firm meat and mild, slightly nutty flavour.
- Sourced locally from the Moreton Bay region in Queensland, it’s a sought-after delicacy in Melbourne due to its sweet and delicate texture.
How to Enjoy Moreton Bay Bug?
- Grilled with garlic butter – A simple yet indulgent way to enjoy the lobster’s natural sweetness.
- In seafood platters – Perfect for sharing, adding variety and a luxurious touch to your meal.
- Tossed in a creamy pasta sauce – For a rich and comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Perfect Pairing
- Wine: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
- Why? The crisp, dry characteristics of these wines complement the sweet, buttery flavours of the Moreton Bay Bug, creating a harmonious balance with its richness.
- Southern Rock Lobster (Crayfish) – Victoria’s Luxury Seafood
What is it?
- Also known as crayfish, the Southern Rock Lobster is sourced from Victoria’s cold waters.
- Its delicate, sweet flesh is renowned for its rich flavour, making it a true luxury for seafood lovers.
How to Enjoy Southern Rock Lobster
- Grilled – Perfectly cooked, bringing out its tender, sweet meat.
- In bisques – Adds richness and depth to the dish.
- As part of a decadent lobster roll – A delicious and indulgent way to enjoy the lobster’s natural sweetness.
Perfect Pairing
- Wine: Sparkling wine or buttery Chardonnay
- Why? The bubbles and acidity from the sparkling wine or the smooth richness of the Chardonnay elevate the lobster’s natural sweetness, creating a memorable culinary experience.
- Port Phillip Bay Mussels – Fresh & Flavorful
What are they?
- Harvested locally from Port Phillip Bay, these mussels are prized for their plump texture and sweet flavour.
- A staple in Melbourne’s seafood scene, known for their freshness and versatility.
How to Enjoy Port Phillip Bay Mussels
- Cooked in white wine, garlic, and fresh herbs – A simple, yet flavour-packed way to enjoy their natural sweetness.
- In broths – Light and aromatic, highlighting the mussels’ delicate flavour.
- Served as part of a seafood stew – A hearty and satisfying dish that makes the mussels shine.
Perfect Pairing
- Wine: Sauvignon Blanc
- Beer: A light beer
- Why? The crisp acidity and citrusy notes from the Sauvignon Blanc or the refreshing bitterness of the beer balance the mussels’ natural brininess, creating a harmonious, flavorful experience.
- Gummy Shark (Flake) – Melbourne’s Favourite Fish & Chips
What is it?
- Gummy Shark, often called flake in Melbourne, is a local favourite, particularly for fish & chips.
- Known for its mild flavour, this flaky, white fish is often battered and deep-fried, making it a go-to choice for a quintessential Aussie takeaway meal.
How to Enjoy Gummy Shark (Flake)
- Battered and deep-fried – The classic preparation, paired with crispy chips for a satisfying meal.
- Served with a squeeze of lemon and tartar sauce – A simple yet effective way to enhance its delicate, subtle flavour.
Perfect Pairing
- Beer: Light lager or pale ale
- Why? The crispness and lightness of these beers cut through the batter, providing a refreshing contrast to the mild fish flavour and making for a perfect pairing with the dish.
- Freshly Shucked Oysters – A True Seafood Indulgence
What are they?
- Oysters are a classic indulgence, with Melbourne offering some of the best varieties, including Pacific and Sydney Rock Oysters.
- Known for their briny, fresh taste, these oysters are a must-try for seafood connoisseurs.
How to Enjoy Freshly Shucked Oysters
- Freshly shucked and served on the half shell – A simple, elegant way to enjoy the oysters’ natural flavour.
- With a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of mignonette sauce – These light additions enhance the oysters’ delicate, fresh taste without overpowering it.
Perfect Pairing
- Wine: Champagne or crisp Sauvignon Blanc
- Why? The acidity and bubbles from Champagne or the refreshing notes of Sauvignon Blanc complement the oysters’ clean, briny flavour, making for a perfect pairing.
Whether you’re indulging in fresh oysters or savoring a crispy flake, these top seafood picks are guaranteed to elevate your dining experience in Melbourne.
Additional Seafood Delights to Try
While the above dishes are the highlights of Melbourne’s seafood scene, there are a few more options worth exploring:
- Salt & Pepper Calamari
- Crispy, tender calamari seasoned with salt, pepper, and spices.
- Perfect Pairing: Pale ale or citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Sea Urchin (Uni)
- A creamy, rich roe served raw or in sushi.
- Perfect Pairing: Champagne or dry white wine like Chardonnay.
- Flathead Fish & Chips
- A traditional Aussie fish & chips dish made with flathead fish.
- Perfect Pairing: Light Lager or crispy Sauvignon Blanc.
- Scallops in the Half Shell
- Scallops are cooked in their shell, often with garlic butter.
- Perfect Pairing: Chardonnay or light beer.
- Octopus
- Grilled or charred octopus, served with Mediterranean-style sides.
- Perfect Pairing: Rosé wine or dry Riesling.
These additional seafood delights, like crispy calamari and charred octopus, add even more flavor to Melbourne’s diverse seafood offerings.
Best Seafood Restaurants in Melbourne
To experience Melbourne’s seafood at its finest, here are some top seafood spots to consider:
- Fine Dining Options: Attica and Stokehouse offer premium seafood experiences in a luxurious setting.
- Casual Seafood Spots: For a laid-back dining experience, check out Hunky Dory or Richmond Oysters for fresh, delicious seafood platters.
- Fish & Chips Shops: Try D’Lish Fish or Tommy Ruff for Melbourne’s iconic fish & chips.
- Oyster Bars & Seafood Markets: Head to The Atlantic or the South Melbourne Market to sample fresh oysters and other local seafood.
Whether you’re seeking a fine dining experience or a casual seafood meal, these top spots in Melbourne offer the freshest catches for every palate.
Extra Tips for Seafood Lovers
For seafood lovers, Melbourne offers plenty of ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are a few extra tips to make the most of your seafood adventure in the city.
- Seasonal Availability: Seafood in Melbourne is seasonal, so be sure to check out what’s available during your visit. For example, oysters are best enjoyed during the cooler months.
- Seafood Festivals: Don’t miss the Apollo Bay Seafood Festival, where you can enjoy a wide range of seafood dishes while soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
- Where to Buy Fresh Seafood: If you’re keen to try your hand at cooking seafood at home, head to Melbourne’s local seafood markets like the South Melbourne Market or Queen Victoria Market for the freshest catches.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy the best seasonal seafood, explore local festivals, and even bring home the freshest catches for your own cooking creations.
Conclusion
Melbourne’s seafood scene perfectly reflects the city’s coastal charm and culinary creativity, offering a variety of flavours and experiences for every palate. From sweet Moreton Bay Bugs to luxurious Southern Rock Lobster, these must-try dishes are sure to leave you wanting more. Whether enjoying fine dining or casual seafood, Melbourne’s top spots and expert pairings will elevate your meal. With seasonal delights, vibrant festivals, and fresh market options, there’s always a new way to enjoy the best seafood the city has to offer. Melbourne’s vibrant seafood scene offers a feast for the senses.
