Blondie Bar

Blondie Bar is an arts-precinct restaurant and bar in Southbank, Melbourne, positioned beside the Linear Park at the corner of Sturt Street and Southbank Boulevard. It has been part of the area since 2011 and caters to a broad mix of local residents, students, workers, tourists and people attending nearby performances. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with heaters outside, and welcomes dogs.

The food and drink offering is broad rather than narrowly defined. The website describes the menu as vegan and vegetarian friendly, with lunch, dinner and supper or light-meal options available. Dumplings are mentioned among the venue’s food offering, while the drinks list includes a classic cocktail range, eclectic wines and draught beers. There is also a happy hour from 3pm to 6pm. Takeaway is available as well as dine-in, making Blondie an option for a quick meal, a drink before or after a performance, or a more casual catch-up.

Entertainment is central to the venue’s identity. Blondie offers free live entertainment, including regular Friday Jazz Jams from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, and the website also mentions DJs. The venue has sponsored the Melbourne International Jazz Festival since 2011 and supports emerging musicians through its Friday night sessions. With the park at its front door and an expanded outdoor dining area, the setting is suited to social visits where the atmosphere and live program are part of the experience.

Blondie can accommodate groups of different sizes and is licensed for 266 patrons. Indoor bookings are available online, while groups of eight or more require a credit-card booking guarantee; larger groups can contact the venue directly. Outdoor bookings for larger groups depend on the weather and require at least six guests. Its mix of flexible dining, drinks, entertainment and outdoor space makes it particularly practical for groups, performance-goers and casual Southbank meet-ups. Dogs are welcome, and takeaway provides another option when you want to eat nearby without settling in.