Au79 Southbank

The Verdict

From their humble origins in Abbotsford to sleek new digs on Southbank, Au79 is spreading the love across Melbourne. Not wanting anyone to miss out on their signature coffee blends and quality-crafted baked goods, they’ve opened an airy and light-filled space on City Road in Southbank, which will soon also double as a wine bar. 

The space situated underneath the Home building is a sunlit open-planned eatery, with cascading spherical lighting. On offer here is a range of their top-shelf bakery creations including their croissants as well as a select offering of brunch plates—the standout of which is the absolutely knockout prawn benedict on charcoal brioche. Coffee is always at the forefront at Au79, the bar is well-stacked offering a myriad of options from a staple milk coffee to single-origin filter brews. 

The venue will soon open as a wine bar come nighttime, The Green Room, ideal for an evening rendezvous, unwind with a whisky or wine while nestled into one of The Green Rooms' intimate booths, complete with the moody lighting. 

With hospo veteran, Daniel Cormick (The Mulberry Group) at the culinary helm, expect an Australian-Italian bespoke menu. Lighter options include freshly shucked oysters and burrata with prosciutto or for a heartier feast, try the black truffle, wild mushroom risotto or the 300g porterhouse steak. 

Image credit: James Geer