Stokehouse – St Kilda – beach views and seafood

Perched along the iconic St Kilda Beach, Stokehouse boasts one of the best views in Melbourne. The upstairs dining area is a true gem, offering a panoramic overlook of the beach, making it the perfect venue for a special meal. We visited on a scorching summer day, but the restaurant’s cool interior provided a blissful reprieve from the heat.

Highlights	Stokehouse in St Kilda offers stunning beach views, impeccable service, and exceptional seafood. A premium dining experience worth the splurge for special occasions.
Cost	$126 for Snapper 400g, pipis and baby vegetables bouillabaisse
Location	30 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda VIC 3182
Website	http://stokehouse.com.au/melbourne/

Seated by a window, we enjoyed an unparalleled view of the bustling beachfront while indulging in fine dining. However, the experience outside the restaurant was a stark contrast. Parking was a challenge, with fees ranging from $15 to $18 depending on duration. The beach area was bustling with people and plagued by swarming flies—a small reminder of the challenges of the location.

Family-Friendly Dining

Traveling with two young children under five, we were pleased that Stokehouse accommodated us well despite not offering high chairs. They allowed us to park our pram beside the table, which worked fine as our kids are generally well-behaved. Knowing we were on a timer before potential meltdowns, the seamless service helped us make the most of our visit.

Service Excellence

The service was impeccable from start to finish. The host and servers were attentive, accommodating, and helpful, ensuring that every aspect of our dining experience was enjoyable. Their professionalism stood out, even as the restaurant bustled with patrons.

The Menu and Our Selections

Stokehouse is celebrated for its seafood, and we were eager to sample their offerings. Here’s what we ordered:

• Calamari, celtuce, lovage ($35) (starter): This dish set a high standard, with perfectly cooked calamari paired with a tantalizing sauce.
• Snapper 400g, pipis and baby vegetables bouillabaisse for Two ($126): The standout dish of the evening. The snapper, served with pipies and a rich bouillabaisse sauce, was a revelation. The meaty fish had a steak-like quality, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. This dish alone was worth the visit.
• Zucchini with Gremolata and Pickled Dates ($21): A beautifully presented, albeit smaller-than-expected, dish. The pickled dates added a unique, impressive twist.
• Fries ($16): Though tasty and crisp, we were surprised to learn they were pre-made Birdseye fries. While satisfying, they didn’t quite match the premium vibe of the venue.
• Kids’ Pasta ($25): A simple yet satisfying option for our little ones.

We were initially drawn to the seafood platter, previously priced at $65. However, Stokehouse now offers its components à la carte, making the overall cost higher—a slight disappointment for seafood lovers like us.

Food Quality and Portions

The flavors and preparation of the dishes were exceptional, showcasing the kitchen’s expertise in balancing fresh, high-quality ingredients. The snapper and calamari, in particular, stood out as highlights. That said, portion sizes leaned on the smaller side, making it more of a refined dining experience than a hearty one.

Pricing and Value

Dining at Stokehouse is undeniably a splurge, with premium pricing reflective of the beachfront location and exquisite views. Additionally, the 10% weekend surcharge further elevates the cost. While the prices might deter regular visits, the overall experience makes it worth considering for special occasions or as an occasional treat.

Final Thoughts

Stokehouse delivers a dining experience that combines stunning scenery, exceptional service, and culinary finesse. Though parking and accessibility can pose challenges, and the prices may cause some sticker shock, the venue’s charm and menu offerings make it a standout destination.

For a more casual alternative, the downstairs Pasta Bar offers a laid-back vibe and a different selection of dishes, providing options to suit various moods and budgets.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply looking to enjoy an extraordinary meal with breathtaking views, Stokehouse is a destination worth visiting. It’s an indulgence that leaves a lasting impression—perfect for those seeking a memorable slice of Melbourne’s culinary scene.

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