This was a pleasant surprise! Such a cute spot under a bridge lol. These sandwiches were 5 Star!!! If you're looking for a great sandwich and yummy pint consider coming here! read more

Ponyfish Island - Hot Pastrami Sando - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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Well, this is another of those those places that you are pretty much only going to find in Melbourne, and that is a bar that happens to be located not just under a bridge, but under a bridge in the middle of the river. Pretty cool actually, and they also have some decent beers available as well, though they are generally not on tap. Mind you, it's pretty popular, so it does have a tendency to get pretty packed. read more

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Unique spot for lunch! Watch the boats go by from river level.Cuban sandwich was delicious, and cocktails were nice. Service was good.

When I arrived in Melbourne is was super hot... they were in the middle of a heat wave 106 degrees... had to cool down with a beverage but where to go? Thanks to fellow yelpers for recommending this unique bar located right on the Yarra river... a hidden treasure in the city Melbourne. To access the bar you have to use the Southbank pedestrian footbridge and look for the staircase down. Leads you right to the small outdoor bar. Large chalkboard with lot's of drink options, I asked the server what Australian beer she recommended. She recommended the Holgate Alpha Crucis XPA 5.5% abv .. it was ice cold and delicious! Unfortunately the kitchen was closed because of the heat. I sat at the rail enjoying the waterfront views with tourists boats passing by. (just watch your stuff doesn't slide into the water) A few comfy couches are there with tables. The beautiful Melbourne skyline was amazing from this viewpoint. Also tried the mountain goat steam ale, ice cold made it perfect... 4.5% abv. Some people complain about the price, I thought they were fairly priced... and with the great views I would of paid more. This is just what I needed to survive the crazy heat...shade and cold beer! read more

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Recommended by a friend and Melbournite, Ponyfish Island is a casual cafe bar located right on the waters. Located down a flight of stairs right off of Elizabeth Street, this waterfront bar is the perfect place to lounge both during the day and at night. We were lucky, as it was a relatively warm April night to sit out on the waters at night. The only downside was that the lighting was so dark, it was hard to see the haloumi sanger (sandwich) and quesadillas we were munching on. We arrived after sunset, so it really was dark and calming, but I could definitely see it being a great place during the day too. I didn't have anything to drink here, but the food was decent. The haloumi sandwich had a nice thick haloumi steak inside, and quite good. The quesadillas (13) were just decent. The flavors were there, but it wasn't anything special. I would definitely recommend this place - especially as a tourist spot - but also as a casual hangout for friends looking for a quieter place to lounge in the city. Also, for those who like wine over beer, this is the spot! read more

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Strolling the promenade and stopped in for cocktails. We enjoyed the wood ford walnut Manhattan and the Wild Strawberry Sour. Both were yummy. Loved the setting on the Yarra River. Have heaters for cooler weather. We would return. read more

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Okay wow, not only does this spot have incredible views at a unique location, but the food and service is also amazing! We stopped by on a beautiful day to relax and enjoy an afternoon snack on the water. I absolutely loved the nachos - crunchy chips, savory salsa (w/beans), fresh guac! They were very accommodating to our needs (one of us was lactose-intolerant) and were able to have the melted cheese on just half of the chips, plus some of the toppings on the side! As an FYI, sour cream and jalapeños cost extra (2 each). All in all, a great way to while away some time and enjoy the river and skyline views! read more

Ponyfish Island - nachos with a view! - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

If you're visiting Melbourne or have lived here your whole life, I honestly do feel that it's important to at least have one drink at Ponyfish Island. The location is simply ridiculous, the view is absurdly awesome and no matter what time of day/week/year it's always busy - that's just how compelling Ponyfish is. Considering popping down in winter? Do it! They have heaters set up that are so effective you'll feel like you're in the Bahamas. The drinks are an average price and I do highly recommend the sangria in summer - it's not the best you'll ever have but is a fitting drink when you're in a bar floating on a river. While I've never tried the food, the menu suggests they are the perfect accompaniment to a quiet drink on a river - think cheese plates, toasties and burritos. Yes, you will feel like a bit of a tourist, but is that so bad? Appreciate your incredible city and just how beautiful she can be when the sun goes down. read more

Ponyfish Island - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Hey, what's that place under the bridge?! It's Ponyfish Island. This place is original! $2 coffee was the biggest deal breaker to get me in. The atmosphere is an urban oasis, to forget about the hustle and bustle of the city, and avoid people you want to avoid in the city because of the stairwell from the bridge.Seriously, I wished this place existed in LA! The staff do their best to ensure you have good time. If you find yourself alone or wanting to have a good time, check this place out-you won't be disappointed! Thank you Ashlee for your hospitality! read more

Ponyfish Island - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Such a cool spot! Situated on the Yarra River under the Southbank Pedestrian Bridge, it offers a fantastic place to chillax while soaking up the sights and sounds. Nice vibe... read more

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On a warm spring day of sunshine we stumbled across Ponyfish Island when looking to show someone new to the city views of the city and the Yarra in Southbank. Whilst doing this, you might as well have a drink in your hand - so Ponyfish Island was ideal. Head down the steps on onto the little island bar and enjoy beers in the sunshine and crisp air. They also had some snags on the bbq and these made for great fodder when we got that bit peckish. The Yarra is not the nicest/cleanest of rivers around; so I'd imagine this place would really come into its own at night with all the lights you have in Southbank and of course the fireball show courtesy of Crown Casino. read more

Ponyfish Island - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Hangout spot? drink spot? Perfect spot! As you stroll over the Yarra and Southbank footbridge, you will soon notice a hive of activity down below, where the people look happy and chillaxed. You will soon find yourself saying "I want me some o' dat!". This place is a great bar/cafe, perfect for quenching one's thirst, right by the river, watching the people go by and admiring the Melbourne skyline. Having a few drinks here, there's something quite Parisian-nesque about it all. Even more so, when you do leave, the footbridge also has its own "love-locks" (just like Paris). I was drinking imported beers, so the price was a bit steep, but I really enjoyed the casual laid-back vibe of the place. Lots of fellow tourists seeking respite, and the staff were friendly. They had a little DJ in the corner on her laptop, playing some tunes. All in all, a great way to spend an afternoon read more

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Really really cool bar/restaurant. It's hidden under a bridge on the Yarra River and serves the best cocktails, was so impressed that I wrote a blog about it https://socialeventsmelbourne.com.au/ponyfish-island/ read more

I did absolutely adore spending time in this quirky little bar on an island under a bridge part way across the river. On a hot Melbourne summer afternoon what better place to be than to sit (either in shade or sunshine) with great views of both sides of the river watching the various pleasure craft and tourist boats pass by. I found the prices perhaps a little on the steep side - $19 for a beer (their own brew) and a smallish glass of wine, but considering the location I don't really mind. If they had more lower level seating (not everyone can get on those stools) and also if they could find somewhere else to keep their row of bins other than by the entrance/exit at the bottom of the stairs then I'm sure they'd get the full 5 stars. read more

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Absolutely adored this quirky little watering hole, and I can't believe I didn't visit sooner! I visited on a cold, winter Sunday night, so my experience would likely have been much different at a busier time. However, the outdoor heaters and free blankets coupled with a delicious warm glass of $8 mulled wine made for a perfect night cap, and you can't beat the views of the city! It also offers a signature beer brewed right in Melbourne specifically for this bar- called PFI and tastes delicious! Would definitely recommend visiting at least once! read more

Ponyfish Island - Free blankets! A must have on a cold winter night in Melb! - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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This place came via Lonely Planet suggestion. And it was pretty cool. There were a bunch of locals day drinking and eating on the platform. It's not readily noticeable from the street level. But as you walk over the pedestrian bridge, there's a small staircase which looks like it's reserved for city workers to descend to work on the bridge. Instead you find this little gem of a bar in the middle of the river. There is a good alcohol selection and apparently pretty good food although we didn't eat there. Local and domestic beers. Prices were reasonable and service was super friendly. read more

This was one place I really wanted to visit when I was in Melbourne this week. I certainly picked the right day to go. Monday was a stunning winters day in Melbourne, and the perfect day to be sitting on the Yarra for a drink and lunch in the sun. I guess given the 40 other reviews on here, you can't really go wrong. I dropped in for a late lunch and was pretty lucky as when I got there it was fairly quiet with only two other tables taken up. I ordered and after a short wait that allowed me to take in the views my Rueben Sandwich arrive. It was absolute bliss sitting in a location so close, actually on the river in the sun eating lunch. The menu is simple and cheap and there is a decent selection of bottled beers, coctails and wine given it is a small bar with a location which I imagine limits them offering an extensive drinks list. Try the PFI - Pony Fish Island Unlikely Lager, it is a great brew and if I had more time it was an easy drinking beer and I could very well have stayed for a few more. I will certainly be back for lunch/dinner or drinks the next time I am in Melbourne an awesome pit stop on a sunny day. read more

Ponyfish Island - Rueban Sandwich & PFI house beer. - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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This place definitely has potential, situated under the bridge on the Yarra it is a very popular watering hole especially on a hot Summer's day. There are however a couple of problems, being only a small venue it does tend to reach full capacity before the sun has even begun to set and the door man insists on I.D checking EVERY single person no matter whether they look 15 or 50. The staff are quite good, as they do get completely swamped with thirsty patrons cueing for a beer. Drink prices are a little on the higher side your best bet is a long neck Melbourne Bitter for about $12. If you would prefer a glass of vino, don't be surprised when handed your wine poured into a water glass! Ponyfish Island is good if you get in early and grab a good posy by the water. read more

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PONYFISH ISLAND?!?! What a magical place. The name reminds me of something out of CareBears, or something equally cute and twee. If Ponyfish Island was a total crap hole with no redeeming features I would still smile every time the name was mentioned- luckily though it's the opposite of a crap hole with no redeeming features. Best enjoyed in the sunshine, glass of wine in hand and seated next to your bestie, PFI is one of the best spots in Melbourne, hands down. It's THISCLOSE to the water and if you look towards Fed Square you will enjoy my absolute favourite viewpoint of Melbourne. I love me some Ponyfish!! read more

Ponyfish Island - via ponyfish.com.au - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

When the mercury hits 35 degs Melbourne doesn't know what to do with itself. The notoriously shorts-shy population roll the cuffs of their skinny jeans up over their brogues and suck it up, God bless them. It was so hot I needed A) booze and B) to be near the water. Preferably in, but on would also suffice. It's divey, it's grungy, it's novel . . . in short, it's perfect. I killed an hour and a half with $5 Melbourne Bitter cans, a friend, and a sun-soaked wooden seat with my bare feet propped up on a keg stool. I must have said "Ahhh, life is good" and "Ahhh, we earned this" about five times too many judging by the looks I got. Because barefeet. And YOLO. Mainly YOLO. read more

Second time here. Amazing views and fun people and yes they make him cocktails that I can drink. Cause I don't like gin. Their gin cocktails are smooth amazing and creative. I love being on the water and the music is fun! I will be back at least one more time before leaving wow great place. Even my guidebook recommended it read more

The saving grace of Ponyfish Island is its location and decent customer service. Location: Tucked under the pedestrian bridge, Ponyfish Island is a raft-life setup on the Yarra that provides a remarkable and truly unique atmosphere. Where else can you get a beautiful outdoor view of the city while having good conversation and a few drinks? Customer Service: Pretty decent. Everyone I've encountered has been really attentive and friendly as well. The main downside to this place is that the drink prices are quite steep. I mean, they can get away with it - if it was just any other bar in the city they'd be closed down but since they have the "raft-bar" gimmick going on they know they'd have customers despite charging around 9-10 dollars a bottle. The variety isn't too amazing here either. If you haven't been, I'd still recommend a trip for the experience, but "best bar in Melbourne"? Far from it. read more

What. A. Brilliant. Space! Pony fish island is somewhere I'd take visitors too as its got such a different and unusual atmosphere. Depending on how fast the river is flowing, you sometimes feel like you're afloat and drifting downriver but then you aren't. Partly covered by the footbridge above and with table umbrellas, when it drizzles or pours people tend to squish for cover. It is a different experience for a bar after all. It is very noisy when it gets going and attracts all sorts of characters. Mulled wine in winter, try it it's pretty intense. Food wise, there's not much on offer although I've seen a barbie for grill nights. The first time I went, we saw the odd couple. A goose and a duck in the water, I swear this place attracts all kinds. They were swimming neck and neck, I thought I'd mention this haha. Take care ascending and descending the stairs as its not brightly lit at night. read more

Definitely a happening spot where you pay for the ambiance. The wine was decent but drinking wine out of a plastic wine glass dampens the experience for me. It's a novelty I'm glad we experienced. It was packed when we went though and we weren't able to get waterfront seating. Looked like they were about to have live music too. read more

Ponyfish Island - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

I love ponyfish island! This little bar always has a lively vibe, fresh fun food, yummy drinks and friendly service. My only negative is on a few occasions, after arriving past a certain time (no later than 8 though) we were unfortunately told the only thing they were still serving from the menu was toasties. However the toasties are delish and they usually have a wide choice of fillings. Such a perfect spot to hangout on a warm sunny day with a nice selection of beers and cocktails! read more

What a great little place. We grabbed drinks and sat in the sun before the open. Knocked one star because the kitchen was closed (remodel or something?) but great for a drink with friends on the beautiful Yarra. read more

What a great way to enjoy picturesque views of Melbourne's Yarra river and Southbank. Ponyfish Island is a great way to stop and chill with your favourite drink and watch the world go by... read more

5 THINGS HIPSTERS LOVE Mulled Cider Aceyalone/Madlib/XX mixes Haloumi burger American Apparel Deep V-Neck fitted shirts Ponyfish Island You'd usually find homeless people under strange bridges in the US. Apparently, in Australia, you'll find hipsters dressed as homeless people congregating in this rustic watering hole near the water. read more

Ponyfish Island - Your best friend, the Haloumi. - Bars Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Soak up the last of summer's rays at Ponyfish Island. Melbourne's latest riverside destination is refreshingly unpretentious and has fast become the new go-to place for city slickers looking for an early morning pre-work caffeine-fix and post-work 'thank god it's over' drink. And all those occasions in between. The trio behind the hip hangout includes Jerome Borazio - outgoing socialite and bar/cafe fiend of 1000 £ Bend and Sister Bella fame - so you know it's going to be good. With a fit-out by Moth Design the theme is 'nautical', apparently that translates less as deckchairs and more as uncomfortable wooden crates with hessian sack covers and shipping palettes scattered about the boat-shaped place, at least the view convinces you to linger. It's not an aesthetic desert though, there's the odd lantern and rather pretty flowers planted in, guess what, crates. Seating issues aside, this is such a chilled place - funky movement, shady umbrellas, plenty of room to lean over the side and soak up the, sometimes sparkling, Yarra at its best. Plus the booze is pretty cheap too, Fat Yak and Asahi on tap when we visited, plus wine and coffee from Niccolo. Fancy spending a few hours on the high seas? Toasties and tasty bar snacks keep hungry sailors satisfied. Where: Located on a platform underneath Southgate Footbridge (connecting Southbank to Flinders Street station, enter via the single stairwell) When: Daily 8am-1am read more

Now it's a long walk from Flinders st station to South bank so your perfect spot to take a breather is here. As you walk down the stairs you can smell the BBQ which gets your tummy going. On a hot day you can relax with a beer and watch the world go by while your in the shade of sunning yourself. The burgers are tasty and the beer is always cold. read more

Awful place with really rude staff and and very unwelcoming. My wife and I were just passing by and thought we'd check out the menu and at least have a drink. As soon as we arrived the waiter stopped us and asked if we'd had a drink previous - no we had not and we'd been exploring Melbourne for about 5 hours before on foot after having took a 6am flight to get here. He then asked for ID, asked us to remove our glasses, asked us again if we had been drinking before being very rude and unwelcoming. Well either buy a breathalyser so you can prove it or learn how not to be a disgusting, rude piece of something stuck to the bottom of my boot! He was an older guy with grey and black hair and white t shirt. read more

Meeting an local at the train station on the way around, imagine my surprise when mid way over the bridge he announces 'we're here' down the stairs and we really are. It's like being on a boat, but one that doesn't rock and move about, and that makes for a bit of fun. I didn't order the food, so I'm not sure what I was exactly, but dang it was moreish! A second round was quickly ordered along with some more things to drink. I'm not sure if they use fridges or freezers for their drinks, because they are really cold but Ice cold ciders on a sunny day make Sean a happy boy. I'm not sure how I felt drinking a $13 glass of wine from a tumbler, but hey it matches the quaintness of the place. Now if they could just tone down the brown of the yarra, this place would be perfect. read more

Tucked on the Yarra under the Southbank Foot Bridge, Ponyfish is a great concept, a brilliant and provides the perfect spot to catch up for drinks with mates or even take a date. We went there after Yelp's 2nd Birthdaze and had a great time. I only had drinks and didn't try the food but I've heard lots of good things about it so I will definitely grab something to eat next time. It's really a great spot to chill on a beautiful warm summer day or night. The bartenders are very nice and, given that it's not surrounded inside and surrounded by walls, it doesn't get as noisy as it would be in a bar or pub. I like it.. I really like it.. read more

Thought this was closed - don't know why - but happy to find it still a thriving unique bar experience, a mix of tourists, hipsters (Pabst Blue Ribbons now on the menu) and on this particular afternoon: bodybuilders, fresh from an expo. Can be a little squishy to get to the bar when busy, or squeeze through to the bathrooms, but if you get a seat it's a great place to chill and watch Melbourne go past you on feet or on water. Long live Ponyfish. read more

What a neat and funky location for a bar. Brilliant idea guys and am sure you ate making a killing. Prices are on a bit of the exe side but the bar staff are great. Frequented by a lot of very attractive Melbourne lovelies, so your optic nerve will get a good work out when people watching there. read more

Definitely come here, but do not eat here. Not that there's anything wrong with the food, but you'll be settling for bar food when you're mere steps away from some of the best restaurants in Australia. But definitely check this place out for its great location right on the water and enjoy some great beers. It's a little pricier than beers you'll find elsewhere, but that's because they're charging for the ambience, which is well worthwhile. Food: 3/5 Value: 4/5 Service: 4/5 Atmosphere: 5/5 read more

There's something about drinking a crisp white wine over a slow brown river. Ponyfish island is the place you take out-of-towners in the summer sun, or for the list-ticker in all of us. Great views of the city, and great novelty value read more

Nifty space, and cool place to meet after work. If it's a warm evening- beware, there is little shade! My only complaint is the beer selection, whilst I love a good Mexican beer on a hot summer's day (why yes, I did in fact have a Corona this arvo) it would be great to see some more local flavours. We have some good brewing going on locally, and I would like a smaller carbon footprint with my booze- just saying. Enjoy- you will feel cooler just by visiting. read more

One of the best locations in the city, and even better when it's warm out (actually, I would just avoid altogether if it's cold or rainy - save this one for a sunny day). Good place to grab a beer or cider at the end of a hot day. Tip: if there's a queue (particularly just after work), no worries - they wait is generally pretty short as there seems to be fairly high turnover inside. read more

Wow, the pics say it all, great location, amazing views, th'e Nachos, OMG best ever, presented in a noce rectangular box, oozes condiments and beef, can order a vegie one too, just mouth watering, ok wine list would have been 5 stars if more wine on offer a little pricey and I think it is a premium for its location but hey what a location at that, stairs a bit tough after your visit, but I will do stairs anyday for that view. read more

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