Riverside Lunch at BangPop, South Wharf
When you find a spot that ticks all the boxes — great food, riverside views, easy transport, and a lovely walk afterwards — you know you’re onto a winner. Recently, Mum, Dad and I spent a relaxed afternoon at BangPop in South Wharf.
BangPop sits right on the river, part of the vibrant South Wharf dining precinct. From the moment we arrive, the cheerful pops of colour, the open-air feel, and the gorgeous view of the Yarra make us smile. It feels lively without being overwhelming — perfect for a relaxed weekday lunch.
BangPop South Wharf: Fresh, Flavourful Thai Dishes
The menu at BangPop focuses on fresh, hawker-style Thai food, and it really delivers. We share a few dishes between us — the highlight is a fragrant green chicken curry that Dad’s still talking about.
The serving sizes are just right — generous, but not overwhelming.
I love that the staff are friendly and attentive without hovering. It feels very easy-going, with plenty of time to enjoy our meal and watch the world go by along the river.
Chris’ Review
If you’ve had a shopping expedition through the huge DFO at South Wharf, or been visiting one of the many attractions around the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and are now ready to sit, relax for a moment and give your taste buds a treat… then, I reckon the BangPop Restaurant, your Thai food heaven is the place to be.
We discovered this last week after a short walk along South Wharf Promenade.
Just after the Polly Woodside, one building stretched along the Yarra’s edge with the unassuming name “General Assembly” on its end. This is a restored warehouse and it is now home to a selection of restaurants.
On this particularly lovely sunny, but fresh, Melbourne autumn day, the idea of Thai food and the colourful visage of BangPop drew us in.
We weren’t disappointed… the casual atmosphere, very friendly and helpful staff, indoor or outdoor seating with river views, amazing Thai “hawker” inspired food and mocktails, all made this a very pleasant rest stop.
The menu has an inspired selection from snacks and nibbles to banquets. We went midway and shared serves of flash fried squid, green chicken curry, stir-fried greens and sticky rice. Satisfying indeed.
– Chris
An Easy, Accessible Day Out
After lunch, we take a slow wander to explore more of the South Wharf Promenade — a wide, flat path that’s ideal if you want a gentle walk. The area is filled with sculptures, boats on the river, and good people-watching.
We pop into the DFO South Wharf for a bit of window shopping (and yes, Mum found a bargain or two!). The DFO is undercover, air-conditioned, and has lifts and plenty of seating, making it a good option even if you’re not up for too much walking.
Staying the Night
We had plans to make a mini-break of it and stay at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne, just a short walk away. The hotel is comfortable and very convenient for exploring the city on foot or by tram.
After such a relaxing afternoon, it feels like a real treat to wake up to river views the next morning.
Side Trip
If you’re keen to turn your lunch at BangPop into a full outing, South Wharf has plenty to offer:
- The LUME Melbourne: Just a short distance away, this immersive art experience at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is unlike anything else. Perfect if you love vibrant colours, music and a relaxed, sit-down friendly exhibition space.
- Polly Woodside: If you enjoy a bit of history, the Polly Woodside tall ship is moored right next to DFO. On select days, you can even climb aboard and explore — it’s a gentle activity with guides to help, and a great spot for a few riverside photos.
- The Mission to Seafarers museum: Step into a fascinating slice of Melbourne’s maritime history at this beautifully preserved heritage building. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and a lovely way to learn about the lives of the seafarers who helped build Melbourne.
- Seafarers Bridge: A beautiful, architectural pedestrian bridge linking South Wharf to Docklands. It’s an easy, scenic route if you feel like stretching your legs after lunch.
- South Wharf Historic Boatsheds: A little quieter and tucked away, these heritage-listed sheds along the Yarra tell the story of Melbourne’s early river trade and industry.
- Crown Melbourne: A few minutes further along the river, you’ll find Crown’s dining promenade, cinemas, and even the Crown Aviary rooftop garden if there’s an event on. Even if you’re not into gaming, it’s a good spot to explore and maybe have a coffee.
- Melbourne River Cruise: If you want to rest your feet, you can hop on a sightseeing cruise from Southbank — a peaceful and relaxing way to see more of Melbourne from the water.
BangPop: Good to Know
- Location: 35 South Wharf Promenade, South Wharf
- Getting There: Easy tram access (catch the 96, 109 or 12 and get off at Clarendon Street Junction, then a short stroll).
- Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free available. We have had readers recommend the gluten-free Pad Thai, read more here.
- Accessibility: Flat paths, accessible bathrooms nearby at DFO and South Wharf.
BangPop
35 S Wharf Promenade, South Wharf VIC 3006
(03) 9245 9800
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