10 Best Restaurants Near Southern Cross Station (Within 500m)
If you’re stepping off the train at Southern Cross Station and feeling peckish, you’re in luck. Melbourne’s west end is buzzing with cafés, restaurants, and food halls — all just a short distance from the platforms. Whether you’re after a quick bite before heading to Marvel Stadium, a sit-down meal with friends, or something special to linger over, there’s plenty within 500 metres of the station. Here are some of the best spots to try.
Restaurants Near Southern Cross Station
1. Henry and the Fox
Address: 525 Little Collins Street
Distance: 220 m
Tucked just a block away, Henry and the Fox offers a warm and stylish spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The menu has strong European influences, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options alongside seasonal meat and seafood dishes. It’s also a handy place for groups or functions.
Read our review of Henry and the Fox.
2. Higher Ground
Address: 650 Little Bourke Street
Distance: 140 m from Collins St exit
Directly across the road from Southern Cross, Higher Ground is one of Melbourne’s most striking cafés. Set in a soaring heritage building, it serves modern all-day dining with inventive twists — think ricotta hotcakes, spanner crab benedict, and standout coffee. It’s a popular brunch destination, so expect a buzz.
3. Mail Exchange Hotel
Address: 688 Bourke Street
Distance: 53 m from Collins St exit
You can’t get much closer than this. Located opposite the Collins Street exit, the Mail Exchange is a casual pub with a spacious bistro, perfect for hearty meals, classic pub fare, or an easy drink before catching your train.
4. Schmucks Bagels
Address: 9/567 Collins Street
Distance: 186 m from Collins St exit
For something quick but satisfying, Schmucks is a go-to. Famous for their chewy bagels stuffed with fillings like smoked salmon, pastrami, or falafel, they’re a great option to grab on the way in or out of the city.
Read our review of Schmucks Bagels here.
5. Scugnizzo Ristorante
Address: 558 Little Bourke Street
Distance: ~350 m
Craving Italian? Scugnizzo is a cosy laneway gem serving authentic southern Italian cuisine. From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizza and hearty mains, it’s ideal for a long lunch or relaxed dinner close to the station.
6. Gaylord Indian Restaurant
Address: 33 Spencer Street
Distance: 304 m from Collins St exit
Located in the Grand Hotel, Gaylord offers refined Indian dining just a short stroll from the platforms. Expect rich curries, tandoori specialities, and a setting that balances modern style with traditional warmth.
Read our review of Gaylord Indian Restaurant here.
7. Il Mercato Centrale
Address: 546 Collins Street
Distance: ~250 m
Melbourne’s newest Italian food hall brings together more than 20 vendors under one roof, including restaurants, wine bars, and artisan producers. It’s lively, varied, and perfect if you’re with a group who all want something different to eat.
Read our review of il Mercato Central here.
8. Southern Cross Lane Eateries
Address: Southern Cross Lane
Distance: less than 200 m
If you’re after a quick and casual option, Southern Cross Lane is home to a cluster of cafés and takeaway spots. You’ll find dumplings, sushi, salads, coffee, and sweets — ideal for grabbing something on the go.
9. Angliss Restaurant
Address: 550 Little Lonsdale Street
Distance: 450 m from Collins St exit
Run by students of William Angliss Institute, this training restaurant offers great-value modern dining in a professional setting. Menus change with the seasons, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a quality meal while supporting the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals.
Read our review here.
10. Royal Melbourne Hotel
Address: 629 Bourke Street
Distance: approximately 450 metres from Southern Cross Station
Located almost 500 metres from Southern Cross Station, the Royal Melbourne Hotel is a Melbourne institution that blends historic charm with modern hospitality. Housed in a heritage building dating back to 1889, it offers a variety of dining options, including a vibrant pub, private dining rooms, and a courtyard.
Other useful facilities near Southern Cross Station
If you’re stopping by Southern Cross Station, you’ll find a Woolworths Metro inside the concourse, handy for grabbing snacks, drinks, or last-minute groceries before heading out. There are also several take-away eateries and small convenience stores scattered throughout the station, making it easy to pick up essentials while on the go.
Public toilets are available inside the station, and while they’re fairly standard, they’re generally clean and functional — useful if you’re waiting for a train or bus connection.
At the northern end of the station you’ll find the DFO (Direct Factory Outlet shopping centre), which is not only a shopping hotspot but also home to plenty of cafés, casual dining spots, and additional public toilets. It’s a convenient place to head if you’ve got time between trains or buses.
Support and assistance nearby: Travellers Aid
Southern Cross is also home to Travellers Aid, located near the SkyBus terminal. This invaluable service provides mobility equipment hire, companion assistance, and a welcoming lounge area. It’s especially helpful if you or someone you’re with would benefit from extra support while travelling through the busy station precinct.
Final Thoughts
From big brunches at Higher Ground to scrumptious curries at Gaylord, Southern Cross Station is surrounded by diverse dining options, all within a short distance. Next time you pass through, skip the station snacks and step outside — Melbourne’s west end has plenty worth lingering over.
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