South Melbourne Market

The locals' market — a covered village of food stalls, fresh produce and deli counters trading since 1867, home of the legendary South Melbourne dim sim. A friend sends you here over Queen Vic if you'd rather eat than sightsee: fresh oysters, borek, paella and that dim sim. Caveat: only open Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to South Melbourne Market from the CBD?

The 96 tram from Bourke Street drops you basically at the entrance in about 10 minutes. The 12 along Clarendon Street also works. Driving is possible — there's rooftop parking — but the tram is easier.

Is South Melbourne Market better than Queen Victoria Market?

For eating and a local feel, plenty of Melburnians would say yes; for scale and history-book grandeur, Queen Vic wins. They're 10 minutes apart by car but feel like different cities — do both if you're a market person.

Is there seating to eat at South Melbourne Market?

Yes — communal tables in the food hall areas and around the neighbouring cafes, plus kerbside spots along Coventry Street. Weekend lunchtime seats get contested, so graze early.

What days is South Melbourne Market open?

Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 8am-4pm, and Friday 8am-5pm. Closed Monday, Tuesday and Thursday plus most public holidays — plan around that or you'll find shutters.

Is South Melbourne Market open on public holidays?

Generally no — it closes for most public holidays including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day. Check their website if your visit falls on or near a holiday.

What should I eat at South Melbourne Market besides dim sims?

Fresh-shucked oysters at the seafood counters, a borek from the pastry stall, Spanish doughnuts or paella, and excellent coffee from the cafes around the perimeter. It's arguably Melbourne's best grazing market.

What is the famous dim sim at South Melbourne Market?

The South Melbourne Market dim sim is a Melbourne icon — an oversized steamed (or fried) dumpling from the long-running stall, made to a recipe that's barely changed in decades. Locals buy them by the half-dozen; get at least one steamed with soy.

Can I do a proper grocery shop at South Melbourne Market?

That's exactly what it's for — butchers, fishmongers, greengrocers, deli counters and bakers, all high quality. If you're staying in an apartment nearby, shopping here beats any supermarket.

Nearby in Ask Melbourne

• Agathé PâtisserieRestaurant0.09 km · 1 min walk
• The Hardware SociétéCafé1.3 km · 16 min walk
• Immigration MuseumMuseum1.42 km · 18 min walk
• National Gallery of VictoriaAttraction1.46 km · 18 min walk
• Shrine of RemembranceAttraction1.46 km · 18 min walk