Nestled in the vibrant heart of Melbourne’s arts district, Miss Pearl Bar + Dining adds a zesty Asian-inspired twist to the local dining scene.

Located in Southbank Theatre, it presents an exciting destination for locals and theatre-lovers alike, eager to experience a modern dining affair before an evening of performance. This colourful hotspot, operated by The Fresh Collective and led by renowned head chef Sushil Aryal, is well worth the visit.

Offering a selection ranging from casual bites to full-fledged meals, Miss Pearl Bar + Dining introduces an enticing and diverse menu for all. With an array of snacks, small and large plates, and sides, the establishment encourages guests to explore and enjoy a plethora of Asian influences.

Aryal’s newly curated winter menu is a showcase of his inspiration drawn from the culinary traditions of Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Dishes like crispy tofu dressed with banana blossom, fried yuba and tamarind, or miso-roasted cauliflower with lemongrass sate and crisp soybean offer diners a unique, contemporary Asian fusion. The Jack’s Creek flat iron steak served with shio kombu butter and togarashi fries is not to be overlooked either.

Ensuring the arts precinct visitors are well catered for, a convenient pre-theatre dining menu is available. There are also express lunches for the time-pressed, and a wide range of group menus for social gatherings. The bar and snacks menu caters to those wanting a casual bite before diving into the evening’s entertainment.

The drink offerings are as thoughtful as the food. Bar manager Kristyanna Sheppard has masterfully designed a drinks menu that harmonises with Aryal’s dishes. Inspired by the same Asian flavours, she’s created unique sugar syrups featuring ginger and lemongrass, using them in standout cocktails like the Siam Siam, a chilli-infused tequila delight with ginger, lemongrass, and mango syrup, and the Jungle Bird, a tropical blend of blanco rum, lychee liqueur, pineapple and lemon.

With an impressive culinary background, Aryal brings his expertise from prestigious venues like Cumulus Inc, Spice Temple, Vue de monde, and Cutler and Co. He, along with Josh Murphy, even launched Moon Under Water at The Builders Arms Hotel.

Miss Pearl Bar + Dining opens its doors from 3:00 pm until late on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and from 12:00 pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Sundays are their well-deserved day off. This fusion gem in the heart of Melbourne’s arts precinct is an experience worth penciling into your schedule.