Ellora St Kilda — Restaurant in Melbourne

Before we went into another lockdown, I finally checked out Ellora, in St Kilda with a friend. They have been on my wish list since I first read about them, end of 2020. They are a cocktail and tapas bar [also do events].

Check-in is with the usual QR code app, then hand sanitisers and reservation checked off a list—all covid safe regulations. *I recommend making a reservation, especially for evening sessions, due to their popularity. The staff here are amicable and check in regularly throughout the evening.

As you enter the foyer, you can see the trendy Ellora logo and to the right, their function room, which was closed on this occasion. We were led up a flight of stairs to an open space consisting of a full bar, DJ area, dance floor, and barrels/chairs.

This led to the deck/balcony with bar tables, a sectioned off space, and a small function room filled with an eclectic collection of sculptures, furniture, and wall hangings—a hip and vibrant yet laidback vibe. The crowd varies in age, though I admit, I was the oldest there on the night - but I didn't care!

Tapas Recommendations: Lemon pepper chicken with tzatziki dipping sauce $12 - four skewers of juicy chicken, basted in lemon pepper was a delight to eat [I could have eaten more!] At first, I wasn't sure about the pairing of the dipping sauce. But it was refreshing and matched the chicken's delicate spices, and anything else would have overpowered the taste.

Coconut prawns with pineapple salsa $15 - four coconut-crumbed prawns, well-cooked, went perfectly with the chunky, pineapple salsa. You definitely need a fork or knife to add the salsa to the prawns as dipping doesn't work—my favourite dish of the night.

They have other tapas options, including wedges, fries, olives, and chorizo. I particularly look forward to trying their cheese or charcuterie boards. Prices are reasonable for what you receive.

Great views, service, beats, company and food - what's not to like about Ellora - drop in on them Thursday - Sunday - lunch or dinner - and enjoy the chilled and...

🥂✨ @ellorastkilda – Bottomless Brunch with a View in St Kilda 🌊 If you’re looking for a brunch spot that combines stunning beachside views, delicious eats, and free-flowing drinks, @ellorastkilda should be on your list. Their bottomless brunch is perfect for weekend catch-ups, birthdays, hen's night or just treating yourself.

What to Expect: 🥯 A generous bottomless bagel board featuring both sweet & savoury toppings — think smoked salmon, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, creamy avocado, fresh salad fixings, and spreads galore. For the sweet tooth, there’s Nutella, peanut butter, and classic jam to keep you happy. 🍸 Bottomless cocktails, wines, and bubbly to keep the vibes going. 🌊 Beachfront location with breezy, stylish interiors.

The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed — the kind of place where two hours can easily stretch into an afternoon. Service is attentive, the cocktails are generously poured, and the food keeps up with the flow of drinks (yes, no skimping here 👌).

✨ An absolute must-try for anyone after delicious food, bottomless drinks, and those iconic St Kilda vibes. 🌊✨ Perfect for group catch-ups or a fun brunch date — and at just $59pp, it’s seriously great value. Already planning our...

A rooftop escape with cocktails, comfort food and sweeping views

Ellora is the kind of place that makes you pause mid-sip just to take in the view. Perched above St Kilda, it offers a stunning panorama of the bay, beach especially magical at sunset.

We tried a mix of cocktails and comfort food that hit all the right notes. The Beach Bonfire was smoky and citrusy with a playful twist, while the Espresso Martini and Cosmopolitan were beautifully balanced and served with flair.

Food-wise, Ellora leans into crowd-pleasers done right: Creamy hummus with warm flatbread Crispy buttermilk chicken with a golden crunch Garlic flatbread that felt like a warm hug Fries that vanished in minutes BBQ chicken pizza- smoky, cheesy, and perfect for sharing

The vibe is relaxed yet elevated, with friendly staff and a space that feels both stylish and welcoming. Whether you are chasing cocktails with a view or just want to unwind with good food and great company, Ellora delivers.

Highly recommend for date nights, group hangs or anyone craving a rooftop moment that feels like a...