Sight
PJ O'Brien's
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
PJ O'Brien's is a popular Irish pub located in the Southgate Restaurant & Shopping Precinct on Melbourne's Southbank. With its prime position along the Yarra River, it offers outdoor seating with views of the city skyline and the river. The pub has a warm, wood-paneled interior with traditional Irish decor, including dark leather banquettes and a long bar. It's known for its friendly atmosphere, live music (often Irish folk or rock), and a menu featuring classic pub fare like fish and chips, burgers, and Guinness pie. The beer selection includes Irish staples like Guinness and Kilkenny, plus local craft beers. It's a favorite spot for after-work drinks, pre-theatre dinners, and weekend gatherings.
Don't miss
- Riverside outdoor seating with views of the Yarra and city
- Live Irish music most evenings
- Hearty pub classics like Guinness pie and bangers and mash
- Extensive whiskey selection and Irish beers
- Close to Southbank's theatres and arts venues
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit PJ O'Brien's
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine PJ O'Brien's with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inEnglish Melbourne Walking Tour4.9★ · 34 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$18 per personSee dates →
Most bookedUltimate Melbourne Walking Tour: History, Laneways & Culture4.9★ · 1,558 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$91 per personSee dates →
Top ratedMelbourne Sports Experience + MCG Tour Combo5★ · 150 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$85 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Live music usually from 7 PM; check schedule for specific acts.
- Happy hour specials often available on weekdays.
- Book a table for dinner, especially on weekends.
- Outdoor seating is undercover but can be chilly in winter; dress accordingly.
A bit of history
PJ O'Brien's has been a fixture on Southbank since the 1990s, part of the Southgate complex that revitalized the area. It's named after a classic Irish pub tradition, though not tied to a specific historical figure.
Common questions
Is there live music every night?
Most nights, yes, typically from 7 PM. It's best to check their website for the weekly schedule.
Do I need to book a table?
Recommended for dinner, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Walk-ins are welcome for drinks.
Is the pub family-friendly?
Yes, children are welcome during the day and early evening. It becomes more adult-oriented later.
What are the opening hours?
Generally open from 11 AM to late, but hours vary. Check their official site for exact times.
Can I host a private event there?
Yes, they have function spaces for private parties. Contact the venue for details.
Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, with great river views. It's popular, so arrive early to secure a spot.
More attractions in Melbourne
