Spring is in the air, Melbourne. And you know what that means? Afloat is back, baby. But this year with a new flavour.
Now in its ninth season, Melbourne’s beloved floating bar and restaurant is making waves on the Yarra River (Birrarung) once again. This time, it’s returning with a whole new vibe, re-emerging as Afloat Capri, a jaw-dropping Italian beach club inspired by the ever-so-charming island of Capri. Mark your calendars for early September because you won’t want to miss this sun-soaked spectacle.
“Capri draws you in with its natural beauty, glamour, and style,” says Emily Jamieson, the mastermind behind Afloat Capri’s transformation. Picture this: the idyllic island off the Gulf of Naples, famous for its rocky cliffs, winding bougainvillea-scented paths, lemon orchard-shaded restaurants, and sparkling sapphire seas. Now, imagine all that magic right here on the Yarra. Yep, you heard it right! Emily and her team are bringing that postcard-perfect charm to our very own backyard. Expect to be greeted by striped umbrellas with valances, loads of lemon trees, hand-painted ceramic planters, terracotta-tiled roofs, and sorbet-colored walls adorned with hand-painted illustrations.
And what’s a beach club without some knockout cocktails? Tom Younger, HQ Group’s Head of Cocktails, along with the talented team at Straight Up Cocktails, have curated a drink menu that’s practically dripping with Italian coastal flair. “Afloat is the kind of place you want to stay all day,” Tom beams. The cocktail menu is designed for those endless summer days and warm nights with friends and family. Think citrus and aperitif-driven delights, a dedicated spritz section featuring Aperol, Campari, and Limoncello, over 30 different Negronis, and even Pidapipo gelato-based frozen cocktails. Yes, please.
There more. The food menu, crafted by Executive Chef James Gibson, is all about capturing the essence of Italian coastal dining. “Simplicity is the cornerstone of Italian cuisine,” James explains. Inspired by beach club destinations like Capri, Ischia, and Procida, as well as the quaint trattorias of the Amalfi Coast, the menu will feature Italian classics that are as uncomplicated as they are delicious. Think pizza, pasta, antipasti, panino, daily crudo selections, and seafood platters perfect for sharing. It’s all about good food, good times, and good company.
Set your alarms because Afloat Capri will be open for walk-ins in early September 2024. The exact opening date is still under wraps but will be revealed soon via Afloat’s newsletter. To keep your finger on the pulse and ensure you don’t miss a thing, sign up at www.afloat.melbourne. Reservations from Monday 16 September 2024 onwards can be made online, so get ready to snag your spot at www.afloat.melbourne.
This season at Afloat Capri is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience. So, gather your mates, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready to dive into the Italian coastal vibes right on the Yarra River. Cheers to long, lazy days and even longer nights at Afloat Capri.