Ah, summer in Melbourne—the sun is out, the beaches are calling, and the expansive deck at Williamstown’s Sebastian is officially open for the season. If you haven’t heard the buzz yet, this seaside gem is the talk of the town, and with good reason.
Nestled on the vibrant Williamstown Beach, Sebastian offers a beachside retreat just a stone’s throw from the city, where the only thing you’re required to do is kick back, sip on a cocktail, and let your worries drift away with the tide.
Once upon a time, this spot was the heritage-listed Williamstown Bathing Pavilion, a local treasure dating back to the 1930s. Fast forward to today, and it’s been transformed by co-owners Dave Parker, Alex Brawn, and Kelly Brawn into a lively venue inspired by none other than San Sebastián’s famous culinary scene. Think pintxos bars, delicious Spanish-inspired dishes, and a vibe that’s as relaxed as it is vibrant. It’s like having a bit of the Basque coast right here in Melbourne.
To mark their sixth year—and the start of what promises to be a fabulous summer—Sebastian is throwing a deck party on Saturday, 23 November. Expect an evening of live music, a sunset DJ setting the mood, and some delightful specials to keep everyone entertained. We’re talking $6 sangrias, $2 oysters, buckets of beer, and even choc tops for the sweet tooths among us. It’s a day out at the beach, but with flair!
As for the menu, prepare to indulge. On the deck, you can savour elevated Spanish classics like Arroz De Primavera and the must-try Basque crispy mussels with fermented chilli aioli. Or, if you’re more about keeping it casual, the Sebastian Beach Bar menu has you covered with everything from snacks and toasties to generously portioned mains like lightly fried calamari and good old fish and chips.
Feeling a bit carnivorous? Well, Thursdays are your lucky day, my friend. Pop over for the Steak Night special—$80 for two, featuring a butcher’s cut steak cooked over charcoal, paired with Café de Paris butter, and a side of patatas bravas. Add in $10 sangrias and $15 classic cocktails, and you’ve got yourself a meal to remember.
But it’s not just about the food and drinks—though those are definitely a major draw. Sebastian is bringing back their live Sunday sessions, a staple for those in the know, along with a whole host of music events throughout the summer featuring local artists. It’s the perfect soundtrack to a day spent basking in the sun.
Co-owner Dave Parker sums it up perfectly: “We can’t wait to welcome locals and Melburnians back to celebrate the warmer weather on the Sebastian deck. It’s the perfect place to relax and get away from the city while enjoying great food and drinks.”
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure a visit to Sebastian is on your summer agenda. After all, where else can you dine with your feet in the sand and a sangria in hand? Cheers to that!