Melbourne’s floating bar and restaurant Afloat is set to return to the Yarra River on Thursday 27 August, launching its eleventh season with a new concept, Yamas Greece. Named after the Greek toast meaning “to our health,” the venue’s latest transformation takes cues from the coastal colours, sun-drenched flavours and laid back spirit of the Greek Islands.
Interior designer Emily Jamieson, now in her third year at the helm of Afloat’s design, has leaned into the blue and white palette synonymous with the Greek coastline, pairing it with natural textures and sun-washed terracotta tones to recreate the warmth of an island beach club. On the drinks list, HQ Group Head of Wine Marcus Ellis has curated a selection of Greek wines built around native grape varieties, spanning vibrant whites and rosés through to medium bodied aromatic reds, alongside returning Afloat favourites. HQ Group’s Straight Up Cocktails team has also reworked several classics with a Greek twist, including a Long Island Iced Tea made with Greek mountain tea, a Moschofilero based sangria and an ouzo frozen cola.
On the food front, HQ Group Executive Chef Paul Dunlop has drawn on his own travels and time spent working in Greece to shape a menu inspired by tavernas, beach clubs and street vendors. Diners can expect fresh local seafood, grilled meats, meze, gyros and classic Greek sweets alongside returning Afloat staples, all designed for long, relaxed afternoons by the river.
Table reservations, banquet bookings and beach club lounge packages for September onwards are available now via afloat.melbourne. Tickets are also on sale for Afloat’s Christmas Day banquets and its annual sell out New Year’s Eve event welcoming 2027, promising flowing drinks, roaming canapés, DJs and live entertainment with front row views of Melbourne’s midnight fireworks over the river. The NYE theme is yet to be revealed.
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