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Restaurant

Pearl Diver

56 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Recommended by 22 people

Updated

Find Pearl Diver

56 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Directions ↗
+61 3 7006 5144
HoursMonday: Closed Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: Closed

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About Pearl Diver

Slide past the sheer curtains on Little Bourke Street into a moody oyster bar decked in model boats and antique maritime books. Staff guide you through regional appellations—pairing Duck Bay Pacifics and Wapengo Rocks with potent dirty martinis. Regulars turn up early for the 5-to-7 PM happy hour to down two-dollar shells before digging into tender tuna tartare spiked with harissa and pillowy focaccia slathered in whipped butter. The real secret weapon is the buttery lobster jaffle served alongside a bowl of rich bisque for dipping.

  • Regional Merroir Focus: Staff talk through regional flavor profiles like Duck Bay Pacifics, Clyde River, and Wapengo Rocks.
  • $2 Oyster Happy Hour: Early evening deals draw regulars for two-dollar fresh oysters alongside potent martinis.
  • Signature Lobster Jaffle: Toasted golden and served with rich lobster bisque for dipping.
  • Moody Maritime Nook: Soft lighting, sheer street curtains, and maritime relics set an unhurried, intimate scene.
RestaurantOysterCocktailRestaurantCocktail Bar

What's On at Pearl Diver

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Guests Choose Pearl Diver

Fresh regional oysters, nostalgic signature bites, and an intimate maritime ambiance in Melbourne's CBD.

  • Guided Regional Oyster Exploration

    Knowledgeable staff and oyster shuckers guide guests through varied regional Australian varieties like Duck Bay Pacific and Merimbula Rock.

    The staff were also extremely knowledgeable about the different oyster regions and took the time to walk me through all the available options based on my preferences.

    Sera L

  • Signature Lobster Jaffle with Bisque

    A signature toasted lobster jaffle comes served alongside a rich lobster and prawn dipping bisque.

    The highlight of my meal was the lobster jaffle with bisque which I could have just drank the whole bowl!

    Daisy W

  • Atmospheric Setting for Date Nights

    Soft, moody lighting, booth nooks, and sheer curtains create an intimate backdrop ideal for romantic evenings and dates.

    Our favourite date night spot! Best fresh oysters anywhere!

    Chan S

  • Thoughtfully Curated Maritime Decor

    The dining room features a refined maritime theme decorated with model boats, antique nautical books, and sea memorabilia.

    The space is thoughtfully decorated with model boats, antique nautical books, and other maritime memorabilia that add character without feeling overdone.

    daezjn

  • Weekday $2 Oyster Happy Hour

    An accessible early-evening happy hour features freshly prepared oysters priced at $2 each.

    The $2 oyster deal is probably the best you’ll find in the area—really fresh and well prepared.

    Susan Chor

  • Caring and Memorable Hospitality

    Thoughtful table pacing and friendly service provide a welcoming environment where guests depart feeling genuinely looked after.

    The food was tasty, and the service was great. We got out of the restaurant with full hearts.

    Diana Knight

Signature seafood dishes and culinary highlights celebrated by guests

  • Lobster Jaffle with Bisque

    The highlight of my meal was the lobster jaffle with bisque which I could have just drank the whole bowl!

    Daisy W

  • Fresh Oysters

    The oysters were very fresh, delicious, and beautifully served.

    S Cheng

  • Tuna Tartare

    The tuna tartare was incredibly tender and beautifully balanced, the acidity and spiced harissa worked perfectly together, while the fried shallots added crunch and the green onions brought freshness and extra dimension to the dish.

    Sera L

  • Roasted Baby Cauliflower

    Highlight of the meal was the roasted baby cauliflower.

    Julie in Melbourne

Beyond the menu

Thoughtful touches and personalized hospitality that enhance the Pearl Diver experience.

  • Direct Guidance from the Owner and Oyster Shucker

    Guests can sit directly at the oyster bar or booth and converse directly with the owner and oyster shucker to receive personalized recommendations and insights into oyster varieties.

  • Curated Regional Appellation Consultations

    Staff provide tailored regional oyster walk-throughs based on individual taste preferences, introducing varieties such as Duck Bay Pacific, Merimbula Rock, and Wapengo Rock.

  • Intimate Enclosed Nook and Private Booth Seating

    Guests looking for seclusion can book a distinct enclosed booth or private nook positioned away from the main dining room.

  • Thoughtful Assistance for International Guests

    Staff assist overseas travelers with custom accommodations, such as providing an Australian contact number to assist with digital QR ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an oyster happy hour?

Yes, Pearl Diver offers an oyster happy hour featuring $2 oysters, typically available between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Oysters of the day are served alongside drink specials and classic cocktails.

What cooked food options are available besides raw oysters?

While Pearl Diver specializes in freshly shucked oysters and raw bar selections, the menu includes cooked seafood and bistro items such as a lobster jaffle served with bisque, grilled skewers like harissa octopus, and fries. Main portions are on the smaller side, so ordering multiple dishes or sharing plates is recommended if you are hungry.

Do I need to make a reservation or are walk-ins welcome?

Pearl Diver accepts reservations and walk-ins, but tables fill up fast, especially for the $2 oyster happy hour and on busy evenings. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure you don't wait or miss out. Seating options include bar stools, standard tables, and a private booth.

Can I get coffee or other hot drinks?

No, Pearl Diver does not serve coffee, tea, or other hot beverages. It functions as a cocktail and oyster bar focused on cocktails, wine, and chilled drinks.

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