Melbourne’s gone full Barbiecore with the arrival of the Malibu Barbie Café, now open at Chadstone’s Social Quarter – and it’s every bit as fabulous as you’d hope.
This two-storey, family-friendly pop-up is the first of its kind outside the US and comes packed with nostalgic charm, Insta-worthy moments, a roller rink, and surprisingly top-notch food.
We scored a sneak peek before opening day, and let’s just say… it’s a whole vibe.
The café is bursting with 70s Malibu energy – pink walls, palm trees, surfboards, and a life-sized Barbie box you can actually step into. Upstairs is where the fun continues with the Ken Kabana bar and a retro roller-skating rink, complete with disco lights and beachy murals.
There’s also a Barbie history wall, limited edition merch, and themed cocktails (or mocktails) with names like the Roller Rink Royale – yes, topped with fairy floss.
Don’t be fooled by the cute novelty– the food here is legit. We tried:
Groovy Garlic Butter Linguine ($33) – rich, buttery, and loaded with prawns Surfs Up Tacos ($29) – crispy fish, fresh salsa, lime crema, plus fries
Cali Club Sandwich ($27) – stacked with grilled chicken, turkey bacon, Swiss on sourdough
The real showstoppers? Dessert. The Ice Cream Float ($18) comes in a Barbie convertible (seriously), and the Dessert Sampler ($49) arrives in a giant Barbie boat piled with doughnuts, cupcakes, cookies and more. It serves up to eight and is as photogenic as it is delicious.
After eating, head upstairs to the Barbie x Impala Roller Rink. Skate hire is just $10, and our kids absolutely loved it. Just note that skating is separate to dining, so you’ll need to line up for a session once you’re there. ( limited to 6 people at a time)
Also, the upstairs turns 18+ after 8:30pm on Fridays and Saturdays, perfect for a cheeky Barbie or Ken night out.
Hot Tip: Book Ahead
The café officially opened (today) June 27 and is already booking out most weekends and school holidays. You’ll want to lock in a table via malibubarbiecafe.com to avoid missing out. Bookings include a 90-minute session plus a food or merch credit.
Whether you’re bringing the kids, planning a girls’ day, or just living your Barbie dreams, this pop-up is pure fun. Come hungry, dress in pink, and don’t forget to charge your phone — you’ll want photos of everything.
📍 Malibu Barbie Café Chadstone – The Social Quarter
🗓️ Now open (for a limited time!)
🎟️ Bookings essential: malibubarbiecafe.com
Melbourne with Kidz (MWK) 
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