Stokehouse fire a tragedy: Vic premier

The public should decide what is built on the site of Melbourne's iconic Stokehouse restaurant, which burnt down at the weekend, Victorian Premier Denis Napthine says.

The 110-year-old building, which is on crown land on the St Kilda foreshore, was destroyed after a fire in the kitchen on Friday night and has been demolished.

Debate is raging about whether a replica of the original building should be constructed or something new should be built.

Dr Napthine described the restaurant burning down as a "tragedy".

"The community of Port Phillip and St Kilda, the community of Melbourne and Victoria need to give a bit of thought as to what is the best use of that land in the future," he told reporters.

"We as a government will certainly encourage the community's views."