Overview
In mid-2024, a new player stepped up to bat in the Australian hospitality scene, and quickly became one of Melbourne's top hotels. The StandardX is the latest brainchild of Standard International, known for its lifestyle hotels in cosmopolitan hotspots like New York, Miami and London.
But The StandardX is a new direction for the brand. The Fitzroy concept acts as "a rebellious younger sibling" of The Standard Hotels across the globe, distilling The Standard experience to its "x factor", and going for a more minimalist and cool approach. It seems that Fitzroy is the perfect location for the new concept.
Melbourne's own Hecker Guthrie has infused the hotel's 125 rooms and public spaces with a contemporary yet unpretentious aesthetic. Macrame-clad pillars, a fireplace in the lobby and a warm colour palette also give the entire property a cosy charm.
As for the food, don't expect the standard fare of a hotel restaurant. A residency program has seen a selection of some of Melbourne's finest chefs taking their place in the Bistro X kitchen, including none other than legendary Shannon Bennett.
Next up on the pans is Executive Chef Ben John, who was previously the Head Chef of the hatted Pure South Dining. John says, "I'm thrilled to take the helm at Bistro X and build on the foundation that we've already created here. My focus is on creating something that's true to Melbourne, celebrating local ingredients and familiar flavours; bringing the best of Victoria's produce to the Fitzroy community with a relaxed flair."
On his menu, expect hyper-seasonal and locally sourced products, creating dishes as Hawkes Farm potato rosti with yellowfin tuna, asparagus with egg, cream and tarragon, Goldband spanner with broadbeans and sorrel and harissa roast chook with witlof and mignonette.
A new chef is not the only exciting addition coming to Bistro X. Tuesday nights will now see the introduction of $35 steak night, featuring a 250 gram wagyu MBS3 rump steak. On the weekends, you can expect to find a coffee cart offering takeout coffees and pastries, perfect for a stroll around the area. And on Fridays and Saturdays, guests can now enjoy a $75 prix fixe lunch menu, or a $110 set dinner menu.
The rooftop bar, On Top, was recently opened to the public, and is the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail after dinner, or before a night out, or at 10am — it's a hotel, after all. With panoramic city views and the privacy that comes with exclusivity, it's a pretty nice spot to have a sip and take in the majesty of the Melbourne skyline for locals and tourists alike.
The StandardX has quickly solidified its place as a premium choice for travellers and Melburnians looking for a unique hotel experience that blends luxury with Fitzroy's artistic and cultural heritage.
Images: Supplied.