Based on the philosophy, "books are not commodities, they are works of art", My Bookshop by Corrie Perkin was launched in 2009 and has since grown to become one of Melbourne's most-loved hangouts for writers and bookworms of all ages. Founded by prominent journalist Corrie Perkin, the bookstore offers a huge variety of texts to dive into, with the latest novels, biographies and striking coffee table books all up for grabs. Situated amid the bustling local shopping destination of Hawksburn Village, this bookshop is the perfect place to spend an afternoon on the hunt for something new to read. Images: Parker Blain.
Named after the god of the sea, it's no surprise to see Neptune champion all things seafood on its short yet solid menu. But the Windsor restaurant, run by hospo stalwarts Nic Coulter (Young Hearts) and Michael Parker (San Telmo, Pastuso), didn't always have this seafood focus. A more general mix of Mediterranean eats was served up here until 2023 when Neptune had a little revamp. Now, you'll struggle to find a dish on the menu that wasn't plucked from the sea or a river. Things kick off with a selection of shelled creatures — think oysters, scallops, mussels and pippies — and a few cold and raw options. The Fairy Bread toast is a particularly fun one. House-made focaccia is covered in lashings of garlic butter and salmon roe to create a fishy twist on a childhood favourite. You've also got a few options from the grill — this is where you'll find chicken and steak — plus a small selection of mains. Our favourite here has to be the spanner crab spaghetti that's been on the Neptune menu for quite a few years. Regulars wouldn't let the chefs stop serving this one. [caption id="attachment_920979" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nic Coulter and Michael Parker[/caption] But if you hate making decisions when dining, the Neptune team has joined so many other Melbourne restaurants by creating some fairly reasonably priced set menus. Pick the $90 seafood set menu and prepare to feast on fresh oysters, scallops, salmon tataki (very lightly seared salmon), a whole grilled fish, that much-loved crab pasta, potato salad and a cheeky seasonal dessert. Make sure you get on the wines while you're here, too. Neptune is known for being a bit of a wine bar. Either ask the team to pair your meal with a few drops or head over to the large wine fridges to pick a bottle yourself. There's a strong focus on European vinos, but plenty of Aussie winemakers also feature on the extensive wine list. Many also hit up Neptune for wine, cocktails and snacks — sitting out by the street in the sun. You can easily make it into a little aperitivo spot for lunch or after work. The Mediterranean vibes lend very well to this kind of drinking and dining experience. [caption id="attachment_920974" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sarah Pannell[/caption] Top images: Steve Murray, Sarah Pannell and Jo Rittey
Just over 30 years on from its 1993 debut at the MCG, the massive communal feast known as the World's Longest Lunch is next set to take over Kings Domain on Friday, March 15 as a part of the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. And this time around, it'll feature the culinary stylings of Melbourne's hospo juggernaut Andrew McConnell (Gimlet, Cutler & Co, Supernormal, Builders Arms Hotel, Marion). He's transformed Australia's contemporary dining landscape and has now set himself a huge challenge to serve a one-off three-course lunch to over 1700 people. That's no easy feat. All the guests will take a seat at the 600-metre-long table that winds along Kings Domain (hoping to the weather gods that Melbourne's weather doesn't show its ugly side). In terms of the food menu, we don't know what McConnell has dreamt up, but wines will be coming from Tahbilk Winery, beers from Melbourne's own Brick Lane Brewing, still, sparkling and flavoured waters from Capi and coffee from Inglewood Coffee Roasters. As of publishing, there are just a few hundred regular seats still available, with all but one of the VIP packages sold out and a handful of accessible spots still up for grabs. This is always a hugely popular event and is likely to book out soon. If you're contemplating whether or not to get some tickets ($295 per person), don't take too long to decide.
Darling Group is best known for opening and acquiring some of Melbourne's top cafes (Higher Ground, Top Paddock, The Terrace, Kettle Black), while recently branching out into the restaurant scene (Token and Stringers). Like many of the larger hospitality groups in Melbourne, the Darling Group continues to expand (even if the industry is struggling right now). Most recently, it opened Cheri — a new all-day eatery located right across from South Melbourne Market. Cheri has taken over neighbouring sites Bibelot and Chez Dre, transforming them into one huge 150-seat venue that's open from 8am–5pm every day of the week. Darling Group's Executive Pastry Chef Michael Germanos is making sure Cheri is home to incredible pastries, cakes and bread, made on-site every morning to be exclusively sold here and across all of Darling Group's other venues. Expect an expansive collection of sweet and savoury croissants, classic eclairs, small and large tarts and cakes, sourdough loaves, baguettes, piadinas and focaccia sandwiches. It's giving full bakery energy throughout the morning, while also serving up an all-day dining menu that covers most of your breakfast and lunch bases. Brekkie bites include polenta porridge with confit spiced dates, mandarin, creme fraiche, cinnamon and pistachios; croissant loaf french toast with maple syrup and cultured butter; eggs benedict served on a croissant wheel; and a lamb merguez fry-up with poached eggs, za'atar yogurt, preserved lemon, mint and pita bread. This is a stacked morning menu that reads like those at Melbourne's best breakfast spots. For lunch, you've got ricotta gnocchi with pancetta, broad bean leaf verde, spring peas, stracciatella and green onion oil; chicken cotoletta with sprouting broccoli leaves, asparagus and cafe de Paris sauce; and seven different pizzas made with 72-hour fermented dough. Pair this all with some signature cocktails — you can never go wrong with a cheeky bloody mary — teas, shakes, sodas, and a decadent Cheri hot chocolate made with milk chocolate, whipped cream and crema di pistachio. You can drop by this spot for a quick takeaway pastry and coffee, or choose to sit in the main dining room or 50-person courtyard — when the sun is shining. We have high expectations for Cheri, not only because Darling Group has proven it knows how to cafe, but because this food menu looks like an absolute banger. Images: Julian Lallo.
Why make one drink when you can make ten? Batched cocktails have grown significantly in popularity across the cocktail world. They're a great, easy option for the amateur bartender — particularly useful when you're hosting a party, because you're not going to be stuck behind the bar all night mixing drinks if you plan ahead. You'd expect that bartenders would turn up their nose at a pre-mixed cocktail, but the trend has caught on in multiple Australasian venues — it turns out they love pre-mixing too. One of the main reasons why is that it's much more practical for bartender and consumer. They don't have to spend 15 minutes mixing and muddling up a complex cocktail, and you don't have to wait. Cocktail ingredients are pre-prepared (bars usually pre-mix cocktails two to three hours before opening), and the ingredients in the drink are left to infuse. When you're using gin, this means there's enough time for botanicals to infuse with the other ingredients, and richer, bolder flavours appear. In partnership with Bombay Sapphire, we asked Sean Forsyth (the Bombay Sapphire Australian ambassador) to show us how to mix up a big batch of Coffee Negronis — literally just the Negroni cocktail you know and love with cold-drip coffee added. Like a Negroni, coffee is sweet, bitter and complex — so it's the perfect ingredient to complement and spice up this famous gin cocktail. Get your hands on some cold-drip and you've got yourself a breakfast-appropriate cocktail. "If you walk into a bar and they don't know how to make a Negroni, leave," Forsyth says. He's right. To make a Negroni you just need to know how to mix gin, vermouth and Campari — it's easy. To make a batch of Coffee Negronis, you need water, a one-litre measuring jug, a funnel and a one-litre glass bottle instead of a shaker. It's getting much, much easier to make good cocktails. THE COFFEE NEGRONI (Serves 10) Ingredients: 250ml Bombay Sapphire 200ml Martini Rosso 200ml Campari 100ml cold drip espresso 250ml water 1 litre sealable glass bottle Method: Using a funnel and a one-litre measuring jug, build ingredients into a clean one-litre glass bottle Shake and add into the freezer one hour before service Pour into rocks glass filled with cubed ice Garnish with an orange slice Images: Kimberley Low.
Just like you, your four-legged friend enjoys escaping the daily grind. Only their version of that looks like running laps of the backyard or living room, frolicking after balls and embarking on open-air adventures. They want to feel the earth under their paws, sniff out all the smells and — hopefully — score some playtime with a few other friendly doggos. And there's nowhere better for your pooch to experience this kind of freedom in the city than a glorious off-leash area or big, long walking trail. Luckily, there are a plethora of dog parks, beaches and walking tracks in Melbourne that will welcome you and your fur-baby with open arms. And if you're dog-less but down for pats, that's okay too. These spots offer up some prime pup-watching opportunities, even if you're flying solo. Recommended reads: The Best Dog-Friendly Cafes in Melbourne The Best Dog-Friendly Accommodation in Victoria The Best Coastal Walks Near Melbourne The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Australia Merri Creek Trail For an inner-city walk that feels worlds away from the CBD's hustle and bustle, the Merri Creek Trail offers up 21 kilometres of leafy, openair goodness, from Dights Falls up to the Western Ring Road. And, with access to plenty of designated off-leash areas along its length, it's a surefire hit with visitors of the wet-nosed, four-legged variety. Leads are required while you're using the shared trail (for protection of the native wildlife) but there's loads to see and sniff along the way. Plus your pooch should be pretty chuffed with the many other doggos they encounter en route. This walk is also close to countless boutique shops, cafes and nurseries — so be sure to take a peak inside some of the top pit stops along the Merri Creek Trail. Albert Park Not just a popular destination for outdoor fitness fiends and joggers, Albert Park is also a paradise for furry locals keen to stretch their legs. An easy three kilometres from the CBD, the spacious precinct is packed with walking trails, picnic areas, open spaces, drinking fountains and of course, that iconic namesake lake. Most of the park is dog-friendly and you'll find a mix of on and off-leash areas to explore with your furry mate by your side. What's more, both the city skyline and tree-lined lake make for a pretty majestic backdrop. Elwood Beach Outside of the summer months, Elwood Beach proves a popular playground for four-legged mates, with dogs allowed to roam and explore off-leash, 24 hours a day. They've got free rein of the sandy stretch between the beach access ramp by Normandy Road and the rock groyne south of Point Ormond, from April through to the end of October. From November to March, part of the beach is off-limits to pooches completely, while the northern section allows off-leash roaming from 5.30–9.30am each day. Clayton Reserve, North Melbourne Ideally located for northsiders, Clayton Reserve is a small but welcoming fenced-in dog park where furry friends can run, play and socialise to their heart's content. It's known for its strong community feel, so both you and Rufus can bank on meeting some new mates whenever you visit. And of course, a wide variety of friendly visitors means there are always stacks of pats. Other bonus features include a dog fountain, lots of bins and poo bags, and some handily placed seats — ideal for owners of extra energetic pups. Jells Park, Wheelers Hill While it's an on-leash area only, Jells Park in the Dandenong Creek Valley offers up 127 hectares of sniffing and exploring for local dog owners and their pawed pals. Sporting a hefty nine kilometres of winding paths and trails, and a central lake with wildlife galore, this popular spot promises a scenic adventure with plenty to keep the most curious of pups entertained. You'll also find lots of picnic sites dotted throughout, if you and your pooch fancy making a day of it. Just be sure to avoid the dedicated conservation areas when fur-kid is in tow. Sandown Street Beach, Brighton A favourite off-leash area among Bayside dog owners, this fenced patch of beach between Bay and Sandown streets is the perfect combination of surf, sand and pure, unadulterated doggy delight. Free of the restrictions of other nearby spots, pooches are allowed to roam off-leash here, all year round. Exploring opportunities include barrelling over sand dunes, sniffing shrubs and paddling up a frenzy in the water. Owners don't lose out either — it's a lovely stroll along the marina and you'll enjoy a primo view of the CBD skyline in the distance. Caulfield Park. Caulfield North Not just chock full of park amenities and perks for us humans — we're talking BBQs, sheltered picnic spots and stacks of sports facilities — Caulfield Park also has plenty of lush, well-maintained ground suitable for dogs to roam off-leash at their leisure. For a more structured stroll, there's a scenic walking track where you can observe birdlife, sniff out smells and feed some ducks, although you'll need to put Rover back on his lead for this stretch. Leashes are also a must within the Hawthorn Road and Park Crescent ends of the precinct, and whenever you're within 20 metres of a sporting activity. Citizens Park, Richmond Ask any Richmond pooch and they'll tell you Citizens Park is the place to be, running wild and free at the sports grounds just off Bridge Road. Whenever the footy oval isn't being used for training or a match, doggos are allowed to make it their own and you'll likely find the field packed with furry creatures interpreting the green turf as dog paradise. Having a less than fab day? A visit here — and a few hundred pats — is sure to cheer you up. Sir Zelman Cowen Park, Kooyong Well deserving of a five-paw rating, Sir Zelman Cowen Park (formerly Kooyong Park) boasts a smorgasbord of stuff that'll please furry pals. Not only does the park feature stacks of sprawling, manicured green grounds and the picturesque Gardiners Creek running through its heart, but your doggo can be sure of loads of off-leash freedom and handy doggy drinking taps aplenty. Meanwhile, owners are sure to enjoy the many green bag dispensers and free parking. It's a win-win. Port Melbourne Dog Beach For waterfront walkies that are still nice and close to the city, take your pup for a cruise along the coastal strip of Port Melbourne, joining Station and Lagoon piers. The southern half is a designated off-leash zone all year round, with the northern section open to off-leash dogs from April through October (but off-limits through the summer). The beach offers a great vantage point to watch the Spirit of Tasmania setting sail, and ain't a bad spot for a swim. Mentone Dog Beach After a successful year-long trial in 2015, the sandy stretch between Charman and Plummer Roads in Mentone is now officially a 24-hour off-leash dog beach. While it can get busy with furry bodies during peak times, it's a picturesque spot for catching up with other dogs, rolling in sand and chasing the odd seagull. You'll find plenty of bins for disposing of your pup's stinky gifts and there's access to the Bay Trail if you're keen to clock up a few post-beach steps. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash until you hit the sand. Top image: Bianca Ackermann via Unsplash
On a sunny Chapel Street corner, Abacus has managed to nail that all-day eatery vibe that often proves so elusive; its lofty, leafy space is bright and charming by the light of day, and manages to be cosy enough to make the dinnertime crowd feel right at home. What's on offer is a farm-to-fork experience that's steeped in seasonality, locality and isn't afraid to test out a little technique. The kitchen mills its own flour and even keeps its own bees. By day, that all translates to a menu of bright and innovative brunch fare that pushes the envelope way beyond the usual smashed avo and corn fritters, there are blue swimmer crab crumpets, or you could dabble in a ballarat breakfast with thick-cut bacon, Irish style sausage, pigs head and snout terrine paired with a native bush tomato relish and poached egg. There's Ona coffee — done well, mind you — though you won't need much more encouragement than those sparkling surrounds to steer towards one of the breakfast cocktails. By night, a lineup of contemporary Australian mains and elegant share plates play rather nicely with couple of wines or cocktails, from a smart, largely local drinks list. Somewhere in the middle? Nab yourself a knock-off and some real estate by the sliding floor-to-ceiling windows, and you've got a front-row seat to some of the best people-watching South Yarra has to offer. Updated May, 2023. Appears in: The 13 Best Cafes in Melbourne for 2023 Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Melbourne for 2023
In the heart of Chinatown, China Red is one of those spots that is deceptively small at first glance. But you should always try your luck, even if it looks too busy, as there's a downstairs dining room that always has space for hungry dumpling seekers. Inside is a classic dumpling house specialising in xiao long bao, veggie dumplings and salt and pepper squid, as well as bigger more traditional dishes like pipis in a spicy XO sauce. The gimmick of China Red is ordering everything through a touch screen menu at each table. Great for getting carried away and over-ordering — or adding extra dishes when you're halfway through and realise how delicious everything is. China Red allows BYO beer and wine. Start by ordering some dim sums, with the prawn and chive perfectly flavoured and the peking pork dumplings a real hit. The scallop and prawn dumplings don't miss a beat while the vegetarians options is there to cover all bases. Follow it up with a seafood and bean curd soup and some chicken san choi bao before moving onto a main. We'd suggest the fish fillet with pickled cabbage and the sliced beef in satay sauce. Images: Tracey Ah-kee
This Melbourne cafe has been a Chapel Street stalwart since its opening back in 2008 under the name of Dukes Coffee Roasters before changing its name to Journeyman in 2014. Its roots run deep in the coffee roasting game but the team has successfully stretched beyond coffee as the sole focus. Nowadays, you'll struggle to grab a table due to Journeyman's popularity amongst the local brunch lovers who keep coming back for the ever-evolving dining menu. Notable dishes on the menu include the mushroom medley on toast and the eggs Benedict made with pork belly, apple, spinach, maple hollandaise and a house-made bbq sauce on english muffins. But the signature dish is the cafe's famed avocado hummus toast served with honey candied bacon and a poached egg — a winning combo that must be tried by any self-respecting brunch-loving Melburnian. And with all this attention being given to the food, it has, thankfully, managed to maintain its strong coffee game. The Journeyman team is firm on its commitment to serve ethically traded and sourced coffee, with each lot of beans traceable back to the farm from which it came. The Dukes blends are crafted from mostly organic beans, sourced from Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. And each is showcased through a whole swag of methods, from classic espresso, to filter and French press. Sit back within this small Melbourne cafe watching the baristas work their magic before tucking into some of Melbourne's best brunch offerings. Journeyman has never disappointed. And we don't expect that to change anytime soon. Appears in: The 13 Best Cafes in Melbourne for 2023 Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Melbourne for 2023
They say people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones, which is excellent practical advice for when visiting a glass greenhouse, but they never really mention what people in glass houses should do, or even where to find glasshouses. They're pretty common in Europe, where harsh winters prevent many southern hemisphere plants from thriving, nearly every botanical garden boasts a glasshouse full of exotic species. But Australia doesn't get too many chances at glass glory. If you're in the market for a round the world trip full of steamy glass greenhouses, or if you're looking for inspiration for your indoor garden, check out ten of the best and biggest greenhouses from around the world. [caption id="attachment_574059" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Kew Conservatory.[/caption] KEW CONSERVATORY The Kew Conservatory is one of the most well known greenhouses in the world. Established in 1987 by Princess Diana and housing over 30,000 plant species, the conservatory is designed to be energy efficient and uses some passive heating and cooling design techniques to moderate each climatic area. In one of the glasshouses, you'll find giant water lilies that span over two metres and a basement level that gives you a view of the underbelly of the pond. However, you can only visit the glasshouse by purchasing a ticket for the Kew Gardens at large, so we recommend heading over in the spring or summer to soak up as much quaint English garden as you can possibly stand. [caption id="attachment_574285" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] PALMENHAUS AT SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE The Palmenhaus Schonbrunn in Vienna is a glasshouse built in the garden of the royal palace of Schonbrunn. It bucked the dainty white trend to be built with a dusky green steel and, like many glasshouses built before WWII, it's had a long and colourful history. Palmenhaus was partially destroyed in 1945 when the palace was heavily firebombed, but has since rebuilt — and has grown its herbarium to one of the most prestigious in the world. Among the planned chaos of the overgrown garden, you'll find oldest plant in the world, an olive tree donated by Spain in 1974, is estimated to be roughly 350 years old. KAISANIEMI BOTANIC GARDENS GREENHOUSES In the Kaisaniemi Botanic Gardens in Helsinki sit three plump glasshouses laced with white. They're laid out in a more rambling fashion than traditional greenhouses, with quaint benches and tables scattered throughout, and are used as much as an education facility as a peaceful retreat from chilly Helsinki. The rooms are organised by plant variety and the most striking include the Asian waterlily rooms (think water lilies the size of a picnic rug), the desert room and atmospheric rainforest room. [caption id="attachment_574280" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] ROYAL GREENHOUSES OF LAEKEN In the 1800s, advancements in construction techniques made the greenhouse, a building that's pretty much just a stack of delicate glass panes, possible. Many greenhouses that were built around that time followed the popular art nouveau style of looking like a glorious wedding cake — and those built on the grounds of Laeken, the Belgium royal castle, were no exception. The greenhouses were untouched during WWII and retain most of their original collections, however they're only open to the public for three weeks during the spring, which makes them all the more mysterious. [caption id="attachment_574286" align="alignnone" width="1280"] NYBG.[/caption] ENID A. HAUPT CONSERVATORY New York Botanical Garden's pretty greenhouse is named after Enid Anneberg Haupt, who donated US$10 million in 1978 to save and restore the old conservatory. The conservatory (which is just a fancy way of saying greenhouse, don't be fooled) specialises in unique exhibitions for gardeners who really know what they're doing, including orchid shows (with vertical walls lush with orchids), the flora of the Japanese garden, recreations of Monet's gardens, wild medicine gardens and edible gardens. You'll also find greenhouse mainstays, such as a hot desert room and a steamy tropical rainforest room to get lost in. THE EDEN PROJECT The Eden Project is technically not made of glass, but it's definitely earned a place on this list for its sustainable (and stunning) design and eco-friendly initiatives. It was built in 2000 on a disused kaolinite pit, near the town of St Blazey in Cornwall, after the pit reached the end of its life. The structure consists of multiple linked geodesic biomes that house the largest rainforest in captivity and a rambling garden that cascades down the edges of the pit. An education centre was built in 2005 that includes classrooms and exhibitions to educate visitors about sustainability — the central message of the Eden Project. And in winter, the tropical biome is probably the warmest place in the UK and stuffed full of rare carnivorous plants. [caption id="attachment_574288" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Wiki.[/caption] JARDIN DES PLANTES It's fitting that some of the oldest and prettiest greenhouses are found in Paris. The three greenhouses in the Jardin des Plantes are almost as lovely as the plants they house and are but one element that make up the rich and rambling garden. They were built in the art deco style (similar to the Paris metro stations) and house exotic plants from around the world, including desert plants, tropical plants from New Caledonia, and a greenhouse that tracks the evolution and history of plant life across the planet. [caption id="attachment_574289" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] COPENHAGEN BOTANICAL GARDEN GREENHOUSES If you want to get immersed in greenhouse culture, the Botanical Garden in Copenhagen is your best value for money. Entry to the gardens is free and they have 27 greenhouses (although some aren't open to the public) scattered throughout the gardens that cover every type of plant you could imagine. Put Greenhouse #12 on your list, as it's dedicated to rare and endangered species of plants from idiosyncratic climates, such as Madagascar, the Galapagos Islands and the Mascarenes (which you will likely never see in the wild). Also Greenhouse #10, the succulent and cacti room, to get inspiration for your own succulent garden back home. THE TROPICARIUM IN FRANKFURT'S BOTANICAL GARDEN Germany experiences some achingly cold winters, so it's no wonder the vast majority of their gardens are safely cultivated inside greenhouses. Some of the most glorious of these can be found in the Palmengarten Botanical Gardens in Frankfurt. The Palmengarten is a 22 hectare botanical garden (the largest in the country) that's been open for over 140 years. The Tropicarium and the Palmenhaus (two weird names you won't forget in a hurry) both house tropical plants and cacti from warmer parts of the world inside beautiful architectural halls designed by Friedrich Von Thiersch in 1868. Like all the greenhouses built in the 1800s, it's a visual smorgasbord of greenery punctuated by delicate lattice work and flowery sconces. [caption id="attachment_574290" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] MT COOTHA TROPICAL DOME The Tropical Dome in Brisbane's Mt Cootha Botanical gardens may not be as large or as fancy as the greenhouses of the northern hemisphere. Hell, it might not even be necessary for a sub-tropical city that is constantly humid to build a tropical dome that's even more humid. But people do love it. The bold geodesic dome pattern encloses a lush, if small, forest and pond and makes the perfect photo op. On the rolling landscape around the dome, you'll find a wide array of cacti and succulents (no greenhouse necessary to keep them alive, thank you very much) that look and feel like a tacky Western movie set. It's plant heaven and entry to the gardens is free all year.
Sometimes, you've got to put the green juice down and dive right into a very large plate of carbs. You can't deny how good that feels in the moment; it's all about taste, the quality of the forkful of pasta going into your mouth and all the butter or sauce bringing it to life. And Tipo 00 understands this. Named in a nod to the traditional flour used to make pizza and pasta, the Italian restaurant in Melbourne sure knows a thing or two about the gig. Tipo 00 is built a whole pasta bar around the idea of sitting down to a top-notch, memorable bowl of the stuff, where quality, care and fresh produce are far more important than what it might do to your waistline. Don't think of it as a problem for future you. Current you will be very, very happy. Of course, there are some excellent things that come before the pasta at here. Open decadently with plates like stracciatella with radicchio and saffron, chargrilled king prawn with olive crumb or perhaps the grilled ox tongue with balsamic and pink peppercorn. Salumi rotates through a daily-changing chef's selection. But for the main event, there's no denying you're in especially good hands. For perfectly-executed simplicity, go with the likes of pumpkin tortilla with amaretti crumb, prawn spaghettini finished with anchovies and broccolini, or rigatoni in a lush ragu of wagyu beef, tomato and confit chilli. Finish off strong with creations like the Tipomisu, or panacotta with carrot, sunrise lime and mint. Or, if your version of sweet leans to the savoury, the cheese selection is always a good idea. Meanwhile, the Tipo 00 wine lineup takes a knowledgeable jaunt through the homeland, with no shortage of fitting pairings to the generous Italian flavours on your table. Local beers and Euro-centric cocktails round out the fun. [caption id="attachment_871973" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kristoffer Paulsen[/caption] Appears in: The Best Restaurants in Melbourne for 2023 Where to Find the Best pasta in Melbourne for 2023
While so many hospo businesses have been playing it safe in 2024, Mamas Dining Group (Hochi Mama, Straight Outta Saigon, Kiss and Tell) has been executing its growth plans at a rapid rate. In June, the crew opened Windsor Wine Room on Chapel Street, bringing a contemporary sip and snack wine bar to the strip. And then one month later, Mamas opened two-storey Chinese restaurant Suzie Q on the Prahran stretch of Chapel Street. The 150-seat site is the team's biggest venture to date, and it includes not only an enormous main dining room and bar with double vaulted ceilings, but also a private mezzanine level and karaoke room. Suzie Q takes its cues from an underground Chinese restaurant in San Francisco in the 1980s that went by the same name — and everything here is inspired by that very diner. Mitchell and Eades (Beverly, Grill Americano, Hawker Hall) was tasked with designing the space, which the team says embodies "the hedonism and rebellion of the underground nightlife scene in the 80s, re-imagined through a modern lens". Expect plenty of red accents, exposed brickwork, plush booths, laza susan-topped tables, retro furniture, and a striking black marble-topped bar with green leather stools that you can park yourself on for a long boozy feed. Within these retro surrounds, punters will dine on nostalgic Chinese eats inspired by the food served at the original Suzie Q. Head Chef Michael Stolley (ex-Ish Restaurant, Eazy Peazy) is executing this all with playful contemporary flair, just as he has done with Windsor Wine Room's new menu. At Suzie Q, this kicks off with a bunch of yum cha bites, including its huge candied pork buns, a fun twist on prawn toast and a selection of dumplings — be sure to get a round of the xiaolongbao. With 12 options available on this side of the menu, you can easily build a sharing feast just out of these. But it would be a shame to miss larger dishes like Suzie Q's mapo tofu, roast duck, crispy egg noodles with mixed seafood, and fried rice packed with sausages, prawns and spring onions. A few different banquets are also up for grabs, which we've got to say easily make our list of the best set menus in Melbourne. For a very reasonable $49 per person, you get two yum cha dishes, two larger dishes and a side to share between two people. The portions in the set menu are super generous, and you'll be glad to know the crew will give you plastic containers for the inevitable leftovers. On the drinks side, you'll find signature cocktails (that are also really reasonably priced), beers on tap, an Australian-leaning wine program and a sizeable back bar that includes a solid selection of sake. It's clear that the Mamas crew is having plenty of fun with Suzie Q, bringing the San Francisco diner back to life, but this time on Melbourne's own Chapel Street. If you haven't been already, add it to your Melbourne restaurant hit list.
At Collingwood's forward-thinking contemporary Chinese spot Shu, it's all about the vegan degustations. They have none of the animal products, but all of the creativity — plating up ten courses of bold, experimental fare. Dishes are cleverly executed and pack a serious visual punch, fusing traditional Sichuan flavours with modern techniques. Past adventurous creations have included the likes of steamed hairy melons with plant-based mince and black bean soy sauce; tempeh crackers loaded with nashi pear, pickled cabbage with wombok and Sichuan oil; and an oolong tea pudding covered in black sugar syrup. Each weekend, the Shu team also offers a $55 unlimited plant-based yum cha experience. That's all you can eat for two hours. Bottomless booze is also available for an extra $45 per person. Appears in: The Best Vegan Restaurants in Melbourne
It's not just a case of the show needing to go on for the folks at the Moulin Rouge. It must, and it is. 17 years after the big-screen release of Baz Luhrmann's smash-hit movie musical, the story of doomed lovers Christian and Satine has made its way to the stage in an expectedly spectacular fashion. The lavish adaptation premiered at Boston's Emerson Colonial Theatre on July 10, with its first season running through until August 19 before an expected Broadway bow afterwards. Moulin Rouge! the Musical follows the tale film fans fell in love with, as well as the music — plus new pop tracks that hit the airwaves in the nearly two decades since the movie's original release. It's directed by two-time Tony nominee Alex Timbers — who also has a Golden Globe to his name for co-created TV series Mozart in the Jungle — with music supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by his frequent collaborator Justin Levine. Aaron Tveit (TV's Gossip Girl; stage productions of Wicked, Rent and Catch Me If You Can) takes on the role of Christian, as played by Ewan McGregor in the movie, while Tony-winner Karen Olivo (the revival of West Side Story, In the Heights, Hamilton) steps into Nicole Kidman's shoes as Satine. "I first encountered Alex Timbers through the remarkable and inventive production of Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson and the brilliance of Here Lies Love," said Luhrmann in a statement when the state adaptation was first announced in 2016. "I immediately recognised the young director's creative spirit and felt we shared similar sensibilities and instincts." Continuing the show's list of talent, writing duties fell upon acclaimed playwright and screenwriter John Logan, whose resume includes Skyfall, Spectre and Alien: Covenant as well as the Tony Award-winning play Red. "It's immensely gratifying to know that a new wave of artists will be leading Moulin Rouge! into its rightful theatrical realm," said Luhrmann. Image: Moulin Rouge the Musical/Matthew Murphy.
Nestled up an unassuming laneway staircase above the neon buzz of Chinatown, this Cantonese restaurant is a simple sort of spot with minimal frills; all fluoro lighting and paper-topped tables. But it's also a true institution — a longtime hit with off-the-clock chefs and discerning late-night diners alike, and known to draw a queue. And it won't leave you waiting too long at all to discover just why for yourself. From the Supper Inn kitchen comes a roll-call of classics done well and served without restraint. It's safe to say no one's leaving here hungry. Tried-and true winners include the likes of a packed seafood chow mein, hor fun noodles with sliced beef, crispy-skinned roast duck served by the half or whole, and sweet and sour pork ribs with an extra hit of chilli and sesame. You'll find claypots brimming with combinations like chicken, shiitake and Chinese sausage; or eggplant with pork mince and salted fish; along with numerous incarnations of that age-old Cantonese comfort food, congee. And a hot tip for seafood fans: stay tuned to the specials page for plates like XO oysters, sweet and sour coral trout, and plenty of lobster-based delights. Throw in a BYO offering, and you've got no excuse not to fire up that group chat and organise a feast ASAP.
The essence of Venice has made its way to Melbourne in the form of delicious small snacks at bars and restaurants across the city. These bite-sized delicacies are known as cicchetti (chi-ket-tee, FYI), a popular dish found in the Italian canal city. The idea is you fill your tummy up throughout an evening of sipping good wine by steadily indulging in many, many of these bar snacks — which, most of the time, only cost a a couple of dollars each. So where exactly can you eat like a Venetian in Melbourne, you ask? Glad you asked. From cuttlefish arancini to pork and veal meatballs and crostini topped with all the good stuff, we've rounded up the best places for you to eat one cicchetto or many cicchetti. You can either spend your evening at any of these bars and restaurants, or bar hop them and nibble your way across the city. You can say grazie to us later.
It's the Japanese fine-dining experience characterised by intricately plated dishes, an intimate setting, and a produce-led menu that celebrates that perfect balance of taste, texture and precision. But most people haven't heard or experienced the concept of kaiseki quite like you will at Ishizuka — a contemporary 16-seat restaurant from famed chef Tomotaka Ishizuka, situated in Melbourne's CBD. The subterranean Bourke Street restaurant is only tiny — and incredibly well hidden down an alleyway off Bourke Street — but delivers big things in the flavour department, as the team — led by Executive Chef Katsuji Yoshino — delivers an expert interpretation of one of Japan's most respected culinary traditions. As is custom, Ishizuka's food offering is built around respect for fresh, seasonal produce and served with a healthy side of theatre. The oft-changing set menu of 11 dishes is both refined and experimental — think an amuse-bouche of lobster, fried eggplant and aosa jelly, followed by delicate sashimi and nigiri creations, an assembly of snow crab, caviar and lettuce, a grilled saikyo-miso black cod, and a melt-in-your-mouth A5 kumamoto wagyu beef served with truffled pumpkin. A course of zensai (or small pretty things) features four petite delicacies and is an absolute delight. The first is an anago sushi of sea eel, soy sauce, mirin, and rice. The second showcases fresh jewels of the sea – scallop and ark shell paired with Mozuku seaweed, pickled onion, and okra for a subtle crunch. These favours are offset by Surinagashi — a combination of sweet corn and rich sea urchin. Sweet and tangy notes are then highlighted within the final Tsukidashi plate of pickled tomato and citrus. This is what was on offer for summer 2025 — and of course, will change regularly, but the food will always strike the same balance of being seemingly simple but consisting of countless intricate elements that are effortlessly plated up right in front of you. And the artful arrangements don't end with the food. Providing a fittingly dramatic backdrop to Ishizuka's culinary offerings is an avant-garde space courtesy of acclaimed design practice Russell & George. Custom-made tableware by Kyoto ceramicists Shigeo and Yotaro Takemura help bring the food to life, while an award-winning drinks list changes regularly to complement the culinary delights coming from the kitchen. For those truly waiting to treat themselves here, we highly recommend jumping on the paired wine and sake train — with the team picking rare and unique tipples to be paired with each of the courses. None of this comes cheap thopugh — so be sure to save this for a special occasion — with the food coming in at $315 per person and alcoholic drinks pairing going for $250 a head.
Inspired by the grand old brasseries of New York's Meat Packing District, the Atlantic, located within Crown, oozes sophistication, class, and excellent dining. With a stylish interior, decked out with artistic flourishes, dim lighting and old world furniture, it's the kind of place to come for a special occasion or an important lunch. There are over 300 seats here and yet it always books out. Thankfully, with an 80-seat oyster bar and another cocktail bar downstairs, they'll always find a way to squeeze you in. Just make sure you wear the right shoes. The Atlantic dining room menu has a philosophy of ocean to plate and everything here is sourced in a sustainable fashion. From the starters, enjoy a Milawa duck and smoke paprika croquette served with aged manchego cheese and fermented romesco, or the Yurrita anchovy and chicken liver toast. If there's just two of you, the cold or hot seafood platters make an excellent choice and come loaded with delights such as Moreton Bay bugs, Cloudy Bay diamond clams, king prawns and Pacific oysters. Speaking of oysters, the Oyster Bar & Grill is modelled on New York's Grand Central Station's Oyster Bar has an unparalleled selection of Australian oysters. It also features caviar bumps with Herradura tequila, Hoya anchovies, Mooloolaba prawn rolls and fried calamari. Back in the dining room, mains include a 1000 Guineas eye fillet, a wood fired baby chicken, Western Australian crayfish at market price and a wild mushroom risotto with celeriac and black truffle. Luxury ingredients are clearly scattered throughout the entire menu. When it comes down to wine, let the expert team of sommeliers guide you through their extensive list, that has a heavy focus on local Australian producers. Dessert-wise, dig into a 'Snickers Bar' parfait with roasted peanuts and salted caramel and call it a day. This sweet treat is next-level indulgent. And goes down well with a fine dessert wine from the Atlantic cellar.
Under current COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, you can't go on a holiday (locally or overseas). But, you can start dreaming. Bookmark this for when you can explore once again. Winter is (almost) here. You could sit about, piling on jumpers, moaning and crying into your hot chocolate. Or you could calmly pack your bubble bath and your pyjamas, then drive to an irresistibly cosy winter cabin to soak in a spa bath and drink your favourite bottle of wine by an open fireplace. Ultimately, the choice is yours. But just in case you're opting for the latter, here are seven getaways that will have you daydreaming about frosty mornings and reading books by the fire. We've got an an off-grid log cabin, a dog-friendly tiny house and a farmstay with donkeys for petting — all of which offer a soaking tub and/or a fireplace. Is that the sound of you collecting your things? Go on. [caption id="attachment_717175" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kirk Richards[/caption] HEE HAW HUT, GOULBURN VALLEY, VICTORIA Located in remote farmland just two hours northeast of Melbourne, Hee Haw Hut is a rustic one bedroom cabin built from upcycled materials. Its homey interior features a wood-burning fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. Outside, there's a deck and double hammock overlooking the barbecue and outdoor fire pit area. If the winter weather gets especially blustery while you're here, there are plenty of board games, books and videos to keep you occupied while you keep warm by the blazing fire. Plus, you have the added (and rare) benefit of snuggling up with the many donkeys that are raised on the adjacent Hee Haw Farm. How much? From $180 a night. [caption id="attachment_717178" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alexandra Adoncello[/caption] KOOKAWOOD FARM, BLUE MOUNTAINS, NSW This 200-acre property in Rydal offers breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains. Kookawood Farm is a stone farmhouse that took ten years to build, and its interiors house antiques from years gone by. The space boasts both a large open fireplace inside and a fire pit outside, so you'll never feel the winter chill here. If the temperature isn't too low, you can even enjoy a hot bath in the outdoor bathtub, which offers views aplenty. Plus, the indoor bathroom features underfloor heating and yet another claw-foot tub for soaking in. And, as it's a two bedroom cabin, this getaway is suitable for groups, too. It's on the expensive end, but, if you've got it, so worth the extra cash. How much? From $390 a night. FOREST VIEW BUSH CABINS, CRADLE MOUNTAIN, TASMANIA Highlanders Cottages offers self-contained cabins right smack in the middle of Cradle Mountain National Park — which is, coincidentally, where one of the ten Australian mountains you should climb at least once in you life is located. Each Forest View cabin has been hand-built using local Tasmania timber. It offers two bedrooms, den lounges and a log fireplace, plus a private deck and a fully stocked kitchen. The bathroom features both a soaking tub and a shower, too. It's an ideal spot to unwind after your gruelling 13-kilometre hike up to the pristine views at Cradle Mountain Lake. How much? From $215 a night. MOONBAH HUT, SNOWY MOUNTAINS, NSW This requires some extra driving, but the stunning rewards are well worth it. Moonbah Hut is located on private frontage on the Moonbah River, the Snowy Mountains' cleanest, most unspoilt home for trout. Give your fishing muscle a flex from your front doorstep, while keeping an eye out for wildlife, from wombats to deer to brumbies. Or bunker down inside, with a huge, open stone fireplace for company. Previous guests have taken the experience next level and even invited personal chefs along for an evening. How much? From $245 a night. [caption id="attachment_717182" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cameron Watts[/caption] THE SIMPLE LIFE CABIN, MOUNT TOOLEBEWONG, VICTORIA This off-grid log cabin is as rustic as it gets — and it's a great budget option, too. At The Simple Life Cabin, there's no television or wifi to speak of. Instead, expect an old-school record player and vinyl collection, a wood-fire heater to keep you warm and a cast iron bath to while your afternoons away in. The cabin was created as a ceramicist's studio and remnants of this past life can be seen in the kitchen tableware and the polished concrete workbench that's been converted into a dining table. Set within four-aces of forest, the cabin is completely secluded and lets you forget all the woes of that cold, wintery city life — for a few days, anyway. How much? From $130 a night. THE BOWER, SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLAND, QUEENSLAND It might not get that cold in Queensland, but this little wood-panelled cabin in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland will have you hoping for chilly days and nights. That's because The Bower — located near the little township of Maleny, about an hour north of Brisbane — has lots of wintry amenities that you'll most definitely want to make the most of. Like the antique claw food bath, the fireplace and the fairy light-lit deck that's prime for stargazing with a glass of wine and a blanket. It's secluded and surrounded by trees — in other words, it's the perfect Queensland winter escape. How much? From $120 per night. CABN, KANGAROO VALLEY, NSW Sydney locals have their own off-grid retreat to look forward to, and it's luxurious as. Despite some of the connotations the term 'off-grid' may have, Cabn is a far cry from roughing it. This solar-powered tiny house sits on 140-acres of bushland, on the site of a former dairy farm in the Cambewarra Range, just a 15-minute drive from Kangaroo Valley and about three hours south of Sydney. The secluded location is perched high above the valley and overlooks a sea of endless clouds on the right day. The cleverly designed timber fit-out includes a loft with king bed, a fully stocked kitchen and indoor gas heater. A big wintertime draw is the glass-walled, 'outdoor' soaking tub, which is set in the bush adjacent to the house and offers a rare occasion to (sort of) bathe in the great outdoors — with all of the warmth of bathing inside. Outdoor amenities include a gas barbecue and picnic area, as well as an adjacent fire pit. And it's dog-friendly to boot. How much? From $289 a night.
Hidden in a basement just off Little Collins Street, Dodee Paidang is a vibrant Thai restaurant bursting with aromatic smells and bustling conversation which perfectly captures the energy of a Bangkok diner. Opened by Somporn Phosri in 2017, who grew up working in his mother's kitchen, Dodee Paidang is now a chain of restaurants across Sydney and Melbourne — but this one is the original and, fair to say, the best. The menu includes a range of spicy, sweet and sour pork-based soups including tom yum noodles with combination meat served with or without chilli. (A note on the chilli, the menu gives a guide of zero to seven chillies, with seven being enough to make your taste buds erupt in flames). If you're game however, go for the DoDee Super Nova soup, just be sure to have a beer or water in reach. There are wonton soups too, featuring egg noodles and optional barbecue pork, as well as tom yum noodles with grilled mussels. For a more filling meal try the grilled salmon with noodles or the seafood bonanza, featuring grilled king prawns, salmon, grilled octopus and mussels. If you're after some soft boiled rice there are several options with a selection of fish balls, tender pork, pork ribs or mixed seafood to choose from. With the amount of chilli on offer, you're going to need to wash it down with something, and thankfully they have a range of local and imported beers to choose from including Furphy and Sapporo, however Singha is always recommended when available. And for some added theatrics, your food will be delivered to your table by a Dodee Paidang robot. These roll around the dining room floor with ease, with the smiling digital cat faces being both cute and creepy all at the same time. Come in on a Friday and Saturday night and you might even get some live music playing over the noisy crowds of diners who are lapping up all the best Thai eats at this underground restaurant in Melbourne's CBD. Appears in: The Best Restaurants in Melbourne for 2023
Don't let the name fool you, for Dainty Sichuan Food on Toorak Road is anything but dainty. In fact, this Chinese restaurant in Melbourne packs a hell of a punch. Upon entering the restaurant, you're invited to zen out in the tranquil mood it's created. Water fountains and buddhas greet you at the entrance, while the aromas from the kitchen get your tastebuds on high alert. The service here is what you might expect from a bustling Chinese eatery, it's efficient and fast without being overly cordial. But rest assured, you will be seated with a smile. The order of the day here is Sichuan, and the Sichuan-style pork belly is succulent and full of flavour. It comes with a serving of chillies and boiled rice and is worth the price of admission alone. Another Sichuan special is the spicy beef noodles served in a perfectly spiced broth with bok choy and spring onions. Be sure to wash it all down with a bottle of wine, for this joint is BYO and you're going to need it. A not-too-oaky chardonnay or a soft and fruity pinot gris should do it. Otherwise, a cold beer at hand never hurts. If you want to turn the spice down a notch, then browse the dumpling menu, with pan-fried pork buns and chicken and mushroom dumplings the pick. If you're vegetarian or cutting back on meat, the dry stir-fred beans with boiled rice or the tomatoes with soft scrambled eggs make for a tasty alternative. Dainty Sichuan Food is home to some of the best (and spiciest) Chinese food in Melbourne. It's well worth a trip to South Yarra.
If you've spent more than a few weeks in southeast Queensland, then you've heard someone wax lyrical about their last trip to Noosa. The Sunshine Coast may be filled with coastal towns and suburbs perfect for short and long stays, however, there's just something about the region around the Noosa River and Noosa National Park that continues to lure visitors in. Perhaps it's the siren's song that is Hastings Street, with its strip of shops and cafes located just a stone's throw from the beach (and no, we're not exaggerating). Perhaps it's the choose your own adventure factor of this vibrant, multifaceted area, which doesn't just offer up the more touristy experience seen in the main drag. Head to the North Shore, and you're in sand dune and bushland territory. Hop over to the other side of the river, and you may as well be in a sleepy little place with a much, much smaller population. Or, maybe it's the just fact that at 138 kilometres north of Brisbane, Noosa is far enough away to feel like you've been on a decent road trip, but still close enough to conquer in a couple of hours — exactly what you need to make a weekend of it. So, just what should you do after trekking up the Bruce Highway on a Friday evening? Here's how to spend a few days and nights there. EAT/DRINK Any place that boasts its own chocolate factory is all right in our books. Alas, the Noosa Chocolate Factory doesn't actually have a store in town — and while its factory can be found in Noosaville, that's not open to the public. Don't despair: there's plenty of other tasty things to eat, so you're never going to be hungry. Trust us, you'll forget all about your desire to relive Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in no time. In fact, run — don't walk — to Wasabi. The Japanese eatery whips local ingredients, as plucked from the owner's farm, into the kind of taste explosion that'll have you spending too long trying to pick from the menu. Luckily, they also have just the option for eager but indecisive diners: omakase, or 'let the chef decide'. Over your choice of seven or nine courses with optional matching wines, you'll discover the absolute best dishes the restaurant has to offer. We also recommend keeping an eye on their calendar of bespoke events for one-off offerings like sake brewing and ceramic-plated degustation. Of course, if you're hanging out near Hastings, you'll have no shortage of food options. In fact, you could spend your whole weekend eating your way along the street, one restaurant and meal at a time. Make sure beachfront haunt Sails is on your agenda if you're after a fancy bite with a fantastic view (plus the best potato bread you're likely to munch on). If you're a seafood fan, keep treating yo'self at Noosa Beach House Peter Kuruvita, while Locale has Italian-style feasts covered. Bistro C is an ideal brekkie spot, complete with the mouthwatering Yaddah's Breakfast of walnut and pomegranate hummus, olives, goats cheese, muhammara, boiled egg, heritage tomatoes and sesame crackers. And if you want something a bit greasier, you can't go past Betty's Burgers. It's not just the titular bundles of meat and bread that's the attraction here, but their Shake Shack-style frozen custard desserts known as 'concretes', which are available in everything from apple pie to strawberry doughnut to banana peanut butter cup flavours. So, that's your stomach taken care of, but what about your hankering for cheeky weekend beverage? If the salty sea air is making you thirsty, then Noosa Boathouse's Sunset Bar serves up $9 Noosa River Slings — and yes, it's a 'when in Noosa' kind of thing, obviously. Village Bicycle on Noosa Drive is your go-to low-key haunt, particularly if you want to pair a beer with some pub food, while just trying not to spend a whole boozy afternoon perusing the hefty beverage list at Noosville's Flux Lounge is pretty much impossible. But, if whiskey is your tipple of choice, there's only one place to drop into. That'd be Whisky Boy. Yep, this kitchen and bar delivers exactly what it promises. DO Seriously, where do we start? Or, perhaps the better question is: what kind of a weekend trip are you after? Let's kick off with the outdoors activities everyone heads to a beach spot for. Basically, in Noosa, you can select any stretch of sand and find something going on (or a form of water toy to hire), or just pick a nice patch to put out your towel, catch some rays and marvel at that deep blue sea. Or, given that Noosa is one of the country's national surfing reserves, take some surfing lessons and be on your way to pretending you're Keanu in Point Break in no time. Plus, if you time your stay just right, you might just get to see a pack of pooches do the same at the annual Surfing Dog Spectacular. Surefire golden memories come from making your own destiny, rather than following a prescribed plan, which is why just cruising around by foot, 4WD or boat really is the ideal way to spend a day or so here. Hikers should head to the coastal track in Noosa National Park, where you'll come across secluded swimming spots and perhaps even spy a few pods of dolphins or whales. Whether you've brought your own or you need to rent one, driving along North Shore's dunes in a 4WD is probably the closest you're ever going to get to feeling like you're in an action movie, with the added bonus of stunning scenery. And if you'd prefer to take to the water, we heartily recommend hiring a boat — the kind you don't need a license for, don't stress — and pottering around the Noosa River. It's the perfect way to go fishing and see scenic sights at the same time. Plus, most come with barbecues, so you can cook what you catch (maybe bring some lunch along with you, just in case). If you're an indoorsy type or just after something not so strenuous, you can still expect to have a heap of fun. Peruse galleries galore, both in Noosa itself and within the surrounding area. Making a Saturday morning trip to the famous Original Eumundi Markets may as well be compulsory if you're travelling by car — and it's a place where you can grab tasty food to take home with you, plus browse for all the arty trinkets your heart desires. And while we won't list all the other touristy activities on offer up and down the Sunshine Coast, we will nudge you in the direction of the Majestic Theatre in nearby Pomona. It's Queensland's longest-operating picture theatre, and it now dedicates its screens to showing silent movies. STAY Expect all types of accommodation in Noosa; it is one of the region's biggest tourist drawcards, after all. If you're happy living it up in the great outdoors, then embrace the experience that is camping at Noosa North Shore Campground. You really can't get much closer to nature than this — but make sure you book well in advance. Need more mod cons? That's okay, we understand. Keep in the thick of it by picking one of the many hotels on Hastings Street. Plenty of the options will test your bank balance, but hey, who doesn't want to stay in luxury on the beachfront every once in a while? On the Beach offers penthouses and suites with private balconies and spa baths, so that's as good a reason to check in there as any. Seahaven includes three heated pools in case it's too cold for a dip in the neighbouring ocean. And at the more affordable end of the scale, there's the cute, newly refurbished 10 Hastings Boutique Motel & Cafe. Yes, you can eat there as well. [caption id="attachment_580701" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] ALRIGHT, LET'S DO THIS Noosa is a 90-minute drive north of Brisbane via the Bruce Highway. Trains from Brisbane stop at Nambour and Cooroy, with connecting buses available. Anyone looking to hop on a plane up from New South Wales or Victoria should book a flight to Sunshine Coast Airport, which is located 30 minutes away. Top image: Daisy R.
When it comes to eating out, many of us have more expensive taste than our bank account will allow. But while Melbourne is full of restaurants offering cheap grub (we're looking at you, $3 tacos and all-you-can-eat wings), if you delve a little deeper you'll find that you can also eat like a king all over town for nothing more than a gold coin. It turns out Melbourne is home to many a venue where you can pick up an oyster for less than the cost of your Myki fare to get there. We've scoured the city for the best value-for-money oysters, so no matter what your income you can sit back and savour the finer things in life — every single day of the week. All you have to do is choose a venue and get shucking. MONDAY PHILIPPE, CBD What's the deal? $2 all day, Monday to Friday, and from 5pm Saturdays It's French, it's chic and, conveniently, it's also smack bang in the centre of town. Phillippe is shucking oysters to order and for almost all of the week, they're going cheap. At the bar here, you can score $2 oysters all day Monday to Friday, and from 5pm every Saturday. The perfect start to a fancy French feed? TUESDAY IMBUE, MARIBYRNONG What's the deal? $1 from 5–9.30pm. Tuesdays might usually be a bit on the quiet side, but at Maribyrnong wine bar Imbue, there's plenty to make a noise about. Every Tuesday, this cosy spot is shucking plump oysters, fresh from the waters of Hervey Bay, for only $1 each. They're available from opening time at 5pm until 9.30pm or sold out. Though this is one oyster feast you'll need to plan ahead — bookings are essential and those shellfish usually get snapped up pretty quickly. WEDNESDAY GALAH, WINDSOR What's the deal? $1 from 5pm until sold out. This Windsor bar's famed for its modern reworkings of classic Aussie flavours, but on Wednesdays, it's juicy, local molluscs that are the heroes. Come hump day, Galah is dishing up natural, freshly shucked oysters for just $1 a pop, from 5pm until close, or until they've all been snapped up. Best of all, there's no minimum order – you don't need limitations when it comes to seafood. THE LOBSTER CAVE, BEAUMARIS What's the deal? $2 from 5.30pm. If some budget-friendly oysters sounds like your recipe for hump day success, consider yourself in excellent hands at dedicated seafood restaurant The Lobster Cave. Nestled in the bayside suburb of Beaumaris, this eatery's giving its inner-city counterparts a run for their money as far as tantalising seafood specials go. Most notably for shellfish-onados, the kitchen's shucking up a midweek storm, offering $2 Blackman Bay oysters every Wednesday, from open until sold out. You've even got a choice as to how they're done – natural, mignonette, mornay or kilpatrick. Bookings are a must. THURSDAY HIGHLANDER BAR, CBD What's the deal? $1 from 5pm until sold out. This cosy Scottish bar might be a favourite for its generous whisky selection, free weekly comedy and budget-friendly burger specials. But come Thursday, there's another choice offering that'll have you saying 'shucks'. We're talking about the Tassie oysters, flying out of the kitchen for just $1 each, from 5pm until sold out. The $5 happy hour drink specials (5–7pm) make for a pretty sweet accompaniment, too, especially if you're playing it frugal. NAKED FOR SATAN, FITZROY What's the deal? 90c from 12–8pm, Thursdays and Fridays While other venues out there are rounding their oyster specials to the closest buck, this Brunswick Street bar's gone and done one better. At Naked For Satan, you can stretch those hard-earned dollars even further, slurping freshly shucked oysters for just 90 cents each. These sharply priced shellfish are up for grabs from noon till 8pm, on both Thursdays and Fridays. Knock back a few serves and wrap up that work week in style, without gnawing too deeply into your weekend budget. FRIDAY [caption id="attachment_740512" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brook James[/caption] THE BLEAKHOUSE HOTEL, ALBERT PARK What's the deal? $1 all day. If devouring oysters just metres from the shoreline sounds like bliss, make a beeline for Albert Park's beachside boozer The Bleakhouse Hotel. Especially if the sun's a-shining and that weekend is about to begin. This modern pub's slinging Friday specials aplenty, not least of which is the $1 oysters, available all day and all night long. Bring a mate and team the shells with a jug of Aperol spritz for full effect. SATURDAY PANAMA DINING ROOM, FITZROY What's the deal? $1 between 6pm and 7pm. Smith Street's loft-style hideaway is a haven for the after-work crowd and foodies alike. Excitingly, Mother Shucker's Oyster Hour happens every night of the week from 6–7pm, so you can gorge on $1 freshly shucked oysters as you gaze out the arched windows at the street below. Once you've had your fill, the trick is to head back down the two flights of stairs as gracefully as possible. SUNDAY MORRIS JONES, PRAHRAN What's the deal? $2 from 4–7pm. If Sunday's got you in the mood for slurping molluscs, there's likely to be a few cheeky weekend drinks on the cards as well. Luckily, bar and restaurant Morris Jones has you covered on both fronts, with its daily happy hour deals, running from 4–7pm. Along with a slew of cocktail, wine and beer specials — including $12 espresso martinis and $6 wines — you'll find fresh oysters priced at just $2 a pop. Yes, that's every. Single. Day.
Melbourne is no stranger to a bakery/cafe hybrid that serves up daily brunch dishes, but Faraday's Cage in Fitzroy has got to be one of the greatest. As it is a local bakery, many come for the fresh sourdough and sweet and savoury pastries alongside a really decent selection of takeaway sangas that change on the daily. But Faraday's takes it one big step further with its mighty fine all-day breakfast menu. First off, you've got the decadent ricotta hotcakes ($19.50) served with rich brown butter, a yuzu crème, maple caramel, roast chocolate, grapefruit, blueberries and lemon balm — it's got the lot and is a dish for an ambitiously hungry eater with a sweet tooth. The savoury brekkie options don't disappoint either. Get around a harissa-spiced shakshuka ($19.50), the Turkish crumbed eggplant ($20) with confit garlic labneh, za'atar, fried shallots, 12-hour roast tomato and two poached eggs, as well as the beloved Faraday's Cage chicken katsu sandwich ($20). Can't decide on just one dish? Your answer is right there written on the menu. The 'Can't decide breakfast board' ($25) comes with a whole selection of mini dishes including the granola, avocado on toast, croissant and the crumbed eggplant. The expert baristas will pour your favourite coffee with beans supplied by the one and only Proud Mary, so you know who to thank for your caffeine fix. Appears in: The 13 Best Cafes in Melbourne for 2023 Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Melbourne for 2023
After three and a half years behind locked doors and barred windows, Hotel Esplanade – better known by Melburnians as just The Espy – made a triumphant return at the tail-end of 2018. A mighty revamp added two levels, brought in an innovative art program and restored the pub's live stages, continuing its life as the longest-running music venue in Australia. If you're a Paul Kelly fan, you might know that he recorded much of his 1996 album Live at the Continental and the Esplanade here. Stroll straight from St Kilda Beach, through the Espy's majestic Victorian foyer — the pub was built in 1878 — and into The Espy Kitchen to feast on pub grub and share plates. In league with local design studio Techne and stylist Eleisha Gray, publicans Sand Hill Road have revived Hotel Esplanade's Victorian and art deco splendour, but added necessary contemporary touches, including19th century furnishings and materials, including shelving, light fittings, bars and paintings sources from Europe. The ground floor is home to The Espy Kitchen, a bustling, 450-seater space dedicated to casual eats and drinks. Its centrepiece is a massive, contemporary, industrial open kitchen. Follow the grand staircase upwards to find Mya Tiger, a Cantonese Restaurant that overlooks Port Melbourne. Beyond lies The Ghost of Alfred Felton, a lush cocktail bar, and a series of rooms devoted to Felton, an entrepreneur and art collector who lived in The Espy from 1892–1904, and died in his bed, bequeathing more than a billion dollars to the National Gallery of Victoria. But the biggest question hanging over the relaunch of The Espy was whether the new publicans would pay the same respect to local live music as the old venue did in its heyday. Thankfully, the programming shows that live music not just an afterthought. There are three stages at The Espy. The first is The Basement, a free entry room. The second is The Gershwin Room, a ticketed venue. The third is a small stage in the round on the ground floor. With all this work done back in 2018, The Espy is set to keep its place as one of the very best pubs in Melbourne for many years to come. Top images: Alex Drewniak Appears in: The Best Pubs in Melbourne for 2023
The North Fitzroy Arms Hotel has been sitting on Rae Street near Edinburgh Gardens since 1874, with the classic neighbourhood boozer garnering generations of loyal fans. But when it changed hands in 2024, and construction started inside, locals were understandably worried. In the last few years, too many Aussie pubs have undergone extensive refurbs that totally gutted the interiors, replacing their classic pub charm and warmth with cold, contemporary finishes. It can feel like a kick to the gut when this happens to your local. But we're glad to report that such a fate hasn't befallen the North Fitzroy Arms Hotel, which recently unveiled a fresh look for its 150th anniversary. Cases in point: the front bar has mostly remained untouched. Carlton Draught remains on tap. You can still play pool. And the teles streaming footy have been reconnected. The 45-person beer garden has also scored a retractable awning and outdoor heaters, so punters can hang outside no matter the weather, while a handful of tables line the street for those wanting to do a spot of people-watching. But it's the dining room out back that's had the biggest update. Therefore Studio (Marquis of Lorne, The Corner Hotel and Union House) was brought in to reinvigorate the space without making it too high-brow. It did this by knocking down some walls, popping up some wood-framed mirrors and adding a pops of colour on the walls with vintage posters. The end result gives off classic bistro vibes. And when the sun goes down, waiters light tall candles on the white tablecloth-covered tables and dim the lights for some romantic moodiness. All up, it's a simple but effective redesign. The food offerings, however, have been totally overhauled. Sadly, you won't find your classic pub parma on the menu, but there are stacks of British and European faves. Head Chef Barney Cohen (ex-Bar Bellamy) is cooking up the likes of beef cheek and ale pie served with mashed potato and pea soup, whole crumbed garfish and chips with tartare sauce, house-made and woodfired pork and sage sausages with cabbage, mash and lashings of homemade gravy and more. If you're after a cheap dirty pub meal, this is no longer the place to get it. But it's far from being so posh that locals and regulars will feel alienated. Hayley McCarthy (ex-Ides) has also been brought in to run the bev program, which includes plenty of by-the-glass options that won't make you wince when looking at the price. Victorian and European drops are the focus here, with plenty of new-wave skin contact and natty options also making the cut. At the front bar, you'll find a dependable selection of tap, bottled and canned beers, as well as an impressive selection of signature cocktails — we're particularly curious about the espresso martini that can be spiked with Guinness for an extra dollar. All in all, it looks like the North Fitzroy Arms Hotel has managed to pull off a fairly light-handed makeover. The team has focused on modernising the dining options while leaving most of the other classic pub features as they were. Images: Jana Longhurst
Melbourne's live music scene is often described as the best in the world. But don't think that's just a little local bravado: our home features the most music venues per capita of any city around the globe. Since 2022, Always Live has become a small but important part of the equation, showcasing hundreds of local and international musos in stadiums, pubs, clubs, and ad hoc venues. With the state-wide festival now a major contender on the cultural calendar, Always Live is mixing things up with the addition of Melbourne Vibes — a series of free summer pop-up live music performances presented across the CBD. Energising streets and laneways with creative goodness across weekends in January, these spontaneous performances encourage locals and visitors to stumble upon live music where they least expect it. Keen to catch one of these secret shows? You need to keep your ear to the ground, or at least your eyes on social media. That's because each performance's artists and locations are shared on the Always Live website and social channels on the day of the pop-up, helping set an impromptu, memorable tone for the gig. So far, we've seen Jimmy Barnes at City Square, Cut Copy on the Evan Walker Bridge, Mallrat at 500 Bourke Street and loads more. "Live music is part of the cultural heartbeat of this city and it belongs on the streets as much as it does on our greatest stages," says Always Live CEO Psyche Payne. "ALWAYS LIVE Melbourne Vibes is all about creating those unexpected, joyful moments where music meets the everyday — supporting artists, bringing people together with the positive buzz of live music experience and amplifying the vibrancy, spontaneity and energy that defines our city."
Think of a New York-set or -shot movie or TV show, and odds are that it probably featured the Waldorf Astoria. Wes Anderson's The Royal Tenenbaums filmed there, for one. Sex and the City did as well. Booking in a luxe stay within its stately confines might be high on your travel bucket list as a result — but come 2025, you'll be able to enjoy the Waldorf Astoria experience right here in Australia. Adding to its 30-plus sites around the world — including in Las Vegas, Cancun, Beijing, Berlin, Bangkok and the Maldives, to name a selection of spots — the hotel brand is setting up shop in Sydney in just a few years. Set to tower over Circular Quay, it'll be the Hilton-owned chain's first-ever Aussie location. It'll also join the lineup of six Waldorf Astoria properties in the Asia-Pacific region. [caption id="attachment_849250" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel[/caption] So, whether you're Sydneysider now dreaming of an indulgent staycation or you hail from elsewhere but you're always looking for an excuse to visit the New South Wales capital, you'll have a new place to spend a lavish night (or several). And, given the location — at One Circular Quay, 1 Alfred Street — you'll be able to lap up impressive vistas over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House while you're there. Now under construction, Waldorf Astoria Sydney will feature 220 rooms — 179 guest rooms and 41 suites — across its 28-floor expanse. Also a huge highlight: two new restaurants, the Waldorf Astoria Spa on level one, and the central gathering space that the brand has dubbed 'Peacock Alley' at its sites around the globe, which'll come complete with the Waldorf Astoria clock. Plus, to truly take advantage of the views, the hotel will also include a rooftop bar — and yes, peering out over the harbour here will be a given. Design-wise, Tokyo-based firm Kengo Kuma & Associates is doing the honours alongside the Sydney-based Crone Architects; expect a luxurious look that'll "artfully blend contemporary living with cutting-edge design," according to the statement announcing the hotel. "As the first Waldorf Astoria property to debut in Australia, Waldorf Astoria Sydney signals Hilton's commitment to expanding our luxury portfolio to the world's most sought-after destinations," said Hilton Chief Brand Officer Matt Schuyler. "Our highly personalised, elegant service and iconic environments are at the heart of every hotel, and we look forward to delivering unforgettable experiences to our guests in Sydney." Waldorf Astoria Sydney is one of 20 new hotels that the chain is set to open around the globe — so if you get accustomed to the brand's deluxe stays once it opens its doors locally, you'll have plenty of additional sites worldwide to add to your must-visit list. The Waldorf Astoria is due to open at One Circular Quay, 1 Alfred Street, Sydney, sometime in 2025 — we'll update you with further details when they're announced. Top image: Waldorf Astoria Beijing.
When it comes to shopping in Melbourne, Richmond represents the best of both worlds. It doesn't matter if you prefer the trends of northside or the stylish south, as Richmond has soaked up the influence of its neighbours, offering you an eclectic mix of shops that are tough to beat. The area showcases a collection of cafes and restaurants that highlight just about every conceivable cuisine, and a wide array of fashion boutiques, design studios and fine food suppliers. To help make your next visit to the lively streets of Richmond even more rewarding, we've teamed up with American Express to present you with a few of the suburb's top independent shopping destinations for you to shop small at. These ten spots keep Richmond buzzing and all of them will accept your American Express Card.
Inside, the place is decked out in a loving and knick-knacky fashion that will make you feel snug and homely during winter, and outside, the expansive paved beergarden provides a relaxed oasis during summer's hotter days. Drop in for a cheeky pint during the day, or catch up with a group of friends under the coloured fairy lights at night. Note: bring your pocket money, it's unfortunately a cash only bar.
You can't go far in Melbourne without spotting a pub, but around the turn of the 19th century, the pocket of South Melbourne was inundated with watering holes. Through it all, The George has called the corner of Cecil Street home, opening its doors in 1865 and proving popular with local council workers who kept the burgeoning city's utilities turning over. Now, almost 160 years into its story, this neighbourhood icon is embarking on its next chapter. Guided by seasoned publican Scott Connolly (The Orrong Hotel, Healesville Hotel), The George has undergone a significant transformation that has seen the venue return to its former glory. Drawing inspiration from the suburb's heritage architecture and more than a little nostalgia for classic Australian pubs, The George's new look leverages its existing character and combines it with a mix of polished furnishings and fixtures. "I come from a long line of publicans — my great-grandmother was the second woman in Victoria to get a liquor licence," says Connolly. "I'm extremely proud to breathe new life into The George Hotel while celebrating the pub's rich history throughout the South Melbourne community." Downstairs, the inviting front public bar resonates with the warmth of the great pubs of old, where high tables and at-the-bar service don't mess with a tried-and-true formula. Connected to the bistro-style dining room, guests can expect an elevated experience served around the cosy comfort of a fireplace. Then, a leafy courtyard and street-side tables offer the chance to soak up the sunshine and the comings and goings of the adjacent South Melbourne Market. Upstairs, a private function space is primed for celebratory gatherings. As for the food menu, The George features modern takes on classic pub cuisine. Think starters such as house-made focaccia, sesame prawn toast with charcoal mayo and crispy shallots, and plump chicken bao. Larger options step things up, including a 12-hour roasted lamb shoulder served with white bean puree and pistachio salsa verde, and a vego-friendly roasted zucchini, mushroom and ricotta lasagne. The steak option is also enticing, with a 300-gram sirloin served with chips and a choice of peppercorn, red wine or creamy mushroom sauce. The drinks front is also solid, with draught beers on tap alongside bottled and canned beers from Peroni, Bodriggy, Young Henrys and more. Meanwhile, a concise wine list highlights local producers, while a cocktail menu features a selection of spritz and classic options, like espresso martinis and margaritas. Like all good locals, The George's weekly specials are bound to pique interest, with parma and pot nights, steak sessions and all-day roasts on the weekend that keep alive what makes a neighbourhood public house so special. "I think what sets a good pub apart from its neighbours is having a really strong food offering — nothing overcomplicated, but a handful of classic pub dishes executed to perfection," says Connolly. "We're thrilled to be part of this community and we hope The George Hotel will continue to hold a firm place in the hearts of South Melbourne locals and welcome a new generation of pub-goers."
Monarch Cakes in St Kilda have been making desserts on Acland Street since the 1930s. With more than 80 years of experience, it's fair to say this place knows a thing or two about making delicious treats. The continental custard vanilla slice is one of Monarch's most popular cakes and we can see why. It's made using milk from a small dairy in Gippsland and free range eggs from a local farm. All the ingredients used in the slice are natural and fresh, down to the light and fluffy pastry holding it all together and giving it a yummy – albeit messy – crunch. You can dive into this delightful custard pastry for just $6.50 a pop. Image: Tracey Ah Kee.
This article is sponsored by our partners, Rekorderlig. Sweden has a lot going on for a small country shrouded in darkness and snow for most of the year. Take a look around at the headliners of music festivals, at the clothes you’re wearing and the cider you’re drinking. You may have more in common with the sauna-loving nation than you’d think. Here are ten elements that define Swedish cool, compiled by Laura Phillips, editor of Mr Wolf Magazine, the journal of Nordic style. Raised in Melbourne, she was lured to the north with a promise of attractive men and affordable smoked salmon. Kanken backpacks Launched in 1978 in response to Swedish school children experiencing back problems, the Kånken is as minimal in design as you get. It’s everything a backpack should be — nothing more, nothing less. The weight of the pack is distributed evenly, its handles make it easy to hold as a handbag, its one front pocket and single internal compartment allow you to organise your keys and your notebook respectively. The fabric, sourced from yacht sail manufacturers in Japan, shifts from crisp to soft and glossed over time, commonly remaining a faithful companion to a Swede for 40 or so years. Saunas If sweating naked in a room full of strangers before plunging into a pool of ice doesn’t sound like you, Sweden will change your mind. Surprisingly relaxing and without doubt refreshing, the sauna is the place to make friends and bond with your fellow Swede. Some saunas, such as the Bjärred Saltsjöbad in southern Sweden, add stunning waterside views and rooftop sun bathing platforms for your cleansing enjoyment. Weekday Denim Forget the US, Sweden is the irrefutable capital of denim. For Swedes, denim is a way of life. No school uniforms and a year-round cool climate has nurtured a national attachment to jeans. It’s no wonder that the leading denim brands are all Swedish owned: H&M, Nudie Jeans, ACNE, Dr. Denim, to name a few. Weekday, responsible for the Cheap Monday label, has designed a jean for everyday of the week, perfect for the daily life of a Swede. Rekorderlig Cider Rekorderlig has captivated the globe with its cult of cider. Its tag line, 'Beautifully Swedish', has converted even the most staunch beer drinker and wine connoisseur to join the cider bandwagon. Savouring the feeling of fresh air, the woods and the comfortable welfare state, Rekorderlig (pronounced re-core-deer-lig) is the ideal accomplice for your induction into the Swedish way of life. Little Dragon Sweden’s recent electro music success is enough to believe the likes of Lykke Li, Robyn, The Knife, Swedish House Mafia, Avicii, Adrian Lux and Rebecca & Fiona all hang out with each other, and swap industry tips over fika (see no.7). Groups such as Little Dragon, however, have developed an international following with records characterised by smoothly evocative lyrics. Their self-proclaimed ‘global sound’ is experimental and consistently enjoyable. Their latest album, Nubuma Rubberband, is absolutely worth a listen. Way Out West Festival Every August Sweden’s second biggest city, Gothenburg, plays host to Way Out West, a staple of the Scandinavian summer festival circuit. Swedes are lured outside by the warm weather to dance through the night, dress so well it hurts and keep ahead of the next international Swedish music sensation. Johan & Nystrom Specialty Coffee Concept Store, Stockholm How do Swedes function on winter days with two hours of sunshine? It’s all in the coffee. This is epitomised in the cultural establishment of fika (pronounced fee-ka). A Swede is known to fika multiple times in the day. It’s a ritual of sitting down with a coffee and a cinnamon bun to take a break and socialise with colleges, family and friends. The specialty coffee movement in Stockholm is elevating the quality of the standard cup in Sweden; Stockholm’s Johan & Nyström in particular offer patient education on the art of coffee. ACNE The only kind of acne you want all over you, the Swedish fashion retailer epitomises Swedish minimalism. From its block colours to its clean branding, ACNE sells the composed self-assurance at the essence of Swedish cool. ACNE makes no frills look good. With a legion of loyalists from New York to Melbourne willing to renounce all things obnoxious and studded in the name of Swedish design, it’s onto something. If in doubt, dress head to toe in black and paint your apartment white; you’ve got Swedish minimalism in the bag. Restaurant Tusen at Ramundberget Ski Resort If you could generalise contemporary Swedish architecture at all, an attachment to nature would be the common ingredient. To understand a Swede, you must appreciate a deep connection with the environment. Sweden’s seasons occupy both extremes. As well as the temperature, their year is dictated by serious variation in light, fluctuating between complete darkness in the north during winter and 24 hours on sunlight during the summer. The built environment hence must accommodate for the extremes and adjust for the inhabitants within. Using natural materials and neutral colours such as blond wood and white walls keeps interiors adaptive and simple, allowing the transition from outdoors in to be seamless. The Restauant Tusen at Ramundberget Ski Resport by Hans Murman Arkitekter is a magnificent example. Dads with prams A progressive approach to paternity leave is the cornerstone of Sweden’s culture of gender equality. The result: a lot of dads with prams. Strolling through Stockholm’s hipster haunt, Södermalm, the packs of fathers-with-child would drive the most cynical bachelor to jealousy. No wonder Sweden is in a baby boom. Top image by Rekorderlig ambassador Agnes Thor.
These days, there are plenty of venues plating up cheesy dishes and elaborate cheese boards — but there's nothing quite like selecting a few quality wedges of fromage, freshly sliced charcuterie and a matching bottle of wine to dig into with friends. Home to some of the largest cheese selections in the country, Melbourne cheese shops and fromageries are defined by passionate owners, an appreciation for top Australian-made products and some exceptional cheese offerings. From long-running operations at the Queen Vic Market to small neighbourhood retailers with cabinets full of dairy-based wares, we've put together a list of the best shops to sate your appetite for cheese. Whether you're sourcing a serve of your go-to favourite or hunting for something fancy and new, these spots have as gouda selection of cheesy delights as you'll find anywhere in Melbourne.
As the colder weather approaches, the idea of a steaming hot bowl of udon noodles starts to sound like a pretty good one. Now open on Bourke Street, Yamamoto Udon is serving up heartwarming creations that deliver a taste of Japan. Merging time-tested traditions with modern sophistication, these tempting dishes not only taste incredible, but come without a high price tag. Yamamoto Udon is the latest venture by Melbourne-based hospitality group Wagyu Ya, whose stable also includes Yakikami and Wagyu Ya Teppanyaki. Just like these other venues, Yamamoto Udon specialises in a particular type of cuisine or dining style — in this case, handcrafted udon. The restaurant serves both thick, bouncy sanuki udon and ribbon-like himokawa udon, with the latter limited to just 70 servings per day. Both varieties are aged for two days, and are made with natural ingredients and free of any additives. "Crafting udon is a tradition that takes skill and patience," says head chef Ryosuke Yasumatau. "Our team at Yamamoto brings years of experience in hand-making udon, staying true to the techniques that have been passed down through generations while sharing them with Melbourne." The menu features 18 udon variations to explore, with prices starting from $18 per bowl. You'll be able to choose between soup udon, dipping udon and curry udon, with flavours primed for almost every palate — highlights include the M9+ tomato braised wagyu udon, pork belly cold udon and curry prawn bisque red udon. While udon is undoubtedly the main event, Yamamoto Udon also offers plenty of sides and extras to expand your feast. Expect the likes of crispy tempura, juicy chicken karaage, agedashi tofu, onsen egg and more. There's also a selection of rice-based don, with prices starting at $16. Reflecting the minimalist warmth of other like-minded Japanese eateries, Yamamoto Udon's interior showcases a similar simplicity. Rich timber accents and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere make it equally accessible for a low-key dinner with friends or a solo outing. There's even a clever sense of Japanese dining convenience, with iPad ordering and a 10-minute serve time making it perfect for a quick but nourishing feed when stepping out in the CBD. Yamamoto Udon is open Monday–Sunday from 11.30am–9.15pm at Shop 12/108 Bourke Street, Melbourne. Head to the venue's website for more information.
Affectionately dubbed "the Persa" by Fitzroy locals, this Brunswick Street pub dates all the way back to 1865. Perseverance is a favourite among the student crowd, and is known for having a consistently heaving dancefloor. Throwback fans will love the 90s-themed music nights, complete with strobe lights, disco balls, and shameful dance moves. After all, there's truly nothing more liberating than busting out the macarena en masse at 2am — you know all the moves, don't deny it. Expect a healthy selection of beers and burgers on the menu, with an impressive collection of cocktails also on offer. Need a little breather after breaking out some enthusiastic dance moves? The tree-lined beer garden is a welcome escape for tired feet, with an enclosed marquee erected in winter to keep things toasty. Perseverance is licensed until late over the weekends, so bookmark this as the perfect kick-on venue. Images: Giulia Morlando.
Reed House, which has just celebrated its first birthday, embraces the new while honouring the past. Set in a heritage-listed building dating back to 1859, it honours the venue's history while delivering modern takes on English classics. Co-owners Mark Hannell and Rebecca Baker, who lead the kitchen and front of house, respectively, say they "envision Reed House as a place where the warmth of home meets modern cuisine. We bring bold flavours, quality ingredients, and a relaxed atmosphere. Our goal is to create an inviting space where friends gather, stories are shared, and every meal feels special." Once seated inside, you can instantly feel that the building used to be a house, lending to its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Timber floors, marble fireplaces and polished plaster walls create a sleek, yet approachable dining space. While having clear British roots, Reed House's menu has many playful touches from Hannell. The scotch egg is cooked ramen style and served with mushroom ketchup. Welsh Rarebit is done via crumpet, and Hannell's famous potatoes are served with chicken salt and malt vinegar mayo. Generous mains include honey roast chicken with bread sauce, whole fish with wild garlic and caper butter, and porterhouse with anchovy butter. Sunday Roasts are revered at Reed House. Rolled pork with apple sauce, beef rump with horseradish cream, or celeriac fondant with buttered leeks are served with roast potatoes and carrots, red cabbage, Guinness Gravy and sourdough Yorkshire puddings that Hannell is somewhat fanatic about. The desserts are playful and fit Reed House's relaxed yet ambitious vibe. There's lemon tart with Earl Grey meringue, Eccles cake with blue cheese, coconut rice pudding with rhubarb and crumble and a dark chocolate, Vermouth and Milo bite. Despite being set in a rather formal-looking historic bluestone building, Reed House is surprisingly jovial and easy-going. Its cheery owners and staff bring this restaurant — that doesn't take itself too seriously but still delivers a quality dining experience — to life. Images: Kate Shanasy.
Celebrated hospitality crew The Mulberry Group (Hazel, Dessous, Liminal, Common Ground Project, La Cantina) has reimagined the eatery at Heide Museum of Modern Art as a produce-driven daytime diner with a strong sustainability focus. Not only does the glass-walled restaurant leave guests feeling fully immersed in the verdant landscape, but those natural surrounds also play a huge role in what's being showcased on the plate. An oft-rotating menu centres on organic ingredients plucked from Heide's onsite kitchen gardens, as well as produce from the regenerative agriculture farm at Common Ground Project. That might mean breakfasting on hot-smoked salmon and saltbush crumpets ($24), a BLT-inspired tartine ($18), or the smoked barramundi scramble with crispy kale ($22) before a visit to the gallery. Or perhaps diving into the wagyu burger ($28) or niçoise salad ($22) after a trip around the grounds. A risotto comes singing with garden-fresh ingredients ($28), the scotch egg is paired with romesco sauce for a primo snack ($14), and Mulberry Group's signature hotcake ($22) also gets a well-deserved run. Outside, a coffee cart is slinging takeaway sips and sangas. And eventually you'll be able to grab a curated picnic basket to enjoy outdoors while wandering the famed sculpture park. Lots more local goodies star throughout the restaurant's drinks offering, with quality coffee pouring alongside beer, local vino — perhaps a Heathcote vermentino ($62) or the Underground Pinot Noir from the Mornington Peninsula ($13/56) — and a curation of booze-free sips. Images: Samantha Schultz.
Maybe your day hasn't truly started until you've had your caffeine fix. Perhaps you like the ritual of the coffee shop experience. Or, you might just love pairing your cuppa with a cafe spread. Whichever applies, you'll have your favourite spots for a coffee — and you'll know that not all venues slinging it are created equal. According to the first-ever Top 100 Coffee Shops list, the very best place for a cuppa on the planet is Down Under. Toby's Estate Sydney flagship cafe and roastery in Chippendale in has been named the best in the world in the inaugural ranking, which made its picks based on the quality of coffee, barista experience and customer service, as well as each venue's approach to innovation, ambience and atmosphere, plus its sustainability practices, food and pastry quality, and consistency. Combined, Australia and New Zealand account for a tenth of the list, with eight other Aussie spots joining Toby's Estate, alongside one from Aotearoa. Two of those other Australian coffee shops also made the top ten: Proud Mary in Melbourne at fourth and Coffee Anthology in Brisbane at eighth. From around the globe, they were joined by Onyx Coffee Lab in the USA at second, Gota Coffee Experts in Australia in third and Tim Wendelboe in Norway at fifth — then Singapore's Apartment Coffee taking sixth place, Kawa in France at seventh, Malaysia's Story of Ono in ninth and Colombia's Tropicalia Coffee at tenth. Back to Down Under coffee havens, Veneziano Coffee Roasters in Melbourne came in at 19th, fellow Melburnian Calēre Coffee ranked 28th, Adelaide's Exchange Coffee placed 37th and Fonzie Abbott in Brisbane took 70th spot. Next came Melbourne's Vacation Coffee at 71 and Seven Seeds, also in Melbourne, at 87. Flying the flag for NZ, Rocket Coffee in Hamilton notched up 62nd place. [caption id="attachment_733568" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Proud Mary[/caption] So, in plenty of cities across Australia and Aotearoa, you've got no excuse to drink a subpar coffee. While Toby's Estate's Sydney flagship earned the list's love, it also has locations in Brisbane and Melbourne locally. "At Toby's Estate, coffee is at the heart of everything we do, and I think that's reflected in our customer's experience. Our whole team puts in an immense amount of effort to make the best coffee possible, so we're absolutely delighted to be awarded this incredible recognition," said the brand's General Manager Jody Leslie about the win. [caption id="attachment_992420" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Toby's Estate[/caption] [caption id="attachment_935274" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fonzie Abbott[/caption] [caption id="attachment_631878" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vacation Coffee[/caption] [caption id="attachment_918220" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Seven Seeds[/caption] [caption id="attachment_992421" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Toby's Estate[/caption] For more details about the Top 100 Coffee Shops list, head to the ranking's website.
Melbourne is littered with public outdoor pools and great beaches, but sometimes you want the luxe private pool experience. This usually comes with booking a room at one of Melbourne's best hotels or signing up to an exorbitantly priced private members' club, but most of us don't want to go that far for a little dip. To solve this problem, W Melbourne has started up its midweek Swim Club, which runs 8am–8pm from Monday–Friday. During these times, you can book a poolside session at the sky-high indoor pool WET and stick around for as long as you like. You'll have access to the pool, steam room and fully equipped gymnasium FIT, plus you'll get a mocktail, bottle of water and fruit platter delivered to your sun lounger. This doesn't come cheap, at $98 per person, but it's the price you pay for semi-private luxury. If you're on a budget and want to swim on a cold day, these heated Melbourne pools are a heap cheaper. But those of you seeking a day of swimming and relaxing without crowds — while looking out over the city skyline — can consider booking a spot at WET's Swim Club.
To Be Frank's second location within East Brunswick Village, adds to the community's ethical and sustainable options. With its Collingwood location generating a cult following for its "respectus panis" — meaning minimal yeast and an extended fermentation process that's good for your gut — bread and pastry lovers exploring the second outpost can look forward to the same uncompromising quality and communal passion. Founded by Franco Villalva and Lauren Parsons in 2019, To Be Frank's East Brunswick Village location will maintain its focus on honest bread, pastries and sandwiches, featuring a daily selection that honours traditional baking methods. Of course, that means another store to get your hands on their popular baguette, fruit loaf and focaccia, but you'll also be able to take home To Be Frank's two-kilogram wholemeal sourdough 'miche', available in quarter, half or full-sized portions. "East Brunswick Village already feels like home. We've been welcomed so warmly by the community, and we can't wait to return that warmth — in the form of good bread, coffee, and connection," said Villalva and Parsons. Just like Collingwood, To Be Frank's new digs are well-stocked with sweet and savoury pastries, including the debut of its chocolatine: a decadent croissant made with Melbourne-based Cuvèe Chocolate's Amphora 65% dark chocolate. The coconut and dulce de leche bomb pays tribute to Franco's Argentinian heritage, while the savoury sausage croissant features top-notch ingredients from neighbouring butcher, Hagen's Organics. Sandwich-lovers will have even more reason to visit, as Villalva and Parsons extend their selection at the East Brunswick locale. Drop by year-round for a ham, cheddar and Emmental toastie, catch a hot honey stracciatella open focaccia through periodic bakes, or discover new seasonal creations as they land in the cabinet. While there, order a stellar coffee with beans roasted by Blackburn's Symmetry Coffee Roasters. As for the new bakery's design, Corso Interior Architecture conceived the space as an open, purpose-built pastry kitchen, where customers get an up-close look at the action. "We've designed East Brunswick Village to be a place for people to enjoy at any time of the day – whether it be for a grab-and-go loaf in the morning for breakfast, a mid-morning coffee and pastry, or a dine-in sandwich or savoury pastry for lunch – the choice is yours," explained Villalva and Parsons. Images: Supplied.
Not content with launching a Ritz-Carlton on the Gold Coast in 2026, the Marriott International hotel chain is bringing another of its luxe accommodation labels to the Glitter Strip: St Regis, which'll open its first-ever Australian outpost in Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise. Holidaymakers will need to wait until 2027 to soak in the brand's lavish surroundings; however, there'll be plenty to enjoy, all as part of the under-development $1.7-billion La Pélago resort and precinct. La Pélago won't be small, sprawling over 12,000 square metres, and including 5500-plus square metres of dining and drinking options, as well as shops. St Regis Gold Coast Resort won't be modest itself, featuring 185 guest rooms and suites, each with either ocean or hinterland views. Also set to feature at the new St Regis: a sky bar, pool bar and lounge, a specialty restaurant, the chain's signature St Regis Bar and a spa, turning every stay into an excuse to kick back with a drink — while looking at stunning vistas, over a splash, with a meal or before chasing your bliss. Sporting the brand's usual focus on glamour — complete with its bespoke butler service — the Gold Coast's St Regis resort will take over one of La Pélago's towers, and comes in collaboration with property development company Gurner and investment house Wingate. It's set to be the first tower to open, in fact, and joins a list of 55-plus fellow St Regis hotels and resorts worldwide since the chain's first site opened in New York in 1904. You might've heard of its Big Apple venue, and the St Regis New York King Cole Bar, thanks to a well-known tipple. It was the supposed birthplace of the bloody mary back in 1934, with the hotel brand unsurprising touting the spicy cocktail as its signature sip since then. Do genuinely expect to feel on top of the world at the St Regis Gold Coast; as part of the La Pélago design plans, all of the hotel's rooms and amenities, including the bar and restaurant, will sit above the rest of the towers in the precinct. The St Regis building itself will be 50-percent taller than any other surrounding tower, in fact. That means arriving at the porte cochère entrance, then making your way up to the second — and main — hotel lobby on level 42. "This signing for the St Regis brand in Australia is momentous for Marriott International, and a wonderful advancement for the Gold Coast. The St Regis name promises a vanguard spirit steeped in history and tradition, and is synonymous with global luxury," said Richard Crawford, Vice President Hotel Development, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific for Marriott International, announcing the news. "The St Regis Hotel brand redefined luxury when it first opened its doors in New York over 100 years ago and as such we are incredibly selective when choosing the right locations and developments to launch new St Regis Hotel sites, that are befitting of the strict requirements and expectations of the brand," Crawford continued. St Regis was initially due to make its Aussie debut in Melbourne, as announced back in 2018; however, that plan hasn't come to fruition. When the chain's Gold Coast hotel opens, it's expected to be Marriott International's fourth site in the Queensland city thanks to the existing JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, and theSheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast, plus the aforementioned Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast. Start dreaming about those swanky 2027 vacations now. The St Regis Gold Coast Resort will open at the new La Pélago precinct, 112 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise sometime in 2027 — we'll update you with further details when they're announced. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
One of the top ways to treat yourself is to check into one of the best hotels in Sydney for a few nights. At these joints, you get a little bit of everything (or even a whole lot of everything). You get fresh plush sheets (this may seem basic, but we all know how good this feels), room service that you can eat in bed, pampering packages at award-winning spas, pools with epic views and just about anything else your luxurious self desires. And Sydney is packed with five-star hotels and brilliant boutique stays that will help you live your best life. So check out our guide to the best hotels in Sydney, perfect for those after a luxury staycation or out-of-town visitors in need of a base for exploring the city. Recommended reads: The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Sydney Sydney's Best Spa Experiences The Eight Best Glamping Spots in NSW The Best Luxury Getaways Near Sydney
Just can't wait for another date with The Lion King in one of its many guises? For more than three decades now, since the original animated flick first arrived and became a beloved favourite — as well as a box-office smash and an Oscar-winner — no one has had to. Movie sequels followed, as well as a photorealistic remake with its own prequel. Spinoffs and TV shows have popped up, too. For almost 30 years, The Lion King has also taken to the stage. No stranger to Australia, the film-to-theatre musical has just announced a new date Down Under in 2026. Let's call it the circle of stage productions: a local version of The Lion King initially trod the Aussie boards in 2003, then a second take arrived in 2013. Just as both of those two tours did, the new production will open in Sydney. In fact, it's playing at the same venue, the Capitol Theatre, that The Lion King first roared into when it made its Australian theatre debut. So far, only a month has been announced in terms of timing, with The Lion King set to open in April 2026. No other cities or dates have been revealed as yet, but prior productions have taken the story of Simba, Mufasa and Scar beyond the Harbour City. In the past, almost four-million audience members have enjoyed the show Down Under. Worldwide, that number is more than 120 million, all watching a performance that's played more than 100 cities in 24 countries, and is the biggest-grossing title in history. On the stage, The Lion King is as acclaimed as it is popular, including collecting six Tony Awards in 1998, Best Musical among them — and making its OG director Julie Taymor the first woman to receive a Tony for Direction of a Musical. Can you feel the love tonight? This theatre hit has, repeatedly. [caption id="attachment_990210" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Deen van Meer, Disney[/caption] "Every time we return to Australia, we are reminded of the region's considerable talent pool, both onstage and off, and we can't wait to gather a talented and exciting company for The Lion King," said Disney Theatrical Group Executive Producer Anne Quart and Managing Director Andrew Flatt, who have been with The Lion King onstage since its 1997 US premiere. "We are thrilled to welcome The Lion King back to Sydney, the place where it all began in Australia over 20 years ago. The Walt Disney Company ANZ is proud to be one of only three places in the world where, alongside Broadway and the West End, we self-produce musicals, directly employing hundreds of Australian theatre professionals," added The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director Kylie Watson-Wheeler. [caption id="attachment_803460" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matthew Murphy, Disney[/caption] [caption id="attachment_803461" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joan Marcus, Disney[/caption] The Lion King will open at the Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket, Sydney, from April 2026. For more details, and to join the ticket waitlist, head to the production's website. Top image: Matthew Murphy, Disney.
