EAT
For Saturday brunch, I like Sir Charles in Fitzroy. While the menu changes seasonally, my favourite dishes are the salmon Benedict and the Korean fried chicken burger. At the South Melbourne Market, be sure to stop by Aptus Seafood for some oysters, which are shucked in front of you. Finally, head to Fritz Gelato for Italian-style ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt.
DRINK
Naked for Satan in Fitzroy has a great rooftop bar and terrace. I quite like their in-house vodka infusions and usually go for the green apple and cherry version. Manchuria Bar, a speakeasy hidden in the heart of Chinatown, is one of Melbourne’s best-kept secrets. Meanwhile, CQ Melbourne has something for everyone, with a cocktail bar downstairs, R&B room upstairs and a huge dance floor.
EXPLORE
Carlton Gardens is a beautiful park that’s great for having a picnic, strolling or visiting the Melbourne Museum and IMAX cinema that can be found on the northern border of the gardens. Southbank, the city’s bustling waterfront hub, is also worth a visit for its cultural venues – such as the Malthouse Theatre and Melbourne Recital Centre– and its lively riverside promenade. If you’re looking to get out of the city, I recommend doing a wine tour of the Yarra Valley or taking a drive down the Great Ocean Road.
SHOP
For botanical-based skincare and haircare products, you can’t go wrong with homegrown brand Aesop. Queen Victoria Market turns up some one-of-a-kind treasures – from clothing and jewellery to handicrafts and souvenirs. I also suggest taking a trip to Gertrude Street in Fitzroy. It has a truly eclectic mix of small boutiques.
TIPS
The tram system is a great way to get around the city. The entire CBD is a Free Tram Zone, which makes it easy for tourists to move around. Those who prefer to explore Melbourne by bike can take advantage of Melbourne Bike Share, a public bicycle hire scheme.
Singapore Airlines flies to Melbourne four to five times daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: 7 themed restaurants that specialise in oysters, eggs, truffles and more
This article was originally published in the December 2018 issue of SilverKris magazine
