Tried and Tested Melbourne

Food

Mealtime

1. Dzung
This place is the reason why I think that you can just walk into any Vietnamese restaurant in Melbourne and it'll taste great. Wholesome and delicious helpings at A$8 - 15 per person per meal.

Location: Russell St.

2. Flower Drum
Great service and above average Chinese food. Most dishes are down to earth, authentic and does not surprise. Pricey at A$45 per head. On the Overated side since most food guides point you to their direction.

Location: Market Lane

3. Red Spice Road
This one I totally recommend for Thai/Asian fusion cuisine. Everything from the cocktails to the decor to the tasting menu were yummy. Less well known but I think it kicks Flower Drum's ass. It's cheaper too at A$35 per head including cocktails.

Location: McKillop St.

4. Vegie Bar
Go crazy please! I never thought I'd love a vegetarian restaurant and this place brings veg to a whole new level. Dishes range from soy burgers to Malaysian street food, delish! A$20 per person incl. drinks for gynormous portions.

Location: Brunswick St






Comfort Food

1. Berth
How about having French toasts at a seat overlooking the harbour? I found my brunch place at Waterfront City.
Not everyone can perfect the art of French toasts like Berth. The raisin bread was crusty on the outside and mouthwateringly succulent on the inside. Served with an abundance of maple syrup on the side. And icing sugar dustings? ooooh.

2. Max Brenner: Chocolate by the Bald Man

A Chocolate cafe! need I say more? Head to QV (shopping centre) where you can delve deep.

Top Tip: try everything.

3. San Churro
This is the place to get piping hot, crispy churros to dip with melted chocolate of your choice. Of course with the original ones in Spain the hot chocolate accompaniment was a thick drink, but whoever said innovation was bad? Heaps of good things you can find there: the atmosphere, the good looking staff, the quote on the tissues, excellent churros...

Location: Brunswick St at Fitzroy, and Carlisle St at St Kilda.





Accomodation

1. Knightsbridge Apartments

Cheap and clean is probably its forte. A bit further away from Melbourne CBD, a short walk to Fitzroy Gardens. Located in a leafy and residential area if that suits.

2. Oaks on Lonsdale

I can't praise more about this serviced apartment. At an avg of A$155 per night for a 1 bedroom, you get maximum luxury and ample space. It is central, convenient, comfortable, cool and has courteous service - all the 5 Cs you ever need.

If I had to dislike something, then perhaps the internet charge is ridiculous!

3. Pensione Hotel Melbourne
If you're willing to pay A$130per night for a small bedroom with bathroom drainage that didn't work all that well (at least mind didn't), then do yourself a favour and pay 25 more for something so much better at Oaks. Otherwise, I suppose it has all the facilities and decor of a mini boutique hotel. And it's very close to the Direct Factory Outlet and Southern Cross station so it's not bad. Free wireless is thrown in too if that matters to you.

Any other suggestions to try and test in Melbourne?