Melbourne , Australia

Melbourne Culinary Laneway Experiences

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About this experience

Some of the best places in Melbourne are the ones hidden from view. The most unassuming buildings in the city often house the best coffee, wine, food, or can lead you to a bustling rooftop or boutique retailer.

During our time together we explore some of the city’s best kept-secrets, moving through maze-like laneways, arcades and streets to uncover:

The city’s unique boutique retailers
Savour our own private coffee tasting with top baristas - I introduce you to Melbourne's signature cup of coffee that will transform your coffee drinking experience
Discover underground eateries housing the greatest artisan food producers
Indulge in wine tastings at one of the city's most sought out wine bars renowned for showcasing the best in European & Australian wines..
Sample some of the best culinary offerings from Melbourne’s greatest institutions.

This is a tailored experience created exclusively for your own private group.

Available options

Melbourne Culinary Laneway Experiences

What's included

Alcoholic Beverages

Breakfast

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This is a unique insiders-guide to Melbourne. We get to meet and speak with the operators of the city's most established dining and retail scene.

Our first stop is a chance to enjoy a breakfast feast at one the city's renowned institutions. I share what makes this particular place so unique and why it continues to stand apart from its competitors as one of the city's best establishments.

Melbourne is home to the most vibrant and bustling cafe and dining scene.
Knowing where to go and what to look for is essential.
You can easily miss a hidden wine bar or boutique retailer if you don't know what to pay attention to.
I show you some of Melbourne's gems as we explore through the city's hidden laneways

Stop 3

Getting off the beaten track, we head to one of Melbourne's iconic arcades. Housing some of the most established boutique retailers, our first stop is in one of the city's unique specialty food stores.
Let the aromas transport you, as our tea tasting gives you the chance to savour culinary delights that celebrate global flavours and has you dreaming of recipes to try out at home.

The best coffee roasters of Melbourne, are hidden from view. Our next stop is our own private coffee tasting session with one of the city's top barista's.
I introduce you to Melbourne's signature cup of coffee that will transform your coffee drinking experience in this unique hard-to-find converted warehouse space

This is one of the few exceptions on taking a main street in the city. This iconic multi-level building is home to a bustling cocktail lounge, roof-top bar, restaurant, cinema, boutique retailer and one of the most established bookstores on design and architecture.
Quintessential Melbourne, it is a blink-and-you'll-miss-it experience.

Stop 6

The feast continues at the top end of Spring Street where our own final tastings, share plates, and wine are enjoyed!
Our last stop gives you the chance to indulge in a glass of wine at one of the city's most sought out wine bars renowned for showcasing the best in European & Australian wines.
Enjoy your remaining time at the top end of Spring Street, without rushing.
You’ll be in bliss, leaving Melbourne with memories of our time together in this fabulous city.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our breakfast feast begins our day on Flinders Lane. When you get to the café, look out for the girl with the big curly hair, that's me! There'll also be a reserved sign on our table as a just-in-case.

About Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.

Top Attractions

Federation Square

Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Cultural 1-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.

Sports 1-3 hours (longer for events) Free to enter (tours and events have fees)

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.

Scenic Drive Full day or overnight trip Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.

Art 1-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.

Dinner Contains meat

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Dessert Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.

Drink Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley Kayaking on the Yarra River Spa and wellness retreats Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach Visiting museums and galleries Attending live performances and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center

By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fitzroy St Kilda Carlton Southbank Brunswick

Day trips

Yarra Valley

60 km from Melbourne • Full day

The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.

Mornington Peninsula

80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.

Phillip Island

140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August

Pro tips

Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes