Melbourne: Progressive Dinner Tour - Chinatown, Laneways & Drink

Melbourne , Australia

Melbourne: Progressive Dinner Tour - Chinatown, Laneways & Drink

Active

(48 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience Melbourne's world-renowned food scene on this personalised progressive dinner tour through Chinatown, Hosier Lane, and hidden laneways.

Your local guide handpicks 4-6 venues nightly based on what's exceptional - not a fixed itinerary.

Savour hand-folded dumplings at legendary Shan Dong Mama, Michelin-starred dim sum at Tim Ho Wan, or authentic Chinese street eats in vibrant Chinatown.

Navigate Melbourne's iconic laneways near Federation Square discovering Indian cuisine at Chapati, Thai specialties at Cookie, and Australia's freshest oysters at Muli Express - secret spots tucked behind Hosier Lane's famous street art.

Enjoy a complimentary wine, beer, or non-alcoholic option at a top-tier Melbourne venue while your guide shares stories of immigration waves and laneway culture that transformed this into a global food capital.

End on a sweet note with innovative ice cream from Hareruya Pantry or traditional Italian granita at historic Pellegrini's on Bourke Street.

Available options

Melbourne: Progressive Dinner Tour - Chinatown, Laneways & Drink

What's included

4-6 premium food tastings from Melbourne's best venues (enough for a full dinner)

Insider recommendations for restaurants and cafés to visit during your stay

One beverage included (wine, beer, or non-alcoholic option)

Walking tour of Melbourne city-centre, Chinatown, and iconic laneways with cultural stories

Local English-speaking guide (passionate Melbourne food expert)

Small group guarantee (maximum 8 guests)

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide and fellow travelers (max 8 guests) at the fountain in Gordon Reserve. Your guide learns about your food preferences and dietary needs, then crafts your personalized route through Melbourne's best culinary neighborhoods.

Stop 2

Explore Melbourne's vibrant Chinatown at peak evening activity. Taste hand-folded dumplings, Michelin-starred dim sum, or Asian fusion bites while learning about the Chinese migrants who established this historic district in the 1850s.

Possible stops: Shan Dong Mama, Tim Ho Wan, Wang's Crispy Pancake, or local fusion favorites

Experience Melbourne's multicultural food scene with authentic Indian, Thai, or other international cuisine from beloved local institutions.

Possible stops: Chapati (Indian Dhai Puri & curries), Cookie (Thai), Muli Express (fresh oysters), or Spring Rock (iconic lamb nuggets)

Stop 4

Navigate world-famous laneways like Hosier Lane and discover hidden gems. Enjoy your included beverage at a top-tier Melbourne venue - laneway bar, wine cellar door, or restaurant with great drinks selection - while learning about Melbourne's immigration history and street culture.

End with Melbourne's best sweet treats - innovative ice cream, traditional Italian granita, or seasonal artisan desserts.

Our tour concludes in central Melbourne CBD near Federation Square or Swanston Street (approximately 10:00 PM) with excellent public transport connections.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Starting Point is Gordon Reserve (74-108 Spring St East Melbourne) Gordon Reserve is the small park opposite the Hotel Windsor. Go to the Windsor Hotel. Cross the street to the park with the fountain. Look for your guide with a blue umbrella.

Important notes

• Minimum age is 18 years
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

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