Fitzrovia
Start your morning at this airy, high-ceilinged spot overlooking Albert Park. The kitchen champions Victorian produce with dishes like wild mushroom bruschetta, paired with exceptional coffee roasted locally. It’s busy but never rushed, capturing the neighborhood's easygoing sophistication.
St Kilda Botanical Gardens
Established in the 1800s, these gardens are a lush, quiet escape from the beachside hum. Wander past the heritage glasshouse and the ornamental pond, keeping an eye out for local giant roseringed parakeets. It's the perfect place to slow down and watch locals reading on the lawns.
Stokehouse
Rebuilt as a spectacular, sustainable design feat right on the foreshore, Stokehouse offers unmatched views of Port Phillip Bay. Order the local snapper or a plate of oysters, accompanied by a crisp Australian Chardonnay. The atmosphere is breezy, elegant, and unmistakably Melbourne.
Linden New Art
Housed in a grand mid-Victorian mansion, this public gallery showcases brave, contemporary art from mid-career artists. The contrast between the ornate period architecture and the cutting-edge installations inside is thrilling. Don't skip the beautiful, peaceful courtyard garden before you leave.
Cicciolina
An absolute St Kilda institution, Cicciolina has been serving exceptional, unpretentious Italian food since 1993. The vibe is intimate and slightly bohemian, with dark timber and brilliant service. If there's a wait, slide into their back bar for a classic Negroni and some olives.
Hotel Esplanade
End your night at 'The Espy,' a sprawling, historic seaside hotel that has anchored St Kilda's music and social scene for decades. Head upstairs to the Ghost of Alfred Felton, a cocktail bar styled like an eccentric art collector's apartment. It’s the perfect, moody spot for a nightcap overlooking the bay.
