Melbourne

LOVE Melbourne by Amber Bonney Lucy Grant Fiona Brand

This is my definition of relaxation. The upstairs bathhouse—fitted out by a kick-arse assembly of local, female-led studios—is a truly sublime place. I recommend heading there at the very top or bottom of the day, which tend to be a bit quieter.

Owner Gerald Diffey (who published a cracking book late last year) is full of character and it seeps into every aspect of his bar. It is cosy, unpretentious (yet still cool), the staff are passionate and knowledgeable, and the ever-changing seasonal menu always delivers. I also love going there by myself just as much as I do with friends, which I think speaks to how great it is.

The Hainanese Chicken here is the dish I crave most. The menu is a no-frills, extremely satisfying Singaporean fare and the owners Alan and Carol are a delight. A bit of an institution.

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M Pavilion, Arts Precinct – I could wax poetic about the good work M Pavilion do all day. They are an architectural commission that want to spread the good word of design throughout the community, and they offer a stacked line-up of free and ticketed design events throughout the year. The pavilion (which changes each year!) is located opposite the NGV at the Royal Botanical Gardens, which makes it the perfect place to fritter away some time on a sunny Melbourne afternoon.

Good Measure, Carlton – One of the very welcome post-lockdown additions to south Lygon street. This is a coffee shop by day and bar by night, and the atmospheres of both are equally good. Try the Mont Blanc coffee in the am and the meticulously crafted cocktails in the pm. The sangas are good too. Brunetti, Carlton (for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert!)

South Melbourne (for breakfast)

Black Pearl, Fitzroy (for cocktails)

The Astor, St Kilda (for classic revival cinema)

Modern Times, Fitzroy (mid-century furniture and art)

Bulleen (art, a sculpture park and beautiful grounds)