Melbourne is known for its ever-evolving offerings, from new restaurants and bars that push boundaries on experiential dining, to its eclectic arts scene and unique spa offerings. Here are our top picks for new openings in Melbourne to help build out your next Melbourne staycation itinerary.
Restaurant
Yakimono
Yakimono sits right beside Lucas Restaurants’ crown jewel, Society, in the 80 Collins precinct.
Housed in a futuristic setting layered with neon, this destination restaurant is a must-visit new opening in Melbourne - the theming drawing inspiration from Blade Runner 2049.
The high energy Japanese-inspired restaurant celebrates food cooked over fire, executed to perfection. On the menu you’ll find everything from traditional rice and noodle dishes served with flair to whole miso-glazed Bannockburn chook served with a myriad of sides and charcoal king prawns with shiso Butter and taberu rayo – have we got your attention now?
Over the bar enjoy a range of Victoria or Japanese beers plus a huge range of sake, shochu and Japanese whiskies. Cocktails are named after Tokyo neighbourhoods – like the Nippori, which has mezcal, oloroso sherry, rum, purple carrot, shiso, jalapeno and lime.
Bar
Pearl Diver Cocktails and Oysters
The name says it all at Pearl Diver Cocktails and Oysters - settle in for a cocktail and oysters to your liking (think fresh, Kilpatrick, Rockefeller with warrigal greens, or deep dried with sauce gribiche). The long-awaited new opening is the debut from Alex Boon and Pez Collier of the Speakeasy Group.
The classy establishment on Little Bourke Street boasts concrete finishes balanced with flowing drapery and plush charcoal banquettes. An oyster shell colour palette and nautical collectables gives for a calming, oceanic vibe.
For oysters, there are two rocks and two Pacifics available with an accompanying menu of suit. A must-try over the bar is the signature Pearl Diver cocktail – with Bacardi Carta Oro rum, Tasmanian honey, butter, spices, pink grapefruit and other citruses.
Arts and Theatre
The LUME Melbourne
The LUME Melbourne is an epic adventure into art. Why tiptoe through silent galleries to view masterpieces from afar when you can be immersed in the world of the artist on a grand scale?
The inaugural experience at THE LUME Melbourne features the vibrant works of Vincent van Gogh. Imagine the vivid colours and intricate details of world-renowned artworks coming to life all around you while a symphony of sounds, aromas and tastes create an awe-inspiring multi-sensory experience.
Within the 3000-square-metre, 11-metre-high digital art gallery, there are no time limits and no set paths – your journey is entirely up to you.
There’s no need to travel far to visit The LUME Melbourne, located a short walk from the hotel across Seafarers Bridge to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Relaxation and Beauty
Botanica Wellness Spa and Clinic
Are you in need in of a wellbeing reset? Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, Botanica Wellness Spa and Clinic in the New York end of Collins Street, is a unique haven and one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets.
Having just completed a spa refurbishment, spa guests will now enjoy a revitalised space with upgraded interiors to treatment rooms, and a revived couples suite and restroom. A new spa lounge for guests to enjoy pre and post experiences was also part of the recent revamp.
As we emerge back into the joy of everyday life, reset your mind and rejuvenate your body with a soothing 90-minute de-stress full body wellness massage followed by a peptide 24/7 skin sync Elemis facial for only $275 per person (saving $30).
You can book this special online here.
Complete your trip to Melbourne with a staycation at Crowne Plaza Melbourne. Discover year-round great value packages here.