Iconic for its beautiful railway station and just as well known for its proximity to all things quintessentially Melbourne, Flinders Street is the perfect place to explore the best this city has to offer.
For more than 100 years, Flinders Street Station has stood resplendent on the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets. It’s Australia’s oldest and arguably grandest station with its trademark yellow façade and green copper dome looming large over the city centre. With more than 110,000 commuters passing through here every day, it’s not the place to go for peace and quiet but is most certainly worth a look, a photo and a throwaway use of the famous Melbourne catch-phrase ‘I’ll meet you under the clocks.’
Touristy sight-seeing aside, there is so much to explore and digest in this vibrant area. One step inside Hosier Lane, one of Melbourne’s famous laneways, will have you appreciating some of the city’s best street art. There’s a bit of everything here, from stencils to enormous colourful murals. There are also ample cafes from which to sit down and admire the free, gallery-like experience. If it’s just coffee you’re after, head to Good 2 Go and pull up a milk crate. The interior matches the arty environment, the coffee is delicious and all proceeds support the city’s homeless, so you can feel good about that double shot latte. If your stomach is emitting hungry rumbles head to Melbourne favourite Movida. Specialising in all things Spanish, this venue plates up tapas with serious wow factor, like the anchovy with smoked tomato sorbet or the whipped goats cheese wrapped in quince paste and deliciously crunchy Brik pastry. If you can’t get a table at the main restaurant, try their offshoot venue Next Door down on the corner.
For something a little different, walk up the road to Gewurzhaus on Collins Street. Named after the German word for spice house, this amazing little shop stocks hundreds of sugars and spices that you’ve likely never heard of. On the off chance that you’re not satisfied with the uniqueness of French lavender salt or sweet macadamia dukkah, the helpful assistants will also make your own blend.
A little further up the road is the neighbouring suburb of Carlton. Its gorgeous old terraces and impeccable gardens offer a beautifully kept serenity which sits in stark contrast to the busy creativity of Flinders Street. Take a leisurely stroll around World Heritage listed Carlton Gardens, admiring the many lakes, elaborate fountains and beautiful old trees. If you find yourself working up an appetite, The Town Mouse is your top pick. If you’re just peckish, opt for the oysters with chardonnay vinegar sorbet; if you’re ravenous go with the oh so tender confit beef neck with walnut pesto. The wine is good here too and the relaxed feel of the venue makes it a very inviting place to sit for a glass or two.
Perhaps cocktails are more your style? If so, a visit to Eau De Vie is non-negotiable. Tucked away into Malthouse Lane just off Flinders Street, it offers the kind of atmosphere that brings up notions of The Great Gatsby. The talented bar staff do all the favourites here, alongside an impressive menu of modern creations which are thoughtfully laid-out in flavour categories. The Noble Experiment offers you the chance to piece together your own version of a martini which is served with a touch of liquid nitrogen to cool things down.
Both the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG or simply ‘The G’ to locals) and Rod Laver Arena are just around the corner from Flinders Street. The latter hosts the Australian Open each year and the former hosts all sorts of sporting events, including the iconic Boxing Day test, as well as concerts which have featured the likes of David Bowie, Madonna and Guns ‘N Roses.
