Mark Wiens in Melbourne VIC: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Melbourne

Must-try foods in Melbourne

• Flat White
  Flat WhiteMelbourne's spiritual beverage, perfected in the city's laneways. Unlike a latte, a true Melbourne flat white features a double shot of espresso topped with a thin, velvety layer of micro-foam. For the 2026 standard, look for 'magic' variations—a double-ristretto flat white—at coffee institutions like Proud Mary or Industry Beans.
• Croissants
  CroissantsOften cited by international critics as the best in the world, these 'engineered' pastries are a Melbourne rite of passage. While the traditional beurre is flawless, the 2026 must-try is the 'Cruffin'—a croissant-muffin hybrid—or their seasonal twice-baked almond croissants from the Fitzroy lab.
• Halal Snack Pack (HSP)
  Halal Snack Pack (HSP)A modern Melbourne icon and late-night necessity. This towering mess consists of hot chips layered with doner kebab meat (lamb or chicken), melted cheese, and the 'holy trinity' of sauces: garlic, chili, and BBQ. It’s a multicultural staple best found at kebab joints in Brunswick or the CBD.
• Spag Bol
  Spag BolFor a taste of old-school Italian Melbourne, a bowl of Spaghetti Bolognese at Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar is non-negotiable. Sitting at the curved timber bar of this 1950s institution is a local ritual, serving simple, soul-warming pasta that defines the city's migrant history.
• Hot Jam Doughnuts
  Hot Jam DoughnutsA nostalgic Melbourne street food found at the Queen Victoria Market. These are served piping hot from a historic van, dusted in sugar, and injected with a dangerously hot, tangy red jam. They have been a market staple since the 1950s and remain a local obsession.
• Sri Lankan Hoppers
  Sri Lankan HoppersReflecting Melbourne's thriving Sri Lankan community, these bowl-shaped fermented rice flour and coconut milk pancakes are a trending breakfast and snack. Best enjoyed at Mankō, they feature crispy edges and a soft center, often served with a runny egg and spicy pol sambol.

Trip guide

• About Melbourne
  About MelbourneMelbourne is a major metropolitan center in the Australian state of Victoria, situated on the traditional lands of the Kulin Nation. The area has been inhabited by the Wurundjeri, Boonwurrung, and other Indigenous groups for at least 40,000 years. European settlement began in 1835 as a British trading post and was officially named Melbourne in 1837 after the British Prime Minister.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Melbourne is during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November), which offer mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. While summer (December to February) is popular for major events and beaches, the weather is famously unpredictable and can fluctuate between extreme heat and sudden rain. Peak tourist season coincides with the summer holidays and the Australian Open in January.
• Getting around
  Getting around Melbourne

  • International and Domestic Air Travel Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) serves as the primary gateway, located 23km from the city center. Travelers can reach the CBD via the 24/7 SkyBus shuttle service or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Didi.
  • Public Transport Victoria (PTV) Network The city features an extensive network of trains, buses, and the world's largest tram system. Passengers must use a topped-up Myki card to tap on and off.
  • Regional V/Line Rail and Coach Services For those arriving from interstate or regional Victoria, V/Line trains terminate at Southern Cross Station. This hub connects the city to major destinations like Geelong, Ballarat.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase and top up a Myki card for all public transport, as cash is not accepted on buses, trains, or trams.
  • Always carry a light jacket or umbrella to prepare for Melbourne's unpredictable 'four seasons in one day' weather.
  • Tipping is not required or expected in restaurants, though rounding up the bill for exceptional service is a kind gesture.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Melbourne

  • Metro Tunnel Launch: The city's massive new rail network and five underground stations (Anzac, Town Hall, State Library, Parkville, Arden) are fully operational.
  • NFL Melbourne Debut: Massive hype surrounding the first-ever regular-season NFL game at the MCG, featuring the LA Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers.