Where to Eat, Sleep and Shop in Melbourne
From life-changing sandwiches to secondhand steals, here’s the Local Hype.
Welcome to Local Hype, a travel diary where we compile a curated list of our “Hometown Heroes” for you to enjoy. Featuring the buzziest hotels, restaurants and local treasures that we’ve experienced for ourselves, with suggestions from the city’s locals.
The latest iteration of Local Hype sees me travelling all the way to the other side of the world to experience fan culture at its finest, at the Australian Open. For myself, it was the first time I’d travelled for an event like that, but clearly, I’m not alone. According to Airbnb data, 65% of the top-searched dates and cities for 2026 tie in with major sport and music events, like Coachella and the Winter Olympics — not forgetting those recently released Harry Styles tickets, and I can’t say I’m surprised.
These major moments are huge experiences in themselves, but then being able to add a little more exploration to the trip feels like an added bonus. So for my trip to the Open, that’s exactly what I did. I may have travelled to Melbourne for the AO, but I stayed for the food, coffee culture and incredible selection of secondhand fashion stores.
Read on for my top picks of the best restaurants, shops and the Airbnb that’ll continue to live in my mind rent-free.
TO STAY:
Airbnb
Nothing beats a home away from home when you’re thousands of miles away. Somewhere remotely familiar in an otherwise alien land, filled with a comfy bed, a good coffee maker and the desirable ability to live like a local, even if just for a week. That’s where Airbnb‘s Guest Favorites come in, a curated pick of top-of-the-range listings, loved by guests again and again. For my extended Melbourne visit, I opted for a glitzy apartment on the 38th floor, complete with a swimming pool, sauna and incredible views. Located just a short walk into the CBD or an easy tram ride to some of the best beaches, it was the ultimate location for my Aussie adventure.
TO EAT:
Carnation Canteen
For fellow Londoners visiting the other side of the world, Carnation Canteen provides a taste of home, and I mean that quite literally. One of its main dishes comes all the way from West London’s the River Cafe, and the remainder of its eclectic menu is filled with baby snappers, kingfish carpaccios and heirloom zucchini.
Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar
Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar is what most people in Melbourne refer to as somewhat of an institution. The authentic spot is the city’s oldest espresso bar, and it serves a classic menu of traditional Italian dishes without a twist. Think Nonna’s lasagne, seafood spaghetti and an incredibly alcoholic tiramisu, each with a refreshing watermelon granita and plenty of authenticity.
Hector’s Deli
You can’t have a sandwich in Melbourne and not go to Hector’s Deli. It’s illegal, or at least it should be. The retro-style sandwich spot has an impressive range of options, from fried chicken schnitzel to the ever-popular Reuben. On top, you can add chicken-salted fries or potato salad to your feast, and you won’t be disappointed.
TO SHOP:
SWOP
SWOP is probably one of the best secondhand shops in Australia, with locations across both Sydney and Melbourne. Featuring one of the most exciting curations of vintage and secondhand designer brands, one swipe through the rails and you’ll find Issey Miyake tops, Miu Miu pleated skirts and vintage Valentino shirts. Plus, the store carries an impressive selection of footwear and accessories, like candy pink Chanel card-holders, The Row sandals and KNWLS bags, at pretty affordable prices.
Above the Clouds
For sneaker enthusiasts, Above the Clouds is your one-stop shop. Also a staple in both Sydney and Melbourne, the vibrant store offers everything from New Balance loafers to Han Kjobenhavn clothing, featuring a diverse mix of global brands from London, Copenhagen, Paris and beyond. Along with its extensive brand range, the retailer also creates regular collaborations with some of your fave footwear brands. Definitely one to bookmark.
MANE
Finally, for fans of SWOP, Mane by Stable is your next best friend. Carrying cool Spanish brands like Susmie’s and the London-based label Peachy Den, the Instagrammable store is also filled with funky homewares, cool coffee table books and brands like Coperni, Martine Rose and Conner Ives.
