Melbourne. A couple of hours flight from Brisbane, yet a world away in so many other ways. Our late night flight had us arrive at the Rydges in Carlton around midnight. Breakfast in the morning was a buffet in the Blues Restaurant. This was our first introduction to this comfortable, hospitable area.

A view to match a deliciously fresh, varietal and fulfilling breakfast. Seated next to the window, within the warm enclosure of the restaurant, we had a birds eye view of people rushing about their daily business. Judging by the additional clothing most were wearing, we gauged it to be a lot less warm out there than it was inside.

The hearty breakfast was the ideal start before embarking on a morning exploration of Melbourne. Trams run past the outside of the hotel, however with a specific destination in mind, we utilised the cab rank right next to the door instead. First stop, the vinyl record shops hubby was seeking. An easy find, the cab driver dropped us at the door of the first one. This was when we discovered some of these boutique shops don’t open until 10:00am. Oh well, with interesting buildings and streets to explore, we found an open vinyl shop for hubby whilst I watched Melbournites go about their day, snapping a few shots here and there. Graffiti, art, fashion & food. All in Melbourne are an artform. A unique, interesting city, with something to see at every turn.

After a long trips back to the hotel, yes we did get lost, it was close to our 1pm check out time, after which we were heading out to the suburbs.

Exhausted, we checked out and leaving our bags at reception, ducked back into Blues Bar for a quick lunch before we left. Seated at the bar this time, the friendly, helpful Con was our barman, who quite happily started us with a cocktail, of his choice (as we asked). Both cocktails were superb. Time to order some lunch.

We opted for the the 5 choices of dishes for $42. Kilpatrick & natural oysters included. The food was superb, fresh, crisp or soft where it was meant to be. Very palatable.

We had to eventually cut our ties with the hospitable Con and head off to the suburbs to stay with family.

If you live in Melboune, or are just passing through, stop off at the Blues bar and say hi to Con. Hopefully we can revisit this one on another trip to Melbourne.

Keep an eye out over the next few days, more Melboune reviews to come. Don’t forget to follow us in Instagram & Facebook – Dine Live Travel.

You never know where we will be next. 👍