The only way to dine (and drink) like a local in Melbourne is to veer off the main streets and treat yourself to a tour ofMelbourne’slabyrinthoflaneways.
The city is awash with unassuming hidden gems tucked away in basements, down narrow stairwells and behind unmarked doors. Spend a day exploring the streets of the Melbourne CBD and you’re bound to be rewarded with a unique combination of food, art and culture.
Hosier Lane
Arguably Melbourne’s most iconic laneway, Hosier Lane is the heart of Melbourne’s street art scene. Prominent local and international street artists transform the walls of the sloping bluestone cobbled laneway into an ever-evolving canvas of colour. Located just a short walk from Flinders Street, Hosier Lane is a must for your trip to Melbourne (and your Instagram feed).
Hardware Lane
Tucked away between Bourke Street and Little Lonsdale Street, Hardware Lane is a foodie's delight with a distinctly European feel. With a large percentage of the laneway closed off to traffic, pedestrians can freely explore the abundance of cafes, rooftop bars and live entertainment venues on offer.
Tattersalls Lane
Tattersalls Lane links Melbourne’s Greek precinct on Lonsdale Street with China Town on Little Bourke Street. A walk down this tiny laneway is packed with possibilities. If you’re looking for a quick bite on a budget, Shanghai Dumpling House is a popular go-to spot for the locals, while Gaylord offers a traditional Indian treat.
AC/DC Lane
A must see for fans of rock music, Melbourne’s AC/DC Lane is marked by the band’s trademark lightening sash. The lane is renowned for its creative street art, and is host to Cherry Bar – one of Melbourne’s most hallowed rock ’n’ roll watering holes.
Degraves Street & Centre Place
The twin laneways of Degraves Street and Centre Place combine the best of Melbourne laneway culture with historic architecture, traditional French bagels, a thriving café culture and vibrant street art. The lanes are hidden between Flinders St and The Bourke St Mall making it the perfect thoroughfare between the two.
With over 200 laneways to explore this is just the tip of the iceberg. A day spent lost in Melbourne's laneways is a rewarding way to experience everything the world's most liveable city has to offer – and you're sure to discover some favourites of your own.
