Christmas Festival gift and events guide

ENJOY A VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS WITH
GIFT IDEAS & EVENTS FOUND ONLY IN THE CITY
GIFT & EVENT GUIDE
MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU/CHRISTMAS
MESSAGE FROM THE
LORD MAYOR OF MELBOURNE
This December,
we invite you
to celebrate the
Christmas season in
true Melbourne style.
Our annual monthlong Christmas
Festival features a
wonderful range of
activities and events,
many of which are free.
Christmas is a
magical time of year
to be in Melbourne,
with the annual
Christmas Festival
set to transform
the city – and
our wonderful
neighbouring
precincts – into a
festive wonderland.
Head to City Square which will be
transformed into ‘Christmas Square’,
to see our majestic Christmas tree,
activations, carols and you can take a
photo with Santa for free on your own
phone or camera.
Head to vibrant Carlton to celebrate
Christmas with an Italian flavour. ‘Carols
in the Piazza’ is a free event, featuring
much-loved carols in English and Italian,
delicious food and our friend St Nicholas
will even make a guest appearance.
The Gingerbread Village at Melbourne
Town Hall is a favourite among city
visitors. You will be impressed with the
craftsmanship and may even spot a mini
marzipan Lord Mayor!
Docklands will also come alive with
the festive spirit, with the ‘Festival of
Giving’ on 6 December. This fabulous
family event features music, food,
markets, a giving tree and a fun-filled
treasure hunt, sure to get you in the
spirit of giving.
Of course Melbourne, the Christmas
capital, offers the most diverse
shopping experience: from major
complexes and department stores to
laneway boutiques and Queen Victoria
Market. You’ll find something for
everyone from grandad to teachers to
the youngest members of the family
and have fun doing it!
Rest your weary shopping bones and
recharge with a caffeine hit or satisfying
meal at one of our world-class cafes or
restaurants. Again, you will be spoilt for
choice as we are home to purveyors of
five-star cuisine, tasty street food and
everything in between.
Before you head home, do not miss the
spectacular projections on Melbourne
Town Hall.
CONTENTS
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EVENTS
4
FESTIVE EVENTS
6
Santa in the City p. 4
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
10
LOCAL AND HANDMADE
12
GIFTS FOR LESS
14
LUXURY GIFTS
16
KIDS GIFTS
18
FESTIVE FOOD
20
EXPERIENCES AS GIFTS
22
SHOP THE CITY
24
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS
SHOPPING NIGHT
26
Errol Street Choir p. 8
Cake Deco p. 20
Of course, the city is also the perfect
place to indulge in a bit of retail therapy,
and cross those Christmas gifts off your
list! To make things easier, from the first
week of December, some of our city
retailers such as Emporium Melbourne,
Myer and David Jones will be trading
until 9pm daily and Melbourne Central,
QV Melbourne, The Strand Melbourne
and Melbourne’s GPO will be trading
until 9pm Wednesday to Saturday.
PAMPER YOURSELF
Traditions we all know and love will
be brought to life this festive season,
creating an atmosphere you won’t find
anywhere else. Christmas truly is the
perfect time to enjoy all that our city
has to offer.
FIND THE CHRISTMAS CRACKER
Merry Christmas Melbourne!
Enjoy a very special Christmas in
Melbourne!
LORD MAYOR ROBERT DOYLE
CR BEVERLEY PINDER-MORTIMER
27
FESTIVE DINING 28
DINING WITH KIDS
32
EAT, PLAY AND STAY
33
GETTING AROUND MELBOURNE 35
Amongst the festive events, gift ideas, markets and experiences in this
guide, you’ll find Christmas crackers. Tell us how many you find,
by emailing [email protected] for your chance to
win a night’s stay in a two-bedroom suite at Hilton Melbourne
South Wharf for two adults and two children, including a buffet
breakfast - valued at more than $600. See Page 33 for more
info on the Hilton. Read the terms and conditions online via
MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU/CHRISTMAS
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SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EVENTS
ENJOY THESE FREE CHRISTMAS EVENTS PRESENTED BY
CITY OF MELBOURNE AND PARTNERS
CHRISTMAS SQUARE
Presented by City of Melbourne, supported by Intel
27 NOVEMBER TO 25 DECEMBER, CITY SQUARE
The centre piece of Melbourne’s Christmas Festival,
City Square will be transformed into Christmas Square,
a magical forest offering festive fun for families
and children. By day, discover nutcracker soldiers,
interactive candy canes and free photos with Santa.
An interactive Intel Christmas installation will also
offer an exciting glimpse of the future. By night enjoy
soundscapes and Christmas lighting. On Friday 27
November come on down and see the official launch
of the festive season at Christmas Square.
SANTA IN THE CITY
28 NOVEMBER TO 25 DECEMBER,
CHRISTMAS SQUARE
Daily, 10am to 12pm and 1pm to
3pm. Also on Fridays 4pm to 7pm
Children are invited to
meet Santa, tell him their
Christmas wishes and take
a free photo with Santa
and his helpers.
ROTARY DOCKLANDS
FESTIVAL OF GIVING
6 DECEMBER, DOCKLANDS
Music, food, markets, a
Giving Tree, classic and
exotic cars plus a family
treasure hunt. You’ll get
into the spirit of giving at
this fabulous family event.
SANTA’S POST BOX
Entertain the kids for free and find your favourite
Melbourne landmark made out of gingerbread.
Make a gold coin donation to Make-A-Wish Australia.
LEGO® CHRISTMAS
TREE AT FED
SQUARE
CAROLS IN THE PIAZZA
UNTIL 19 DECEMBER, CHRISTMAS
SQUARE
27 NOVEMBER TO
27 DECEMBER, PLAZA
Write a letter to Santa
addressed to North Pole,
9999 and post it in Santa’s
Mail Box to get a reply from
Santa himself! Plus drop
a gift off at the Australia
Post Giving Box where your
donation will be delivered to
a child in need.
The Southern
Hemisphere’s largest
LEGO® Christmas
Tree is coming to
one of Melbourne’s
most iconic spaces
– Federation Square.
Standing taller than a
two-storey house and
wider than a family
car, the spectacular
LEGO® Christmas
Tree will switch-on
its lights on Friday
27 November as part
of the official start of
the festive season.
Buon Natale! Celebrate
Christmas with an Italian
flavour. This free event will
feature carols in English
and Italian, delicious food
and our friend St Nicholas
will even make a guest
appearance.
2 DECEMBER 10.30AM,
CHRISTMAS SQUARE
4
1 TO 24 DECEMBER, MELBOURNE TOWN HALL
Presented by City of
Melbourne and Australia Post
NATIVITY SCENE
BLESSING
Remember to #melbxmas
your Christmas moments in
Melbourne city and we’ll share
the best with our followers.
GINGERBREAD VILLAGE BY EPICURE
You are invited to witness
a blessing of the nativity
scene and listen to
traditional Christmas carols
sung by a Christmas choir.
20 DECEMBER,
PIAZZA ITALIA, CARLTON
5
FESTIVE EVENTS
FOR EVENT TIMES AND MORE FESTIVE EVENTS VISIT
MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU/CHRISTMAS
THE LISTIES RUIN
CHRISTMAS
25 NOVEMBER TO
13 DECEMBER,
THE MALTHOUSE
Start the silly season with
this riotous take on the
holiday pantomime, set to
make kids big and small
shriek with laughter.
QV OUTDOOR CINEMA
LEGO® FUN
EVERY THURSDAY TO SUNDAY
FROM 3 DECEMBER,
QV MELBOURNE
EVERY SUNDAY,
FEDERATION SQUARE
Build your own LEGO®
Christmas decoration
every Sunday until
Christmas and enjoy a
showcase of LEGO®
Christmas creations in the
Fracture Gallery daily.
SOUTHGATE
PERFORMERS
SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER,
SOUTHBANK PROMENADE
Bring the family down to
the riverside for children’s
entertainment and carols
galore.
CHRISTMAS AT FED SQUARE
27 NOVEMBER TO 27 DECEMBER, FEDERATION SQUARE
OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT –
SALVATION ARMY
28 NOVEMBER,
ARTS CENTRE, HAMER HALL
The Salvation Army bring
their annual concert
spectacular to Hamer Hall.
Featuring the Salvation
Army Big Band, Fatai,
David Hobson, Silvie
Paladino, Emma Pask
and the Wacky Creative.
All proceeds go to the
Salvation Army’s many
charitable programs.
CAROLS ON COLLINS
Presented by the Collins
Street precinct
18 DECEMBER,
CHRISTMAS SQUARE
21 TO 23 DECEMBER,
COLLINS STREET, CITY
Fed Square will be transformed by art, music and lots
of fun-filled activities. Bring your friends and family
to explore unique exhibitions, soak up the sounds of
community choirs, challenge your mates to Big Screen
gaming sessions hosted by Freeplay or kick back and
watch Christmas films on the Big Screen.
MYER CHRISTMAS WINDOWS
This Christmas, QV
Melbourne invites you
to escape the Christmas
frenzy and chill out
under the stars at the QV
Christmas Cinema. The
program for December
will feature a mix of
classic Christmas films as
well as other beloved big
screen favourites.
DAILY, BOURKE STREET MALL
A Melbourne tradition, celebrating 60 years, the iconic
Myer Christmas Windows bring joy and Christmas
cheer. Don’t miss these wonderful animated windows. WONDERLAND
FUN PARK AND
SPIEGELTENT
DAILY, DOCKLANDS
Be amazed by the crazy
acrobatic elves getting
themselves into all
sorts of mischief in the
Santa’s Christmas Circus
Spectacular Show.
Hear the soaring voices of
the Australian Girls’ Choir
as they serenade you with
Christmas carols. The
choir will be supported
by a number of special
guests.
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FESTIVE EVENTS
FOR EVENT TIMES AND MORE FESTIVE EVENTS VISIT
MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU/CHRISTMAS
VISION AUSTRALIA’S
CAROLS BY
CANDELIGHT
24 DECEMBER,
SIDNEY MYER MUSIC BOWL
An iconic Christmas
tradition for 77 years, this
year’s line-up promises
a fantastic evening of
festive entertainment.
CHRISTMAS AT
DAVID JONES
MESSIAH
CHRISTMAS CAROLS IN
ERROL STREET
5 AND 6 DECEMBER,
ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE,
HAMER HALL
10 DECEMBER, ERROL STREET,
NORTH MELBOURNE
Join conductor Bramwell
Tovey, the MSO
Chorus and renowned
international soloists for
the MSO’s much loved
Christmas rendition of
Handel’s Messiah. Visit charming Errol Street
as it comes alive with
Christmas carols. Then
join in the celebrations at
The Centre.
PAY IT FORWARD AT
QUEEN VICTORIA
MARKETS
A SWINGIN’ BELLA
CHRISTMAS
20 TO 22 DECEMBER,
BELLA UNION TRADES HALL
A finger-snappin', toetappin' romp through
traditional carols, modern
favourites and speciallywritten original songs of
the season, executed with
airy panache by a bevy of
brilliant performers.
FROM 1 DECEMBER,
MELBOURNE CENTRAL
Create some cringe-filled
kitsch in your very own
Awkward Santa Photo!
Everything from novelty
sweaters and goofy props
are provided to fully
capture the silly season.
GIANT THEREMIN
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER,
NORTHBANK NEAR SIGNAL
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
3 DECEMBER,
READER’S FEAST
Start the festive season
with a performance
reading by actor John
Stanton, A Christmas
Carol by Charles Dickens.
After the reading, enjoy
live music, refreshments
and Christmas shopping.
WALLY’S CHRISTMAS
PHOTOBOOTH
THURSDAY TO SUNDAY AND
TUESDAYS FROM 1 DECEMBER
The Giant Christmas
Theremin is a supersized musical instrument
standing more than seven
metres tall. It’s controlled
by movement rather than
touch and can be played
by up to eight people at
once. Enjoy creating your
own Christmas styled
compositions and spread
the Christmas cheer. 8
AWKWARD CHRISTMAS
PORTRAITS
FROM 1 DECEMBER,
THE CARLTON
Visit Queen Victoria
Market this December
to help brighten the
Christmas of a family in
need. Leave a present
under our Giving Tree
or pay it forward by
purchasing some extra
food from our traders to
donate to the Salvation
Army Christmas Appeal.
For adults who are too
shy to visit the real Santa,
get your photo taken with
The Carlton’s resident
Ostrich, Wally, who’ll
be dressed in a Santa
costume. As an added
bonus, you get to
play dress ups too.
UNTIL 25 DECEMBER,
DAVID JONES, BOURKE STREET
MALL
Watch Santa’s helpers
busily prepare for
Christmas and bring
your pets in for a Santa
PAWtrait or have your
face painted by a
Christmas Fairy. Plus
visit the David Jones
Christmas window and
follow the Christmas
elves from James Gulliver
Hancock’s ‘Colour Me
In Christmas’ book as
they collect gifts from all
around the world.
Wally’s Christmas Photobooth
9
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
FOR HANDMADE, LOCALLY MADE, FAIR TRADE AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN
MARKIT@FEDSQUARE
QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET
SUNDAY 29 NOVEMBER,
10AM TO 5PM
FEDERATION SQUARE
VARIOUS TIMES, ELIZABETH STREET
From all your Christmas feast ingredients
to gift shopping under the iconic Sheds
and at the Night Market, when you think
of shopping destinations in Melbourne,
you can’t go past the famous Queen Vic.
With a focus on Australianmade and sustainable
products, Markit@
FedSquare brings together
independent designers
selling products ranging
from ceramics to jewellery.
BLENDER LANE
MARKET
EVERY WEDNESDAY
(EXCL 23 DECEMBER),
5PM TO 10PM
FRANKLIN STREET, CITY
FAIR@SQUARE
Surrounded by street art,
this is one of the coolest
markets in town, featuring
art and design from
Melbourne’s urban art
collective.
5 TO 6 DECEMBER, 11AM TO 6PM
FEDERATION SQUARE
Let your Christmas gifts have a positive
impact on the world by shopping at Fair@
Square, a sustainable and fair trade festival.
THE BIG DESIGN MARKET
SWAGGER CHILD
DESIGN MARKET
KENSINGTON ARTS
AND CRAFT MARKET
6 DECEMBER, 10AM TO 3PM
MEAT MARKET,
NORTH MELBOURNE
13 DECEMBER,
10AM TO 3PM
KENSINGTON TOWN HALL
With over 100 designers
showcasing everything
for the little tacker in your
life, you’re sure to find
everything they need and
then some.
With over 70 specialty
stalls this inner city
market offers an eclectic
mix of handmade, local
produce, live music and
kids activities.
4 TO 6 DECEMBER, FRI 10AM TO 9PM, SAT 10AM TO 7PM,
SUN 10AM TO 5PM, ROYAL EXHIBITION BUILDING, CARLTON
SATURDAY CHRISTMAS
MARKET
SATURDAYS, 21 NOVEMBER TO 5
DECEMBER, 10AM TO 4PM ARTS
CENTRE MELBOURNE
Discover original
Christmas gift ideas with
unique handmade goods
ranging from arts and
crafts to freshly made
delicacies.
10
Wowsers! This is the biggest range of Australian and
international independent design under one roof. We
recommend you wear comfy shoes and get there early.
LITTLE SPARROW MARKET
20 DECEMBER, 10AM TO 5PM, FEDERATION SQUARE
Perfect for those last minute shoppers, browse
beautiful products by emerging and established
designers, makers and artists.
Swagger Child Design Market
Kensington arts and craft market
11
LOCAL AND
HANDMADE
1. Delicious gingerbread candle, $24.95, B Inspired, Little Collins Street, city 2. Flower necklace, $185;
silver earrings, $390; colourful earrings, $190, from e.g.etal, Flinders Lane, city 3. Copper dinosaur bookends,
$80, Corky Saint Clair, Campbell Arcade 4. Floral arrangement, the perfect centrepiece for any Christmas
party, prices vary, Whitemoss, off Flinders Lane, city 5. Koala & The Age sketch, $50, from Monsterthreads,
QV Melbourne 6. Silk scarves, featuring 1887, Melbourne map and Melbourne Royal Exhibition building,
$119 each, from The Melbourne Shop by Lumbi, Driver Lane, city.
PROUDLY HANDMADE WITH LOVE
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4
1
MEET A MAKER,
CHRIS BRIL
A THOROUGHFARE FOR FLINDERS
STREET STATION FOOT TRAFFIC,
CAMPBELL ARCADE IS A
NON-TRADITIONAL RETAIL
SPACE WHERE YOU’LL FIND
THE LIKES OF CUP-OF-TRUTH,
WAX MUSEUM RECORDS AND
THE PARTICULARLY QUIRKY,
CORKY SAINT CLAIR.
5
For more than a decade,
screen printer-turned-jewellery
designer, Chris Bril, has held his
own, underground in a city full
of arcades and hidden laneways,
‘It adds a sense of discovery
for new customers,’ says Chris,
‘That ‘I found you!’ moment.’
Corky Saint Clair is known for
original, distinctive jewellery.
‘Jewellery’s personal. You wear
it; it reminds you of the person
who gave it to you,’ says Chris.
‘It’s rewarding to contribute
to people’s memories.’
If you’re after something
different for a special someone,
Chris may have just the gift
for you.
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GIFTS FOR LESS
UNDER $20, UNDER $40 AND UNDER $50
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1. This is the perfect shopping bag for your Christmas groceries, $15, Queen Victoria Market 2. Find quirky
and original gifts like this pipe tea infuser, $15, and banana hipflask $35 at Pigeonhole, Melbourne Central
3. Make Me Iconic tram, $10, Shoko koala chopstick rest, $16, and Hasa cheese board $42, from Wilkins & Kent,
Little Bourke Street, city 4. Choose from a wide selection of records including Oasis Boulevard by Splendour,
$18, Wax Museum Records, Campbell Arcade 5. Keep a little piece of Melbourne on your mantelpiece with this
model Polly Woodside, $39, Nautical Replicas, Queen Victoria Market 6. Vibrant men’s dress socks from Fortis
Green, $29.95 per pair, Manfred’s Shoe Lounge, North Melbourne 7. This hardback journal is interspersed with
beautiful photographs and illustrations by local artist Matt Irwin, $29.99, Matt Irwin Art Space. Block Place, city.
15
LUXURY GIFTS
FOR THOSE ONCE IN A
LIFETIME GIFTS
1. Tom Ford leather bracelets $545 each, Stefano Ricci Eau de Parfum $795, or silk Tom Ford pocket square
$225, from Harrolds, Collins Street, city 2. Vintage cutlery set (only forks shown) $275, Madame Vintage,
Chasse au Tresor, North Melbourne 3. Arts & Crafts earrings, available in a range of gemstones, $350, classic egg
pendants, from $425 available from Kozminsky, Bourke Street, city 4. Pick your favourite from the colourful
range of Capri wristlets, $349, or give the gift of organisation with this leather card holder, $135 at Braun Büffel,
Collins Street, city 5. Your potted plants have never been so stylish. Give them tasteful hydration with this
copper watering can, $139.95 available from Mr Wares, The Block Arcade.
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MEET A SHOP KEEPER,
KIRSTEN ALBRECHT
WE CHAT TO KIRSTEN, MANAGING
DIRECTOR OF KOZMINSKY,
ESTABLISHED IN MELBOURNE
IN 1851.
3
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE
THING ABOUT CHRISTMAS?
Spending time with family,
especially with my grandchildren.
WHAT FAVOURITE MELBOURNE
DESTINATION WOULD YOU
RECOMMEND PEOPLE VISIT
THIS CHRISTMAS?
Kirk’s Wine Bar; fantastic Chablis
and beautiful people.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR
CHRISTMAS AT KOZMINSKY?
We love Christmas at Kozminsky.
The store becomes a Christmas
wonderland, filled with decorations,
sweet nibbles and champagne.
WHY SHOULD PEOPLE VISIT
KOZMINSKY THIS CHRISTMAS?
Kozminsky is renowned for its
beauty and individuality, filled with unique bespoke jewellery for your loved one.
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5
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE
CHRISTMAS GIFT IN STORE?
Our beautiful Rivière necklace
collection. It is a beautiful
modern take on the Victorian
rivière. We think it’s a must-have
adornment this Christmas.
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1. Help little ones master numbers using ancient Egyptian art with One Blue Hippo, $16.95, or improve their
motor skills with a set of Zolo Boa stacking rings, $85, The Museum of Metropolitan Art, Emporium
2. Commemorate baby’s first Christmas with these delightful baubles, $24.95 each, Ambiance, Elizabeth
Street, city 3. A classic kids’ favourite, you can’t go wrong with a Lego set, prices from $5, helicopter set
$59.99, Metro Hobbies, Swanston Street, city 4. Give your aspiring directors their first start in the film
industry with this authentic-looking clapperboard, $20, ACMI shop, Federation Square 5. Anime fans will love
these Pikachu Nanoblocks, $17, and Attack on Titan figurine, $24.98, One Stop Anime, Bourke Street, city
6. The must-have accessory for babies everywhere, Sophie la girafe now comes in a Christmas Bauble set at
the special price of $49.99 from Mary Martin Bookshop, Southgate.
KIDS GIFTS
CLASSIC TOYS FOR THE LITTLE PEOPLE
(AND LITTLE BIG PEOPLE) IN YOUR LIFE
2
MEET MADISON FROM
TAYLORS HILL, AGED 4
3
1
5
FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE CITY?
I like the penguins. My Daddy
likes the sharks cause they
have big teeth. He picks me
up so I can see them closer.
(Melbourne Aquarium)
4
FAVOURITE SHOP IN THE CITY?
My mummy takes me to the
Princess Cinderella castle and
we play with Princess Anna
and Thomas [the Tank Engine].
There is a big dinosaur.
My brother says it is cool but
it scares me when it roars.
(Myer Melbourne)
FAVOURITE THING ABOUT
CHRISTMAS?
1
My favourite [thing about
Christmas] is Santa. He brings
me presents if I’m a good, good
girl. He has reindeers and they
fly to my house when I’m asleep.
FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT IN
THE CITY?
I’m very happy and very
good when I eat tiny teddy
cupcakes. (Little Cupcakes,
Degraves Street)
WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR
CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR?
6
Ummm... a Queen Elsa yo-yo. Mummy is going to ask Santa
and write him a letter with me.
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FESTIVE FOOD
CHRISTMAS FOOD THAT
WILL PLEASE ALL TASTES
1
1. Icicle cupcake silicon baking mould, $9.90 from Cake Deco, Port Phillip Arcade 2. Reg Barber Speckled
Palm Coffee Tamper, $160, Black Velvet, Galleria 3. Handmade terracotta jug (1 litre), $35 from Casa and
Bottega, North Melbourne 4. This festive Indian spice pack includes homemade chutney, chai masala
and more, $19.90 from Tadka Boom, Goldsborough Lane, city 5. Festive chocolate brownie blocks for
$15, Brownie Bar, The Hub Arcade 6. Limited edition facsimile of Australia’s first published cook book,
$75, Books for Cooks, Therry Street, city 7. Red Aleppo pepper spices, $16 - 200g / $8 - 50g, Maha
restaurant, Bond Street, city 8. A modern French Christmas cake, Bûche de Noël is a flavour sensation
of coconut, pineapple and caramelised banana, $52, Le Petit Gateaux, Little Collins Street, city.
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MEET A BOOKSELLER,
TIM WHITE
TIM FROM BOOKS FOR COOKS
HAD A CHAT TO US ABOUT
HIS FAVOURITE PLACES IN
MELBOURNE AND ABOUT
RUNNING A BRICKS AND
MORTAR STORE.
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Since a recent move to Queen
Victoria Market, Tim starts every
morning with ‘a Market Lane
coffee and a pastry from M &
G Caiffra.’ An added bonus is
the opportunity to eat oysters
for lunch every now and then.
As for why bookstores are
better than online, ‘Anyone can
publish a database to the web
but real booksellers carefully
choose and recommend their
books.’ Books for Cooks has
comfortable couches, great
coffee and produce only a step
away, and real cooks to advise.
‘Our customers think they are in
‘cookbook heaven’.’ It’s no surprise that as a book
lover, Tim’s favourite places to
shop in Melbourne are The Little
Bookroom, Kay Craddock’s
and Embiggen Books. He also
‘loves wandering the laneways in
Melbourne’ as you’re sure to find
something special or unique.
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EXPERIENC ES AS GIFTS
FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO TRY NEW THINGS
MEET A PERFORMER,
MIKE MCLEISH
MIKE MCLEISH, BEST KNOWN
FOR HIS PORTRAYAL OF
PAUL KEATING IN KEATING!
THE MUSICAL, HAS HUNG
UP HIS POLITICAL CAP AND
WILL BE PLAYING BRUCE
WOODLEY IN THE WORLD
PREMIERE OF GEORGY GIRL
– THE SEEKERS MUSICAL.
WE HAD A QUICK CHAT WITH
MCLEISH TO FIND OUT HIS
FAVOURITE MELBOURNE
AND CHRISTMAS MEMORIES.
One of Mike’s favourite not-so-secret restaurants in
Melbourne is Mekong on Swanston Walk. ‘It’s damn fine
Vietnamese food at almost 90s prices.’
He loves filling his kids’ Christmas stockings. They were
a favourite when he was a kid so every year he ensures
‘my kids’ stockings are overflowing with awesomeness.
Very reasonably priced awesomeness.’ When Mike has
guests who are visiting the city he tells them ‘to put on
their walking shoes and follow their noses.’
GEORGY GIRL
THE ESCAPE ROOM
CHUNKY MOVE
BECOME THE BREWER
HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE,
TICKETS FROM $60
BOURKE STREET CITY,
FROM $16
SOUTHBANK, FROM $20
A world premiere,
opening on 15 December
and featuring the hit
songs of the Seekers,
this musical will be the
smash hit of summer.
Buying for your very own
Houdinis? Get them a
voucher for the Escape
Room – they’ll need to
work with teammates to
escape a locked room.
VICTORIA STREET, WEST
MELBOURNE, STARTER KITS
OR DEMONSTRATION COURSES
FROM $29.90
CATS
MELBOURNE
SYMPHONY
ORCHESTRA
Give the gift of dance!
Melbourne’s leading
contemporary dance
company offers fun
classes for adults, from
complete beginners
to advanced, in their
Southbank studios.
Know someone who is
seeking to be a craft
brewer or D.I.Y. foodie?
Let them learn the art of
brewing with a voucher
from the Artisan’s
Bottega Team.
Finally, the reason we should all see Georgy Girl: ‘It’s a
brand spanking new, Australian-made musical tracing
the incredible journey of one of the most successful
bands in our national history.’
MELBOURNE REGENT THEATRE,
FROM $74.90
CATS, one of the greatest
musicals of all time,
returns to Melbourne from
18 December. Featuring
a fantastical set and
stunning costumes, Cats
is a purrfect night out.
22
VARIOUS LOCATIONS,
GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE AT
ANY VALUE.
A Melbourne Symphony
Orchestra gift card is the
perfect musical treat to
give to your loved one
this Christmas. COLONIAL TRAMCAR
RESTAURANT
DJB PHOTOGRAPHY
WALK-SHOP
DEPARTS NEAR CROWN
CASINO, FROM $85
CITY, FROM $69
Spoil someone special
this year with a Colonial
Tramcar Restaurant Gift
Certificate. They can be
purchased for a service
or a monetary value,
and posted or emailed
instantly to you.
Learn to use your
digital camera and
see Melbourne’s best
photographic hot spots!
The perfect gift for
beginners.
23
SHOP THE CITY
THE LARGEST CHOICE OF BRANDS FOR EVERY TASTE IN ONE PLACE
EMPORIUM MELBOURNE
Emporium Melbourne hosts the largest
Australian designer precinct in the
country along with 30 unique food
icons. Emporium’s kids precinct is home
to the largest toy department, MYKIDS
Emporium, along with many premium
kids’ brands. Ensure you visit Emporium’s
live Christmas forest on Lonsdale Street!
HARBOUR TOWN MELBOURNE
Head down to Harbour Town to find
brand direct outlets, specialty stores
and experiential events. Pick up themed
food products or visit a great range of
restaurants. Parents can bring in the
kids to visit Santa Land every day from
21 November, and kids can bring in their
parents on 12 December to attend the
VIP shopping day.
QV MELBOURNE
Discover an eclectic mix of boutique
stores and cosmopolitan bars and
restaurants in the intimate laneways
of QV Melbourne, and for convenience
visit Woolworths, Big W and the Urban
Market in the heart
of the building.
SOUTHGATE
Visit the spectacular waterfront for
a range of boutique shopping stores
providing unique gift ideas for Christmas,
from fashion and jewellery, homewares
and books. Or save yourself the hassle
of cooking on Christmas Day and enjoy
a festive feast at Southgate, with several
restaurants open for Christmas Day
lunch.
MELBOURNE CENTRAL
With over 300 stores under one roof,
celebrate the festive season with a
program of art and light installations,
handcrafted wreaths and a unique
11-metre-high tree. Wrap your gifts at
the Art of Christmas Wrapping Station,
with paper designed by local artist Emily
Green and STREAT’s Alex Hotchin.
COLLINS234
Collins234 has a broad range of gift
ideas for people of all ages – books,
handbags, shoes, clothing, jewellery
and beauty therapy among more.
Truly celebrate the festive season
in style at the centre’s Christmas Party
on 18 December, with complimentary
canapés and drinks, live jazz music
and retailer offers.
DAVID JONES
Occupying two buildings on either side of Bourke Street Mall, David Jones offers
unique services such as gift wrapping, personal shopping and beauty salons,
as well as departments full of fashion, shoes, toys, books, homewares and more.
They also have several fun events happening to entertain the kids while you shop!
MYER
Bring your family into the city to
experience the excitement and tradition
of Christmas at Myer, including the
Giftorium department which has gift
ideas for everyone on your list in one
location and a wide range of personalised
solutions such as monogrammed leather
goods, classic character prints and
embroidered stockings.
For more details on these
exclusive city shopping events, visit
MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU/CHRISTMAS. 24
25
SHOP THE CITY
PAMPER YOURSELF
SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE UNMISSABLE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENTS
OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS SHOP THE CITY FESTIVAL
1 DECEMBER, 10AM – 10PM
Save the date! Melbourne Central, Emporium
Melbourne, QV Melbourne, The Strand Melbourne,
Melbourne’s GPO and other major city retailers
will be open for a 12 hour shopping festival on
the first day of the advent calendar.
CHRISTMAS EXTENDED TRADING HOURS 1 DECEMBER TO 23 DECEMBER
Major city retailers are staying open late from
Tuesday 1 December, giving you more time
to get ready for one of the biggest days in
your family’s calendar. Myer, David Jones and
Emporium Melbourne will be trading until 9pm
every day, with Melbourne Central, QV Melbourne,
The Strand Melbourne and Melbourne’s GPO
trading until 9pm Wednesday to Saturday.
BOXING DAY SALES
SATURDAY 26 DECEMBER
On Boxing Day, the city will open early for you
to score the best bargains in town! With over
2,500 retail stores to choose from, and 2,300
cafes and restaurants to fuel you along the way,
you can easily make an enjoyable and thrifty
day of it.
ONSEN MA
JAPANESE
BATHHOUSE
MEYERS PLACE, CITY
There's no need
to go to Japan to
find an authentic
bathhouse – Onsen
Ma offers a relaxing
and rejuvenating
environment for your
body, mind and soul.
ORCHID DAY SPA
HARDWARE LANE, CITY
MENSROOM
BARBERSHOP
Escape busy Hardware
Lane with a luxurious
pamper session.
Experience Orchid
Day Spa’s unique
body scrub and mask
application treatment
that will take you into
another world.
IMPORT LANE, DOCKLANDS
BARBER ON
DEGRAVES
ACCENT HAIR &
BEAUTY
DEGRAVES STREET, CITY
LITTLE COLLINS ST, CITY
For the past 25 years
Barber On Degraves
has been grooming
the men of Melbourne
and still offers the
unbeatable pampering
of a hot towel, straightrazor shave.
Spoil yourself with a
rejuvenating facial or
sumptuous massage,
or why not enjoy the
signature eyebrow
threading for the
perfect arch?
Visit this Englishowned barbershop in
the heart of Docklands’
latest laneway for a
cold beer while you
enjoy your hot towel
shave or haircut.
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SHOPPING NIGHT
Presented by The City Precinct, supported by SmoothFM
10 DECEMBER, 5PM TO 9PM
If you love the ‘little guys’ like we do, then you’ll love this special shopping
night. A night to sample small, local and unique businesses that contribute to
Melbourne’s vibrant retail scene and support local artists. Businesses across
the city will not only stay open late, but offer unique prizes, activities, music,
lucky dips and more.
So take this opportunity to visit your favourite places and discover new ones
in: Degraves Street, Centre Place, Bourke Hill and its surrounding laneways,
Russell Place, Hardware Lane and The Causeway.
Pieces of Eight
26
Nicholas Building
Harold & Maude
Madame Brussells
SAINT LOUIE HAIR
RUSSELL PLACE, CITY
A quirky moniker, an
iconic laneway location
and stylists with
impeccable credentials
make this salon
impossibly cool in the
best possible way.
27
FESTIVE DINING
FOR ALL THOSE CHRISTMAS CATCH-UPS,
VISIT ANY ONE OF THESE AMAZING MELBOURNE VENUES
MEET A COOK
ROSA MITCHELL
ROSA MITCHELL IS ONE
OF THE FOUNDING
MEMBERS OF THE SLOW
FOOD MOVEMENT AND
IS THE OWNER OF ROSA’S
KITCHEN AND ROSA’S
KITCHEN CANTEEN.
HOW DOES THE SLOW
FOOD MOVEMENT
INFLUENCE THE FOOD
IN YOUR RESTAURANT?
We embrace the
philosophy of ‘Paddock
to Plate’ in both of my restaurants. I like to know where
the food comes from, the growers of the produce,
the breeder of the animal. I believe this is not only
a more sustainable way to live, but a more enjoyable
and fulfilling experience for the customer and staff
alike. Not to mention, TASTY!
WHEN YOU WANT A BREAK FROM THE POTS AND PANS,
WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO EAT OUT IN THE CITY?
GAYLORD INDIAN
RESTAURANT
TATTERSALLS LANE, CITY
Add some spice to your
festive eating, right in the
heart of Chinatown. A firm
favourite of cricketers and
Bollywood stars, this place
is perfect for large groups.
HENRY AND THE FOX
LITTLE COLLINS STREET, CITY
Serving Australian and
international favourites
with a modern twist,
you can also enjoy their
outdoor terrace in the
heart of the urban jungle.
AKACHOCHIN
YAK ITALIAN KITCHEN & BAR
SOUTH WHARF
RUSSELL STREET, CITY
This sushi and izakaya restaurant is
a favourite among Japanese ex-pats.
Make sure you try their signature dish
of kingfish tartare and rice crackers.
Under the watchful eye of head chef
Leonardo Gelsomino, all pasta is
handmade using stone ground flour
from traditional Italian recipes.
I like relaxed dining. I love to kick back and graze.
Gerald’s Bar has been a favourite of mine for years.
Lee Ho Fook is interesting, fun and delicious.
BEING OF SICILIAN HERITAGE, HOW DO YOU THINK
MELBOURNE COMPARES IN TERMS OF ITS FOOD CULTURE?
Both are amazing vibrant cities that produce such
beautifully prepared food. But Melbourne pulsates with
a multitude of multicultural influences. So much mix
and colour, that proves that Melbourne is truly one of
the best cities in the world for dining and produce.
While Sicily is also a melting pot of cultures, the
Sicilians like to keep close to their roots and cook
food like their Mumma used to make.
WHAT ARE YOU COOKING THIS CHRISTMAS
FOR YOUR FAMILY?
Anything easy! Christmas is a celebration of coming
together. I like to sit back and relax with my family,
not be tied to the kitchen. We will be in Yandoit, so
whatever is local, fresh and simple to prepare. But we
always start with cured fish and finish with cannoli!
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE CITY AT CHRISTMAS TIME?
I love Melbourne city at Christmas time! The energy,
it’s bustling. I love the lights. It reminds me of being
a child in Sicily.
28
MRS PARMA’S
LITTLE BOURKE STREET, CITY
These folks take their parmas very seriously
with a choice of 14 varieties, plus a festive
special of turkey schnitzel topped with
double-smoked leg ham, cranberry sauce
and grilled cheese.
29
FESTIVE DINING
FOR ALL THOSE CHRISTMAS CATCH-UPS, VISIT ANY ONE OF THESE
AMAZING MELBOURNE VENUES
LONGHORN SALOON
MEATMAIDEN
TAXI KITCHEN
THE BRASS COQ
ELGIN STREET, CARLTON
LITTLE COLLINS STREET, CITY
LITTLE LONSDALE STREET, CITY
The Balleau brothers, who started Le Bon Ton, have
curated the best dishes from the US of A, and created
one of the sexiest dive bars in town.
Far from shy and retiring,
this maiden serves 40 day
dry-aged beef and choice
cuts of BBQ meat straight
from its custom made
smoker and grill.
TRANSPORT HOTEL,
FEDERATION SQUARE
You won’t find a TV or a trace of formica at this stylish
restaurant serving delicious Vietnamese food with
French colonial flair.
PASTUSO
THE LINCOLN
AC/DC LANE, CITY
CARDIGAN STREET, CARLTON
Nestled within one of the most photographed laneways
in Melbourne, this Peruvian grill and cevicheria is made
for feasting with friends.
This gorgeous old pub has been around since 1854.
Celebrate the festive season with a five-course seasonal
menu for $45 per person.
MESA VERDE
CURTIN HOUSE, CITY
Here’s a little piece of
Mexico just six levels up
on Swanston Street that
keeps its food authentic
with a jaw-dropping list
of tequilas and cocktails.
30
With killer views of
Melbourne’s skyline from
the city to Southbank, try
a Christmas themed menu
throughout December.
SUPERNORMAL
MS COLLINS
FLINDERS LANE, CITY
COLLINS STREET, CITY
Get a taste of the
McConnell magic with
these Asian inspired
dishes made to be shared.
Form a posse together
for some private karaoke
downstairs.
One of the best places
to start or end your
night, nibble on bar food
and sip on delicious
Christmas cocktails by
award-winning chefs and
bartenders.
ROSA’S KITCHEN
PUNCH LANE, CITY
A self-taught cook, Rosa
Mitchell infuses her rustic
Italian dishes with her slow
food philosophy and local
produce from her own farm
in Yandoit. See interview
with Rosa on Page 28.
31
DINING WITH KIDS
EAT, PLAY AND STAY
PIT STOPS THAT WILL PLEASE PARENTS AND KIDS ALIKE
TREAT YOURSELF TO A WEEKEND AWAY FROM HOME
FATHER’S OFFICE
HILTON MELBOURNE SOUTH WHARF
LITTLE LONSDALE STREET,
CITY
2 CONVENTION CENTRE PLACE, SOUTH WHARF
Enjoy this Americana
style menu using the
best Victorian produce.
Best of all, kids under
10 eat free every
Saturday and Sunday
from 11am-4pm!
This riverside location offers spectacular city views and relaxed dining and drinking.
Enjoy the city’s lively waterfront in style this season. Don’t forget to count the
Christmas crackers in this gift guide (see page 3) for your chance to win a stay in
a two-bedroom ensuite at Hilton Melbourne South Wharf for two adults and two
children, including buffet breakfast. Prize valued at over $600.
SPAGHETTI TREE
BOURKE STREET, CITY
A Melbourne institution for over 25 years, this
restaurant has a children’s menu and caters well
for gluten free and vegetarian diets.
GINZA TEPPANYAKI
RESTAURANT
LITTLE BOURKE STREET, CITY
Kids of all ages will love
the fun of this Japanesestyle BBQ where they are
encouraged to play with
their food!
MR TULK
SWANSTON STREET, CITY
THE LEVESON
NORTH MELBOURNE
Renowned for their famous chicken parmas, the
Leveson’s laid back vibe is exactly what you need after
a busy day of Christmas shopping in North Melbourne.
After a visit to Play Pod,
the free creative hub at
the State Library, pop
into Mr Tulk next door for
its child-friendly menu.
BOHEMIAN BAR &
RESTAURANT
SOUTH WHARF
Enjoy Spanish fare along
Melbourne’s waterfront at
Bohemian Bar. Kids under
12 will be entertained
with a fun activity pack
and a Spanish hot
chocolate when dining
with their folks.
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON MELBOURNE
GRAND HYATT MELBOURNE
FLINDERS STREET, CITY
COLLINS STREET, CITY
Only steps from the vibrant arts
and entertainment district, this hotel
offers an ideal base for business,
leisure and shopping.
The hotel lobby comes alive this
festive season offering gingerbread
houses and decadent sweet treats.
Discover the perfect Christmas gift.
MELBOURNE MARRIOTT HOTEL
THE WESTIN MELBOURNE
COLLINS STREET, CITY
SOUTHGATE
CORNER EXHIBITION AND LONSDALE
STREETS, CITY
Located alongside the Yarra River, La Camera serves
up honest Italian food and offers an excellent kids menu
that will please the fussiest of eaters.
The theatre is at your doorstep in this
luxury hotel (and a day of pampering
and fine dining is also on the menu).
LA CAMERA SOUTHGATE
32
This hotel’s tranquil wellness centre,
in-house art collection and chic
restaurant and bar offer the perfect
getaway in a bustling city.
33
EAT, PLAY AND STAY
GETTING AROUND MELBOURNE
TREAT YOURSELF TO A WEEKEND AWAY FROM HOME
CROWNE PLAZA MELBOURNE
SPENCER STREET, SOUTHBANK
This exciting location is packed with
restaurants, bars and entertainment.
There’s something for every traveller
along the banks of the Yarra River.
SOFITEL MELBOURNE ON COLLINS
COLLINS STREET, CITY
The Atrium Bar, Friday Night Jazz Club
and Sofi’s Lounge will impress and
you’re situated right in the heart of the
glamorous Paris End of Collins Street.
INTERCONTINENTAL
MELBOURNE THE RIALTO
TUNE HOTEL MELBOURNE
COLLINS STREET, CITY
At this opt-in hotel, you can tailor your
stay to suit your budget and preferences.
And with Melbourne’s ‘Little Italy’ on
your doorstep, what’s not to love?
The Venetian Palazzo-style architecture
and gold-rush opulence of this
five-star hotel offers a uniquely
Melbourne experience.
PEGASUS APART’HOTEL
A’BECKETT STREET, CITY
Pegasus Apart’Hotel features one of
Melbourne’s largest hotel indoor pools.
When you dry off, Queen Victoria
Market is just around the corner.
STAMFORD PLAZA MELBOURNE
LITTLE COLLINS STREET, CITY
An ideal spot for theatre-goers, this
five-star hotel at the Paris End of
Collins Street offers all the amenities
of a luxury hotel in a cosmopolitan city.
SWANSTON STREET, CARLTON
NEW SMOKE-FREE CITY AREAS
Now, visitors coming to shop, dine
or meet in Goldsbrough Lane, QV
Melbourne and City Square can
breathe easy, as these areas are now
smoke-free (daytime only for City
Square as part of 12-month trial).
These new areas are in addition to
four existing smoke-free areas: The
Causeway, Howey Place, Equitable
Place and Block Place.
melbourne.vic.gov.au/smokefree
THERE ARE LOTS OF OPTIONS FOR GETTING IN AND
AROUND THE CITY THIS CHRISTMAS.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Whether it’s by bus, train or tram,
public transport is a cheap and easy
way to join in the Christmas spirit in
the city this year. Remember that the
city and Docklands are part of the
Free Tram Zone.
More information at ptv.vic.gov.au
PARKING
The city has more than 7000 car
parks and over 186,000 car spaces.
And there are great Christmas deals,
some from as low as $5*. Emporium
Melbourne will even provide free
parking throughout December after
3pm on weekdays and all day on
weekends (must be pre-booked).
Major city retailers will also be getting
in on the discount parking action,
so keep an eye on their websites for
details of how you can save.
MELBOURNE VISITOR SHUTTLE
It may not be a sleigh, but it is red,
and it’s the best way to show visiting
friends and relatives your Melbourne.
Stopping at 13 key attractions,
including Fed Square where you
can see the giant LEGO® tree, the
Melbourne Visitor Shuttle is the
perfect way to explore the city. Two
day tickets are just $10 each and
children
9 and under travel free.
melbourne.vic.gov.au/shuttle
MELBOURNE BIKE SHARE
Melbourne’s flat terrain and network of
bike lanes makes cycling in the city a
breeze. Cover more territory and make
the most of the blue bikes through
Melbourne Bike Share.
More information at
melbournebikeshare.com.au
You can find out more in the
Visitor Info section at:
melbourne.vic.gov.au/christmas
*Terms and conditions apply. See operator
websites for full details.
THE HOTEL WINDSOR
SPRING STREET, CITY
This heritage-listed building is one of
Melbourne’s grandest hotels. Allow
their expert concierges to make your
Christmas getaway a memorable one.
NOVOTEL MELBOURNE ON
COLLINS
COLLINS STREET, CITY
Unwind over an espresso in the
inviting Lane Cafe & Bar and relax in
contemporary comfort in the centre
of the city.
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CONTACT
WE’RE MULTILINGUAL TOO
03 9658 9658 (7.30am to 6pm)
melbourne.vic.gov.au
melbourne.vic.gov.au/contactus
We cater for people of all
backgrounds.
NATIONAL RELAY SERVICE
Teletypewriter (TTY) users phone
13 36 77 then ask for 03 9658 9658
Speak & Listen users phone 1300 555
727 then ask for 03 9658 9658
IN PERSON
Melbourne Town Hall, Administration
Building, 120 Swanston Street,
Melbourne 7.30am to 5pm, Monday
to Friday
Please recycle or dispose of this brochure
thoughtfully. Please remember to drink
responsibly.
Published in November 2015 by the City of
Melbourne. Information contained in this guide
is correct at time of printing but is subject to
change where necessary and without notice.
Please check the website for updates.
POSTAL ADDRESS
City of Melbourne
GPO Box 1603
Melbourne VIC 3000