Melbourne Tours Uncovered - An Insider's Guide

Discovering Melbourne: Food, History, and Hidden Gems

When choosing a Melbourne Tour, a walking tour is a perfect way to explore the famous alleyways, laneways and arcades of the city. These laneways are pedestrian-only zones and are often filled with cafes, delicious local food vendors and small stores that exude charm. Melbourne is an incredibly multicultural city and this is reflected in what’s on offer for you in the laneways of Melbourne.

What Makes Walk Melbourne Tours Unique?

At Walk Melbourne Tours we love to share Melbourne’s stories through food. Since 2012, our small group walking tours have been delighting guests from all around the world. Food is central to our tours, so tastings are included in the price of every tour.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time visitor to Melbourne looking for a comprehensive overview or a local with a specific interest. We have a tour for you:

• Coffee Tours: Dive deep into Melbourne's renowned coffee scene.

• Dumpling Tours: Taste the city's most delicious dumplings.

• Foodie Tours: Indulge in Melbourne's most delicious morsels.

• Laneway & Rooftop Bars Tours:Explore unique spots and spectacular views

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Foodie Discovery Walk

The Foodie Discovery Walk is the best Melbourne tour if you want a great overview of Melbourne and a range of different tastings. It’s perfect if you only have a short stay and want to taste a bunch of delicious things!

Coffee Lovers Walk

Our Coffee Lovers Walk is for those wanting to deep dive into Melbourne’s coffee obsession. It doesn’t matter if you simply enjoy a cappuccino or if you are a home roasting expert. We can cater to everyone’s tastes - as long as it’s coffee! You’ll visit multiple cafes, try different styles of coffee and leave with lots of food for thought about your next cup.

Dumpling Discovery Walk

Our Dumpling Discovery Walk is for those who love a fun evening experience with a little bit of history thrown in. We visit several dumpling houses - typically always Chinese - and try something different at each one. You’ll make your own dipping sauce and have a great night out with other dumpling lovers!

Rooftop Bars Tour

Our Rooftop Bars tour is a Melbourne Tour for those of you wanting to find some great spots for a drink with friends. This is only for private groups, so grab a few friends and we’ll show you some nice views, share a bit of history and buy you some drinks!

““This tour that was so much more than I was expecting! It was a history lesson, as well as an introduction to Melbourne architecture, iconic events, and the influential people who helped grow this beautiful city. As for the food and drinks…there is plenty, it’s all delicious, and you are taken on a journey with each stop providing its own fascinating story. I can’t recommend this tour highly enough, a wonderful introduction to what Melbourne has to offer””

— Vicki, June 2023

FAQs

What Can You Expect in a Walk Melbourne Tour?

Your local guide will meet you with a smile and confirm your dietary requirements and preferences.

The groups are always small and may include local Melbournians discovering their own backyard or international guests from any corner of the world. We encourage everyone to get to know each other!

Our tour guides are locals and want you to get the best out of your time in Melbourne. All our tours include the laneways of Melbourne, history and commentary about the food that we’re eating. Our guides are all passionate about the city and are happy to provide some recommendations for the rest of your stay.

Are Tastings Included in the Price?

Your tastings are included in the price. We visit small businesses that the locals love and on every tour we hear people say ‘we would never have found this place without you!’.

How Do I Book a Melbourne Tour with Walk Melbourne?

All our availability is viewable in real time on our website. Just click the Book Now button to book your Melbourne tour.

Are Walk Melbourne Tours Suitable for Children?

Our tours aren’t really suitable for kids under 10 years old, unless they’re adventurous eaters. If you think they will have all the tastings, they are charged at full price. If you’d like to bring them along, but you don’t think they’ll eat, they are welcome to attend free of charge. But please let us know in advance so we can accommodate seating for them (our venues are small). You are welcome to buy them extra tastings along the way. All kids over 10 years old are charged at full price. If you have any questions, please get in contact.

What Should I Bring on a Walk Melbourne Tour?

Please bring your own water bottle, rain jacket, umbrella, hat and sunscreen. Some people also like to bring some hand sanitiser, as we are eating at outdoor venues. Apart from that please bring your sense of curiosity and enthusiasm!

Why Choose Walk Melbourne for Your Melbourne Tour Experience?

We have been operating foodie walking tours of Melbourne since 2012 with great reviews from our customers! Our groups are small, our tour guides are locals and tastings are included in the price. We visit small businesses that the locals love and on every tour we hear people say ‘we would never have found this place without you!’. All our tours include the laneways of Melbourne, history and commentary about the food that we’re eating. We want you to get the best out of your time in Melbourne and we’re always happy to provide some recommendations for the rest of your stay.

Discover the City’s Secrets One Step at a Time

Melbourne City Walking Tours

Melbourne is a perfect city to explore on foot. While in lots of places around the world you wouldn’t walk down the alleyways by yourself, Melbourne’s laneways and arcades are where all the cool stuff happens. Cafes and restaurants, independent stores, street art and galleries are all waiting to be discovered. A walking tour which also reveals some cultural history is the ideal way to uncover Melbourne’s charm.

Walking Tours Offer a Unique Perspective

Melbourne has lots of spaces that are otherwise easy to miss. Think of tucked-away cafes, art-filled alleyways and historic covered arcades. Getting out of the car or tram and exploring on foot immerses you in the city’s atmosphere with the chance to truly experience its sights, sounds, and smells. Walking tours allow you to explore the places the cars simply can’t go and lets you linger and soak up the details—from graffiti art to boutique shopfronts. You never know the kinds of details your local guide will be able to point out to you.

China Town ©VisitVictoria

Experience Melbourne’s Unique Blend of Food, History, and Culture

Melbourne is renowned for its multicultural food scene -  across the city, we speak over 200 languages, which is reflected in the food you see as you walk around the laneways. If you have limited time in town, one of the best ways to experience as much as possible is on a foodie walking tour. Try handmade dumplings, artisanal desserts, Melbourne’s famous coffee and so much more. Your local guide will reveal all these flavours and the fascinating stories behind Melbourne’s architecture, from the Gold Rush to Art Deco and more recent modern urban design. 

Why Choose a Walk Melbourne Tour

At Walk Melbourne tours, our groups are small, offering a relaxed, personal experience with passionate guides. Our 5-star rated Foodie Discovery Tour is perfect for anyone wanting to explore Melbourne’s laneways, taste its best eats and learn about its history. Get exclusive recommendations and discover hidden gems you might not find on your own.

What to Expect on a Walk Melbourne Tour

We’ll stroll at a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities to stop, eat, and explore. Generous tastings are  included in every tour, showcasing Melbourne’s diverse culinary culture. Our knowledgeable local guides are passionate about making sure you get the most out of your time in Melbourne. They bring the city to life for you!

Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Melbourne’s weather can be unpredictable—bring a jacket or umbrella and wear comfortable shoes.

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

• Don’t forget your water bottle - especially on hot days.

• We will have a restroom break on tour, but it’s best to use the bathroom before you arrive.  

Book Your Melbourne City Walking Tours

Discover Melbourne like a local on a Walk Melbourne Tour. With a mix of history, food, and culture, our tours are perfect for visitors and locals alike. Book your tour today and uncover the city’s hidden treasures!

Winter Foodie Weekend in Melbourne

Friday night 

Arrive in Melbourne. You must be hungry after your journey!  

If you haven’t already made a reservation for dinner, head to Flinders Lane - between Swanston and Spring Streets - for dozens of great dining experiences. Have a bit of fun walking the three blocks, reading menus and deciding where you’d like to eat. Or perhaps create your own degustation by having some snacks at a few venues.  Prefer solid recommendations? Try Lucy Liu for pan-Asian fusion or Cumulus Inc for euro-inspired modern Australian. For the best Italian (you wil neeed to book well inadvance) try Tipo 00

Try an after dinner night cap at one of the great hidden bars in the neighbourhood such as Mill Pace Merchants or Death & Co or The Apollo Inn. Take in some incredible skyline views looking Bourke Street at The Stolen Gem Rooftop Bar

Photo: Lucy Liu

Saturday morning

You’re booked in for a late lunch food tour, so a mid-morning brunch is your best bet. Try Antara 128 at the eastern end of the CBD or the ever popular Higher Ground if you’re closer to Southern Cross/Docklands.  For amzing Bagels and Specialsit Melbourne Coffee try Manchester Press near Hardware Lane.

Saturday afternoon

Meet your tour guide in Bourke St Mall for your Melbourne Foodie Discovery Walk. You’ll sample savoury, sweet, food and drink over 3 hours all while exploring Melbourne’s laneways and arcades. You definitely won’t be hungry afterwards!  

Saturday night

Make sure your booking for dinner is late, as your food tour only finishes at 4.30pm. Perhaps some light style food, such as sashimi. For a budget-blowing showstopper you will need to venture just a little outside of the CBD, book in at Minamashima. You’ll need to jump on the 48 or 75 tram to Richmond for this one. For something in the CBD, try Kisume. If you’re a bit more adventurous, try Japanese/Italian fusion at Alt.  For the ultimate in fine-dining Asian Fusion try CODA.

For an after dark tipple there are more cocktail bars in Melbourne than you could possible try, but Black Kite Commune, Whitehart, Yarra Falls and Caretaker's Cottage all have distinctly different vibes and are all worth a visit.  

Queen Victoria Market

Sunday brunch 

Coffee, a pastry and a wonder around one of Melbourne’s markets is a fabulous way to spend Sunday morning. At Queen Vic Market (1.5km*) try Publique and at South Melb Market (2km*) try Agathe. If cheese is more your taste, try a toastie from Maker & Monger at Prahran Market (6km*). Expect a queue at all of these places. *Distances from Southern Cross Station.  Or stay in CBD and visit Brunetti Oro on Flinders Lane.

Roll away to the airport to take your flight home - at least you’ll be too full to eat the plane food!

Winter in Melbourne-Must Do’s !!

The Charm of Winter in Melbourne

Winter in Melbourne is undeniably charming. Sure, it can be a bit cold and windy, but all the more reason to layer up in all your favorite jackets, scarves and boots to explore the city with a hot drink in hand.

Winter in Melbourne is a great time to get involved in the cinema, art and theatre that makes Melbourne Australia's cultural capital. Once you step out of the galleries and cinemas, spend 3 hours with us exploring the laneways and eating delicious food…. including some warm drinks! Join any of our winter delight walking tours.

There’s also lots of indoor activities that go beyond the shopping malls. We’ve got you covered for culture in June, July and August.

🎨 Cultural Hits & Blockbuster Exhibitions

Rising Festival

(Until June 08)

Melbourne’s Winter Contemporary Arts Festival celebrates the darkness with light installations and theatre shows of all kinds. Whether you’re a contemporary art lover or just curious, they’ll be something for you in the extensive 2-week program.

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CARTIER at the NGV

(Until October 04 )

Running through October 4, 2026, the NGV’s Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® features nearly 400 extraordinary jewels, gems, and rare royal archives

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QVM Night Market

(Wednesdays nights from 5pm until Aug 26)

Enjoy incredible street food, specialty shopping and Live entertainment. Free entry! Wed 5pm – 10pm, ends 26 August 2026.

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Melb International Film Festival (MIFF)

(August 6–23, cinemas across the CBD)

Snuggle into warm cinemas across the CBD for one of the world's most highly regarded film festivals (August 6–23, 2026)

A great afternoon would be attending the Foodie Discovery Walk, followed by an early session at MIFF.‍ ‍

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Lightscape

(From June 12 to August 2, 2026)

The Royal Botanic Gardens transforms into an illuminated night trail featuring twenty new light installations.

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Firelight Festival

Head to the Docklands waterfront (July 4–6) to warm up with glowing art, roaming performers, and spectacular fire displays.

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☕ Laneways, Local Bites & Night Markets

Hide away from the chill in CBD staples like Degraves Street or Centre Place, grabbing a world-class latte and a pastry. Join a Coffee Lovers Walking Tour or a Winter Laneways Walking Tour

Heritage Arcades: Stay dry while admiring the 19th-century architecture and boutique shops of the Block Arcade and Royal Arcade.

🏎️Sports & Indoor Escapes

AFL Games: Experience Melbourne's obsession by catching an Australian Rules Football match live at the nearby MCG or Marvel Stadium.

ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image): Escape the rain at Fed Square to explore interactive, state-of-the-art screen culture and film exhibitions.

Walking Tours Melbourne

Can Melbourne's true essence only be discovered on foot?

Melbourne is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich culture and history. One of the best ways to explore the essence of Melbourne city is by taking a walking tour. Here's what you can expect from a walking tour of Melbourne with Walk Melbourne Tours.

Laneways, where the cool stuff happens.

The laneways and arcades (or alleyways) of Melbourne are filled with cafes, street art murals and cute little stores. They really are where all the cool stuff happens! These streets are pedestrian-only - too small for cars and coaches to visit. To find and really appreciate them, you need to explore on foot - and it’s definitely easier with a local guide. Find a walking tour that takes you through famous places such as Degraves St and The Block Arcade and also lesser-known local hangouts such as Scott Alley and Equitable Place.

Melbourne's Culinary Delights

Melbourne is well known for its multicultural and diverse food scene. This doesn’t just apply to fine dining but also to street food style snacks and the best venues are often found in the laneways. We like to highlight key parts of modern Australian eating to share with you such as Chinese dumplings, specialty coffee, sweet treats in unexpected places … and lots more.

Melbourne's History & Culture

Our walking tours in Melbourne are designed to reflect the city's rich past and its transformation into the present-day cosmopolitan hub. You will leave with an appreciation of the history of the city from the 1850’s and an explanation of how we got the modern and very liveable city we are today. Best of all, we’ll open your eyes to the way the city developed by talking about the laneways and buildings as we walk through them.

Expert Guides Provide an Insider's Perspective

All our guides are local and are passionate about sharing their favourite parts of the city with you. Having a local in-person guide with you allows you to have your personal questions answered and share a laugh along the way! We’ve dug into Melbourne’s history to share unique stories and lesser-known facts with our guests. All our walking tours are small groups so that you can interact with the guide and also with the other participants. Your experience of exploring the city will be so much richer for joining our hosted groups.

More Than Just Sightseeing – A Sensory Adventure

All our walking tours of Melbourne include tastings along the way, so your experience is not just sightseeing, but a multicultural sensory adventure. Depending on which tour you join you might be relishing in Asian style street food, savouring sweet treats like chocolate and gelati, getting the real taste of Melbourne's coffee culture or enjoying Melbourne's famous rooftop bars at twilight. 

But don’t believe us! Tara visited in May 2023 and gave us 5 stars. She said “What a wonderful way to spend a day in Melbourne! Our guide was great at sharing stories and the inside scoop on where to find fabulous food. We finished with new knowledge, good memories and satisfied bellies.”  

 Visit our tours page to pick the tour that is best up your alley! 

Melbourne's Laneways: A Foodie's Paradise

A Foodie’s Guide To Melbourne’s Laneways

Melbourne's laneways are known for their street art, boutique shops, and hidden bars, but they're also home to some of the city's best food destinations. From hole-in-the-wall cafes to fine-dining restaurants, Melbourne's laneways offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. Here's our guide to some of the best foodie destinations in Melbourne's laneways.

Flinders Quarter

The Flinders Quarter is the neighbourhood around Flinders Lane between Swanston St and Elizabeth St. It includes the famous laneways of Centre Place and Degraves St which are lined with cafes and small places to eat. But there are many other lesser known treats in this neighbourhood. The Flinders Quarters’ unique and eclectic atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for foodies looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Flinders Lane ‘restaurant run’

The Flinders Lane ‘restaurant run’ is just east of the Flinders Quarter. It runs between Swanston St and Spring St and is home to some of Melbourne's (if not Australia’s ) best restaurants, making it a must-visit destination for foodies. From fine-dining to something more casual, Flinders Lane is the perfect destination for a night out. Don’t forget to visit a bar or two along the way as well.

Hardware Lane

Hardware Lane is a charming laneway located in Melbourne's CBD. The laneway is lined with restaurants and cafes serving up a range of cuisine, from Italian to modern Australian. Hardware Lane's outdoor seating and lively atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Little Collins St

The sophisticated neighbourhood near the Melbourne Town Hall offers something for those discerning foodies. You’ll find wine bars and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines and experiences, all in extreme comfort. For those that enjoy nothing but the best, visit ARU, voted Best Restaurant in Australia in 2023.

For those in the know this area offers one of the most prestigious addresses in Melbourne.

Melbourne's laneways offer a unique and unforgettable culinary experience, with their diverse range of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a fine-dining experience, you're sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds in these laneways.

If you're interested in exploring Melbourne's laneways and discovering the best food destinations, check out Walk Melbourne Tours. Our knowledgeable and friendly tour guides will take you to some of the best foodie destinations in the city, and help you discover the hidden gems of Melbourne's laneways.

Top 5 Melbourne Laneways for Food (and drink!)

If you didn’t dine in a Melbourne laneway cafe or restaurant, did you even come to Melbourne? While in some parts of the world you probably don’t walk down the alleyways by yourself, in Melbourne laneways are where all the cool stuff happens. Here are some of the best as per May 2023.

AC/DC Lane

Yes, this street is named after the 1970’s rock band who - although they formed in Sydney - made Melbourne their home. For hard core fans, check out the 1975 video clip to ‘It’s a long way to the top” which is filmed on Melbourne’s main drag, Swanston Street. Those same fans should definitely dine at one of the restaurants in AC/DC lane if not just to check out the street art memorials to the members of the band no longer with us.

Some of Melbourne’s tastiest morsels from tops chefs are down here and you’ll be surprised to find the entrance to the restaurants feels like the back door that the garbage gets taken out. This is pretty common in Melbourne and the best example if Melbourne’s top modern Indian fusion restaurant called Tonka, by Adam d’Sylva. It’s a great example modern Australian dining but book ahead – they’re often busy. Or try his outstanding South East Asian fusion (3 minutes walk away) at Coda.

Chinese immigrants have had an impact on Melbourne since the goldrush of the 1850’s to the present day, so modern Chinese food is a must have. You’ll see Lee Ho Fook within spitting distance from Tonka.

And of course, Melbourne’s best Peruvian restaurant rounds out the trio in AC/DC Lane. Pastuso not only serves ceviche, but has a ceviche menu. If you’re not into seafood, their meat dishes are also outstanding.

Niagara Lane (with bonus Melbourne laneway nearby)

There are really only two places to eat in Niagara Lane, they are both worth it! Tori’s bakery describes itself as a ‘sweet escape from bustling life’ which is perfectly apt! While it lies just metres from the traffic of Lonsdale Street, Tori’s has a feeling as if you’re relaxing in living room enjoying beautifully baked treats. While this Melbourne laneway cafe is more of an afternoon tea stop, next door is definatly for dinner. Alt is all about pasta, but not as you know it. Using elements of Japanese cooking, experimentation (and moody lighting) is the name of the game here. So maybe leave Nonna at home.

If you want bonus Melbourne laneway dining nearby, head across Little Bourke St to Warburton Lane for Myrtle. Think French style food with Australian native ingredients with a vibe that screams ‘Melbourne laneway bar’.  

Drewery Lane

There is something for you at both ends of the day in this Melbourne laneway. For your morning coffee, head up to the Little Lonsdale end, for two Melbourne laneway cafes. Grab a coffee from Little Rogue and a treat from Bakemono. Note that Bakemono bakes according to a schedule, so if you’re after something specific, note the times on their website.

Later on you might like to visit the other end of this Melbourne laneway for lunch, dinner or drinks. The magnificent four stories (named HER) house multiple venues to suit your changing mood. A French saloon at street level, SE Asian fusion food upstairs at BKK and cocktails on the HER rooftop. Check out two enduring pieces of Melbourne laneway street art - the Kardashian selfie (which the city council promptly censored with black lines) and the mosaiced wall erected by Legacy Australia to honour families of defence force personnel who have been injured or killed.

Hardware Lane

Up until recently, Hardware Lane was tricky to navigate to avoid the tourist traps. But it’s having a local renaissance with a few notable openings. Try to ‘most authentic pho outside of Hanoi’ at Pho Thin, Melbourne style Italian food at The Hardware Club, Israeli roasted cauliflower with a cult following at Miznon and some good Asian fusion at Rice Paper Scissors. And if liquid is more your style on the corner with Little Bourke St offers the ever enduring and classy Kirks’ wine bar or one of the best Melbourne laneway cafes at Maker.

Centre Place / Degraves Street

There’s no doubt that these two Melbourne laneways - separated only by 3 steps across the zebra crossing at Flinders Lane - are the most famous in town. You’ll see locals rushing to and from the train station pushing through the groups of walking tours trying to soak up every detail. While some of these Melbourne laneways cafes are sometimes better for people watching than for great food and drink, there are some notable exceptions.

Definitely try a flat white (or an iced latte) at Fieldwork Coffee in Degraves. The gelato at Pidapipo is among the best in the city as are the dumplings at ShangDong Mama mini.

Experience Melbourne's Laneways with Laneway Tours

WANT TO EAT (AND DRINK) LOCAL IN MELBOURNE?

COME JOIN US!

Walk Melbourne Tours will help you get the best out of your stay in Melbourne. Our walking food tours include tastings, a bit of Melbourne laneways history, and a lot of tips about how to best spend your time here. We aim to show you places and share flavors that you wouldn't find on your own. Coffee, sweets, dumplings and bars are our favorite things and we have Melbourne walking tours to feature all of these delicious delights. Click Here for more info.

Exploring the Best of Melbourne City Tours: A Local’s Guide

Laneways and arcades: Why a walking tour is better than a coach tour

People who live in Melbourne - Melburnians - have a few favorite topics of conversation. We’re sports mad, we love to discuss the ever-changing weather and we’re obsessed with food and drink, especially coffee. Everyone will have a favorite coffee shop or lunch spot and the more obscure and tucked away down an alleyway, the better!

The problem for visitors is that it is hard to find these local places.

You can probably find the iconic sports venues (such the Melbourne Cricket Ground or Melbourne Park) yourself using the tram, but when booking a Melbourne city tour you should be looking for a local who can show you the small places that really make you feel like you’ve discovered something! These places can only be found on a walking tour that takes you places the coaches simply cannot go.

Upgrade your sightseeing to a delicious adventure

Why limit yourself to just a Melbourne city tour walking through the laneways? Melbourne is well known for its multicultural and diverse food scene. This doesn’t just apply to fine dining but also to street food style snacks and the best venues are often found in the laneways. Your Melbourne city tour is so much better if it includes modern Australian eating, such as Chinese dumplings, specialty coffee, sweet treats in unexpected places … and lots more.

Melbourne's History & Culture

A city tour of Melbourne should be designed to allow you time to reflect upon the city's rich past and its transformation into the present-day cosmopolitan hub. Our walking city tours will leave with an appreciation of the history of the city from the 1850’s and an explanation of how we got the modern and very liveable city we are today. Best of all, we’ll open your eyes to the way the city developed by talking about the laneways and buildings as we walk through them.

Expert Guides Provide an Insider's Perspective

All our local guides are passionate about sharing their favorite stories of the city with you. Having an expert guide with you allows you to have your personal questions answered and share a laugh along the way! We’ve dug up the best and most unique stories in Melbourne’s history to share with you. All our walking tours are small groups so that you can interact with the guide and also with the other participants. Your experience of exploring the city will be so much richer for joining our hosted groups.

But don’t believe us! Tara visited in May 2023 and gave us 5 stars. She said “What a wonderful way to spend a day in Melbourne! Our guide was great at sharing stories and the inside scoop on where to find fabulous food. We finished with new knowledge, good memories and satisfied bellies.”

Visit our tours page to pick the Melbourne city tour that is best for you!

FAQs

How do I spend a day in Melbourne?

Melbourne has so many wonderful things to see and do, but the city is renowned for fantastic eating and drinking and it’s myriad of alleyways, or ‘laneways’ as the locals call them. So why not combine the two of those things and join a foodie walking tour of the laneways of Melbourne. Our Foodie Discovery Walk is a perfect introduction to the city, it includes a lunch composed of 6-7 generous tastings and your local guide will give lots of ideas of ways to spend the rest of your trip.

What are the best tours in Melbourne?

At Walk Melbourne Tours we combine history and delicious tastings while exploring Melbourne’s famous laneways and arcades. All our guides are locals with a passion for sharing their favorite parts of Melbourne. So naturally we think our tours are the best in town!

Where can I see the Melbourne skyline?

• Take a walk along the southern bank of the Yarra River, known as Southgate.

• Stand on the Batman Bridge (near the Melb Convention Centre) or the Princes Bridge (near Federation Square).

• Stand on the balcony at The Shrine of Remembrance.

• Head up 88 floors to Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower

• Treat yourself to a 5-star meal at Vue du Monde on level 55 of the Rialto Tower (bookings essential).

• ….or for a really great view (a few kilometers from town), head to the southern point of Albert Park Lake. This is also part of the Australian F1 Grand Prix track. The closest tram stop is Middle Park Station on the 96 tram.

What should I wear on the tour?

Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking and the weather. We will spend time outside, so if it’s cold, please wear a jacket. If it’s raining, please bring a jacket or umbrella. If it’s hot, please bring a hat and some water. None of the venues we visit are formal, so casual clothing is great.

How long do the tours last?

The tours typically last 2.5-3 hours, but it’s not all walking! We stop several times to eat and drink on every tour (tastings are included in your ticket price) and typically don’t walk more than 2km/1.2mi.

Are the tours suitable for children?

Our tours aren’t really suitable for kids under 10 years old, unless they’re adventurous eaters. If you think they will have all the tastings, they are charged at full price. If you’d like to bring them along, but you don’t think they’ll eat, they are welcome to attend free of charge. But please let us know in advance so we can accommodate seating for them (our venues are small). You are welcome to buy them extra tastings along the way. All kids over 10 years old are charged at full price. If you have any questions, please get in contact.

What is the maximum group size for the tours?

We never have more than 10 people per tour guide.

Do I need to book the tour in advance?

Bookings are essential. Please visit the Melbourne Tours section of our website.

Discovering the Past: The Best Melbourne Historical Tours

Did you know that Melbourne was once the richest city in the world? The buildings that were built during that period added to the city’s allure and we were named ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ in 1885. Luckily, we’ve kept a bunch of these grand buildings to see today on our historical tours. 

The Significance of Melbourne's History

Born of a village of pioneering settlers, the rectangular grid of streets that was laid out in 1837 forms a convenient and simple way to navigate the city, even today. Everything changed when gold was struck in 1851. Melbourne was the closest port to the central Victorian gold diggings and people flooded in from all around the world to strike it rich.  The city evolved into a wealthy and cosmopolitan mix of people - a little bit like today! There are wonderful photos on walls throughout the city showing what the place looked like in the late 1800’s.      

Elizabeth Street Melbourne 1900 | Image Credit: Wikicommons

Unearthing Melbourne's Historical Gems

One of the things we hear so often on our historical tours of Mebourne is that so many styles of architecture are mixed together in this city. There are excellent examples of buildings and design from art deco (such as the Manchester Unity Building) to postmodern (such as Federation Square). You’ll learn about all of these on tour with us as we see how they fit into the living fabric of the city. 

Federation Square

Why Historical Tours Offer a Deeper Understanding of Melbourne

Our guides know the stories behind the buildings, whether it’s the life story of the original builder, why people loved it when it opened or who owns it and keeps it nice today. You can ask them questions and share their infectious passion for the stories. One of the most common things we hear on tour is, ‘we’ve walked around Melbourne for a couple of days, but your tour has really brought the city and its history to life!’. 

FAQs

 What Can I Expect From Historical Tours Melbourne?

A. You can expect to meet your friendly local guide and a small group of others - perhaps with similar interests. You’ll wander through the laneways of Melbourne where the guide will highlight their favorite spots. They may be explaining where particularly noteworthy buildings came from or perhaps they will stop at less obvious locations to take your imagination back to another time when something amazing happened on that corner.  

 How Do I Choose the Best Historical Tour in Melbourne?

Book with a company with experience and good reviews when choosing your historical tour of Melbourne. 

Are There Any Themed Historical Tours Melbourne Offers?

All our tours include loads of historical stories about the buildings that you visit and the food you eat along the way. Whether it be our Coffee Lovers Walk that talks about how Melbourne has become obsessed with coffee. Did you know that Melburnians drank coffee for 120 years before espresso machines even arrived?  Or that it was an extremely political drink in the 1880’s? Maybe you prefer our Dumpling Discovery Walk which examines the experience of the original Chinese migrants to Melbourne. Of course, our Foodie Discovery Walk covers it all and lots more. 

 What Should I Bring to Historical Tours Melbourne for the Best Experience?

You don’t need to bring anything except protection from the weather (umbrella, sunscreen and anything else useful for what Melbourne throws at you), a bottle of water and your enthusiasm! 

 As a guest of ours recently mentioned in their 5-star review: “If you love history and coffee this is a must do!” 

 You can book any of our tasty historical tours of Melbourne at by clicking on the button below.

Winter treats in Melbourne for foodies

Melbourne’s winter is relatively mild, rarely dipping below 10 deg C (50 deg F) during the day. However, across the rest of sunny Australia, Melbourne has a reputation for being cold, wet and dark during July. While it can be tempting to snuggle up at home on the couch, winter is a great time to layer up in your favourite winter clothes and take advantage of all those warming and comforting delights you’re in the mood for. With multicultural culinary influences from Europe and Asia, here are some of the best winter things to eat and places to eat them in July 2023!  

Coffee & pastry

Melbourne is obsessed with two things in winter: Aussie Rules football (it’s not rugby or soccer) and coffee! The downtown grid - which is half a square mile (1.3 sq km) – has hundreds of coffee shops, with some of them very serious about their coffees. Most locals drink a caffe latte or a flat white (both are espresso topped with steamed milk) but if you really want a Melbourne coffee order a ‘magic’. It’s technically a ‘double ristretto ¾ latte’ but tastes just like a caffe latte with a more intense coffee flavour and less milk. One of the best is at Industry Beans in Little Collins Street. If you prefer your coffee black, they also offer filter coffee (high quality drip) or single origin black espresso. You might also like to try Maker on Hardware Lane, especially if you’re travelling with a non-coffee drinker. They make one of the best chai lattes.

What goes better with coffee than a pastry? Whether you like a classic croissant or something more elaborate like a cherry and pistachio danish or a lemon curd cronut, pastry is definitely having a moment in Melbourne. You can join the daily queue at world renowned Lune Croissanterie in Russell St or play hide and seek and find the petit shop for Agathe patisserie in the historic Royal Arcade.

Hot pot (Thai or Chinese)

There’s nothing quite as warming as sharing hot pot with friends. There’s something very comforting about communal cooking at the table over some nice conversation. This is not a dish to dine solo! Whether you like the spicy and numbing flavours of Sichuan province in China or the aromatic flavours of Thailand, Melbourne has many opportunities for hot pot.

The original in Melbourne and still very popular is Dainty Sichuan (no website) at 149 Lonsdale St. For Thai flavours and a menu that goes beyond hot pot as well, head to Nana Thai on Bourke near Russell. If the queue is too long, the eastern end of Bourke St (between Russell St and Spring St) has recently seen a burst of Thai restaurants, so try your luck at one of those!

Warming spaces for after dark drinks

After dinner it’s nice to slip into a moody bar for a sneaky cocktail. Winter is the best time to explore Melbourne’s indoor spaces designed to be warm and intimate.

When Gimlet became too popular, local hospitality hero Andrew McConnell decided to open a dedicated cocktail bar next door. The Apollo Inn is Melbourne’s newest hot spot, named for the original watering hole that was on this spot in the very early days of British settlement. It’s small, quiet and very sophisticated, specialising in martinis.

Mill Place Merchants Mill Place Merchants, Housed in a historic, heritage-listed building dating back to the 1840s, we occupy a space that once buzzed with the industry of meat preserving, hat, soap, and candle merchants. Tucked away within the timeworn walls of Mill Place, MPM emerges from the pages of history.

Black Kite Commune is also a new kid in town serving more than 90% Australian made drinks with indigenous flavours highlighted on the snacks menu. Head upstairs into the mezzanine booths and simply press the button at your table for cocktail service. A perfect way to avoid the chill outside! 

Conclusion

Of course if you want to pack a whole lots of treats into 3 hours, you could join one of our Melbourne walking tours, where food and drinks are included on every tour. Melbourne is definitely a place that thrives during winter, so grab your puffer jacket and scarf and head out into see the city and warm up with some comforting winter treats. 

Whitehart Bar: The Ultimate Laneway Sanctuary

If you want to understand exactly what makes Melbourne's nightlife world-famous, you need to walk to the absolute end of Whitehart Lane. Hidden away in a converted former car park, Whitehart Bar is a spectacular, multi-storey shipping container venue that seamlessly blends industrial steel with a lush, green "concrete jungle" aesthetic.

As a standout highlight on our Foodie Discovery Walking Tour, Whitehart is the perfect place to pause, grab a drink, and soak in the quintessential laneway atmosphere that visitors rarely find on their own.

From Darwin Post-Cyclone to Melbourne Lane

The concept behind Whitehart has an incredible history. Co-founder Stephen Johnson witnessed the resilience of Darwin residents after Cyclone Tracy in 1974, where a makeshift container bar became a central hub for bringing a broken community together. Decades later, Stephen and his partner Sabrina Santucci brought that exact spirit of connection to Melbourne, transforming a gritty downtown parking lot into an open-air architectural masterpiece in 2017.

• Industrial Design Meets Nature: Built from old shipping containers and heavy steel beams, the two-storey structure is softened by giant, fern-lined green walls and cascading visual projections.

• A Visual Feast: By day, the focus is on the soaring industrial layout. By night, the venue transforms with a kaleidoscopic display of street art projections, local graffiti murals, and cutting-edge light shows.

• Weather-Proof Courtyard: True to Melbourne's unpredictable climate, the venue features plenty of undercover spaces and excellent heating downstairs, alongside an open-air upper deck perfect for catching the afternoon sun.

What to Sip & Snack

At Walk Melbourne, we love partners who support local, independent producers, and Whitehart’s bar menu does exactly that.

• The Rotating Craft Taps: Boasting a dozen taps downstairs, Whitehart intentionally orders boutique craft beers in small batches. This means the beer list is in a constant state of flux, offering everything from limited-edition local sours to crisp, reliable lagers.

• Seasonal Cocktails: Their cocktail list heavily relies on fresh, locally sourced Australian ingredients, offering a sophisticated, modern twist on classic pairings.

• The +39 Pizzeria Partnership: While they host rotating food vendors on the weekends, Whitehart features a brilliant local tech integration: you can sit at your shipping-container table, scan a QR code, and order authentic Neapolitan pizzas directly from the legendary +39 Pizzeria next door, delivered straight to your seat.

Travel Tips for Your Visit

• Trust the Staff: The bar crew here are highly trained "beer nerds" who love introducing people to new styles. If a craft tap looks intimidating, just ask for a taster!

• Catch the Rhythm: If you return over the weekend, look out for their Hartbeats live jazz series on Sundays or local DJs spinning funk, soul, and house late into the night.

• Look Up: Don't just stay on the ground floor. Head up the steel staircase to the second level to get a unique perspective on the soaring CBD skyscrapers framed by the venue's industrial beams.

Join Us in the Laneways

Ready to discover Melbourne's hidden vertical nightlife without the guesswork? Join us on the Foodie Discovery Walking Tour, where our expert guides take you past the unassuming laneway entrances to experience architectural wonders like Whitehart Bar. We take care of the navigation and ordering so you can relax with a local craft pour in hand.

Maker Coffee: The Art of the Filter Ritual

When it comes to experiencing coffee as a moment of pure mindfulness, Maker Coffee stands in a league of its own. Founded with a simple philosophy—to serve exceptional coffee with warmth, clarity, and care—this premier Melbourne-based roaster treats the crop with absolute reverence. What began as a passionate, small-batch roasting operation in the backstreets of Richmond has grown into a handful of carefully curated espresso bars across the city.  

As a standout destination on our Coffee Lovers Walking Tour, a visit to Maker's serene city spaces—like their beautifully designed bars on Little Collins Street or right near Hardware Lane—offers an intimate look at the slow-coffee movement.

Honesty in the Cup: Small-Batch Precision

Maker Coffee doesn't mass-produce. They source exceptional, traceable beans globally, focusing heavily on sustainability and direct producer partnerships. Back at their Richmond roastery, every single batch is roasted with meticulous precision to highlight the natural, honest character of the specific origin.

• The Rotating Single-Origin Menu: You won’t find a static, unchangeable menu here. Maker constantly rotates its single-origin offerings depending on global harvest cycles. On any given day, you might experience a bright, washed Kenyan bean bursting with blackcurrant notes, or a complex, natural Colombian variety.  

• Neighborhood Sanctuaries: Their inner-city spaces are deliberately designed to feel like clean, calm sanctuaries away from the CBD noise. Featuring minimalist layouts and soft lighting, the architecture intentionally keeps the focus on the interaction between the barista, the guest, and the brew.  

The Highlight: The V60 Brew Bar Ritual

While we appreciate a perfectly pulled espresso, the real magic happens at Maker’s dedicated Brew Bar. For our Coffee Lovers groups, this is where we pause to appreciate the ultimate slow-coffee ritual: the V60 Pour Over.

Watching a Maker barista craft a pour over is like watching a chemist at work. The process is completely transparent: the beans are ground to order, the water temperature is digitally monitored, and the pour is executed in concentric circles with absolute precision. This filter brewing method extracts the most delicate, tea-like complexities of the bean, offering a incredibly clean cup that completely rewrites what people think coffee tastes like.

Travel Tips for Your Visit

• Skip the Milk (Just This Once): When trying a V60 single-origin filter brew, skip the milk and sugar. These coffees are naturally sweet and complex, designed to be enjoyed black to appreciate the subtle fruit or floral notes.

• Meet the Makers: The baristas here are selected not just for their technical expertise, but for their warmth. Don't be shy to ask them about the farm or the processing method of the coffee you’re drinking—they love sharing the story.

• The Maven Blend: If you prefer a traditional milk-based coffee, try their signature house blend, The Maven, which cuts through milk beautifully with rich, reliable flavor.

Wake Up to Melbourne's Best Brews

Ready to slow down and experience the ritual of specialty coffee with the people who roast it? Join us on the Coffee Lovers Walking Tour, where our local guides take you past the generic cafes and straight to the heart of Melbourne's coffee elite. You’ll taste the difference, master the vocabulary, and meet independent pioneers like the team at Maker.

Industry Beans: The Science of Specialty Coffee

If there is one name that represents the cutting edge of Australia’s global coffee reputation, it’s Industry Beans. Founded in 2013 by brothers Trevor and Steve Simmons in the backstreets of Fitzroy, this powerhouse roaster has spent over a decade redefining what it means to source, roast, and brew the perfect bean.

As a premier destination on our Coffee Lovers Walking Tour, a visit to Industry Beans is an education in the "crop-to-cup" journey. It is the perfect place for our small groups to experience the meticulous science behind Melbourne's daily obsession.

Precision Roasting & High-Tech Design

While Industry Beans operates state-of-the-art open warehouse roasteries, our walking tour zeroes in on their incredibly striking city outposts, such as the minimalist, modern space tucked onto Little Collins Street.

• The Modbar Revolution: When you step inside with your guide, the first thing you’ll notice is the distinct lack of a giant, bulky espresso machine blocking the counter. Instead, Industry Beans utilises the space-age La Marzocco Modbar system. The main machinery is hidden beneath the bench, leaving only sleek, minimalist taps protruding from the counter. This design creates a completely open, transparent interaction between the barista, the guest, and the brew.

• Seasonal Curation: Rather than sticking to one static flavor profile, they roast a brand-new Seasonal Espresso Blend every three months. This approach allows them to showcase the absolute best beans available from global harvest cycles at that exact moment.

• Ethical Sourcing: Traceability is at the core of what they do. They work transparently with farmers across the world's premier coffee-growing regions, ensuring every batch is ethically traded and expertly evaluated.

What to Sip: From Espresso to Innovations

On our specialised coffee itineraries, we don't just drink a standard flat white—we explore how different brewing methods manipulate flavor.

• The Roaster's Pick Single Origin: For the purists, their single-origin filter and espresso options highlight individual regional characteristics, ranging from citrusy Ethiopian heirlooms to rich, chocolatey Colombian varieties.

• The Fitzroy Iced: A signature creation that has become a Melbourne cult favorite. It features cold brew coffee infused with native Australian wattleseed and organic panela, offering a uniquely local twist on chilled caffeine.

• The Bubble Coffee: Proving that coffee can still be playful, this creation combines single-origin cold drip with con-soy milk and coffee-soaked tapioca pearls that burst in your mouth.

Travel Tips for Your Visit

• Test Your Knowledge: Our Coffee Lovers Tour finishes in this sophisticated neighborhood precisely so you can put your newly acquired coffee vocabulary to use with their extensive, multi-layered menu.

• The Coffee-Spiced Brunch: If you return on your own for breakfast, don't miss their sophisticated food menu. They are famous for integrating coffee into their culinary dishes, like their egg and bacon muffins served with a signature coffee-spiced hollandaise.

• Take the Beans Home: They sell their iconic retail bags on-site, including the Fitzroy Street and Rose Street signature blends, which make for the ultimate premium souvenir for the coffee enthusiast in your life.

Decode the Menu Like a Local

Ready to step past the standard cafe counter and understand the art and architecture behind Melbourne’s liquid gold? Join us on the Coffee Lovers Walking Tour, where our passionate local guides take you behind the scenes at world-class venues like Industry Beans. You'll sample different styles, meet expert baristas, and learn exactly how to order like a seasoned local.

The Little Royal: A Touch of Parisian Elegance in the Royal Arcade

When you wander through the grand, light-filled spaces of Melbourne’s historic Royal Arcade, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported back in time. But if you look closely among the heritage architecture, you’ll spot a splash of vibrant colour that brings a distinct taste of Paris to the heart of the CBD: The Little Royal.

As a beloved stop on our signature Foodie Discovery Walking Tour, this boutique kiosk is the ultimate destination for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life—namely, luxury macarons and exceptional coffee.

Born from Melbourne Coffee Royalty

The Little Royal didn't just appear by chance; it comes from serious local hospitality pedigree. The boutique kiosk was founded by the creative minds behind Caffé E Torta, a legendary fixture of Melbourne's laneway dining scene. Bringing that same dedication to premium European quality, they created a dedicated space celebrating the delicate art of the French macaron right here in Victoria.

Luxury, Colour, and Craft

The first thing you’ll notice at the kiosk is the stunning, jewel-like display of colourful macarons. But these treats aren't just beautiful to look at—they are crafted to the highest standards:

• Inclusivity First: Every single macaron at The Little Royal is 100% vegetarian and gluten-free, meaning more of our tour guests can indulge without worry.

• Beyond the Biscuit: While the classic macaron is the star of the show, they also specialise in premium individual desserts, delicate petit fours, and show-stopping macaron cakes and towering displays.

• The Perfect Pairing: Because this is Melbourne, sweet treats demand excellent caffeine. The Little Royal serves premium Genovese coffee, creating the quintessential local pairing of a rich espresso alongside a crisp, chewy macaron.

Why It’s a Foodie Discovery Highlight

On our Foodie Discovery Walking Tour, we love highlighting independent local vendors who do one thing flawlessly. Tucking into a sweet treat in the middle of Australia's oldest surviving retail arcade gives our guests a perfect blend of living history and modern culinary indulgence. It’s a moment to slow down, look up at the arcade's famous architecture, and enjoy a taste of luxury.

Travel Tips for Your Visit

• Look Up while You Sip: The Little Royal is perfectly positioned in the arcade, making it a great spot to grab a coffee and look up at the famous statues of Gog and Magog striking the heritage clock nearby.

• Gift of Luxury: If you are looking for a sophisticated souvenir or a thank-you gift, their beautifully boxed macaron selections are a popular choice.

• Arrive Ready for Sweets: We feature this stop to showcase the sweeter side of the Hoddle Grid, so make sure you save some room alongside the savoury dumplings and fusion bites on the tour.

Join Us in the Laneways

Ready to discover the sweet secrets hidden inside Melbourne's historic shopping precincts? Join us on the Foodie Discovery Walking Tour, where our expert guides will take you behind the scenes to experience local icons like The Little Royal. We handle all the curation and ordering, leaving you free to soak up the history, the coffee, and the flavours of the city.

Bench Coffee: A Study in Specialty Roasting

For those who treat caffeine as an art form, Bench Coffee Co. is a must-visit destination. A premier stop on our Foodie Discovery Walk, and occasionally visited by smaller groups on our Coffee Lovers Tour, Bench represents the pinnacle of Melbourne’s world-renowned specialty coffee scene.  

The Pursuit of Precision

Bench Coffee is known for its minimalist, modern approach to the bean. They focus on highlighting the unique characteristics of each origin through precise roasting and brewing techniques.  

• Specialty Focus: As a specialty roaster, they prioritise high-quality, ethically sourced beans from around the globe.  

• Minimalist Design: Their CBD outposts, such as the sleek space on Little Collins Street, offer a gallery-like atmosphere where the focus remains entirely on the craft in the cup.  

• Local Craft: Like all our partners, Bench is an independent local business that has helped shape Melbourne's reputation as a global coffee capital.  

Why We Visit

• A Masterclass in Flavour: It provides a necessary contrast to the sweets and savouries on our tours, offering a palate-cleansing look at what makes Melbourne coffee truly world-class.  

• Expert Curation: Our guides are happiest at the intersection of food and storytelling, and the story of Bench’s rise in the city's competitive coffee landscape is a guest favourite.  

Travel Tips for Your Visit

• Try the Batch Brew: While their espresso is excellent, their batch brew is a fantastic way to experience the subtle, tea-like complexities of their lighter roasts.  

• Take Home a Bag: If you love what you taste on the tour, they sell bags of their seasonal roasts so you can take a piece of Melbourne's coffee culture home with you.  

Wake Up to Melbourne's Best Brews

Ready to discover why the world looks to Melbourne for coffee inspiration? Join us on the Foodie Discovery Walk or our specialised Coffee Lovers Tour to go behind the scenes with our local experts. Our guides—who live and breathe the city's coffee culture—will show you the hidden roasters you’d never find on your own.

Heartbaker: The Art of Banh Mi

No exploration of Melbourne’s multicultural food scene is complete without a stop for a world-class Banh Mi. At Heartbaker, located in the heart of the CBD, this Vietnamese classic is elevated through high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. As a featured stop on our Foodie Discovery Walk, it represents the vibrant fusion flavours that have come to define our city's laneway culture.  

The Perfect Fusion

The Banh Mi is a beautiful example of culinary history—a French baguette filled with traditional Vietnamese ingredients.  

• The Bread: Heartbaker focuses on a crusty, light Vietnamese Tiger Baguette that provides the perfect crunch. All baked fresh daily in the Heartbaker inhouse bakery!!

• The Fillings: Expect a balance of savoury proteins, rich pâté, and fresh, zesty pickled vegetables.  

• Local Expertise: Like all our partners, Heartbaker is chosen because they are masters of their craft, working at the intersection of traditional storytelling and modern flavours.  

Why We Love It

• A Tour Highlight: It is a key savoury component of the Foodie Discovery Walk, ensuring our guests leave the tour feeling very full and satisfied.

• Authentically Melbourne: While the origins are international, the way Heartbaker serves the city's busy professionals and hungry explorers is quintessential Melbourne.  

• Accessibility: The venue fits perfectly into our easy walking routes through the flat, accessible streets of the Hoddle Grid.  

Travel Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive Early: Like most of Melbourne's best lunch spots, the queues for a fresh Banh Mi can grow quickly during the midday rush.

• The Perfect Lunch: If you aren't on a tour, a Heartbaker Banh Mi is widely considered one of the best value-for-money lunches in the CBD.

• Dietaries: Ask about their vegetarian options, which offer the same fresh, crunchy experience without the meat.

Taste the Stories of the Laneways

Ready to discover why this Banh Mi is a local favourite? Join us on our Foodie Discovery Walk, where we take you behind the scenes to meet the makers who bring these incredible flavours to life. Our guides are experts in the people and history behind the food, ensuring every bite comes with a story.

Shandong Mama Mini: A Laneway Legend

Tucked away in the iconic, graffiti-covered Centre Place, Shandong Mama Mini is a quintessential Melbourne hole-in-the-wall joint that proves the best things often come in small packages. A standout stop on both our Foodie Discovery and Dumpling Discovery tours, this tiny venue is a masterclass in authentic flavours and family tradition.  

The Story Behind the Dumpling

The restaurant is a passion project led by Meiyang—affectionately known as "Mama"—who moved her family from the Shandong province of China to Melbourne in 2012.  

• The Peninsula Heritage: Mama hails from the Shandong peninsula, located between Beijing and Shanghai.  

• Regional Specialties: Her recipes are inspired by the coastal city of Yantai, famous for its unique seafood-based dumplings.  

• Family Secrets: Every family in Yantai has a distinct recipe, and Mama has spent years perfecting her signature blends for Melbourne diners.  

What to Eat

While the restaurant itself is small, the food is world-class and hand-crafted in an open garage-style kitchen.  

• The Signature Mackerel Dumpling: This is the dish that put them on the map. Fresh mackerel is hand-whipped into a delicate mousse with ginger and coriander, then pan-fried into tubes of deliciousness.  

• The Vegan Favourite: For those looking for plant-based options, their vegan zucchini and tofu dumplings are a hit for their fresh, crunchy texture.  

• The Authentic Sauce: To eat like a local from Northern China, avoid the soy bottle. Instead, reach for the black vinegar ('V') and a dash of chilli for the most authentic experience.  

Travel Tips for Your Visit

• Embrace the Crowd: Part of the fun at Shandong Mama Mini is huddling around the long table and soaking up the bustling laneway atmosphere.  

• Watch the Craft: You can marvel at the speed and precision of the chefs as they work in the compact kitchen space.  

Discover the Heart of Chinatown

Want to devour these famous mackerel dumplings without the guesswork? Join us on our Dumpling Discovery or Foodie Discovery Walks, where we handle the ordering and share the history behind every bite.

Specialty Chocolate: The Mörk Experience

If you think hot chocolate is just for kids, Mörk Chocolate is here to change your mind. A highlight on our Foodie Discovery Walk, this homegrown Melbourne brand has elevated drinking chocolate to the same level of craft as specialty coffee. Founded in 2012 by Josefin Zernell and Kiril Shaginov, Mörk (Swedish for "dark") focuses on ethical sourcing, traceability, and high-quality ingredients.

What Makes Mörk Unique?

Mörk isn't your average chocolate shop. They treat cacao with the same respect a sommelier treats wine, offering blends that range from 50% to a deep, intense 85% cacao.

• The Campfire Chocolate: Their most iconic creation is a multi-sensory experience. It involves a beaker of hot chocolate served with a glass of beechwood smoke, a pinch of smoked salt, and a toasted, house-made marshmallow. You inhale the smoke, pour the chocolate, and stir in the salt for a nostalgic trip to the fireside.

• Traceability: They work directly with producers to ensure their cacao is ethically grown and minimally processed.

• Bean-to-Bar Bakery: In addition to their drinks, they produce a range of pastries and cakes—like their famous cinnamon buns—baked fresh daily at their North Melbourne "Foundry".

Tips for Your Visit

• Try the Original: Their 70% dark chocolate was their very first blend and remains a signature for a reason—it’s the perfect balance of richness and sweetness.

• Small Groups: Mörk venues are often tiny and intimate, which is why they fit so perfectly with our small-group tour philosophy.

• Souvenirs: You can purchase pre-made chocolate milk, a variety of cacao powders, and other chocolate-related products to enjoy at home.

• Dietary Needs: The menu includes plant-based options, such as The Whole Nut, which features dark chocolate made with hazelnut milk.

Join us for a Hot Chocolate

Want to experience the theatre of a Mörk hot chocolate for yourself? Join us on our Foodie Discovery Walk, where we introduce you to the best independent makers in the city.

Discover Melbourne's Timeless Arcades: A Travel Guide

While our laneways are famous for their grit and graffiti, Melbourne’s historic arcades offer a different kind of magic: grand architecture, mosaic floors, and a glimpse into the city's sophisticated past. Originally built to provide shoppers refuge from the weather and the bustle of horse-drawn traffic, these arcades remain the jewel of the Hoddle Grid.

Here are the must-visit stops for your next self-guided stroll.

The Royal Arcade: A Step Back to 1870

As the first arcade built in Melbourne and the longest-standing in Australia, the Royal Arcade is a true heritage icon.

• The Highlight: Look up to see Gog and Magog, the two giant mythical figures flanking Gaunt’s Clock. Since 1892, they have struck the chimes every hour on the hour.

• The Vibe: Designed in a beautiful Italianate style, it’s home to unique boutiques and the famous Koko Black chocolate shop.

• Location: Connects Little Bourke Street to Bourke Street Mall.

The Block Arcade: Golden Era Glamour

If you want to see how Melbourne looked during the gold rush, head to The Block Arcade. Inspired by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, it features incredible mosaic tile flooring and a magnificent glass canopy.

• Don't Miss: The Tea Rooms 1892 (formerly Hopetoun Tea Rooms). It’s one of the city's most fashionable spots for high tea, with a window display that has been stopping passers-by for over a century.

• Shopping: You’ll find Haigh’s Chocolates at the Collins Street entrance—an essential Melbourne treat.

• Location: Connects Collins Street to Elizabeth Street.

Cathedral Arcade: Art Deco Elegance

Tucked inside the iconic Nicholas Building, the Cathedral Arcade is a hidden gem for fans of Art Deco.

• The Architecture: Completed in 1925, it features a stunning leadlight archway and central domes that glow with a soft, ethereal light.

• The Experience: The building above is a vertical village for artists and designers. While the arcade is quiet, it’s the gateway to some of the city's most creative independent studios.

• Location: Corner of Flinders Lane and Swanston Street.

Manchester Unity Arcade: A Neo-Gothic Marvel

Located just across from the Town Hall, this arcade is part of the Manchester Unity Building, once the tallest in Melbourne.

• Look Closely: The ground floor arcade features ornate elevators and a black-and-gold marble interior that feels like a scene from a 1930s film.

• Location: Corner of Collins and Swanston Streets.

Travel Tips for Arcade Explorers

• Look Up: The best architectural details, from glass skylights to carved stone faces (and the Greek god Chronos in the Royal Arcade), are often high above the shopfronts.

• Avoid the Rush: These arcades are busiest during lunch hours (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM). Visit mid-morning to appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

• Easy Walking: Like most of the CBD, our historic arcades are on flat ground and are easily accessible for all fitness levels.

• Photography: Most arcades allow photography, but please be mindful of the small, independent retailers who keep these historic spaces alive.

Experience the History for Yourself

The best way to truly appreciate the grandeur of the Block and Royal Arcades is to walk through them with a guide who knows the secrets hidden behind the stone and glass. On our Foodie Discovery Walk, we weave through these historic spaces, sharing the stories of  Melbourne while stopping for some of the city's finest treats.

Our team of local experts are passionate about bringing Melbourne's past to life. Whether you want to know about the 1850s gold rush or the best hidden coffee spot in a quiet corner, our guides have the local knowledge to make your visit unforgettable.

Ready to Explore?

• Book Your Tour: Secure your spot directly through our website for the best value and an intimate group experience.

• Got Questions? Visit our FAQs page to find out more about what to wear, how much we walk, and what to expect on the day.

• Get in Touch: If you have a specific enquiry or are interested in a private tour, feel free to contact us directly.

Food Tours Melbourne Australia

Why Melbourne is the Ultimate Foodie Destination

Melbourne’s Culinary Reputation

Melbourne is celebrated as Australia’s top culinary destination and prides itself as a diverse and multicultural foodie destination. From our café culture to our farm-to-table movement, Melbourne’s culinary scene continuously grows and challenges itself to be better than any other. Melbourne celebrates its culinary diversity and reputation in a variety of ways. With an ever-growing scene of innovative fine dining experiences to fun market fairs filled with food stalls and festivals throughout the year, all demonstrating cultural diversity and yummy food, one will always find themselves a part of a multicultural foodie experience. 

Diverse Flavours to Discover

Melbourne's multicultural population brings a rich tapestry of flavours from all around the globe. You can find everything from authentic Italian and Greek to vibrant Fillipino and Ethiopian cuisines. Each neighbourhood offers its own unique culinary gems. Still, the CBD (ie downtown) shows a true reflection of multicultural vibe through a wonderful mix of cuisines along every street, laneway and street corner. Walk down any of the famous alleyways and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by two or three restaurants honouring different cuisines already. The choices are universal and endless from Chinatown on Little Bourke St, Italian fare on  Lygon Street, and the recently christened ‘K-town’ on Healy Lane! 

Best Food Tours for Group Getaways

This is what makes Melbourne’s Discovery Walk unique and special. It is perfect for any foodie adventurer or a group of taste “buds” to see what our laneways offer. What better way than to discover a hole in the wall, listen to stories of a time long ago and indulge in the food culture that makes Melbourne CBD so vibrant. An afternoon that encompasses food, a glimpse of culture and discovering Melbourne laneways while spending time with your loved ones? It sounds like the perfect quartet!

Family-Friendly Food Experiences

Traveling with children? We’ve got some options for you, too! Melbourne is lucky to have several markets all of which are fun and suitable for family-friendly food experiences. Queen Victoria Market, South Melbourne Market and Prahran Market all have wonderful offerings and high-quality fresh produce. You’re bound to find something for everyone at these markets and perhaps even fill your inner child with delights such as delicious jam donuts, artisanal hot chocolates, nostalgic hot dogs and even meat pies! Kids can collect a market passport at Queen Victoria Market and fully immerse themselves while interacting with vendors and claim a prize at the end. A wonderful family-friendly activity awaits!  

Fitzroy| © Visit Victoria

Top Foodie Neighbourhoods in Melbourne

When venturing out to the suburbs of Melbourne for a more unique foodie experience, while each of the suburbs have their own gems, here are the top 3 Foodie Neighbourhoods for any visitor in Melbourne: 

Fitzroy /Collingwood

Just 3km outside of the CBD, in Fitzroy, once renowned as a working-class suburb, has now turned into an eclectic neighbourhood that is home to some of the best cafes, bakeries (such as To Be Frank), pubs and wine bars and a wide range of eateries. Along Gertrude Street, where you’ll find plenty of vintage shops and independent retailers, you’ll also find Maha, a Middle Eastern restaurant offering a contemporary spin on traditional dishes. Afterwards, head to Naked For Satan for stunning city views and delicious cocktails while people watch. For something more memorable, head down to Cutler and Co. for an unforgettable dining experience. Be spoilt with the fine dining service in a cool and comfortable setting.

Brunswick

6kms from Melbourne CBD, you’ll find yourself in Brunswick. Along Sydney Road is a vibrant collection of Mediterranean groceries, cafes and some fun ice cream shops! Get yourself some tailor-made jeans at Dejour Jeans, soak up all things Mediterranean at A1 bakery or treat yourself to deliciously juicy southern fried chicken at Juanita Peaches and end your day at one of the many ice-cream retailers on Sydney Road. For traditional Aussie flavours check out Luther’s Scoop or for the more daring foodie adventurers, check out Fluffy Torpedo for unexpected flavour bombs that are mind-blowingly different and unexpectedly delicious. 

South Melbourne

Just 2 tram stops south of the CBD. This neighbourhood is a bustling foodie find with everything from bakeries to breweries within blocks of each other. The centre of the community is the South Melbourne Market, the oldest market in Melbourne, dating back to 1867. Popular with locals and visitors alike, it’s famous for its ‘eat on the spot’ local seafood stands and a hive of artisanal goods and produce. In the nearby South Melbourne neighbourhood, close to Clarendon St, some of the trendiest daytime venues in Melbourne are within a few steps of the market, such as Hector’s Deli and Moon Mart. 

Planning Tips for a Seamless Tour

Book in Advance: Melbourne’s growing population and popularity as a tourist destination mean reservations are essential, especially on weekends. Pre-booking ensures a stress-free experience.

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Melbourne’s laneways and markets on foot. Your feet will thank you!

Layer Up: Melbourne’s weather is famously unpredictable. Dressing in layers, with a scarf or a light jacket, will keep you prepared for anything.

Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle to keep yourself refreshed as you walk and dine.

Weather Protection: A light jacket with a hood is a lifesaver for unexpected rain, and a hat or sunglasses are perfect for sunny days.

Best Times to Visit

Not sure when to visit Melbourne? Spring (Sept-Nov) and Autumn months are ideal where the weather is mostly pleasant - although be prepared even for four seasons in one day! Autumn in Melbourne is known as “Mad March”as the city hosts many festivals - perhaps to distract us from an impending winter! From the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, the Formula 1 Grand Prix or International Comedy Festival, there’ll be something for everyone. A month full of celebrations means that the offerings are diverse with plenty of unique experiences to be had. As the Spring months start warming up and the flora and fauna are thriving, watch Melbourne spring back into life again! It’s a beautiful time of the year for picnics at the parks, plenty of fun outdoor food markets and activities, and festivals gearing up for the festive season! 

Four Pillars Gin

Beyond the Tour: Extend Your Food Journey

Beyond your food tour and throughout your travels, don’t forget that with each culinary experience also comes a chance to take a little piece of it home. From artisanal Melbourne roasted coffee for coffee lovers, artisanal chocolates with Australian native ingredients from Koko Black, locally made wines in our rich and diverse wine regions of Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Valley, Melbourne-based gin and whiskey companies such as Four Pillars or Starward Distillery and even fabulous handcrafted gifts such as ceramic mugs, plates or tea towels by inspiring locals.

These unique gifts not only remind you of your time in Melbourne but can also transport you back to the memories made in Melbourne by reliving some of the culinary food experiences!

Make sure to treat yourself to an unforgettable experience, whether at Embla for sophisticated and contemporary Australian dining or at Vue de Monde for that extra memorable moment and view! If a more relaxed vibe is more your style then why not hit up one of many bars, such as HER rooftop bar or Caretaker’s Cottage? And while you’re at the international airport terminal and the end of holiday blues takes over, there’s always a last chance for preflight cakes and coffee at Brunetti Classico or a classic Melbourne flat white at St Ali.

Book a food tour with us, for a taste of Melbourne and for more insider foodie tips from our knowledgeable and passionate guides!