Why were Melbourne plans originally dumped?

Back in 2022, Soho House’s Australian ambitions hit a wall. Plans to convert the historic Poolman House mansion in South Yarra into a boutique hotel and members’ club were knocked back by councils and met with strong resistance from local residents. Concerns ranged from zoning issues to fears about late-night activity, and despite an appeal to VCAT, the developers eventually withdrew the proposal.

At the time, attention shifted firmly to Sydney, with Melbourne seemingly off the table. Now, that story has changed.

What’s been confirmed this time?

As part of its broader growth push heading into 2026 and beyond, Soho House this week has confirmed it will open in Melbourne, alongside continued plans for Sydney. The announcement comes during a busy period for the brand, which is expanding rapidly across the U.S., Europe, and Asia following its $2.7 billion take-private deal. New houses are planned in cities like Tokyo, Milan, Madrid, and Lisbon, reinforcing Soho House’s focus on creative hubs around the world.

Why Melbourne?

Bringing Melbourne back into the picture feels deliberate. Long regarded as Australia’s cultural capital (with festivals like RISING stepping things up a notch) the city aligns naturally with Soho House’s creative-first identity, drawing members from fashion, film, music, media, and design. By committing to both Melbourne and Sydney, the company is signalling that Australia is no longer a “one-city” market, but a key region in its global network.

Details around the Melbourne location are still being kept under wraps, including where it will be based and when it might open. What is clear, however, is that Soho House appears to be approaching the city with lessons learned from its earlier missteps.

When will it open?

The official word from Soho House’s website is that plans for Melbourne and Sydney will be finalised “beyond 2027”. Which means we’re likely to see openings as early as 2028 for both cities. We’ll keep you updated as we hear more.

Feature image (left): Soho House Mexico City. Feature image (right): Soho House Chicago.

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Well, fear not. Luckily for you the RUSSH team are experts (and by experts I mean a team filled with Victorian expats and Melb-ophiles who return there practically monthly), and we’ve scoured our phone notes and Photo Apps to curate a list of the very best spots in Melbourne for a long lunch, below.

1. Carnation Canteen (Fitzroy)

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Open for lunch: Friday–Sunday from 12pm

Tucked into leafy Fitzroy, this sunny, glassed-in corner restaurant and bar is truly one of the best feeds you’ll have in your life. It’s a mandatory pilgrimage almost the entire RUSSH team has made now – and we still can’t stop talking about how damn good a lunch here is. Head chef Audrey Shaw has put together a stellar lineup of seasonal share plates, wines and cocktails. If the weather is lovely you can even opt to sit outside on their back patio, immersed in a herb garden. Their bathroom also features the most luscious soap known to man – To My Ships Of The Gods.

2. Gracie’s Wine Room (South Yarra)

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Open for lunch: Friday–Sunday from 1pm

You don’t have to be as chronically online as we are to understand just why Gracie’s has taken off this year. It’s founder, Kelsey, has charmed us all through the process of opening it on TikTok, but the vibes and menu speak for themselves too. We’d suggest booking a table out the back of Gracie’s for a sunny afternoon spent yapping and downing aperol spritzes (along with some of their famed focaccia).

3. HER Melbourne (CBD)

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You can kind of pick your poison at HER, which is what makes it worthy of our best long lunches list. If the weather’s wonderful, head up to the HER Rooftop to apricate with a couple of cocktails and small plates, or if you’d prefer to cosy up, the ground-floor HER Bar is moody and ambient. (If you stay long enough after lunch, they also have a 4-6pm happy hour every day). This place isn’t a well-kept secret though, so we’d suggest a booking for peak times – especially on the rooftop.

4. Marion (Carlton)

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Open for lunch: Every day from 12pm

Another favourite amongst locals, Marion Wine Bar sits directly on Gertrude Street, perfect for stopping in for a long lunch before or after some shopping or bar hopping. While the beautifully fitted-out bistro-style interiors are divine, we’d suggest snagging an alfresco table when the weather permits. If you head there early (around opening) you’ll usually be able to walk-in and snag a table.

5. Carlton Wine Room (Carlton)

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Open for lunch: Daily from 12pm

Love wine? Look no further. Not only with the incredible staff here guide you through every drop with expert ease, but there’s also a delicious menu to match. From small bites (their anchovy, fried bread, ricotta, and pickled cucumber is the stuff of dreams) to heartier mains, this is the perfect spot for romantic lunches and bigger celebrations alike.

6. D.O.C Gastronomia (Carlton, South Bank and Mornington)

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Open for lunch: Daily from 12pm

If you ask us, one category that Melbourne really excels in is food that’s delicious, but doesn’t take itself too seriously. D.O.C. has that philosophy down to an art. Here, you’ll find pizza and pasta executed just like the Italians do. Several of the locations also come with Italian-style delis attached, so you can take home something delicious for your kitchen, too.

7. Clover (Richmond)

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Open for lunch: Every day from 12pm

A modern wine bar set amongst the lustre to Swan Street, Clover opened in 2023 to heaving crowds. Reservations can still be hard to come by on weekends at a reasonable hour, so we’d suggest you book ahead for a primo time slot, but their wood-fired menu and extensive wines list are worth the minimal admin. The interiors are sleek and minimal – think lead-light windows, exposed brick walls and a long communal table down the centre (perfect for larger groups).

8. Pipi’s Kiosk (Albert Park)

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Open for lunch: Every day from 12pm

There aren’t many spots around Melbourne with the kind of water-front views Pipi’s has. It’s glassed-in walls house a single-page menu focussed predominantly on super-fresh seafood. Despite its humble kiosk exterior, it’s surprisingly elegant while still being casual. The seasonal menu changes every few weeks – but we can’t go past their Friday–Sunday fish and chips special. Perfect for parking yourself with a glass of wine.

9. Gilson (South Yarra)

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Open for lunch: Every day from 7am until late

If hunger strikes while you’re on Melbourne’s south side, head to Gilson. This relaxed Italian eatery is the perfect place to sit back over some freshly-baked wood-fired bread and an Aperol spritz, before you tuck into share-style plates of pizzas, pastas, and everything in between — all while overlooking the iconic Botanic Gardens. There’s also always space for walk-ins, if you’re in need of a spontaneous Italian fix.

10. Builder’s Arms (Carlton)

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Open for lunch: Every day from 12pm until late

This historic pub on Carlton’s picturesque Gertrude street has long had our hearts. In summer, it’s the ideal spot for an al fresco dining situation. But in winter, there’s plenty of warming meals to tuck into while you cosy up from the cold inside. But take it from us, you can’t leave without trying their whipped cod roe and flat bread.

11. Supernormal (CBD)

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Open for lunch: Every day from 11:30am

For times when you find yourself in the city,  Supernormal is something of a Melbourne institution. Dimly lit and with a (delicious, might we add) menu inspired by the flavours of Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, and Hong Kong, there’s arguably no better spot for a special occasion meal. Pro tip: start with the New England lobster roll, and leave space for dessert.

12. Chin Chin (CBD)

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Open for lunch: Every day from 11:30am

Another iconic city spot. Chin Chin is a Thai-inspired eatery that sits on Melbourne’s Flinders Lane. Upstairs you’ll find a sprawling light-filled eatery serving up modern takes on classic dishes like Pad Thai and Fried Rice, while downstairs is a dimly-lit bar that comes alive with a DJ at night.

Feature image: one, two.

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1.  Baker D. Chirico (Carlton, St Kilda)

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You have serious willpower if you can walk past the window of a Baker D. Chirico and not be tempted to go inside. With outposts in St Kilda and Carlton, this bakery specialises in European-inspired goodies, from cannoli and bombolini, to perfectly filled savoury paninis.

2. Baker Bleu (Cremorne, Caulfield North, Hawksburn)

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If you’ve been to a dinner party and admired the wheel of perfectly baked white loaves in the centre of the table, chances are it was the work of Baker Bleu. Not only does the bakery supply bread to cult Melbourne restaurants like Attica and Cumulus Inc., but its also a purveyor of pastries and pantry goods, with stores in Caulfield North, Hawksburn, and Cremorne.

3. Lune Croissanterie (CBD)

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It wouldn’t be a crime not to include Lune Croissanterie on our list. The brainchild of former aerospace engineer Kate Reid, this bakery has perfected the art of the humble croissant, with every pastry baked to precision in a climate-controlled glass cube, in the centre of a converted warehouse.

4. Sebbys Scrolls (Caulfield South)

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Much like the name suggests, this corner store specialises in scrolls of every variety. While it’s worth scheduling multiple visits to sample the entire menu, the cinnamon scroll is what really put Sebbys on the map, starring an indulgent mix of cinnamon, sticky brown sugar, and plenty of cream cheese icing.

5. Monforte Viennoiserie (Carlton North)

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Blink and you’ll miss this hole-in-the-wall spot. While the space might be tiny, the menu is elite, often utilising unexpected ingredients, from chocolate and olive oil tarts, to classic croissants spiked with leatherwood honey and sea salt. Come early, these will sell out.

6. To Be Frank (Collingwood, Elsternwick)

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This bakery has an emphasis on simple, honest ingredients. From slow-fermented breads made with wholegrain flour, to Argentinian-inspired pastries, there’s something to satisfy every tastebud at their Collingwood and Elsternwick locations.

7. 4me Gluten Free (Elsternwick)

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Gluten-free friends, we didn’t forget about you, and neither did 4me Gluten Free. This small but mighty bakery specialises in baked goods to suit a variety of diets, from gluten free to FODMAP friendly. There’s also a range of cakes on the menu to make celebrating your next gluten-free birthday delicious.

8. Back Alley Bakes (Coburg North)

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Few places feel as Melbourne-coded as this bakery in Coburg North. What started as a lockdown project has grown to be one of Melbourne’s most popular venues, slinging delectable pastries, sausage rolls, sandwiches and cakes every day.

9. Baker Of Things (Richmond)

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Those who were lucky enough to visit Nat Paul’s beloved Beatrix Bakes when it was up and running in North Melbourne will remember just how incredible her baked goods were. Now, there’s a new speciality bakery and cafe overseen by former Beatrix production baking manager, Zoe Pearce, in Richmond. With everything from toasties and sandwhiches, to cakes by the slice and, of course, coffee on the menu, we predict there will be lines out the door to rival Beatrix Bakes before too long.

10. Caffé E Torta (CBD)

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Located in the historic Royal Arcade in the city, Caffé E Torta is the spot for European charm and great pastries, coffee and, later in the day, pasta. If your looking for a place to rest your weary feet after a day of traversing the laneways, this is the spot we’d recommend.

11. Wild Life Bakery (Brunswick East)

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Huw Murdoch, a longtime admirer of Tartine, honed his craft through trips to the US, learning from renowned bakers before opening his own bakery in a former mechanic’s workshop on Albert Street. His 24-hour fermented sourdough, vegetarian-focused menu featuring toasties with house-made kimchi or walnut pesto, and pastries made with Gippsland Jersey butter make this a must-visit, best enjoyed with a Market Lane coffee or Mörk hot chocolate.

12. Bakemono Bakers (CBD)

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Bakemono Bakers, the cult-favourite sibling to Melbourne’s Bakemono Coffee, brings the same meticulous approach to pastries as its counterpart does to espresso. Tucked away on Drewery Lane, this tiny bakery specialises in impossibly flaky croissants, shokupan loaves, and inventive sweet and savoury danishes, all crafted with a Japanese-inspired precision. The signature cube croissant is a must-try, alongside their yuzu or black sesame morning buns and a creamy matcha latte or classic filter brew.

13. Zelda Bakery (Ripponlea)

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Zelda Bakery began as a humble home operation, but its reputation quickly outgrew Maaryasha Werdiger’s kitchen. An obsession with baking sparked by a sourdough starter gifted to her in Jerusalem,  Zelda Bakery remains a go-to for naturally leavened loaves, pillowy focaccia, and beautifully braided challah. Their canelés are crisp, the cardamom buns and morning scrolls offer just the right balance of spice and sweetness, and a flaky pain au chocolat or a golden croissant pairs effortlessly with a filter coffee or a refreshing house-made seasonal soda.

14. A1 Bakery (Brunswick)

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A1 Bakery has been a Sydney Road institution since 1992, serving up Lebanese pizzas, spinach and haloumi pies, and an ever-busy atmosphere. More than just a bakery, it also functions as a café and Middle Eastern grocer, offering essentials like sumac, pomegranate molasses, and rose water for those looking to bring a taste of Lebanon to their kitchen.

15. Phillippa’s (Armadale)

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Phillippa’s Bakery is a Melbourne icon, with shelves stacked high with preserves, golden pastries, and rustic French loaves. There’s cakes and pastries when you’re in the mood for for a sweet treat, and savoury tarts and classic sausage rolls with house-made chutney for a satisfying lunch.

16. Lumos Bakery (McKinnon)

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Lumos Bakery, the bright and inviting McKinnon spot by pastry chef Carina La Delfa, has quickly built a loyal following for its inventive pastries and perfectly crusty breads. Standouts include the viral crookie (a croissant-cookie hybrid), the Ferrero Rocher-inspired hazelnut croissant, and the indulgent Brownie Bomb—a fudgy brownie wrapped in flaky pastry. For something savoury, the ham and cheese toastie with confit garlic is a must, while the best-selling white country loaf and earthy rye baguette make excellent take-home options.

17. Tarts Anon. (multiple)

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With locations now at Collingwood, the CBD, the Prahran markets (pop-up) and newly in Richmond, Tarts Anon specialises in exactly what their namesake spells out – tarts in all their shapes and sizes. From savoury croissant pastries with Parmesan cheese to Key Lime Tarts and Chocolate and Macadamia slices, this is the spot to go for that perfect food shot, regular limited-edition collabs and specials whipped up for holidays.

18. The Cake Club (Armadale)

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Sometimes, a proper sweet treat is the only thing that can truly satisfy. Enter, The Cake Club which is exactly as it sounds: a bakery specialising in ultra chic cakes and other baked goods. You can pre-order custom cakes for your next celebration, or drop in for a spontaneous cupcake, cookie, or cake tub. There’s also monthly flavour specials, if you needed another reason to make the trip.

Feature image: one, two.

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That unforgettable moment – an instant seared into pop culture history – sits at the heart of DIVA, a landmark new exhibition opening exclusively at Melbourne’s brand-new Australian Museum of Performing Arts (AMPA) later this year.

What is the DIVA exhibition?

DIVA is an exhibition of loaned items from across the world worn by many of the world’s best-known divas, from 19th century opera goddesses and silent movie stars to Golden Age Hollywood legends and today’s global megastars and pop icons.

Alongside Rihanna’s Papal Met Gala look will be Lady Gaga’s ethereal lavender Valentino gown from the 2019 Golden Globes, Bob Mackie’s dazzling creations for Cher and Tina Turner, and Elton John’s outrageous Sandy Powell-designed 50th birthday outfit.

But this is not merely an international roll call of icons – it’s also a love letter to Australia’s own divas. Kylie Minogue’s fiery Padam Padam outfit makes a triumphant appearance, joined by Jessica Mauboy’s glittering Eurovision gown. There’s a powerful presence in Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO’s (Yorta Yorta/Yuin) striking gown worn at the National Gallery of Australia in 2010, and a wink of punkish irreverence in Amy Taylor (of Amyl & The Sniffers fame)’s whoopee cushion costume, donned on stage at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.

What ties these looks together isn’t just spectacle but storytelling. Each garment is a reminder that performance is as much about costume as it is about voice, movement, or sound. To be a diva, the exhibition suggests, is to embody transformation—whether through sequins, silk, or sheer force of personality.

1/5   Cher, Elton John and Diana Ross at Rock Awards Santa Monica Civic Auditorium 1975; Various Locations; Mark Sullivan 70’s Rock Archive. Credit: Mark Sullivan / Contributor / Hulton Archive via Getty Images. 

Where is it happening?

Melbourne’s upcoming Australian Museum of Performing Arts (AMPA), set to open in December 2025 at Hamer Hall’s upper terrace. It will present rare treasures from the Australian Performing Arts Collection – including costumes and artefacts from icons like Kylie Minogue and Hugh Jackman – alongside touring international exhibitions.

When is the exhibition open?

The exhibition will open on 11 December 2025 and run through till 26 April 2026.

Feature image: Installation image of DIVA at the V&A. Credit: © Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

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From Fitzroy to South Melbourne, Carlton to Collingwood, the city’s sandwich slingers are doing the most. Here are the ones we keep coming back to.

1. Hector’s Deli (Richmond, South Melbourne, Fitzroy)

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Best for: cult favourites, crisp edges, old-school made new

Hector’s is a Melbourne icon for a reason. The sandwiches are indulgent, nostalgic and executed to perfection. Think golden schnitzel with butter lettuce and mustard mayo or egg salad with an umami punch. It’s the kind of place you’ll queue for without complaint – and you’ll leave with that warm, greasy, satisfied smile that only a perfect sandwich can deliver.

2. Hugo’s Deli (Richmond)

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Best for: steak-and-frites subs, ciabatta, park lunches

Tucked away in Richmond, Hugo’s Deli is your go-to for seriously stacked sambos – don’t skip the tuna melt with yuzu and shichimi, or the classic schnitzel with house sauce and pickles. They’re open every day till 2:30pm, but get in early because the good stuff goes fast. There’s limited seating, so it’s best to grab your sando to-go and enjoy it in the sun at nearby Yarra Park.

3. Mile End Bagels (Fitzroy, Richmond, Brunswick, Hawthorn)

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Best for: Montreal-style bagels, out-of-the-box specials, delivery to your door

While technically a bagel shop, Mile End earns its place in the sandwich hall of fame IMO. Their hand-rolled bagels are baked in a wood-fired oven, and filled with classic combos like lox and schmear or pastrami and Swiss. There’s no wrong choice here. Even when it comes to their wildly original monthly specials – like Rose Meringue, Matcha or Hot Cross bagels.

4. Morning Market (Fitzroy, Prahran)

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Best for: European vibes, deli-style sandwiches, a pastry chaser

Part grocer, part café, Morning Market is as chic as sandwich spots come – at both of their locations. Their focaccia sandwiches are loaded with high-end ingredients (think tuna belly, pickled fennel, or silky mortadella), and pair perfectly with a bottle of pét-nat or a rustic strawberry and rhubarb crostata for dessert.

5. Smith + Deli (Collingwood)

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Best for: vegan takes, NYC-style deli energy, epic portions

Smith & Deli has built a legacy around the idea that vegan food can be hearty, comforting, and outrageously delicious. Their sandwiches are generously stuffed, with flavour combos that more than hold their own against their meat-filled counterparts. Lately, their new Philly Cheesesteak special has been taking over our feeds – made with a house-made hoagie, grilled S + D steak slices, sauteed capsicum, onion, jalapenos, chilli garlic butter, and topped with their house-made vegan cheese sauce. (And, how could we forget: served with a side of deep fried pickles.)

6. Hi Fi (Collingwood)

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Best for: new-school deli, takeaway only, and eclectic vinyl soundtrack

Hi Fi is a takeaway-only deli slinging loaded sandwiches, house shakes and hot chips, all set to a rotating soundtrack of classic vinyl. Inspired by a lockdown-era Meatmaiden collab that spawned their namesake hot sauce, the menu now stars a towering Reuben, mortadella-stuffed focaccia, cheesy toasties and fish-finger sangas. You’ll also find cheese toasties, and a great coffee here.

7. Maker & Monger (Prahran Market, South Yarra)

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Best for: oozing toasties, fromage lovers, melty magic

What started as a humble cheese cart is now a toastie institution in Melbourne. Their All-American grilled cheese – made with three cheeses and cultured butter – is famous for good reason. For those who worship at the altar of dairy (or who just need a greasy hangover cure), this one’s non-negotiable.

8. Nico’s (Fitzroy, Melbourne CBD, Brunswick East)

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Best for: fluffy focaccia, meatball subs, vegan schnitzels

Nico’s is fun. Their branding is playful, the service friendly, and the focaccia pillowy-soft. With clever seasonal flavours and cheeky names, it’s the type of place where one sandwich just won’t be enough. Bonus points for the vegan and vegetarian schnitzels menu.

9. Applehead Deli (Mentone)

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Best for: sando and soup combos, $3 small batch brew, free stickers of the CEO macaroni at the counter

Applehead Deli is everything a local sando shoppe should be: familiar, flavourful, and a little bit nostalgic. Brought to life by couple Liz Garginian and Denis Arbatov as a love letter to the Jewish delis of Arbatov’s childhood, the menu is compact but full of heart, with weekend specials, comforting classics like Reubens and tuna melts, and a rotating selection of house-made sweets – don’t skip the apple cake. Inside, the vibe is cheeky and warm: pops of Katz’s-inspired red, retro fonts, and a granite counter.

10. Rocco’s Deli (Yarraville)

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Best for: Italian classics, no-skimp toppings, westside charm

Rocco’s is an unassuming little gem in the inner west that knows exactly what it’s doing. Their Italian sangas – packed with prosciutto, mozzarella, pesto, and roasted veg – are layered with care and served with heart. A local go-to that deserves city-wide recognition.

Feature images: one, two.

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The weekend was full, fleeting, and a little surreal – just as Melbourne, and RISING, promise to be.

Stay…

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I’ve been to Melbourne a few times now, but this was my first time staying at The Howey – a contemporary stay in the heart of Melbourne’s laneway precinct on Little Collins Street. Check-in and check-out were a breeze (they’ll store your suitcases before check-in if you ask), and the room itself was clean and replete with all the necessities – from hairdryers to tea kettles. I stayed in their Urban Superior King Room, which was generously sized, and with a well-appointed shower (a must for me) and great lighting for doing your makeup in the vanity (another must).

But the room’s real selling point was its location in amongst the festival’s happenings. The lobby downstairs opened up right onto RISING’s Night Trade – full of food stalls, bars and art installations (which ranged from the whimsical to the downright bizarre – there was an inflatable dog man roaming one room and an impromptu karaoke bar around the corner). Despite the noise on a street level, my room remained a sanctuary from the hubbub. If you’re coming for RISING – I’d highly recommend staying at The Howey if you’re priorities are being able to stroll to everything you’ve booked (or to duck back upstairs for a quick costume change with the weather).

Do…

1/5   Suki Waterhouse, photograph courtesy RISING 

Obviously, the reason I was in town was to check out some of the festival’s programming. It was my first time at RISING, so I wasn’t sure what to expect – but I was not disappointed. If your fans of festivals like Dark Mofo, you’ll appreciate the eccentricity of the festival’s curated lineup. I headed to Swingers: The Art of Mini Golf, which was a mini-golf course erected inside Flinders Street Station’s upstairs ballroom. Each hole was an art installation in itself, each designed by a female artist of note; Miranda July, Nabilah Nordin, Kaylene Whiskey, Soda Jerk and more. Between strapping inflatable tails to

But if you’re more into art of the sonic variety – there was plenty to lend your ears to. In two days I managed to catch the angelic, honey-soft voice of Californian Jessica Pratt, the sound wall of Brooklyn shoegazers DIIV as part of the Day Tripper festival at Melbourne’s Town Hall, and the inimitable Suki Waterhouse – her first and only show in Australia – to a crowd of thousands.

Pratt’s Friday night show was a sold-out affair at Melbourne Recital Centre, one of the city’s most beautiful performance halls. Pratt was instantly magnetic, a performance whittled down to the basics. Surrounded by her band of four, Pratt strummed and hummed with a voice like honey. And as an audience, we willingly sunk into the depths of her sticky, warm glow. I’d highly suggest giving her 2024 album Here in the Pitch a listen one rainy, cosy evening very soon.

Saturday’s affairs were a little more up-tempo, first diving into a set from DIIV at RISING’s Day Tripper festival. A short stroll across the street into Melbourne’s Town Hall, and a crowd of hundreds had gathered to witness the Brooklyn, New York shoegaze outfit. Dressed in hi-vis and a legionnaires cap, the band was fittingly outfitted for the evening, which pulsed with swelling guitars, looped synths and trippy visuals that admonished politicians and marketed fake pharmaceuticals. But just before the evening’s last song, we pried ourselves from the grips of DIIV and into an Uber to head across town to Port Melbourne’s PICA: the venue where Suki Waterhouse was soon to take the stage in her first-ever Australian show (and the only show she would be playing in the country). More than 3,000 eager fans had packed the venue in the cold, huddled like penguins. But the temperature was soon forgotten as Waterhouse appeared, like Penny Lane come to life in a fur jacket, oversized sunglasses and platform boots. Every word she sung was cooed back to her by her adoring fans – it’s rare, in my experience, to feel the energy of a song so far back in a crowd, but there we were, surrounded by hundreds of fans belting every lyric to each other emphatically. Enamoured and exhilarated, it was time to go home.

Eat…

1/4   Brico in Carlton North 

It’s no secret that Melbourne is a foodie’s dream – and no matter how packed my schedule, I was determined to get my hands of some of the city’s finest. First – for a late-night feed in the city (particularly if you’re looking for some calories to consume after a big night at one of RISING’s gigs in the city), I’d highly recommend Butcher’s Diner. Tucked into an unassuming spot in Melbourne’s CBD, it’s the perfect late-night burger spot that riffs on the tropes of the classic American diner. We got one of the best cheese burgers I’ve ever had and some incredible Japanese fried chicken.

For a drink pre- or post- gig, I’d suggest tucking yourself into HER Bar – the bottom floor of a multi-storey bar and restaurant precinct with some of the city’s most beautiful interiors. The lighting is soupy, the drinks are punchy, and the heating is ON. Perfect for a wind-down (or head upstairs to Music Room for a pre-game cocktail and dance party).

If you’re looking to explore outside of the city on a quiet morning – Fenton Farmhouse in Carlton is a cheerful, casual cafe that I had to circle back to twice (the chai latte and banana bread combo here was too good to have just once). But for something a little more fun, grab yourself a table at Brico in Carlton North. This corner-stop restaurant serves delicious seasonal small plates (best shared between two), as well as regular kitchen takeovers and guest chefs).

Take…

I’m becoming more of an expert at ferrying my belongings on weekend trips like this – and the art of light packing is one I’m close to mastering. First of all – I cannot sing the praises of no checked baggage enough. If you can avoid it, my god you should. I think I saved about 45 minutes of queuing on either end of this trip just by bringing along my trusty July Carry On suitcase. And inside, I kept things minimal. Of course, a good book (this time The Friday Afternoon Club by Griffin Dunne, which I devoured most of in airports). A great moisturiser (Emma Lewisham’s Supernatural Day Crème did the job nicely). For day-to-day ferrying I have never strayed from my classic Coach Tabby bag (I’m a silver hardware kind of girl). And last but not least, my new non-negotiable is the Friends With Frank Celemence Blazer, which kept me warm and toasty (it’s a 100% wool outer).

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From buzzy Cannes breakouts to daring local debuts, the 73rd edition is already promising 18 days of excellent cinema. But if you don’t know where to start, these are the films the RUSSH editors wouldn’t be missing this year.

1. It Was Just an Accident

Winner of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or, It Was Just an Accident sees director Jafar Panahi at his most unflinching, crafting a masterful road thriller that twists moral ambiguity into unforgettable cinema. Made between Iran, France, Luxembourg, and against all odds – under house arrest and censorship – this deeply humanistic tale of memory, guilt and consequence solidifies Panahi’s place as one of the world’s most essential filmmakers.

2. One More Shot 

One More Shot hurls us back to Y2K, where a tequila-soaked house party spirals into a never-ending time loop. With a killer Aussie cast and a soundtrack of late-90s bangers, this debut from Nicholas Clifford proves some nights are better not repeated.

3. Sorry, Baby 

Winner of Sundance’s Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award, Sorry, Baby is Eva Victor’s fearless debut – a darkly funny, emotionally raw dramedy about a college professor navigating life after trauma. Produced by Barry Jenkins and acquired by A24, the film features standout performances from Naomi Ackie and Lucas Hedges.

4. Lurker

Alex Russell, Emmy-winning writer-producer of The Bear and Beef, makes a striking directorial debut with this psychological thriller that premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and screened at Berlin’s Berlinale Special Gala. Starring Théodore Pellerin and Archie Madekwe (of Saltburn fame), the film delves into the dark side of fame as a retail worker insinuates himself into the life of a rising pop star.

5. Marlon Williams: Two Worlds — Ngā Ao E Rua

This is a deeply personal documentary chronicling the acclaimed New Zealand musician’s four-year journey to create his first album entirely in te reo Māori, Te Whare Tīwekaweka. Directed by Ursula Grace Williams, the film captures Williams’ exploration of his Ngāi Tahu and Ngāi Tai heritage, his collaboration with language mentor Kommi, and features intimate moments with artists like Lorde, Aldous Harding, and Florence Welch.

6. Julia Holter: The Passion of Joan of Arc

Experience a rare cinematic and musical fusion as avant-garde composer Julia Holter brings her acclaimed live score for Carl Theodor Dreyer’s 1928 silent masterpiece, The Passion of Joan of Arc, to Melbourne Recital Centre for its Australian premiere. Presented by MUBI, this exclusive two-night event features Holter alongside her ensemble and the 36-voice Chorus of Opera North, delivering a hauntingly beautiful soundscape woven from medieval chants, organ, and electronics.

7. Twinless

Dylan O’Brien delivers a knockout dual performance in Twinless, earning both the Special Jury Award for Acting and the Audience Award at Sundance 2025. Directed by Straight Up’s James Sweeney, the film follows Roman as he joins a support group after the death of his twin, Rocky – who still appears to him in surreal, often absurd ways. With a sharp, queer-leaning script and a score by Parasite composer Jung Jae-il, this one’s a darkly funny, emotionally layered portrait of grief.

8. When the World Came Flooding In

Premiering at MIFF 2025 in collaboration with Now or Never, When the World Came Flooding In is an immersive VR installation by acclaimed artists Van Sowerwine and Isobel Knowles. This powerful piece invites audiences to step into the lived experiences of flood survivors, offering a deeply personal lens on climate crisis and community resilience.

9. Blue Moon

Richard Linklater’s lates offers a poignant, one-night glimpse into the life of lyricist Lorenz Hart, featuring Ethan Hawke, Andrew Scott and Margaret Qualley. Set on 31 March 1943 – the opening night of Oklahoma! – the film unfolds almost entirely within Sardi’s bar, where Hart grapples with his fading career and personal demons.

10. Dreams

Michel Franco’s Dreams reunites him with Jessica Chastain in a provocative drama that delves into the complexities of immigration, privilege, and power dynamics. Premiering at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, the film follows Jennifer McCarthy (Chastain), a wealthy American philanthropist, and Fernando Rodriguez (Isaac Hernández), a young Mexican ballet dancer, whose passionate relationship exposes the stark inequalities between their worlds.

For more information on programming and tickets, visit the MIFF website.

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Below, discover the can’t-miss inclusions on this year’s RISING program.

Highlights from the 2025 RISING lineup

Whether you’re into indie, electronic, folk, or experimental sounds, RISING’s 2025 program guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Iconic Portishead vocalist Beth Gibbons will grace RISING with songs from her long-awaited solo debut album, LIVES OUTGROWN, bringing her haunting voice to Hamer Hall for a mesmerising one-night-only performance. It marks Gibbons’ first Australian performance since 2011.

Also not to be missed is indie-rap duo Black Star, featuring Yasiin Bey and Talib Kweli, making their Melbourne debut at PICA. Their performance promises to be a celebration of the revolutionary spirit that defined their groundbreaking sound.

Also on the bill is Japanese Breakfast, fronted by Michelle Zauner, who will perform her cinematic indie-rock hits at PICA, marking her first Melbourne show in eight years.In the realm of performance, there are 20 events scheduled to take place, including a take on Hamlet by a neurodiverse cast in association wiht the University of Melbourne, and an Australian exclusive of BLKDOG, an Olivier-Award-winning hip hop production from one of Britain’s most exciting choreographers, Botis Seva.

And when it comes to art, expect to be immersed in everything from laser shows to projection spectacles. There’s First Peoples Melbourne Art Trams, a series that honours Ancestral connections, shared histories and First Peoples women as connectors of cultural practice. Six works from Victorian First Peoples artists were selected as part of the initiative, to be displayed on trams across the CBD. Or for something totally immersive, look to Saturate,  a unique sonic bathing experience featuring Retallick’s original electroacoustic composition, which can only be fully experienced with ears below the water’s surface.

Discover the full festival program on the RISING website.

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When is RISING festival 2025?

This year, RISING will take place across two weekends, from Wednesday 4th to Sunday 15th June.

When are tickets available?

Tickets to specific events are already available to purchase now, via the RISING website.

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RJ Living has planted new roots in Melbourne’s Hawthorn, unveiling a flagship showroom that redefines how we experience interior design. Spanning over 800 square metres, this isn’t just a place to browse furniture – it’s an immersive journey through form, function and feeling. With every corner crafted to inspire, the new space invites customers to dream bigger, dwell slower, and reimagine what Australian living can be.

Rooted in the principles that have shaped RJ Living since its inception – enduring aesthetics, a distinctly Australian lifestyle, forming deeper connections with our spaces, and a design ethos that is forever evolving – the Hawthorn space is both a tribute to the history of the brand, and a stride into its future. With expansive zones spanning from open-air courtyards to intimate vignettes, it offers a multifaceted journey through curated interiors that feel simultaneously personal and aspirational.

Here, natural elements take centre stage. European Oak joinery anchors the showroom, while earthy marbles and moss-hued tiles enrich the space as a sensory experience. Tactile linens and aged brass detailing each lend each area an elevated and sophisticated personality, inviting visitors to take pause. A sculptural, curved rug display and a seven-metre, modular furniture wall function as interactive installations – both aesthetic and practical, drawing visitors into a deeper design dialogue.

The outdoor component of RJ Living‘s latest space another of its essential feature. Raised decking, expressive native planting, and thoughtfully arranged alfresco furniture form an oasis that reflects our instinctive connection to the Australian landscape – lush and irreverent. Here, the brand’s vision of an indoor-outdoor lifestyle is fully realised.

And at the very heart of the showroom lies the Design Consult desk – stone-inlaid, softly lit, and surrounded by swatches, tiles, and design samples. It’s a space built for conversation and customisation, reaffirming RJ Living’s dedication to collaboration and customer-led interiors.

The store’s opening weekend, held earlier last month, welcomed visitors with exclusive in-store offers and complimentary baked goods from another beloved Melbourne institution, Baker Bleu. In every detail, from the moss-coloured tiles to the blush linen curtains, RJ Living’s new home in Hawthorn articulates a singular vision: one where design is both lived and felt, grounded in craftsmanship and open to reinterpretation.

The Hawthorn showroom opening also marks the debut of Chroma – RJ Living’s latest upholstery and rug collection. True to its name, the collection explores colour with restraint. Subtle tonal shifts and rich textures define the line, with a focus on creating pieces that are simultaneously expressive and enduring. Designed to harmonise with RJ’s timber-heavy design language, Chroma adds a fresh layer to the brand’s narrative offering depth, tactility, and a new chromatic vocabulary for the modern home.

From sculptural forms to commanding hues, the following pieces are a couple of RUSSH-curated highlights – a considered edit of what we’re loving from the new Chroma collection.

Niche Bench in Fossil Eucalyptus

Muse Bedside Table in Oak

Restore Queen Bed in Fossil Fawn

Wrap Dining Chair in Taupe

More on RJ Living’s new Hawthorn flagship showroom and new Chroma collection can be found on the RJ Living website.

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Whether you’re craving inventive contemporary cuisine or a laid-back space to enjoy a long boozy lunch with friends, these new venues are shaping the future of Melbourne’s gastronomic landscape. With an emphasis on atmosphere, innovation, and bold tastes, here’s a look at best new restaurants landing in Melbourne in 2025.

Cordelia

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Opening: May 2025

About: Carlton’s bustling Rathdowne street is set to receive a new addition this year, with Cordelia opening up in the heart of the action. The new venture comes courtesy of the husband and wife team behind Dons in Prahran, and is set to put fresh, sustainable seafood at the fore. The name itself, ‘Cordelia’ was picked for it’s Latin meaning: ‘Daughter of the Sea.’ Bookmark your calendars for May, when what will surely be Carlton’s most coveted reservation, officially opens shop.

Maison Bâtard

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Opened: November 2024

About: Maison Batard officially opened its doors in late 2024, but we still think it’s worth a mention. From the creative brains of restaurateur Chris Lucas, this French venue spans four stories, and is worth every bit of the hype. The basement is home to a late-night supper club, while the top level turns in Le Terrasse — a slightly more casual dining space. And on the ground floor is the star of the show: a sprawling Parisienne-style brasserie, complete with a custom-built oyster bar.

Le Splendide

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Opened: Late 2024

About: From the team behind South Yarra institution France-Soir comes Le Splendide. The wine bar has officially taken residency next door, in a cosy, chic space perfect for a pre- or post-dinner tipple. There’s no kitchen on-site, but there are plenty of French snacks on offer and, of course, a wine list that spans seemingly forever.

Ramen Ako

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Opened: 13 March

About: This 31-seat ramen shop in Brunswick East serves a limited 80 to 100 bowls of ramen a day. It makes sense: the kitchen is a solo operation, run by owner Sho Iijima. He specialises in a refined menu of just three kinds of ramen: signature chintan (clear), chicken broth, and paitan (thickened chicken) broth. And the end product is about as authentic as you can get, with the recipe’s adapted from the traditional chicken soup Sho’s mother, Ako Iijima, used to make.

Slowpoke

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Opened: 1st march

About: Collingwood’s rooftop bar scene has officially grown by one, with the introduction of Slowpoke. Housed on top of a co-working space, the al-fresco bar has instantly become one of the most sought-after bookings in the city, and for good reason. Not only is it expertly fitted-out, but the considered drinks menu has all the makings of a fun night out.

Suze

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Opened: 13 March

About: If you love the likes of Marion and Napier Quarter, chances are you’ll be a fan of Suze. The wine bar comes courtesy of ex-Marion restaurant manager Andrew McConnell, and former head chef of Napier Quarter Steve Harry, in a merging of two of Melbourne’s greats. At Suze, you’ll find small snacks, mains, and intriguing desserts, plus a drinks list that fuses the best of Australian and European wine.

Loku

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Opened: 20 December, 2024

About: Owner and head chef Lanka began cooking when she as just 9 years old, helping her mother in the kitchen. Now, she’s showcasing what she learned with Loku, a new venture in Northcote, which puts the flavours and spices of Sri Lankan cooking in the spotlight. Casual, homely, and always delicious, this is one new spot that’s worth a visit.

Bar Taralli

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Opened: February 19

About: You’d be forgiven for thinking this North Melbourne haunt was actually a trattoria in the south of Italy. As you’ve probably gleaned, Bar Taralli is named after taralli — the crunchy, salty snack that’s signature to the southern Italian cuisine. Naturally, the menu is also brimming with delicacies from this part of the world, including a moreish orecchiette with a white pork and beef ragu, and char-grilled octopus legs served over a garlicky tomato sauce.

Nori Maki

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Opened: 17 December, 2024

About: When it comes to Japanese cuisine, omakase is about as spectacular as it gets. A menu entirely at the discretion of the chef, this style of dining can typically attract soaring price tags. But at Nori Maki, the food — while still delectable — comes at a refreshingly affordable cost. The menu ranges from $34 to $89, and spans everything from fresh hand rolls to stuffed mochi for dessert.

Feature image: one, two.

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