There’s a real buzz in the air in Melbourne during summer with its cultural calendar (and weather) heating up in January. Of course, there’s endless new dining spots and free outdoor gigs and sport. But there’s also a unique rotation of award-winning productions lighting up the city’s dedicated theatre district—headlined by Groundhog Day the Musical. With original music and lyrics by Australia’s own Tim Minchin, the show has announced an Australian-exclusive season in Melbourne kicking off 24 January 2024—and we couldn't be more stoked.
If your summer holiday cycle is stuck in a repetitive loop, we’ve joined forces with Visit Melbourne to freshen it up. Here’s where to eat, drink and play in Melbourne’s dazzling theatre district for a long weekend that rivals a ritzy trip to the West End.
Eat
Reine
It’s a French affair at swanky new Melbourne CBD restaurant Reine. Having opened less than six months ago in the dramatic old Melbourne Stock Exchange, the fine diner has already attracted a lot of buzz. Pore over the 700+ wine list, order bite-sized dishes from the roaming cheese trolley, and marvel at the large open-grill fire anchoring the kitchen and elevating the menu. The theatrics of this ornate, Gothic-style building alone make it the perfect spot for a pre-theatre champagne and nibble or post-show, multi-course dining sesh.
Freyja
Speaking of Gothic architecture, it doesn't get more dazzling than Collins Street's Olderfleet building. Inside the striking space you'll find Freyja, a relaxed new Nordic restaurant that whips up delicately-balanced dishes with the best Victorian produce. As one would expect from the Scandis, each dish is approachable, beautifully presented, and innovatively crafted to showcase unexpected takes on local faves—like the lamb tartare. If you're splashing out for your Melbourne theatre weekend, go for the 'Taste of Freyja' menu where you'll get to try the delicious buttery waffle with Yarra Valley trout roe.
White Mojo
You’re never far from an impressive brekkie in Melbourne, and White Mojo in the CBD’s Hardware Lane isn’t shy about their OTT offering (see above). Here, you can tuck into croissant burgers, waffles topped with fairy floss, or classic French toast—all paired with a great coffee, of course.
Drink
Caretaker’s Cottage
This cosy boozer is not only beloved by Melbourne locals, it was also named 23rd in the world’s 50 best bars last year. Blending old with new, the charming former cottage serves up great drinks, great tunes, and great times. Once you’re done sipping cocktails and Guinness to the soundtrack of vinyls, stroll down to the Princess Theatre—you’re just a breezy seven-minute walk away.
Apollo Inn
Tucked away in a city laneway, Apollo Inn is the embodiment of old-world charm and romanticism. The stepped-up cocktail bar comes from the same crew as Gimlet, so you know you’re in for a heavy dose of that exceptional Melbourne hospitality. Post theatre, order a martini alongside their classic beef carpaccio, before sauntering down Flinders Lane for more late-night adventuring.
Good Heavens
Rooftop bars are synonymous with Melbourne's hospo scene, and Good Heavens have just expanded theirs to be the biggest in the city. Swing by for a pre-show tipple from the '80s-themed cocktail list. On it you'll find such sips as the Melbourne Made with Melbourne moonshine apple pie shine, the Noni-Noni Heyy with house-made bitter orange rum, and four summery spritzes for a balmy afternoon. The best part? You're just a brisk four-minute walk from the Princess Theatre.
Play
Groundhog Day The Musical
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From January 24 2024 Princess Theatre will play host to the latest project from the witty lyrical and creative minds of Tim Minchin, Danny Rubin and Matthew Warchus. Based on the cult film of the same name, Groundhog Day The Musical follows Pittsburgh TV weatherman Phil Connors as he lives the same day over and over again to thrilling comedic effect. Expect cleverly-written tunes with loads of personality, intricately designed sets and costumes, and plenty of light and dark in a way only Tim Minchin can achieve. Fresh from a hugely popular run in London, Groundhog Day the Musical lands in Melbourne for an Australian-exclusive, 13-week season. This is a show you don’t want to miss.
Stay
Le Méridien Melbourne
In 2023, Melbourne city's iconic entertainment hub the Palace Theatre was transformed into the five-star Le Méridien Melbourne. Located in the heart of the theatre district, this mid-century modern hotel is the perfect base for a long weekend spent exploring the city. Fittingly, Le Méridien Melbourne's restaurant Dolly harps back to the glory days of glamour with its 1930s fitout and classic European dishes—so you can swing by a romantic dinner before the show.
Quincy Hotel
Located in the heart of it all, Quincy Melbourne is a boutique hotel with a whole lot of soul. Expect plush, vibrant rooms kitted out with all the creative comforts. With three distinct room types, you can choose between Caledonian and Hosier Club rooms, which are adorned with shapely modern furniture and colourful patterned bed heads. If you book a room on floors 10 and above you’ll also score uninterrupted views of the bustling city—the full Melbourne experience.
Catch Groundhog Day The Musical at Princess Theatre from January 24 for a 13-week season. Find out more about the production and where to book your tickets here.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Visit Melbourne Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Images: Reine, Freyja, White Mojo, Caretaker's Cottage, Apollo Inn, Good Heavens, Visit Melbourne, Le Meridien Melbourne, Quincy Hotel