Melbourne CBD is full of amazing offerings. It's a shame then, that so many city workers fail to take advantage of this. We're not talking about the touristy things and incredible shopping that our beloved city is famous for. We're not even talking about the incredible food options on offer.
Indeed, many tend to bring their own lunch to work or grab something from the nearest food court - when they could be using that hour to set themselves up for a re-energised afternoon. We scouted around for some of these types of experiences and found some gems! Our city delivers once again and offers some truly special opportunities to reset.
In no particular order and offering a few different things (for some of these you may want to bring your own lunch, or simply pick it up along the way!)
The Grotto
It sounds a bit ominous, but it's actually the opposite. An almost private Zen Garden, offering not one, but two waterfalls and within easy walking distance of the CBD.
You wouldn't know it was there if you didn't know it was there. Where is it? Well, if are you up for a 20 minute walk from Flinders, pick up a sandwich and a coffee/soup on the way and enjoy a delightful walk across the bridge and along the river. Head across Alexandra Ave up into the Botanical Gardens after you pass the Swan Street bridge and before you know it you will be skipping down some stone steps, landing in your own enchanted little area. That should give you 15/20 minutes to eat your lunch as you contemplate life and listen to the sounds of the flowing water and birdsong.
What we love about The Grotto is it's relative obscurity. It's rare to find more than a few people down there and often times it's just you. Have a little meditation and enjoy the walk back to the office - your day has just been elevated! (Google Maps: The Grotto Kings Domain)
NGV
OK, so it's not quite the secret as our first option, but have you checked out the large space at the back? It's a big space punctuated by a stained glass ceiling that will take your breath away. This is complemented by comfortable lazy-boy style seating/lying options scattered around - a perfect place to lie back and zone out. It may be busy, but you're in the NGV, a place of art and reverence.
The relaxation is implicit and accentuated by the music of the day - generally something curated and beautiful. This is another lovely option for a lunch time break - and it's a super easy and quick and free tram ride from anywhere on Swanston Street.
Sky Park
This is a great option for those on the 'New York' end of the city... yes, that's where the financial hub sits, think corner Collins and Spencer Streets. Melbourne Quarter is just a short walk along Collins towards Docklands and Sky Park can be accessed by ascending that hard-to-miss, dramatic spiral staircase! The climb is worth it.
The sounds of the city are still present, but they becomes white noise as you are instantly calmed and transported by this beautifully landscaped space. There is ample seating and even some sun beds. It is also sheltered from the elements and even offers some power points. There are plans to improve Sky Park even more, but it's pretty cool as it is - views, chill spots, calmness, and an escape from the big smoke - in the big smoke!
St Patrick's Cathedral
We now head right over to the other side of town. Cross over Spring Street and look up to your left... it's likely you will see the imposing facade of St Patricks.
That's where you want to be for some quiet moments or, if you're lucky - catching the lunchtime mass at 1pm. You can either find a pew and contemplate life as you take in the awesome surroundings.
Or if you feel like it, you can take a wander around the cathedral itself and witness the many incredible shrines, the magnificent organ and stunning artworks. For a peaceful lunch, we enjoyed finding the exit to the Pilgrim Path - a beautiful walk to a fountain, becoming a stream down towards Fitzroy Gardens. Benches adorn this pathway and it's a perfect place to take a load off and reflect.
The Mound and Pond - Fitzroy Gardens
These gardens offer many delights. None more so than this little-known oasis from the city. The pond is well known and much admired, but many fail to notice two stone spiral staircases leading upwards to another world. You do almost feel like you have parted the coats in the wardrobe and discovered Narnia... except there is no snow here, just peace and quiet to enjoy your recess.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
The top 5 are all on the edges of the CBD - chosen to encourage some exercise before the relax. Most of us are sedentary for up to four hours in the morning and it does wonders for our body and spirit to have a stroll at lunch time. Should you be time poor and/or wish to be more central during your lunch hour, here are a few other options that may appeal.
The State Library
Another iconic venue and we've picked out two options for zoning out. The first one is right out front - find a perch (sometimes it's not easy) and become a chess spectator. Even, if you're not a fan, there is something soothing about watching this battle play out in front of you to the soundtrack of activity. It's white noise personified and you can feel Melbourne's heartbeat right there... but it's also blissfully peaceful in it's anonymity.
Or, for something much quieter, you can head inside, up the stairs to the mezzanine level and into the beautiful Queens Hall Reading Room. Here, you can find designated chess tables to have a game with a friend (or a stranger) and plenty of space to read or simply relax. No food allowed here though, but you can have a snack downstairs in the Welcome Zone and for a lovely cafe meal, there is always Mr Tulk.
Mid Air (130 Russell Str.)
This one is for those who are keen to buy a coffee or lunch with that million dollar view. It has to be seen and to be honest... it's probably best for after work drinks. But, if you can get this table - you can settle in for a very relaxing and dreamy lunch.
Amiri Cafe (QV Melbourne)
An absolute gem of a cafe with potentially the best Ramen that Melbourne has to offer (and we don't say that lightly). It's always humming with activity, but has an aura of calm and efficiency. The ideal option for a delectable lunch and some really good vibes. Think the best of Asian and the best of Melbourne - culinary delights, coffees, teas, cakes and desserts. It's all here!
Do you have any to add to the list? Let us know in the comments 🙏