Uncover all that’s great about Melbourne at this sleek and contemporary hideaway.
In 2018, French hospitality giant AccorHotels launched its first high-rise, dual-branded hotel development in Australia, with Novotel Melbourne Central and Ibis Melbourne Central sharing guest facilities in a newly built, 35-floor – and almost 500-guestroom strong – tower. A stay in Novotel Melbourne Central (levels 20 to 35) promises light-filled, modern rooms, intimate service and sophisticated dining facilities in the beating heart of the country’s cultural capital.
What’s the neighbourhood like?
As a born and bred Melbournian, I can confidently say you couldn't ask for a better location. Towering above Little Lonsdale Street, it’s only a five-minute walk from the lush Flagstaff Gardens, sprawling Emporium shopping precinct and the State Library Victoria. In true Melbourne style, walk out the door and you’ve got authentic Taiyuan-style noodles to your right, an airy and modern Korean-inspired coffee shop directly ahead and graffiti-covered Finlay Alley at left.
Melbourne's free city tram service, part of the world's longest tram network, is likewise at your service, making Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, the National Gallery of Victoria and Melbourne Museum all easily accessible.
Where am I sleeping?
Our L-shaped Superior Room with Two Single Beds on the 25th floor ticks all essential hotel room boxes: high-speed Wi-Fi, 55-inch Smart TV, blackout curtains, QR code-activated in-room dining menu, ironing facilities, individual heating and air-conditioning. The bathroom features a make-up mirror and double showerheads, plus Deep Nature SPA products. A chaise lounge with a portable desktop is ideal for spreading out. Rooms range from Standard ($235), Superior, Deluxe and Junior Suite, with the latter boasting a separate living area and larger bathroom with a deep-soaking standalone bathtub.
What's on the menu?
Pretty Boy Bar and Restaurant, helmed by Executive Chef Michael Smith (formally of Mamasita and Tonka), features an all-star menu of Italian-American and steakhouse classics. Drawing inspiration from Little Lonsdale’s past notoriety as one of Melbourne’s most dangerous districts – and named after American gangster Pretty Boy Floyd – the space is open for a beautifully presented buffet breakfast as well as dinner and drinks.
We have cocktails on the wraparound bar of the open kitchen, dinner in a booth and our morning brew in the restaurant’s breakfast-only dining nook. The bar menu is tempting, as is the nightly special (pasta of the day and house wine Mondays; all-you-can-eat spicy wings Tuesdays), but, on the guidance of Chef Smith, I opt for a four-course degustation. The anchovy toast with homemade focaccia and whipped egg cream is a clear standout.
And how about drinks?
A social hour with discounted drinks is on offer Monday through Saturday from 4pm to 5.30pm, with tipples including negronis and limoncello gin fizzes. My green apple mojito and espresso martini, fitting given Melbourne’s coffee-loving culture, hit all the spots. The make-your-own juicing station and barista-crafted St. Ali coffee are delightful additions to the buffet spread.
What are the facilities like?
On street level is all-day diner Goldie Asian Canteen + Brews, likewise helmed by Chef Smith and open to the public, meaning you may need to contend with lines for a scrambled egg, mushroom and fermented soybean toastie (worth it). Two conference rooms and a modern 24-hour fitness centre are on offer. We’re informed there are plans to open a new contemporary workspace on level two.
What sets Novotel Central apart?
The friendly staff, from waiters, bartenders and check-in concierge. As I arrived in the spacious drive lane, a charming valet attendant graciously opened my car door – pure luxury – and, upon my return, I discovered they had thoughtfully left a few treats in the car.
Who will love Novotel Melbourne Central?
Novotel Melbourne Central is everything a modern, central city stay should be. Locals after a staycation, tourists wanting to be at the heart of the action and business travellers will find everything they need within.
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The writer was a guest of the hotel.
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