How to experience the best of NYC in Melbourne

Melbourne offers a taste of some of the world’s greatest cities. Here’s how to experience the best of New York City, right here in downtown Melbourne.

Pizza by the slice

New York is fuelled by pizza. Grabbing a thin-based, shockingly large slice on the go is a quintessential experience from the Bronx all the way to Staten Island. For a taste of NY-pie, check out the classics at Pizza Pizza Pizza in Meyers Place (there’s also a hidden bar at the back, perfect for dodging the midtown crowds). Dip down Flinders Lane and you can grab a slice of Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza. Complain about the tourists for added authenticity.

Diners and American BBQ

If you want to imagine you’re sinking your teeth into the pastrami-on-rye or the outrageous beef brisket sandwich at Katz’s, head to Fancy Hank’s on Bourke Street. Their pastrami and smoky brisket will transport you straight to East Houston Street. Late-night burger joint Butchers Diner puts on an impeccable spread too. Visit on Thursdays for a house made wagyu pastrami Rueben, served with all the trimmings.

Find the best bagel shops

Step down into Bowery to Williamsburg and order up a teetering turkey club. Grab a side of mac and cheese (served in NY style with a pickle and a pretzel), with a Melbourne-grade latte served in kitsch diner design cups. Or try Schmucks Bagels. The fully loaded 'luv you lox' bagel with smoked salmon, cream cheese, pickled red onions and cress is New York in a bite.

Order up New York cheesecake

Brunetti offers an epic cake collection, and the New York cheesecake is one of our all time faves. The decadent, baked cream cheese filling sits atop a buttery biscuit base. Served with seasonal fruit for a refreshing touch of sweetness. Pop in for a slice or grab a whole one to go, we ain't judging.

Find flea market fashion and Fifth Avenue style

Head to Saturdays NYC in QV for gorgeous, minimalist clothing and lifestyle products. At Emporium, you can pick up an elegant handbag or wallet from Kate Spade New York. Rag & Bone on Elizabeth Street is the Melbourne outpost of this coveted New York clothing brand. If vintage is your jam, pick through the racks of old-school thrift-store finds at American Rag. They source their garments from the US, so you just might score a Brooklyn flea market find in your own backyard.

Catch a Broadway show

Step inside Her Majesty’s Theatre and emerge in the streets of 18th century New York. Hamilton is the new cult favourite musical with music by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The award winning show delves into American history through the story of Alexander Hamilton. Already seen it? After making it's debut in New York four years ago, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has taken up residence in Melbourne's own Princess Theatre. The magical show recently relaunched as a refreshed one night version.