What’s new in Melbourne’s laneways

LB’s Record Bar

Who said the dance floor was dead? One of Melbourne's most iconic laneway spots has just reopened as a very popular, after-dark record bar. LB's Record Bar in Meyers Place is the perfect place to warm up and get a little sweaty on a wintery night out. This neon-lit hideaway comes alive as DJs spin vinyl tracks and dozens of punters get ready for a night of music and killer moves. The cocktail menu will also get you on your feet with names like 'boogie nights' and 'dancefloor martini'.

Super Taco

Dine Mexico City–style at this tiny new taqueria. Super Taco is in good company on Crossley Street, alongside Bard’s Apothecary and Traveller Coffee. The tortillas are hand-pressed onsite daily and come loaded with flavour-packed toppings. The pork al pastor is cooked on the trompo (spit) in the open kitchen and paired with charred pineapple. The grilled skirt steak is another must-try. Drizzle sauces and toppings to your heart’s content at the self-serve salsa station. Then finish on zesty condensed milk soft serve.

The Florence 

Visit Tuscany in Melbourne at the city’s new wine bar, The Florence. Climb the stairs above The Meatball & Wine Bar on Flinders Lane to find this secret spot. You won't want to rush through the drinks menu, except during happy hour. From 5pm to 6pm daily it’s an easy choice: $10 piccolo negronis, $10 wines and $14 spritzes. Soak it all up with bar snacks ranging from grilled cheese sandwiches with truffled pecorino to creamy mushroom gnocchi. 

Time After Time

When a plain croissant just isn't cutting it, head down Howey Place to Time After Time. Everything is baked onsite at this cute laneway brunch spot from the team behind Alt Pasta Bar. Order Melbourne's biggest cinnamon roll, folded eggs and cream-topped espressos. The real star here is the charcoal croissants. Try one plain, or loaded with ricotta, figs and honey. They regularly sell out, so get in early.

BakeStand

When sweet treat time hits, just look for the upside down clock in Melbourne Walk opposite Mecca. Accessible via Union Lane or The Causeway, BakeStand is known for creating Melbourne-style cookies. What is Melbourne-style? We’re so glad you asked! These chunky cookies have crisp edges, soft centres and inventive flavours. Start with entry-level dark chocolate or campfire s’mores. Then go bold with strawberry matcha latte or Vegemite and cheese.

YummiGo 

Grab lunch for just $10 at YummiGo. This new cheap eats Japanese spot is just a few doors down from BakeStand on The Causeway. The signature wagyu donburi (rice bowl) is just $9.99. To sweeten the deal, all meals come with bottomless free miso soup, garnishes and drinks at the self-serve bar. Other lunchtime staples include katsu curry, chirashi bowls and takoyaki. Dine in the bustling canteen-style space, or grab and go for a quick work lunch. 

Pinned

A cute little hole-in-the-wall coffee shop has opened on Rankins Lane. Drop a pin in this laneway lined with leafy balcony gardens on your next city coffee run. Pinned Coffee has gone viral for its specialty coffees. It’s tough choosing between the creamy vanilla Einspanner and the orangey zest of the lion tamer. They both pair perfectly with fluffy shio pan salt bread and garlic pastry from May Bakes. It's takeaway only and prepare to queue: this place is popular!

Piccolo Teatro: Magic Theatre

This boutique magic bar is bringing whimsy back to Rankins Lane. Continue on past Pinned to find the glittering lights of Piccolo Teatro. Head down the wooden staircase to find a cosy 32-seat theatre and a tiny bar. Pull up an antique chair and watch as the velvet curtains are pulled back to unveil illusionists, magicians and mind-readers. Shows are on every Friday and Saturday night.

Smith & Deli

This famous plant-based diner has finally landed in the city. Head to Degraves Street and discover this cosy street-art covered shop from the team behind Smith & Daughters. Order chunky sandwiches, loaded veggie plates and salads from the counter. There’s also grab-and-go meals, pastries and fancy pantry staples. Come back after dark when the space transforms into a vibey wine and tapas bar.

Trbl

Now here’s a hidden cafe only those in-the-know will be across. Follow your nose down Howey Place from Little Collins Street and make a left at Presgrave Place. Admire the street art then take a few more steps until you spot Trbl. Order your morning brew to go or go for a specialty coffee like the vanilla bean latte. Don’t skip on baked goods, especially the Korean salt bread and the chunky cookies.