The staff here are pretty appalling and rude, however I overlook this as their food is simply fantastic. An Italian family run this little laneway cafe and they cook everything fresh on the day, which means your bread is always crunchy and the fillings tasty! So if you survive an awkward moment trying to order, take the food away and enjoy it!

Approximate cost: $15

These guys do seriously great deals, where you can mix and match weekly and new release DVDs. They also have a pretty wide selection to choose from and the service is always very nice and personal.

The staff are lovely here, but the quality of tea just does not match the prices they charge! I am not a fan of blends and when I bought peppermint, I did not expect it to be a mix of peppermint and green tea leaves. This has happened both times I bought bought tea and I will not be returning.

Approximate cost: $20 per 200g

This is a great bookstore which has a very wide variety to choose from. If you can't find something at Borders, try here and you might just find it! I am disappointed to say that the staff did not introduce me to the loyalty program, as I would most definitely have joined.

Le Petit Gateau is home to some of Melbourne's finest cakes (bar Laurent's of course). The shop is quite small, but there is enough space for you to sit down with a friend and enjoy a delicious baguette or cake!

The coffee is also piping hot!

The LIV bookstore has an amazing array of legal texts, that aren't carried in many other university or legal bookstores. The service is relatively good and if you join as a member of the LIV, you can receive 15% discount off your purchases.

Kit Cosmetics stocks some great items from overseas lines, including Mario Badescu, Korres and This Works. However, despite these great lines, they are constantly importing new lines and touting them as their favourites - which seems extremely suspect, insincere and really puts me off buying from them! Their prices are also more than twice what you'd pay overseas (exchange rate inclusive).

Approximate cost: $-

Looking for a perfumery which stocks exclusives like Creed? Paint 'n Powder has every rare perfume under the sun, and it their rarity is certainly reflected in the price. However, if you have a favourite that you cannot find in Australia, try this store!

Approximate cost: $200+

I visit Cafe Giraffe at least 3 days a week! They serve beautiful wraps, salads and meals, all at very cheap prices. The atmosphere is beautiful - like a secret hideaway from the city and service is fantastic and understated.

Approximate cost: $9

I have had breakfast here on numerous occasions and the food is pretty good, however the cakes leave a lot to be desired. The atmosphere is impersonal and I find that the place fills up with a lot of stay at home mums and their little ones, so if you're looking for a quiet place to relax, go elsewhere.

Approximate cost: $15