I have been to the Sporting Club a couple of times and it's getting better and better. The food is pretty good with lots of vego choices, it's better than average pub grub. The service can be a bit flaky and delays can occur but problem was acknowledged with good grace and free drinks.

Hands down the best Indian food I've eaten in Australia. It's not much to look at but it's seriously, seriously good. Wonderful, complex spicing, simply delicious. Book or go very early as it is always rammed.

It's always packed, you will probably have to queue and the service is not that great, to be expected at such a busy restaurant. The chairs are hell unless you are young and fit, oh my aching back. Still the laksa is really very good indeed so you should check it out. However those with lower back issues should stick to Vy Vy around the corner for their laksa fix.

If I have a cocktail craving I head out to Red Monkey. They do a mean Chocolate Martini. They have a large and unusual selection of drinks. It's not a big place but it is cosy especially in the winter. Opening hours seem to vary so best check first.

If you are interested in craft this shop is literally heaven. It's stunning to look at and amazing to explore. It sells modern items but the stars are the beautiful vintage craft supplies. I could spend hours here just browsing. It's a little Melbourne hidden gem.

Little sister to the Carlton institution and just as good. Here's a tip - if you ever have to cater for meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans take them all here because the food is so good you will get no complaints and everyone will be happy. The tempura avocados have thankfully also made the trip to South Melbourne. Yum.

Bao (steamed buns) have become a bit of an addiction for me - the silky tofu bao to be precise. It's always packed with people but it's worth the wait. My carnivore partner loved the pork, if fact he went back for thirds.

This place came highly recommended but I'm puzzled as to why. The Gobi 65 was delicious but the naan and the two curries we tried were just average. Perfectly satisfactory but nothing to rave about.

If you want proper old fashioned service and great advice you should check out Pilkington Jewellers. I have bought several pieces from them and have been delighted with the quality and the price. The staff are lovely and really know their stuff. They will help you to design your own jewellery which they make up for you. Big plus, all the diamonds are conflict-free. If you don't know why that is important you should do some research before you buy a diamond.

This place is getting very popular, very fast so expect a crowd. They make their own tortillas and they are by far the best I have ever had - makes some of the trendier Mexican places in town look a bit sad in comparison. The staff were friendly despite being rushed off their feet. Menu is limited but what they do they do very well. A must try if you like Mexican food.