ah, Melbourne. culture capital of Australia, the most liveable city for seven years running and now the unwilling record holder of the world's longest lockdown. how we've missed you! with restrictions finally easing, and dates (and mates) back on the table, here at Boop: the going-on-dates app we have compiled our picks for five of the most iconic Melbourne dates to get you and your friend, your partner or your match off your couch and into this great city.
retro indoor mini golf
all true Melbournians know that the best way to impress your date (or your mate) is by taking them to Holey Moley, an indoor mini golf course and bar that turns traditional putt putt into a multi-sensory labyrinth of unique holes. start out with a signature cocktail - perhaps the nostalgic Sugar Caddy, served with a packet of wizzfizz, or the Rub a Dub Tub, served in a mini bath with tiny rubber ducks - before slamming back a classic toasty, courtesy of Rando's Sandos. when you're sufficiently satiated, grab a club, prepare your camera and put that competitive spirit to the test as you make your way through various scenes from your wildest 80's and 90's pop-culture dreams.
brunch at Top Paddock
as they say, you can't spell Melbourne without brunch. arguably one of the best (and most Instagrammed) brunches in Melbourne belongs to Top Paddock, located on Richmond's bustling Church street. surround yourself with lush greenery, rich timber, detailed glass work and distinctive wall panelling while indulging in a world-class, mouth-watering, produce-driven menu that changes with the seasons. you honestly can't go wrong here, but it's no secret that the Blueberry and Ricotta Hotcakes take the (hot)cake.
rooftop drinks and escape rooms
start your evening off right with rooftop drinks overlooking the Yarra and fantastic views of the city at Hopscotch. with 36 beers on tap, talented bartenders on hand to fulfil your wildest cocktail dreams and an extensive bar menu, treat your tastebuds and your eyes to a sensory feast. once the sun starts to set, head on over to Red Herring, located in the iconic Crown casino, for an evening of next-level challenges that is sure to test your skills. sound intimidating? don't stress! Red Herring rooms use AI technology, so if you’re struggling, the room will know to help you out as you go along. grab your partner, find a friend or if you're game bring a date and help thwart alien invaders, make your way out of an old deserted house or figure out how to re-boot an AI system...if you can make it through this together, you can make it through anything!
discover hidden bars
if you haven't found a hidden bar, have you even been to Melbourne? while we are blessed with a number of fantastic above-ground (and higher) drinking options, our favourite secret spot is nestled under the elegant State of Grace - the aptly named, Fall From Grace. those in the know will head into the library, uncover the secret passage and venture downstairs to enjoy an experimental cocktail in a vintage, candle-lit lounge. after a touch of luxury? head to Trinket, Flinders Lane’s pizza and cocktail bar. step through the wardrobe to discover a decadent world of velvet couches, brass fixtures and sparkling chandeliers at the hidden cellar bar, Garnet Den.
enjoy a laneway tour
no Melbourne list is complete without a laneway tour. don some comfy shoes and set out on a self-guided exploration, or join an official laneway tour to experience the ever-changing art adorning the cobbled streets of Melbourne's laneways and learn about the history of this great city. to sustain you on your trek, add a stop at Richmond's Fargo & Co home to some seriously insta-worthy art and killer cocktails, or drop into The Duke of Wellington, which lays claim to being Melbourne oldest pub.
whether you're single and looking to meet someone new, a couple wanting to get out of the house or just well overdue for a catch-up with a friend, create a date with Boop: the going-on-dates app and get out there.
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