Australian travelers seeking unique city experiences before the end of 2026 have three distinct recommendations: the newly opened Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street, the Shangri-La Sydney for indulgent escapes, and the unpretentious Pasta Shop in Sydney's Potts Point.
Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street
The 4-star Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street, a $90 million investment and the largest purpose-built hotel to open in Melbourne's CBD this year, offers luxury and value starting from $160 per night. Located near Flagstaff Gardens and within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Marvel Stadium, and Queen Victoria Market, the hotel features slick styling, enthusiastic service, and comfortable beds. Its design incorporates subtle industrial detailing from its past as a tinsmith factory, blending with a calm, contemporary aesthetic.
Rooms include floor-to-ceiling windows, well-stocked bathrooms, and a fresh feel. Suite 1603 is noted for its freestanding bathtub with skyline views. The hotel's dining options include Foundry, a restaurant and bar with an open kitchen and an outdoor terrace, serving a fresh, shareable bar menu with dishes like prawn ceviche and triple-cheese croquettes, as well as restaurant mains such as Humpty Doo barramundi and gnocchi.
Shangri-La Sydney
For a more indulgent experience, the Shangri-La Sydney is highlighted for its exceptional service and attention to detail, offering a retreat that makes guests feel worlds away. The rooms provide significant harbor views, and the hotel's standout venues are Altitude Restaurant and Blu Bar on 36. While Altitude is a fine-dining option, it's noted for offering good value compared to other Sydney establishments, with a five-course Chef's Signature Menu priced at $180 per person. Dishes mentioned include Yamba prawn and spanner crab trottole, Australian pan-fried pink snapper, and Wagyu beef. A notable dessert is a limoncello meringue pie incorporating honey from the hotel's rooftop beehives.
Pasta Shop
Located in Potts Point, Sydney, Pasta Shop is described as a casual and accessible dining experience from Paola Toppi, known for Sydney institutions Machiavelli and Bar M. The 35-seat venue focuses on making pasta affordable, with all menu items under $30. The space features a relaxed atmosphere with walnut tables and terracotta chairs, replacing traditional white tablecloths. The menu includes 11 artisanal pastas, such as the 40-year-old spaghetti Machiavelli, spicy rigatoni alla vodka, and gnocchi gorgonzola. Toppi has developed a custom delivery bowl to maintain pasta quality during transit, with delivery available across Sydney's eastern suburbs. The menu also offers polpette con sugo, salads, focaccia, and desserts like tiramisu and cannoli. The drink selection features Italian wines and ready-to-pour negronis and margaritas.