Melbourne

Slightly overcast today with cooler temperatures. We took the free city tram down to Federation Square, a popular meeting place down by the river. Ali had identified a restaurant called Cumulus Inc a smart restaurant set in a warehouse building. We sat at the bar and ordered some sharing plates which were superb. Tuna on toast, fig and proscutio cracker, gnocchi with ricotta, roasted cucumber and mint salad. Melbourne has a reputation for good food and this place did not disappoint. Having spent a good 1.5 hrs over lunch we walked down to Federation Square and picked up some tips from the local tourist guides. We walked to the river and had a drink and then did a bit of shopping, the cooler weather had caught us out a bit and I bought a pair of Jean's which would come in handy in Tasmania where it is cooler again. In the evening we went to China Town. Ali spotted a restaurant called Flower Drum. We were greeted in a ground floor lobby area and sent up to the first floor restaurant by lift. As soon as we got out the lift my wallet told me to leave but it was too late. Good job we stayed we had an excellent experience. Amazing food and great service. Simple food but fantastic quality with little touches that made it very special. It turns out that this is one of Melbournes longest established restaurants with a pedigree going back over 30 years. You can always count on Ali to sniff out quality food !!Read more