It’s August, winter has been freezing the joy out of us for a few months now, and the hope of spring is right around the corner. No wonder we all want to go out, dust off our cute winter coats and knee-high boots and actually do something other than watching reruns in cosy pyjamas with an electric blanket on. But then there’s the issue of the cost of living crisis. Ideally, we’d all be living the Gatsby lifestyle. Some of my favourite hotels, restaurants, bars and activities are far too expensive to do every month or even every year, so we all have to rein in our spending sometimes. That’s why for this month we are recommending some of the best activities, bars and restaurants you can visit in Melbourne and surrounds for under $100. Bring your nearest dearest and enjoy a classy night out in
Image: Tripadvisor
Werribee Park Gardens and Mansion
If you want to feel like you’re in a Jane Austen novel, head to Werribee Mansion. One of the oldest and most opulent mansions in Australia, Werribee Mansion was built in 1877 for the Chirnside family and turned into a seminary in the 1920s. With over 60 rooms to explore, the mansion is an amazing piece of history, opulence and upper-class style. Entry to explore the mansion is $11.90 for an adult however, you can explore the beautiful grounds for free. The Victoria State Rose Garden resides on the property, offering a sensory-indulgent experience for no cost at all (although donations are welcome). You can explore the grounds from 10am- 5pm daily, visiting the lake, the formal botanic gardens and lush greenhouses. There is also a cafe on the premises offering coffee, cakes and sandwiches. Learn more here.
Image: OnlyMelbourne
Candlelight Concert
One of the most exciting ‘boujee’ activities you can do is attend a concert or orchestra. It seems so indulgent to hear live music, experience the drama of the notes and be immersed in the emotion of each piece and Candlelight Concerts are a super affordable way to do so. The best part is that the lighting is dim and ambient, as the space is lit solely by candles. This makes it feel so magical and classy like some sort of intimate concert performed just for you. It also makes for an amazing photo opportunity. Throughout August, you can listen to your favourite soundtracks, and experience artists like Taylor Swift, Adele and ABBA transformed into an orchestral experience for just $30 a ticket. Book tickets here to plan a boujee night out in a classical ambience.
Image: B&T Magazine
Cinema Nova
The tickets are very reasonably priced, starting at $7 for daytime features. Catch a back-to-back special with their Double Feature screenings or watch a Hollywood classic with L.A Lore. The cinema itself is opulent and ambient, with eccentric, velvet-lined rooms. You can get pre-screening drinks at their in-house cocktail bar (hello $10 espresso martinis!). Head out to Lygon Street afterwards and indulge in almost every type of cuisine imaginable along this iconic stretch of Melbourne eateries. Book your tickets here.
Image: Henrietta
Henrietta
Located in Windsor, Henrietta is a Middle Eastern restaurant serving rich, delicious and indulgent meals in a beautiful setting. Prices are very reasonable, with dishes starting at $14 for sides such as falafel, hummus and labneh. So that we’d feel a bit more indulgent, we decided to get the set menu which is an affordable $68 per person. The set menu includes mixed entrees, a main of chicken with a side salad and the most delicious mouhalabieh I’ve ever had, prepared with saffron, honey and pistachio. There is also a decent vegan menu, so my plant-based friends enjoyed a fulfilling meal as well. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a group catch-up – it has a fun and casual atmosphere while providing quality service with indulgent meals. You get to feel luxurious and boujee while dining in a comfortable, affordable restaurant with a great ambience. Reserve a table for yourself and your friends here.
Image: Paris Cat Jazz Club
The Paris Cat Jazz Club
Feel like a 1920s flapper and dance the night away in this eclectic, atmospheric jazz bar. Located in Melbourne City, Paris Cat Jazz Club features dim lighting, pulsing atmosphere and live jazz performances that start from $45. Grab a table with your friends and order a round of their specialty cocktails or a share plate as the night kicks off. Cute kitten heels, a mini dress and tights would suit the French vibe of this fun, somewhat hidden bar. Embrace the boujee feel of a Parisian night out by booking tickets here.
Find out what our other Melbourne based Restaurant and Activity Recommendations are below.
