Shelly Byrne moved to Melbourne 20 years ago. She opens her little black book of her favourite places in the city …
I was born and raised in Cork, a place that will always hold a piece of my heart. I’ve been fortunate enough to live in some incredible places, each leaving its mark on me. In the mid-1990s, I worked for the designer John Rocha at his Temple Bar studio in Dublin. That experience gave me a firsthand look at the world of luxury design. From there, I transitioned into buying, working with leading retailers like Dunnes Stores, Primark and a Sydney-based footwear brand for four years. Nearly two decades ago, we made Melbourne our home – a vibrant city defined by some of the best coffee in the world, a thriving food scene and bustling markets.
I have Melbourne to thank for changing my life in many ways. Motherhood became my focus, and I became the queen of arts and crafts. It wasn’t until 2020 – a year marked by slow living – that I rediscovered my passion for creativity. What began as a quiet hobby has grown beyond my kitchen table; our Studio Byrne candles are now proudly stocked at home in Ireland and the Gaelic Collection is a bestseller. My mission has always been to thoughtfully and ethically handcraft the highest quality of non-toxic, eco-friendly candles for every taste. A recent highlight was seeing our candles on display in in the Irish Embassy during Paris Fashion Week.
Melbourne continues to inspire me in so many ways. Here are some of my favourite haunts …
BEST COFFEE SHOPS
Patricia Coffee Brewers (CBD): A minimalist gem serving some of the city’s finest espresso. A pioneer of specialty coffee, offering a robust brunch menu.
Proud Mary (Collingwood): Renowned for its exceptional brews and all-day breakfast.
Brunetti (Carlton): A much loved Italian Pasticceria known for its exceptional coffee, decadent cakes and pastries. It’s a bustling hub for locals and tourists.
SWEET TREATS
Jam Doughnuts (QVM): The delicious 1950s American Doughnut Kitchen at Queen Victoria Market. Be prepared to queue.
La Lune (Fitzroy): Famous for its croissants. Each pastry is prepared over a three-day process to achieve the perfect flakiness.
Lovabowl (Fitzroy North): What started as a stall behind a family fruit shop is now home to the best acai bowls in Melbourne.
Yo-Chi (Carlton): A spacious hang-out and must for fans of frozen yogurt.
WHERE TO EAT
Donovan’s (St Kilda): A Melbourne institution with beachside dining and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
MoVida (Hosier Lane): Located in the iconic Hosier Lane, this lively tapas bar is ideal for sharing plates and soaking up the vibe.
Shark Fin Inn (Chinatown): A go-to destination and family favourite for an authentic Yum Cha experience, enjoy an array of freshly steamed dumplings and Cantonese delights in the heart of Chinatown.
Pellegrini’s Espresso Bar (CBD): A legend since 1954, Pellegrini’s brings a taste of old-world Italy with classic espresso, hearty pasta and no-frills hospitality.
THE BEST BARS
The Espy (St Kilda): A bustling bar, buzzing beer garden and live music set the stage downstairs at Hotel Esplanade. Upstairs reveals The Ghost of Alfred Fenton, a cocktail bar named after the venue’s most notable resident. This hidden gem pays tribute to Fenton’s remarkable life as an entrepreneur, chemist, philanthropist and collector of art, originally from Ireland.
Paris Cat Jazz Club (CBD): This hideaway recaptures the spirit of a Parisian underground scene with an intimate, speakeasy feel. A haven for jazz lovers.
Eau De Vie (CBD): A sophisticated, semi-prohibition-style bar for whiskey enthusiasts.
SEE MORE: An Insider’s Guide To Bordeaux in France