Cliff(y) Goes Dining

Eating ants... The same swarm that usually makes me cringe! Situated at Fed Square along the banks of Yarra River, Big Esso offers a dining experience that's both rooted in culture and refreshingly modern at the same time. Focusing on the use of native Australian ingredients, it's the kind of place where the menu sparks curiosity. With that in mind, let's dig into crocodile, emu and even ants.

Authentic Thai food in the heart of Melbourne Chinatown! My travel buddy and I checked out the rather compact Chinatown in Melbourne, Australia one afternoon. While wandering in search of something to eat, we came across a food court tucked within an old-school shopping centre called The Paramount. Among the various stalls, Me Dee caught my attention, offering honest, fuss-free Thai fare that focuses on flavour and value.

A chance to try Vegemite again... Located just a short walk from Southern Cross railway station in the Central Business District of Melbourne, Ibis Styles Kingsgate (3*) makes for a convenient base for exploring the city. The room that my travel buddy and I booked came with continental buffet breakfast to start each day of our short adventure in the state of Victoria.

An enduring presence at Queen Victoria Market since 1950! Donuts are something I've always been a little obsessed with since young. While exploring Queen Victoria Market, an iconic that's been operating since 1878, I was so delighted to stumble upon a small van dedicated entirely to selling those old-school delights filled with jam. Of course I had to join the long queue of locals and tourists alike.

Unhinged jaw required to tackle the Kavorka! It was certainly a memorable first trip to Down Under right from the start. After not just one or two, but three flights from Singapore to Melbourne, Australia, I finally found myself unwinding over a burger dinner at Royal Stacks. The brand prides itself in using 100% pasture-fed Australian beef, never frozen and free from antibiotics.

Medium-rare filet mignon done right! There's always a quiet sense of anticipation when it comes to Business Class meals, isn't it? For the 8-hour journey with Philippine Airlines PR211 from the capital city to Sydney, Australia, two meals are served: supper and breakfast. It was my first long-haul flight with flag carrier of the Pearl of the Orient Seas.