An onion-infused latte has been named one of the top viral coffee trends of 2024. Not sure how that one will go down with Melbourne's coffee snobs, but fascinating nonetheless. Enjoy reading about what's going on around the city today—with a comparatively boring flat white in your hand.

The Headlines

• In extremely Aussie news, a kangaroo was spotted hopping around Melbourne Airport yesterday. A fun sighting for the tourists among us, but likely a big headache for the grounds staff. It's yet to be revealed whether it made it through customs or where it was trying to fly to—looks like they'd love a week on the beach in Fiji.

• We've all heard it said that Melbourne's food and drink scene is one of a kind, and it's hard to disagree. It should also come as no surprise that 2024 has been a huge year for new openings, with bars and restaurants popping up everywhere we look. Here's a list rounding up the very best new spots that made their debut this year. From community wine bars to old-school bistros, there's plenty to keep us going well into 2025.

• Melbourne really is the gift that keeps on giving. Its latest offering? Access to a gorgeous rooftop pool just in time for summer. Level 5 of Le Méridien Hotel used to be exclusive to guests, but this year, they're opening it up to the public for the very first time. It will set you back $70 however so maybe stick to Prahran Baths if you're on a budget. The entry fee does get you all-day access, a free cocktail, and a scoop of Whispering Angel Rosé Sorbet though—delightful.

Where to Eat and Drink

Happy hour drinks are all well and good, but throw in some cheap eats and you've really got us hooked. BANG at the StandardX has absolutely nailed it with two-for-one Melbourne Bitter Longnecks alongside $1 dumplings. The deal runs Monday to Thursday from 5-7pm. Perfect for an after-work catch-up, with plenty of rooftops in the area if you fancy a dumpling-fuelled boogie.

Where to Live

There's a room available in this Carlton house from the 6th Jan if you're looking for a fresh start in the new year. If you're partial to a spot of 'housemate banter', it sounds like you'll fit right in. Ask for some Aesop soap as a moving-in present from the parents—it will look immaculate in that bathroom. The rest of the house is stunning too, complete with an adorable little backyard.

Core selling point: a walk-in wardrobe bigger than any backpacker could dream of.

Where to Work

Hive is hiring for a Gym Brand Representative for their mystery client who sell healthy ready meals. The job involves stationing yourself at gyms around the city, interacting with gym-goers and chatting about their dietary habits—most likely fish and a rice cake, lets be real. When the benefits are listed as free food and drink, you know it's a good one. And with a salary of up to $2,000 per week for 4-5 hours work per day, it sounds like a dream.

Where to Go

If you've recently found yourself scrambling when someone asks about your hobbies, we might have found the answer for you. A hula-hooping class is hosted in Revs every Tuesday night from 7pm—yes, you heard that right. It's giving the same vibe as the Zumba class your mum goes to back home, with a little bit more skill thrown in. There's also an option to book out the entire class for you and your mates—a hilarious way to spend an evening we say.

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