Carlton has just been crowned. Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton is the newest addition to the IHG Hotels & Resorts family, recently opening its doors in the heart of the suburb. The exciting arrival brings internationally branded accommodation to one of Melbourne’s most beloved neighbourhoods.
The Arrival – Welcome to Carlton
A stone’s throw from the bustling CBD, this new hotel sits proudly beside Lincoln Square. Walking inside is simply delightful. The timber-lined lobby is polished and elegant, yet wonderfully welcoming. We notice striking Indigenous artworks throughout the space, bringing colour, character and a strong sense of place.
We are greeted by Bonny. A big friendly smile and glistening pearly whites. For a moment, I’m convinced that I’ve seen them in a teeth-whitening advertisement they are so shiny. We’re enthusiastically given the hotel rundown and offered a welcome drink.
Today’s drop is a Fico Spritz. Served in a cute shot glass, it combines gin, fig liqueur and fig jam for a subtle sweetness. It’s a delicious little aperitif and our first clue as to the meaning behind Fico.
A Fig Called Fico
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the tree-lined streets, lush gardens and the iconic fig tree itself. Fico, meaning fig in Italian, is the star of the show. From the fig and feijoa hand cream to the fig-inspired welcome spritz and the subtle aroma drifting through the restaurant, everything is beautifully on theme. It’s clear there has been serious thought and intention behind every detail of this thoughtfully designed new hotel.
The Room
After our welcome drink, we head up to our room. It’s not every day one receives a handwritten note, (unless its by my five-year-old’s completely illegible handwriting). So when we open the door to a charming room overlooking autumn leaves, complete with a block of small-batch chocolate and a beautifully handwritten card, I can’t help but smile.
The room feels spacious yet intimate. Cosy and contemporary, with soft carpets, a stylish couch, earthy green tones and views that compliment the outside gardens. After a long shower, I catch my reflection in the full-length mirror. I’m convinced it’s one of those ‘skinny mirrors’, could be a cleverly designed deception or just that I’m in hotel-induced coma of happiness. Remains a mystery, but not complaining.
Before heading out, I jump on the freshly ironed linen, plush pillows, and glance at the giant TV. There’s a fully stocked Mini bar with heaps of snacks including gourmet chicken chips, (and some strange ones like Sweet chilli Gummies with watermelon sour). Combined with an assortment of beverages and deliciously fluffy bathrobes, the entire setup makes it very tempting to stay put, order room service and call it a night.
But since we’re in the heart of Melbourne’s Little Italy, it would be remiss not to venture out. We wander along iconic Lygon Street, passing Italian restaurants, wine bars and more gelato shops than one could reasonably justify. Before overindulging too much, we make our way back to Fico for dinner.
Dinner O Clock
The restaurant has a charming vibe. During the day, large windows frame the surrounding greenery, while in the evening the mood shifts to something a little more romantic. Dim lighting, immaculately set tables and gentle music create an atmosphere that feels polished and elegant, yet relaxed and unpretentious.
I’m not sure what training these staff have had, or what happy pills they have put in their staff meals, but every single person is glowing with an authentic smile. It’s the kind of warmth that can’t be taught. Just genuine hospitality.
Fico Food
Kingfish crudo arrives topped with peperonata, olives, capsicum and bright citrus notes. Paired with an olive brine dirty gin martini, shaken to perfection, it’s a sublime start to the evening.
Two juicy king prawns follow, served butterflied with a charred lemon cheek. Unfortunately, I find myself being extremely ungraceful, and end up sheepishly using my fingers to extract every last morsel of the juicy sweet, succulent flesh.
Despite coming from the Daintree, the oven-roasted barramundi is anything but dainty. A rich, earthy base of capers and tomatoes supports two thick fillets of beautifully cooked fish. Initially, I opt for a Chardonnay, but after the first bite decide the dish calls for something bolder. The Italian Chianti proves a magical match.
Cime di rapa appears on the menu and, and in all honesty, I have to consult ChatGPT for a definition. Somewhere between broccoli, kale and mustard greens, it sounds intriguing and the order was an excellent decision. Charred and smoky, sitting atop creamy ricotta and finished with chilli oil, it delivers nourishment, crunch and just the right amount of excitement.
To finish, the Sgroppino. Another first for me, and one of the highlights of the meal. A trolley is wheeled to the table and suddenly dessert becomes theatre. Lemon sorbet, gelato, prosecco and limoncello are expertly combined before our eyes, finished with a shaving of fresh lemon rind. While winter may be lingering outside, this light, refreshing dessert feels like pure Italian summer in a glass.
The morning after
After a great night’s sleep, I wake with a start and realise it’s well past my usual wake up time. I blame the pitch black room, soundproof windows and exceptionally comfortable bed. It would be very easy to keep snoozing, but breakfast awaits.
We head down to Fico and, before coffee, are offered a morning pick-me-up juice. A blend of carrot, ginger and coconut water, this little shot works wonders after yesterday’s cocktails. Paired with a good coffee, it’s the perfect start to the day.
A continental buffet offers everything from chia pots and fresh fruit to crisp pastries and baked goods. From the à la carte menu, I opt for poached eggs with heirloom tomatoes, basil and buffalo mozzarella. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the belly, and I happily soak up every last smidge with crunchy sourdough from Noisette Bakery.
With one final hour to enjoy the view, I settle in with my laptop, catch up on a few emails and sip a ginger and lemongrass tea. It’s a peaceful moment before reality beckons.
I’m almost sad when it’s time to leave. In less than twenty-four hours, Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton has delivered far more than a comfortable night’s stay. From thoughtful hospitality and beautifully considered design to exceptional food and uninterrupted sleep, every detail feels intentional.
I leave feeling rested, nourished and quietly impressed. For a hotel that’s only just opened its doors, Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton already feels right at home.
What We’re Addicted To :Every thoughtful detail. From the fig-inspired touches and warm hospitality to the exceptional dining and blissful night’s sleep.
What We Need to be More Addicted To: A little extra love for gluten-free guests. When everything else is this thoughtful, it feels like the one piece missing from the puzzle.
Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton – 701 Swanston Street, Carlton VIC 3053
Check-in: 3:00pm, Check-out: 11:00amFico Restaurant & Bar located on the ground floor.