Boutique, bold and unapologetically extra

There’s no mistaking you’ve arrived at QT Melbourne. Maybe it’s the velvet staircase, maybe it’s the floor-to-ceiling bookshelf, or maybe it’s the fact the lift flirts with you. Either way, this Russell Street showstopper knows how to make an entrance—and it doesn’t slow down from there.

This boutique hotel leans into industrial-luxe with just the right amount of swagger. Think moody lighting, punchy art, and rooms that feel like fashion editor crash pads. If you came for quiet luxury, you’re in the wrong postcode.

Rooms that look like they’ve been styled by a magazine editor

The 188 rooms and suites have everything you’d want and a few things you didn’t realise you needed. That includes freestanding tubs by the window, Dyson hairdryers, proper robes (minus the tiny hotel kind), and a minibar that’s more boutique grocer than service station. The signature QT Dream Bed lives up to the hype, too.

Expect high ceilings, custom lighting, velvet accents, and enough personality to pull off both business trips and cheeky getaways.

Up on the roof: cocktails, views and a side of mischief

QT’s rooftop bar isn’t just for the guests—it’s a local favourite too. A leafy terrace, city views, and just enough disco energy to make “just one drink” turn into three. The cocktail list leans local and creative—think jalapeño margaritas, Davidson plum spritzes, and a QT x Four Pillars collab gin.

If the sun’s out, the crowd’s in. Come early or commit to a sunset sesh.

Dinner downstairs, done properly

Pascale Bar & Grill is QT’s in-house restaurant, and it doesn’t just coast on good looks. It’s smart, seasonal and leans European with Aussie produce—big steaks, pan-fried scallops, prawn linguine and the kind of roast potatoes that’ll get you back on carbs (if you ever left).

Breakfast here is also worth rolling out of bed for: spanner crab omelettes, solid coffee, and avocado toast that actually earns its place on the menu.

Details that make it memorable

Yes, the lifts talk to you. Yes, there’s a bookshelf installation in the lobby. But beyond the theatre, QT nails the small things too—service is slick but friendly, the art is more interesting than your average gallery, and there’s a certain charm in knowing they’ll stock both your favourite gin and a pickleball paddle for rooftop antics.

Also: it’s dog-friendly. With room service. For dogs.