What’s the deal?

The Le Méridien brand has returned to Melbourne after some two decades away, opening in a building that’s been a hotel, theatre, cinema, nightclub and live music venue. Now it’s a hotel once more but has retained the lovely Art Deco façade of the Palace Theatre that came before. Inside, mid-century details nod to the building’s many pasts: take the lobby coffee shop and wine bar, Intermission, which is decked out like a cinema concession stand. A spiral staircase descends to the subterranean Dolly restaurant, where classic European food is served along with Hollywood golden age drama – from the plush banquettes to the flaming bombe Alaska for dessert.

Rooms balance stylish carpentry with light neutrals and pops of colour, and the higher floors offer lovely views of the east of Melbourne. The hotel sits on Bourke Street, one of the city’s primary thoroughfares, and a tram stop opposite makes it remarkably easy to get around.

Don’t miss

Le Splash, the rooftop pool and terrace, is small but charming, with fun installations by Melbourne artist Stephen Baker.