Expat Interview: From London To Melbourne

In our latest expat interview, Sandy Dhaliwal talks to BBM about her new life in Melbourne and the amazing places she’s already discovered since moving from the UK.
Occupation: Copywriter
Current Location: Melbourne
Originally from: London
What was your first perception of Melbourne when you moved there? I may be biased but I think London is the greatest city in the world, but Melbourne would definitely come in as a close second. Mainly because it has all the trappings of London, but with added beaches and sunshine! There is a wonderfully rich and diverse culture here that encompasses food, festivals, music, theatre, fashion, art and more. I’m literally never stuck for things to do.
Favourite restaurant in Melbourne: The Banff in St Kilda for its rustic Italian menu and cosy cottage setting. The pizzas are absolutely delicious. I often struggle when trying to order as the menu will leave you feeling spoilt for choice with their creative menu. It’s also a great place for cheap eats so perfect if you’re on a budget.

Best place to hang out on the weekend: I love the Laneway bars; favourites include Section 8 for its quirky graffittied decor and outdoor setting, Japanese themed Robot Bar, and Cherry Bar on AC/DC for live music. I tend to head to the laneways before my favourite nearby indie nights: Black Night Crash at Ding Dong Lounge or Razzmatazz Indie Disco at Exmouth Hotel.
The best cup of coffee: I don’t drink coffee so I consulted a friend on this one, who highly recommends St Ali in South Melbourne for its plush setting, knowledgeable staff and the best beans in town.
Your favourite place to go for breakfast: For its quirky and contemporary menu of seasonal fruit and vegetable dishes, as well as creative twists on traditional favourites, I would highly recommend Pope Joan in Brunswick East. The owner/chef even grows his own produce out the back!
Best bar for midweek drinks with friends: E Fifty Five on Elizabeth Street, which is an internet cafe crossed with a basement lounge bar. It’s got retro décor, an in-house DJ and is also an art space
Best BYOB in Melbourne: Tucked away in the Eastern suburbs, Forest Hill to be exact, is the Shangri La Inn, a restaurant specialising in Malaysian and Chinese cuisine. The family-run restaurant is probably the best food you’ll eat outside of Malaysia.
Best beach to escape to from the city: Brighton Beach and its colourful bathing boxes that line the sand.

Best area to live in and why: I love Fitzroy as it reminds me of trendy Shoreditch in East London.
Best pub for lunch: The Newmarket Hotel in St Kilda, a trendy eatery with striking contemporary interior and a laid back atmosphere, which specialises in rustic Californian and Latin cuisine. But don’t just go there for food, the drinks menu is amazing too.
Best place to have a weekend away from Melbourne in: You can’t visit Melbourne without doing the Great Ocean Road, home to the famous 12 Apostles.
Find out what’s on in Melbourne near you