Sunshine doesn’t grace us too often in Melbourne but when it does, behold the smiles and sensory shift. As the rays break through the clouds many of us, lilly white, wander around to secure a seat in the sunshine. Time to stock up on vitamin D.

Marry that with some good food and wine and you’ll see a whole afternoon and night away, especially if the appropriate nook is found.

We’ve come across some slivers and spots of sun that you’ll like on your radar. To nestle into next time Mother Nature smiles upon you.

Hoo Haa
There’s a lot of positive whispering going on about this spot. Firmly becoming logged onto the social scene as a priority, you’ll discover it has got a rocking little courtyard too.  

Have dinner, have a dance, grab a drink and get some air upstairs away from the ram jammed Chapel street vibe. Luxe surrounds, staff with know-how and a crowd with a clue makes Hoo Haa where it’s at for the tastes and sounds of summer.

Hoo Haa
1/105 Chapel Street, Windsor
T: 03 9529 6900

Hooked in Fitzroy
Fish and Chip shops have come a lengthy way when you consider that this is ultimately what Hooked in Fitzroy has on offer.

No more humid, loud and grease fuelled grills. Hooked have taken the favourites and netted the niche of fresh, healthy and organic serves of seafood. No frozen chippies either – even these are cooked with cottonseed oil and use locally sourced potatoes.

Order and pull up a pew in the even fresher courtyard. Family-friendly, the kids can play whilst the adults kick back in the open air option fitted with nautical nick nacks.

Hooked in Fitzroy
384 Brunswick Street Fitzroy 3065
T: 03 9417 7740

Friends of Mine
Diamond in the rough, Friends of Mine serves delish dishes that really deserve a category somewhere between café and restaurant. Everything has a tasty twist and the building itself is doused in luminous yellow making it feel like the sun shines on the inside and out.

A patio is how FOM describes their piece of outdoor heaven. It’s a compelling spot to gather with friends (of course) and let the world roll on by whilst feasting on a vast all-day breakfast, day and high tea (last Sunday of the month) menus.

Friends of Mine
506 Swan Street, Richmond
T: 03 9428 7516

Robert Burns Hotel
Burns is back after a long overdue overhaul and what a charming result.

Old-school décor remains but the new crowning glory is the inclusion of a banging new beer garden that makes Robby all shiny for summer sipping. Tapas is on the menu and a Spanish wine list second to none will have locals feeling far away from home.

A slice of salsa in the heart of Collingwood just adds to the global vibe that Smith Street oozes.

Robert Burns Hotel
376 Smith Street, Collingwood
T: 03 9417 2233