Hotel Review: 10 things to love about The Olsen, Melbourne

In the travel world, there are three words we all long to hear: “You’ve been upgraded.”

Once that magic phrase is uttered on check-in at The Olsen, it’s clear this is going to be a hotel I’ll have to drag myself away from (even with a handy 11am check-out).
The extremely friendly reception staff joke (or so I thought) that there would be enough space for lawn bowls in my two bed open plan suite but they weren’t exaggerating; the 91 square metre space is HUGE!
I’m talking a king AND queen signature bed (apparently so comfy, half of the hotel staff have purchased their own for home), two bathrooms (complete with baths and cute toiletries), a spacious lounge area (with new copies of Vogue and Real Living for my reading pleasure – it’s the little things) and a full kitchenette in case I’m inspired to whip up a quick meal.
The styling is tranquil, modern and warm with plenty of natural light – it feels more like you’re staying in a super chic home than a hotel room.
Aside from the suite itself (where you could happily spend your time) here are ten reasons why staying at The Olsen is a no-brainer.
1. You’re staying in a gallery
As part of The Art Series Hotel group which takes design inspiration for each of its properties from Australian artists, The Olsen features the works of contemporary landscape artist, Dr John Olsen. His original artworks feature throughout the hotel including the guest rooms, giving a sense of class, sophistication and culture wherever you look.
2. Location, location, location
When it comes to Melbourne bases, it’s hard to beat trendy South Yarra and The Olsen is located on the hottest shopping strip in town, Chapel Street.
The precinct is made for walking and you’ll be hard pressed not to walk away with a bargain or ten from the boutiques. Set aside a day (or two) and shop until you drop.
3. Sweet temptation
If you’re on a diet, I suggest averting your eyes as you approach this little slice of dessert heaven. If however, you share my view that calories consumed when on holidays don’t count, a visit to Burch and Purchese Sweet Studio, conveniently located right next to The Olsen, is an absolute must.
Owner and Chef Darren Purchese (who you may have seen on MasterChef) and his team (including 2012 MasterChef contestant Kylie Millar who we spotted on our visit), produce the most exquisite, unique sweet creations that choosing just one (or three!) is nearly impossible. You have to taste it to believe it, trust me on this one.
4. Rooftop space and that pool
Even in the middle of winter, you can appreciate the beauty that is the blue shimmering heated pool perched above Chapel Street.
Venture up the swirling stairs to the rooftop terrace, the perfect spot for soaking up the views (or even a spot of chess!). Or if you’re feeling active, hit the small but well-equipped gym.
5. A reasonably priced mini-bar (!)
I’m not usually one to touch hotel mini-bars (I prefer my Pringles without the $10 price tag) but The Olsen’s little buddle of goodies is surprisingly reasonable with most items, including Red Rock Deli Chips, Maltesers and soft drinks around the $3 mark.
6. Did someone say pamper time?
As a premier boutique hotel, you’d expect The Olsen to have an onsite day spa and Norbu Day Spa doesn’t disappoint.
When Mr LML jets back to Sydney, I do what any shopped-out self-respecting 20-something woman would do: book myself in for some pampering action.
7. Fab onsite dining options
Venturing away from your room, Spoonbill Restaurant & Bar meets your foodie needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks (with room service on offer too).
Staying true to its dedication to John Olsen and his love of all things Oz, the menu features regional Australian produce and a seasonal menu including his famous paella, a dish he learnt to cook when he travelled to Spain in the 1950’s. Talk about attention to detail!

8. Melbourne’s best new cafe is a short walk away
Recently named Melbourne’s best new cafe in The Age Good Cafe Guide, Top Paddock is well worth the two block walk up the road to nearby Richmond.
The all day menu (oh how I love cafes with an all day breakfast option) features favourites like bircher muesli, along with more unique options such as ginger bread with roasted blood plums and chocolate mascarpone. And apparently the fresh soft-shell QLD mud crab roll with fennel, dill and lime mayo in a brioche bun is the stuff of lunchtime heaven.
On my visit I try the seasonal avocado with lime, sea salt and Movida bakery sourdough. Simple but truly delicious.
9. The wheel deal
While there’s plenty within walking distance of The Olsen and trams nearby too, if you’re after some wheels, you can hire the hotel’s signature smart car by the hour, day or week.
For wheels of the bicycle variety, they’ve got you covered too for as little as $5 per hour.
10. Your celeb chef fix is a minute away
The latest venture from George Colombaris of MasterChef fame, Mama Baba is literally a minutes’ walk from the hotel. The menu reflects the heritage of George’s parents – his Greek Cypriot Mama and half-Sicilian Baba – combining traditional Greek and Italian food with a modern twist.
The large warehouse style space, still manages to be warm and inviting with an almost New York-cool vibe. Add in the house DJ and extensive cocktail list and it’s clear this isn’t your average Italian/Greek restaurant!
Highlights include the cauliflower and roasted mushroom brushetta (probably my favourite dish of the night!) and the prosciutto salumi plate with “Mama Made” cacciatore, free range salami, served with pickled vegetables and olives. Mr LML’s Papadalas, a pasta from the Mama part of the menu with squid ink, snapper, sweet corn and zucchini is a winner.
There’s always room for dessert and it’s hard to go past the Cinnamon bombolini, otherwise known as cinnamon donuts filed with Nutella. We balance things out with a refreshing lemon cheesecake with glazed baby apple with cumquat chutney and crispy quinoa that is surprisingly our pick of the two.
Where is your favourite hotel in Melbourne? Have you shopped up a storm on Chapel Street?