The Spice Market was my favourite Melbourne bar of 2009 (no, it’s not a market selling spices). So why is it called Spice Market then you ask?

“The lavish Spice Market takes its inspiration from the ancient spice route travelled by traders of old, and has been exquisitely furnished to reflect this famous journey from Asia Minor through to the Far East. Honouring the Melbourne tradition of laneways and discovery, Spice Market is entered from Beaney Lane, off Russell St, adjacent to the Grand Hyatt Melbourne.

Upon entering the subterranean world of the Spice Market, you are transported to a more exotic time and place. Owners, Dean and Geremy Lucas and Robert and Victor Zagame have travelled the world collecting antiques, unique furniture and objects of art, combining them with luxe fabrics, an abundance of colour, handcrafted ceramic, and glass mosaics rich in every detail.”

I distinctly remember the first time I entered the Spice Market. The entrance was grand, and I was swept off my feet with opulence and the Middle Eastern inspired decor left me feeling like I was in another world. The outside world seemed to no longer exist, as I explored the bars and private lounges of the Persian Room and Shanghai Lounge. It took some time to take in everything around me, from the black birdcages hanging from the roof, to the burnt orange tiles in the kitchen catching my eye, but it was the Belle Epoque Lounge that was to truly make me swoon with ardent desire.

The ultimate in luxury, this lounge is the only one of its kind in Australia. 14 guests will be taken care of by a private attendant, and given the same service reserved for royalty. From Tuesday to Thursday there is a minimum spend of $1500 to book the room, and there is a minimum spend of $2500 for Friday and Saturday. Expensive yes, but do not fear, there are plenty of spaces to dine and drink at the Spice Market that do not require you booking a lounge.

Their mouth watering tapas is second to none. The hummus is silky, the lemon infused chicken wings are tender and the Turkish bread is soft. The drinks menu is also impressive with a beautiful selection of wine and a martini to please everyone.

Even though by Melbourne standards, the Spice Market might now be a bit “yesterday” with there surely being a new laneway bar being the latest underground destination, it is still somewhere I take all my Melbourne guests as one of the first ports of call. I do prefer the ambiance of Tuesday & Wednesday nights, where I feel the Spice Market is reflected in its true light, whereas on a Friday night there is a DJ, the lines are long to get in (at least an hour wait) and the crowd is much less classy.

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