Keen on trying Afghan food with an Uzbekistani touch? Try Pamir Restaurant, which serves popular traditional Afghani style rice, shish kebab dishes, Uzbek Pallows (a type of Lamb Biryani) as well as samosas (traditional puff pastry). 

The must-try dish among the impressive 40 varieties on the menu here? Pamir’s signature Mantu—traditional Afghan dumplings prepared from fresh produce. Named after Pamir, which is Afghanistan’s highest mountain, the interior of the restaurant is tastefully decorated with Afghani artefacts, paintings and a photo of the mountain itself.                                    

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Discover how prominent locals lived during the late 19th century at the quaint Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens. Thereafter, take a refreshing stroll through its expansive two acres of landscaped gardens and visit its museum to admire creative works from local artists. 

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Bite into cheesy, chewy, and absolutely scrumptious halal pizzas at the Taste of Paradise Halal Pizza. The eatery prides itself on using quality halal ingredients and coming up with its own recipes. While there are traditional pizza flavours such as Hawaiian and Pepperoni on the menu, it is the unusual ones like Hot Fish Curry, BBQ Lamb and Middle East Special that shine. 

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Shop to your heart’s content at Dandenong Market—one of Melbourne’s oldest markets which was established in 1866. Stretching over the size of six Olympic-sized swimming pools, the rich variety of stalls here sell anything from fresh produce and baked goods to jewellery and homewares. And yes, you can find halal food items here too! 

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Experience the spicy and rich flavours and colour of Malaysian cuisine at PappaRich Monash Express, located at Monash University. From fiery Nasi Lemak, crunchy Roti Canai, to juicy Satay, every dish is cooked according to traditional recipes, with a mix of herbs, spices and fresh produce. 

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Appreciate contemporary art at the Monash University Museum of Art. Of note among the displays here is the Monash University Collection, showcasing over 2,300 artworks by Australia’s leading contemporary artists since the 1960s while reflecting changes in Australian society.

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Make a stop at Malaysian Kampung Restaurant, known for its halal Malaysian and Singapore cuisines. Its specialty is authentic Nasi Kandar, with a generous serving of savoury curry on the side, and best paired with fried fish or fried chicken. Other popular dishes here include mee goreng, murtabak and nasi lemak. Diners from Singapore and Malaysia have commented that their dishes are authentic and remind them of home! 

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Feast on classic Turkish food at the highly rated Marmara Restaurant, which has been in operation since 1980. One of the oldest Turkish restaurants in Australia, its warm family appeal and use of fresh ingredients made it popular with Muslim and non-Muslim diners alike. Marmara’s fresh, slow-cooked lamb with a pinch of spice tantalises your palate, while its chicken skewers are addictive. The tasty homemade dips are a hit with diners, especially the hummus and tzatziki dips.

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Explore over 4,000 years of Jewish history in Australia, told through more than 20,000 items displayed at the Jewish Museum. Among them are letters, diaries, historical and contemporary Judaica, fine art, photography, textiles and everyday objects donated by the Jewish community. 

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If you have yet to try Lebanese cuisine, Tiba’s Lebanese Food offers a great introduction. A favourite haunt of locals, the family-operated eatery started in 1983 and is known for its grilled menu, especially the charcoal-grilled lamb cutlet. The vegetarian falafel is also highly recommended here. 

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Brush up on your art knowledge with a visit to the contemporary art gallery—Counihan Gallery. Admire thought-provoking works by contemporary Australian artists that seek to engage, challenge and excite visitors. If you are up for it, partake in discussions on contemporary art and culture.

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Dine in the homely atmosphere of Afghan Gallery Restaurant, known for its warm soups, piquant kebabs and hearty curries. The family-run eatery has been serving traditional Afghani food since 1983, using recipes passed down through generations. In particular, check out The Sultani Kebab—a mouth-watering dish prepared with three types of meats. 

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Discover the natural wonders of the world at the Melbourne Museum—the largest museum in the Southern Hemisphere. Beyond getting a crash course on nature, culture, history and science, a must-visit exhibit here is the First Peoples exhibit which tells the story of Aboriginal Victoria from the beginning to the present.

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Shop Melbourne’s best art and designs at the weekend Rose Street Artists’ Market. Popular with locals, this is the place to scour for unique gems and one-off wonders from art, photography, jewellery, fashion, homewares and even tasty treats. There is also a rooftop bar if you wish to drop by for a drink or two.  

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Take an idyllic stroll at the expansive Edinburgh Gardens, with flourishing garden beds and native Australian specimen trees. An extensive pathway network lets you roam all around the different corners of the garden. Watch out for a handful of historical features, such as a quaint stone drinking fountain, regal rotunda and a war memorial.

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Ready for your halal-friendly Melbourne Staycation? A stay at PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne will take care of your home away from home needs. Check out our packages and pick the best one for you.